Villa's horrible run of results continues as they lose for the fifth time in six under Alex Massie. It's penalty woe for the second game in succession as referee Taylor awards a very questionable spot kick to gift the hosts the lead after just 14'.

Villa reacted with all the play and all the opportunites only for Arsenal to double their lead on the stroke of half time with a rare attack.

Referee Taylor then wrapped up the points for the home side - awarding them his second penalty of the game.

Although luck and decisions are going against them nothing can hide the fact that Villa remain joint bottom of the table after 7 games in 1948-49.

Midfielder Larry Canning, 22, makes his Villa debut after joining from Paget Rangers in December 1943. 

Forward Jackie Martin, 34, makes the last of his 91 appearances for Villa during which time he scored 22 goals before retiring from football.