Villa lose for the first time in eight league games as they concede a hugely deflected goal and a last minute strike as they chased the game. As a result of the dropped points they are in second place by Orient and are now five points behind leaders Boro. Bur after 16 games, Villa have 20 points, one fewer than in 1972-73 when they finished third in a season that only promoted the top two and the same as 1971-72 when the stormed the Third Division championship. With three teams promoted in 1973-74 Villa are still on course for a second promotion in three seasons.

Vic Crowe's Villa lose for the first time in seven division two matches to make it seven wins, six draws and three defeats in sixteen League games this season. Villa's defeat (Played 16, Points 20) saw Middlesbrough open up a 5 point lead at the top (Played 16, Points 25) and Orient move level with Villa (Played 16, Points 20).