DALIAN Atkinson, who started his career with Ipswich, denied his old club a winning start in the Premier League.

Six minutes from the end of a lively match he swept in an equaliser for Villa who had dominated the second half.

A wayward clearance by Phil Whelan across the face of his own goal was picked up by Cyrille Regis who crossed for Atkinson to sweep home from eight yards.

Ipswich had dominated the first-half and gone ahead after 31 minutes with a spectacular goal from Gavin Johnson.

He picked up a loose ball in midfield and needed one touch before unleashing a 25-yard drive that gave Nigel Spink no chance.

Ipswich, with Jason Dozzell and Geraint Williams settling well in midfield in the opening period, looked confident.

It was a different story when Villa forced them back throughout the second half.

Ipswich had a scare after 70 minutes when veteran sweeper John Wark slipped, letting in Atkinson but goalkeeper Craig Forest was quick off his line to intercept but Atkinson clattered into him so that the Canadian international needed treatment.

Villa had skipper Kevin Richardson hurt in the 54th minute when Regis took his place and the policy of all out attack paid dividends.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Dalian Atkinson.