Premier League: Paul Lambert pleased with Aston Villa's start to the season
Saturday 23 August 2014 19:52, UK
Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert says he is delighted with his side's start to the season following their 0-0 draw at home to Newcastle United.
Villa got the new campaign off to a winning start as Andreas Weimann fired them to a 1-0 opening day victory at Stoke City, while they battled out a goalless draw with Newcastle in their first game at Villa Park.
The visitors had defender Mike Williamson dismissed in the closing stages for a second yellow card, but both sides had good chances to win the game with Charles N’Zogbia and Darren Bent coming close for Villa.
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Lambert told Villa's official website: "To pick up four points from six is a terrific start for us. The start we have been made has been really good.
"We've certainly taken the challenge on this season. Today, I thought we were excellent - in the first half we were excellent, all we needed was a finishing touch.
"Newcastle came down here last season and did a job on us. I don't think anyone could begrudge us getting something out of that game.
"We had chances. I couldn't ask for any more effort.
"Tactically in the first two games I think we've been spot on. The only thing missing was a goal. Fair play to them, they've been excellent.
"I couldn't fault the way we played. We were resolute, it's another clean sheet and there were some really big performances there. Today all we needed was a finishing touch."
Lambert also hailed his defence as they kept out Newcastle to claim their second clean sheet in as many matches this season.
"We have been tougher. That's a great testament not only to the back five but also the midfield lads who are putting one hell of a shift in," he said.
"I thought Aly Cissokho was outstanding. Philippe Senderos has been brilliant and Alan Hutton has been outstanding.
"Alan was excellent today. I thought him and Aly were outstanding. Aly was that good they had to put their own Sissoko on the right side to try and stop him because he was that powerful.
"Alan was excellent the whole game. It's great for ourselves, Alan himself and Scotland too, who have a game coming up against Germany. He is in excellent form."
