Speaking to us on the Review Show afterwards, Thomas summed up: “I think we overall played a fine, good game against a very good Villa team. It was exactly as tight as I expected before the game.
“I think we started very well, not only the goal, but I think we came out very aggressive, very intense, pressed high, tried to take initiative, scored the goal, had four, five, six very good moments where we should and could have done better.
“The second half, I think we keep it up, especially the first 15. Then I think it's very even spell in the middle, where it's a little bit back and forth. I still think we've a little bit more of the initiative. Then unfortunately they scored their goal, and then it's very hectic in the end where we throw everything in and try to get the equaliser.
“Defensively, I thought we were very good. Vic has zero saves. There are two shots on target - both of them are positioned, if you asked me before the game if they can shoot from there with that many players behind the ball… any day. We lose because of two moments quality, especially from Rogers. That's an unbelievable finish. On the day, they had more quality in not only nearly moments, but in a nothing moment, especially the first one.
“I expected an even game against a team I think we are as good as at least. It's exactly what I expected. Of course, you hope to have more cut through chances, but I think it's also fair to say that we need to do a little bit more in the final third. We need to look into that. It's my job, my responsibility to do everything we can to make them feel confident, play forward and structure and all that. On the day, I think it's also fair to say we probably didn't hit our highest offensive level, but that can happen.”