The Athletic's Aston Villa correspondent Gregg Evans lauded Matty Cash for his opening goal in their defeat against Manchester City this afternoon. 

The lowdown: So near but so far

Villa were so close to playing a huge part in the destiny of the Premier League title and causing a seismic upset after Cash headed Steven Gerrard's side in front before Philippe Coutinho doubled the lead.

However, it wasn't to be as an Ilkay Gundogan brace came either side of a long-range Rodri strike to consign Villa to defeat and break Liverpool's hearts, with the Reds consigned to another runners-up finish.

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Despite what came afterwards, one reputable journalist was full of praise for the right-back after that opening goal...

The latest: Evans wowed by Cash goal

Taking to Twitter, Evans reacted instantly as the 24-year-old Poland international broke the deadlock in the first half.

He tweeted: “#MCFC 0-1 #AVFC (Cash) Wow. Huge shock on the cards. And some more VERY good Villa news on the way...”

The verdict: Capped off a fine performance

It was so nearly a monumental day for Villa, and indeed for the league as a whole, but instead it wasn't quite to be for them or for Liverpool.

Despite the cruel manner of the defeat and the troubling aspect of three goals being conceded in five minutes, there are certainly positives to take from the match from Gerrard's perspective.

Perhaps the biggest overall plus was the performance of the £19.8m-valued Cash, who made two clearances, won six duels and made one interception in a 6.7-rated display (Sofascore). His goal capped off what was a superb all-round showing from the 24-year-old.

In other news: Internal discussions held as Villa now eyeing bargain move for 'outstanding' player