Villa win 2-0 at Arsenal to join the top-four race

Aston Villa have beaten Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium, a result that strengthens their claim to be serious contenders for a place in the Premier League's top four.

Both goals came in the second half of the match on 15 November. Gaël Clichy headed into his own net under pressure from Gabriel Agbonlahor in the 70th minute, and ten minutes later Agbonlahor chased a long ball, held off William Gallas and fired home the second.

A statement win

Winning at Arsenal is one of the hardest tasks in English football, and Villa's victory has been hailed as a sign of how far Martin O'Neill's side have come. It puts Villa firmly into the race for a Champions League place.

Agbonlahor the star

Agbonlahor, who grew up in Birmingham and came through Villa's youth system, has become one of the most feared forwards in the country. His pace caused the Arsenal defence problems throughout, and his goal capped a fine performance.

O'Neill's young team

Since arriving in 2006, O'Neill has built one of the most exciting young teams in the Premier League, with players such as Ashley Young, Agbonlahor and Gareth Barry at its heart. Owner Randy Lerner has backed him with money to spend on new players.

Villa finished sixth last season, and have made a strong start to this one. They are also competing in the UEFA Cup, having qualified through the Intertoto Cup in the summer.

Breaking the big four

For several seasons, the top four places in the Premier League, which bring entry to the Champions League, have been dominated by Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool. Villa's supporters dare to hope that this could be the season when that grip is broken.

Arsenal's troubles

For Arsenal, the defeat is another setback in a difficult spell, with Arsène Wenger's young side struggling for consistency. The home crowd grew increasingly frustrated as the game went on.

Blues' progress

Across the city, Birmingham City are chasing promotion from the Championship at the first attempt under Alex McLeish, after being relegated last season, so there is no Second City derby in the Premier League this season.

The season ahead

There is a long way to go in the season, and O'Neill will be keen to keep his players' feet on the ground. But results like this suggest Villa could be in for one of their best seasons in years, and supporters are already looking forward to the busy Christmas programme.