Villa win away for the first time in fourteen games as the wingers combine again to secure a narrow victory for Vic Crowe’s side - although the boss is absent scouting talent - as they remain joint fifth in the table but close the gap to joint leaders Bournemouth and Notts County to two points with a game in hand on the top four. 

Vic Crowe's Villa make it four wins, one draw and a defeat in division three so far this campaign and consolidate fifth place whilst retaining their game in hand over Plymouth Argyle, Swansea, Notts County and new leaders AFC Bournemouth. Meanwhile, midfielder Malcolm Beard made his Villa debut aged 29 after moving from Birmingham City in July 1971.