Aston Villa claimed a late 1-0 Premier League win over Brighton after Jack Hinshelwood’s own goal, securing vital points in the top four race.
Aston Villa claimed a narrow 1-0 Premier League win over Brighton at Villa Park on Wednesday night. An 86th minute own goal from Jack Hinshelwood proved decisive in a scrappy contest. The result keeps Villa third and strengthens their push for Champions League qualification. Brighton left frustrated after another defeat decided by fine margins.
The match carried added significance with James Milner equalling the Premier League appearance record. The 40-year-old came on after 22 minutes for his 653rd top flight outing. That moved him level with Gareth Barry at the top of the all-time list. The moment was warmly received by both sets of supporters.
The first half lacked fluency and rhythm from either side. Villa saw an early effort from Morgan Rogers saved from a tight angle. Emi Buendia later cut inside and fired narrowly wide. Brighton struggled to threaten until late in the half. Danny Welbeck tested Emiliano Martinez with a routine effort before the break.
Brighton emerged stronger in the second half and began to control possession. Kaoru Mitoma curled an effort just wide as pressure built. Ferdi Kadioglu then struck a powerful shot from distance. Martinez reacted superbly to tip the ball onto the crossbar. The Seagulls sensed an opportunity as Villa dropped deeper.
Milner brought calm and structure to Brighton’s midfield. He later tested Martinez with a bending effort from range. Hinshelwood also went close after a quick counter attack. Villa struggled to create chances and looked short of ideas. A goalless draw seemed increasingly likely.
The breakthrough arrived four minutes from time. Leon Bailey delivered a corner from the right. Tyrone Mings met it with a strong header at the near post. The ball deflected off Hinshelwood and into the net. Villa Park erupted as the hosts snatched the lead.
Villa registered 15 shots but only one on target. Brighton had nine attempts and slightly less expected threat. The visitors produced around 0.5 expected goals. Villa marginally edged that figure at 0.67. It underlined how little separated the sides.
Mings dominated defensively and led by example late on. Martinez’s save from Kadioglu proved vital. Milner’s cameo added control despite the result. Brighton’s performance again lacked a cutting edge. Villa showed resilience rather than quality.
Aston Villa return to action in the FA Cup at home to Newcastle on Saturday evening. They then welcome Leeds in the Premier League on 21 February. Brighton face Liverpool away in the FA Cup next. A league trip to Brentford follows as they seek to halt their poor run.
