LEADING scorer David Platt struck a dramatic 89th minute winner to seal an Aston Villa fightback which extended their unbeaten run to six games.

Platt latched on to a Paul Birch pass and rounded Palace goalkeeper Perry Suckling before netting his second goal of the game and seventh of the season.

Palace had raised hopes of registering their first away-win of the season when Alan Pardew gave them a 51st minute lead after Villa goalkeeper Nigel Spink had only parried lan Wright's rightwing cross.

But nine minutes later Platt brought Villa back on level terms after latching on to a long clearance from Danish international Kent Nielsen.

Villa deserved their win for they had dominated the first half but were denied by a combination of poor finishing and some fine saves by Suckling.

ADRIAN HEATH is ready to leave Aston Villa after a bust-up with manager Graham Taylor.

Heath, the ex-Stoke and Everton striker was signed from Spanish club Espanol for £360000 only three months ago but he clashed with Taylor recently after being substituted. Heath stormed off the pitch and down the tunnel instead of joining Taylor on the bench. Taylor later carpeted little Heath who was ordered to toe the line. Then he left him out of the squad for last Sunday’s game at Manchester City.

And in midweek he told him to play in midfield for the reserves at Maine Road. Heath was recalled to the squad yesterday but he has made it clear he wants to go. Taylor is unwilling to agree to a transfer request so soon after signing him but Heath’s plight may interest Coventry Leeds and Stoke.