Perfect start for Spanish hot shot

Spain's hat-trick hero David Villa said his Carlsberg Man of the Match award-winning performance in Tuesday's 4-1 demolition of Russia ranked among the most impressive 90 minutes of his career.

'Great scenario'
The Valencia CF striker was the overwhelming choice of both euro2008.com users and the UEFA EURO 2008™ Technical Team following a display as breathtaking as the electrical storm that raged above Innsbruck's Stadion Tivoli Neu throughout the match. "It could be," replied the 26-year-old Villa when asked if he had just played the game of his life. "It's a great scenario. Three goals for the national team, a victory for us and a very good start. We have to continue working like this."

Virtuoso display
Villa scored twice in a breathless first half and completed his treble 15 minutes from time before sealing a virtuoso display by helping to create Cesc Fàbregas's fourth as Luis Aragonés's men sounded a warning to the rest of Group D. "It was very important to win, as there are only three matches," said Villa. "To start like this and score goals is very important for our position in the group. Our next game against Sweden will be very difficult and we'll have to keep our positions very well against them. We'll have to fight together and take advantage of any chances that come our way." 

Joyous mood  
As the red-and-yellow half of the capacity crowd filed out of the Stadion Tivoli Neu in a joyous mood barely dampened by the pouring rain, UEFA EURO 2008™ Technical Team observer, Gérard Houllier, was equally in awe of Villa. "It was a very, very good performance, as much for his movement off the ball and his understanding with Fernando Torres, which was clear in his first goal," said the former Liverpool FC manager. "He's also a player who works very hard for the team. He not only attacks, but defends well. He's the first line of defence trying to prevent the other team from building their attacks."