Villa Survive Late Scare to Win

Villa didn't make it easy for themselves, but their 2-1 victory against Blackburn was no more than they deserved. Villa's first away win since November came thanks to Gabby Agbonlahor's 73rd minute goal that made up for a missed PK from Gareth Barry earlier in the half. Patrick Berger justified the recent contract talk by playing a part in both Villa goals, guiding the first past Brad Friedel with a deft touch on the outside of his left boot and sending Gabby away with a nice pass for the winner.

There was a scare late when Brett Emerton's free kick hit off the bar, but more importantly the referee seemed to miss a blatant handball in the box that should have seen Blackburn get another chance from the penalty spot. Thankfully, something was in his eye, or he was blinded by the graceful fluid football that Villa had been playing and he waved play on.

All in all a well won victory that puts Villa out of the relegation conversation (at least for now) and should give the team confidence to put in another good performance on Monday against Wigan.

Match Info