Ollie Watkins' second-half brace propelled Aston Villa to a stunning 2-1 comeback victory against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, marking their eleventh consecutive win in all competitions. The win, which equals a club record last set in 1914, keeps Villa in the Premier League title race, closing the gap to league leaders Arsenal to just three points.

Chelsea dominated the first half, with João Pedro giving the Blues a deserved lead in the 37th minute. Reece James' corner caused chaos in the Villa box, and Pedro managed to get the decisive touch to steer the ball past Emiliano Martinez. Chelsea continued to press, but Martinez denied Pedro earlier. Despite Chelsea's dominance and 1.98 expected goals (xG) in the first half compared to Villa's zero, they failed to extend their advantage.

Unai Emery's tactical changes in the second half, including the introduction of Watkins in the 58th minute, proved to be a masterstroke. The substitution injected new life into Villa's attack. Watkins' impact was immediate. In the 63rd minute, Watkins leveled the score with a fortunate goal, his initial shot was blocked by Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez, but the ball rebounded off Watkins and into the net.

Villa continued to press, and Watkins completed the comeback in the 84th minute with a powerful header from Youri Tielemans' corner. Watkins rose between Reece James and Malo Gusto to head home. The goal sent the travelling Villa fans into raptures and secured a historic victory for their team.

The result leaves Chelsea in fifth place with 29 points. Chelsea had multiple opportunities in the first half but failed to capitalize. Frustration is mounting as Chelsea struggles with consistency at Stamford Bridge.

Aston Villa, with 39 points, are now firmly in the title conversation. This victory highlighted Aston Villa's resilience. Villa's next big test is against Arsenal on Tuesday.