Aston Villa Thrash Liverpool 7-2 in Sensational Victory

Ollie Watkins Nets Perfect Hat-Trick

Jurgen Klopp's Defending Champions Humiliated

Aston Villa produced a stunning performance to thrash Liverpool 7-2 in the Premier League, with Ollie Watkins firing a perfect hat-trick to move his side into second place. It was a historic night for Villa, who inflicted Liverpool's heaviest defeat since 1963 and ended the champions' unbeaten run at home.

The visitors stunned Anfield with three goals in the first 43 minutes, with Watkins opening the scoring after just four minutes and adding a second 20 minutes later. Jack Grealish made it 3-0 before half-time with a fine finish from outside the box.

Liverpool pulled one back through Mohamed Salah shortly after the break, but Villa restored their three-goal lead through Ross Barkley. Watkins then completed his hat-trick with a close-range finish, and Grealish added his second to make it 7-1.

There was still time for Origi to net a consolation for Liverpool, but it was a day to remember for Villa and their fans. The win lifted them to second in the table, while Liverpool slumped to fifth following their first defeat of the season.

What Went Wrong for Klopp's Champions?

Liverpool's performance was a far cry from the dominant displays that characterized their title-winning campaign last season. Jurgen Klopp's team looked vulnerable at the back, particularly in the first half, and were unable to match Villa's intensity and desire.

Virgil van Dijk, who had been a rock at the heart of Liverpool's defense, was uncharacteristically sloppy and was partly at fault for Villa's first two goals. The rest of the defense also struggled to cope with Villa's pace and movement, while the midfield was overrun.

Klopp will be concerned by his team's lack of creativity in attack. Liverpool managed just five shots on target in the match, and their only goals came from set pieces. The absence of Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara was clearly felt, as Liverpool lacked their usual fluidity and incision.

The defeat will be a wake-up call for Liverpool, who will need to improve quickly if they are to challenge for the title again this season. Villa, meanwhile, will be flying high after this memorable victory. They have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with, and will be looking to continue their impressive form when they face Leicester City next Saturday.