Sammy Whittaker, scored his first for Villa but they lose for the first time in five as yet another visit to Old Trafford proves fruitless.

United score their opener with Villa reduced to ten men through injury before grabbing a second literally against the run of play just as Spurs had in the previous fixture. Their third was even more galling as Brendel Anstey, with ball in hand, is charged through goal by two United players only for referee Sharpe to award the goal. Even in an era of charging such as it was the decision was met with contemporary comment.

Villa lose for the first time in five to make it five wins, three draws and six defeats in their fourteen division one games so far this season.

Villa drop to joint 11th in the table

Villa's off field problems continue with George Hunter still suspended by the club and now, Chris Buckley, in a contretemps over his benefit match, refuses to show out for Villa at Old Trafford. The consequences of his petulant and avaricious side will ultimately cost him his Villa career.