Aston Villa aim to protect third spot as Bournemouth’s form tests top four credentials | OneFootball

Aston Villa travel to the Vitality Stadium this weekend to face Bournemouth in a Premier League fixture that arrives at a delicate moment in their season.

Villa’s loss at home to Brentford last weekend was a significant setback, particularly given their strong position in the title race.

That defeat has increased pressure on Villa to show a reaction, both in performance and result.

Standing in their way is a Bournemouth side enjoying a sharp resurgence after a difficult mid-season slump.

Recent victories over Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool, combined with a convincing win at Wolverhampton Wanderers, have lifted Bournemouth into mid-table.

Andoni Iraola’s side are now closer to the European places than the relegation zone, a remarkable turnaround from their position earlier in the winter.

Their renewed confidence has been driven by a more aggressive attacking approach and improved midfield control.

However, Bournemouth have continued to show defensive vulnerabilities, particularly from set pieces, which could offer Villa encouragement.

The Cherries will also be aware that they have failed to win any of the last six league encounters with Villa.

The visitors boast one of the strongest away records in the Premier League and have regularly impressed on the road.

They also carry the confidence of a dominant 4-0 victory over Bournemouth earlier in the season.

The question now is whether Villa can deliver the convincing response their season demands.