Birmingham, England, ENG — Aston Villa claimed all three points in a tight Premier League clash at Villa Park, with Jack Hinshelwood's late own goal proving the difference against Brighton & Hove Albion.
The match appeared destined for halftime deadlock until Danny Welbeck found the net in the 45th minute plus three minutes of added time for Brighton. However, the goal was ruled out, keeping the score level at the break.
The decisive moment arrived four minutes from time when Hinshelwood inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, handing Villa a crucial victory despite Brighton's superior accuracy in front of goal.
Brighton controlled 50.3% of possession in an evenly-matched contest but struggled to capitalize on their opportunities. The visitors registered three shots on target compared to Villa's solitary effort, yet failed to find the breakthrough their play arguably deserved.
Villa managed 15 total shots to Brighton's nine, demonstrating their attacking intent throughout the 90 minutes, though their finishing lacked precision until Hinshelwood's unfortunate intervention settled the affair.
GOALS:- 86' Hinshelwood (own goal) - Aston Villa
STANDOUT PLAYERS:- Aston Villa: Match-winner via Hinshelwood own goal, defensive resilience- Brighton & Hove Albion: Welbeck - Disallowed goal, constant attacking threat
KEY STAT: Brighton registered three shots on target to Villa's one but left empty-handed, highlighting their finishing struggles.