Villa win the Intertoto Cup to reach the UEFA Cup

Aston Villa have won the Intertoto Cup, beating Basel of Switzerland 4-1 at Villa Park on 21 August to earn a place in the UEFA Cup.

The win completed a 5-2 aggregate victory, after the first leg in Switzerland ended 1-1, with Paul Merson scoring a vital away goal.

A comfortable win

Villa were in control for most of the second leg, and their attacking play was too much for the Swiss side. Darius Vassell was among the scorers as Villa pulled away, and the result was never in doubt once they had built a lead.

A crowd of 39,513 watched the game, the biggest attendance for any Intertoto Cup match this season, showing how much the competition means to Villa supporters.

The route to Europe

The Intertoto Cup is a summer competition that gives clubs a second route into the UEFA Cup. Villa entered after finishing eighth in the Premiership last season, and have played through the summer to reach the final.

Their reward is a place in the first round of the UEFA Cup, where they could face some of the biggest clubs in Europe. The draw will be made later this month.

Gregory's ambition

Manager John Gregory has made clear that he wants Villa to be regulars in European competition. The club won the European Cup in 1982, and supporters are keen to see them back among Europe's elite.

Gregory has strengthened his squad this summer, with the arrival of the Danish goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel from Sporting Lisbon among the headline signings. The former Manchester United captain brings experience and leadership to the side.

Villa also have the Colombian striker Juan Pablo Angel, who joined in January for a club record fee, and a group of talented young players, including Gareth Barry and Vassell.

A busy season ahead

The Intertoto Cup has meant a short summer for the Villa players, who started competitive games in July. Gregory will have to manage his squad carefully to avoid fatigue as they combine European football with the demands of the Premiership.

The new league season has just begun, and Villa will be looking to build on their European success with a strong start at home.

Villa Park

The club is also putting the finishing touches to its new Trinity Road Stand, which is due to be officially opened later this year. The new stand will increase the capacity of Villa Park and provide improved facilities for supporters.

For Villa fans, the Intertoto Cup win is a welcome start to what they hope will be a successful season, both at home and in Europe.