Emery looking for reaction from club and fans to huge disappointment

UNAI Emery has urged Aston Villa players and supporters alike to channel their frustrations after losing 3-0 to Crystal Palace at Wembley.

- By JOHN TOWNLEY

The loss in the FA Cup semi-final means Villa's 29-year trophy drought continues, but Emery has called on everyone to reflect on how far the club has progressed in recent years.

There had been strong optimism that Villa could go all the way in the FA Cup this season, especially after their quarter-final victory over Preston North End at Deepdale.

However, Palace have proven to be a bogey team for Villa, having now beaten them four times in the past 11 months - scoring 16 goals in the process.

Eberechi Eze opened the scoring in the 31st minute, before Ismaïla Sarr struck twice in the second half, following a missed penalty by Jean-Philippe Mateta.

"I am thankful for our supporters because they were excited and motivated for the semi-final," Emery started.

"We appreciated how we can share motivation with them. Congratulations to Crystal Palace because they deserved to win.