Premier League make swift announcement after confusion in West Ham vs Aston Villa
West Ham’s Premier League showdown against Aston Villa wasn’t short of drama during the first half.
It only took 29 seconds for Mateus Fernandes to score the quickest Premier League goal of the season, slotting his finish superbly into the top right corner after picking Ezri Konsa’s pockets.
Just seven minutes later, the visitors responded instantly, as John McGinn’s cross was deflected into his own net off Konstantinos Mavroponos.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s men didn’t let Aston Villa take control of proceedings, as Jarrod Bowen coolly turned Freddie Potts’ strike past Emi Martinez to give them a lead at half-time.
Premier League release statement on Aston Villa’s first goal
When the visitors equalised at the London Stadium, there was some confusion. At first, it looked as though Ollie Watkins directed his header past Alphonse Areola.
But replays showed that Watkins’ header took a slight deflection off Mavropanos, and that deceived the Frenchman.
To clear up any confusion, the Premier League released the following statement, confirming that it was a Mavropanos own goal.
#WHUAVL – 9’
— Premier League Match Centre (@PLMatchCentre) December 14, 2025
The goal accreditation panel has adjudged Aston Villa’s 9th minute goal as a Mavropanos own goal.
“The goal accreditation panel has adjudged Aston Villa’s 9th-minute goal as a Mavropanos own goal,” they announced.
In an exciting first half, Nuno would have been pleased with his side’s response to Villa’s opening first goal, with the Hammers proving that they can mix it with the best.
Nuno deserves huge credit for team selection
A promising opening 45 minutes from West Ham was partly down to Nuno’s team selection, which he got spot on.
Supporters were critical of Nuno’s team selection against Brighton after he left out Soungoutou Magassa and Potts, whilst starting Guido Rodriguez and Max Kilman.
The Portuguese included Potts and Magassa as a midfield duo against Villa in an attempt to shut down the threat of Unai Emery’s team.
Combining a blend of ball-winning expertise and an excellent passing range, the pair proved how important they are to the team.
Surely, Magassa and Potts have established themselves as the first-choice holding midfielders.
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