Aston Villa are still searching for their first Premier League victory of the season after being held to a goalless draw by newly promoted Hull City.
Unai Emery’s side dominated much of the contest but could not find a way past a disciplined Hull defence, leaving Villa with just one point from their opening three matches.
Villa had already suffered defeats against Brighton and Arsenal, making Saturday’s result another disappointing setback in their attempt to get their campaign moving.
Villa waste chances at both ends
Nicolas Jackson came close to giving Villa an early lead when his header from Ian Maatsen’s cross drifted narrowly wide inside the opening two minutes.
Ross Barkley then missed another opportunity in the 25th minute, slicing his effort from inside the box wide of the target.
Villa thought they had a strong case for a penalty just before half-time when Jackson went down while trying to reach George Hemmings’ cross after contact from Nobel Mendy.
Referee Michael Oliver rejected the appeal, with VAR also deciding there was insufficient evidence to overturn the decision.
Villa continued to create opportunities after the interval. John McGinn was presented with a good chance after Jackson picked him out in front of goal, but the Villa captain could not keep his effort down.
Hull survive late pressure
Hull produced their best moment of the match in the 65th minute when Mohamed Belloumi curled an effort beyond Zion Suzuki, only for the ball to crash against the crossbar.
The Tigers remained dangerous on the counter and almost snatched all three points late on.
Mohamed-Ali Cho tested Suzuki in the 89th minute, but the Villa goalkeeper reacted well to keep out the attempt and preserve a point for the visitors.
Hull’s organised performance ensures they remain unbeaten after their return to the Premier League, with seven points from their opening three matches leaving them second in the table.
Villa, meanwhile, sit 17th and must quickly find a solution in front of goal if they are to avoid being dragged into an early-season battle at the wrong end of the standings.
