MACC OF THE NET

Villa get Europa hopes back on track as they KO plucky Tel Aviv

- BY JOHN TOWNLEY

ASTON VILLA put off-field drama to one side to make it three wins from four in the Europa League league phase.

After pre-match protests at Villa Park marred the buildup, Ian Maatsen opened the scoring for Villa late in the first half.

It was a bright finish to a first period that had lacked intensity and quality, But Donyell Malen eased any worries the home fans had when he bagged a penalty before the hour mark. It was a night for calm heads with plenty of focus in the weeks leading up to this encounter against the Israeli club focusing on what might happen outside of Villa Park.

There were fears any protests may overflow into the stadium, but the game passed by without major incident as 700 police officers patrolled outside.

Villa came into the Europa League contest having lost to Liverpool, ending a five-match winning streak in the Premier League. They had also been defeated in Europe nine days earlier by Go Ahead Eagles.

But, with no Maccabi fans allowed at Villa Park, the hosts looked to dominate from the start.