Gabriel Agbonlahor's late header gave Aston Villa a 1-0 away win at Premier League rivals Birmingham City on Sunday.
Villa, who had new signings Richard Dunne, James Collins and Stephen Warnock making their debuts in defence, shaded the first half with England midfielder James Milner spurning several chances.
Five minutes from time Agbonlahor latched on to substitute striker John Carew's centre to head low past Birmingham goalkeeper Joe Hart for his second goal in as many games.
Villa could have made it 2-0 minutes later but Agbonlahor s shot over the bar with only Hart to beat.
