‘It’s a big game for us’ – De Pauw looks ahead to Aston Villa’s fixture against Crystal Palace | OneFootball

Aston Villa manager Robert de Pauw says that this weekend’s fixture against Crystal Palace is a big game for his side.

The Villans play host to The Eagles at Villa Park on Sunday afternoon.

Aston Villa are still searching for their first win of the season while they are two points adrift of latest opponents Crystal Palace in the Barclays Women’s Super League table. When speaking in the pre-match press conference, Aston Villa boss De Pauw said that this weekend’s game is a big one for his side.

“I think it’s a big game for us,” De Pauw said. “Of course, every game is a big game but given the fact that we are so close to each other [in the table], it can give us some momentum and a confidence boost.”

Crystal Palace have enjoyed a positive start to life in the Barclays Women’s Super League following their promotion at the end of last season and De Pauw says that the South Londoners cannot be underestimated.

He said “They fight hard and they’re quite aggressive. In the first few games, they had to adapt but after that, they have shown real resilience.

“We have to be very cautious. If we underestimate them, we’re totally wrong in our mindset because they do deserve to be in this league and they are showing that every week.”

Aston Villa defeated Crystal Palace 2-0 in the Women’s League Cup last month. De Pauw learned plenty about Crystal Palace in that match.

He said “You have to take them seriously, they showed in that game that they’re up for the fight. They have qualities in their team, they have some players that can make the difference for them. We have to be very aware of that and make sure that we are on the top of our game.”

Aston Villa are playing all of their home Barclays Women’s Super League fixtures at Villa Park this season. Despite being winless at the venue, De Pauw says that his players are enjoying the experience.

He said “The players love it, the pitch is immaculate, so it’s a dream to play on that pitch. The surroundings are very inspiring. From what I hear from the players, they love to play there.”

Aston Villa’s Barclays Women’s Super League fixture against Crystal Palace kicks-off at 2pm on Sunday afternoon. Tickets remain on-sale and can be purchased by clicking here.