Jack Hinshelwood’s late own goal consigned Brighton to another defeat as Aston Villa got back to winning ways at Villa Park with a 1-0 victory.
Tyrone Mings' header from a corner was deflected in by the Brighton player in the 86th minute in a tense game under the lights. Ferdi Kadioglu had come closest to finding the breakthrough prior to that, only for Emiliano Martinez to tip his effort onto the bar.
It was a little harsh on Fabian Hurzeler, under pressure after losing to Crystal Palace on Sunday, given that Villa created little. But after two consecutive Premier League home defeats, Unai Emery was the one smiling at the end. Villa are now five points clear of fourth.
The first half was low on quality but notable for the appearance of James Milner, on early for a record-equalling 653rd Premeir League appearance. The 40-year-old midfielder was required when Carlos Baleba, on a booking, was hooked having been fortunate to escape a red card.
It was a more combative performance by an out-of-form Brighton, going man-to-man against Villa and restricting them. The home side's second-half push attacking the Holte End never really came, with the Seagulls having the better openings after the break too.
But it was Villa who found the winner with help from Mings, on his 200th Villa appearance. The goal, like the performance, was not pretty but this was all about the points after those slip ups against Everton and Brentford. Emery's men are back on track.
