Tammy Abraham struck deep into stoppage time to hand Aston Villa a thrilling 4-3 victory over Sunderland at Villa Park, pushing them closer to securing a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.
Villa looked firmly in control for large spells, especially after results elsewhere went their way, including Chelsea’s defeat to Manchester United.
That outcome stretched Villa’s advantage to 10 points within the top-five race, though the hosts nearly let it slip in dramatic fashion.
Ollie Watkins continued his impressive scoring run, netting twice on either side of a response from Sunderland youngster Chris Rigg.
His recent form, six goals in five matches, will only strengthen his case for inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s England plans ahead of the World Cup.
The home side extended their lead early in the second half when Morgan Rogers ended his goal drought, seemingly putting Villa on course for a comfortable finish.
But Sunderland mounted a stunning late comeback, with Trai Hume and Wilson Isidor scoring within 58 seconds to level the contest and silence the home crowd.
Just when it appeared the points would be shared, Abraham emerged as the hero, coming off the bench to fire home a last-gasp winner and seal a crucial victory.
The result leaves Sunderland missing out on a chance to climb into the top six, while Villa edge ever closer to a return to Europe’s elite competition.
