Aston Villa strengthened their push for another UEFA Champions League appearance after edging Brighton & Hove Albion 1-0 at Villa Park, courtesy of a late own goal from Jack Hinshelwood.
With the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea chasing them in the race for the top four, Unai Emery’s side needed a strong response, but the first half offered little in terms of excitement.
Despite facing a Brighton team that had managed just one win in their previous 12 league matches, Villa struggled to create clear openings.
Their best opportunity of the opening period fell to Morgan Rogers, whose shot from a tight angle was comfortably dealt with by Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
The half also produced a milestone moment for Brighton veteran James Milner.
The former Villa midfielder came on early to replace the booked Carlos Baleba, making his 653rd Premier League appearance to draw level with record holder Gareth Barry.
Brighton looked the more dangerous side after the break and nearly took the lead just before the hour mark. Ferdi Kadıoğlu unleashed a powerful effort that forced Emiliano Martínez into a brilliant fingertip save, pushing the ball onto the crossbar.
Both managers introduced fresh legs in search of a breakthrough, but clear-cut chances remained scarce.
Villa controlled possession in the closing stages, and their persistence paid off with five minutes remaining.
Tyrone Mings flicked on a delivery into the box, and the ball deflected off Hinshelwood, wrong-footing Verbruggen and finding the net.
The fortunate strike proved decisive, much to the delight of the home crowd.
Brighton pushed forward in the closing moments but were unable to find an equaliser, as Villa held on to secure a crucial victory.
The result moves Villa five points behind league leaders Arsenal ahead of the Gunners’ clash with Brentford, and more significantly, six points clear of fifth-placed Chelsea.
Brighton, meanwhile, remain only seven points above the relegation zone as their poor run of form continues.
