THE blossoming partnership between Jason Euell and Carl Leaburn plunged Villa deeper into the relegation mire at Selhurst Park. First-half strikes from the bargain duo set Wimbledon on their way to a vital win in front of just 13,131 fans.

Wimbledon deservedly took the lead after nine minutes. Vinnie Jones' first attempt at a cross was blocked by Alan Wright. but at the second time of asking the Welsh international whipped in a dangerous low cross towards the near post. Bosnich should perhaps have come to collect but thought better of it as Leaburn closed in, and the ball broke to Euell, who had the simple task of stabbing home from a few yards.

But Villa played some attractive football however and were almost rewarded for their efforts on 19 minutes when Milosevic's shot was saved by Nell Sullivan.

But it was no surprise when the Wimbledon got a second six minutes before half time, again from a right wing cross. This time Ardley's cross went over the head of Scimeca to give Gayle time and space at the far post to turn in a cross for the unmarked Leaburn to head past Bosnich.

That would have been a fair reflection on the first half but a cruel piece of luck brought Villa back into the game. Just seconds after Collymore had shot wide from a good position. Milosevic's shot from the edge of the area took a wicked deflection to leave Sullivan no chance. But Villa’s hopes were damaged in the 57th minute when Milosevic was forced to limp off and Villa never really threatened an equaliser.