DAVIES ON TARGET IN VILLA TRIUMPH

Former Baggies skipper Davies was the subject of abuse every time he touched the ball following his move from the Hawthorns 18 months ago.

But he had the last laugh before an own-goal from Baggies goalkeeper Scott Carson - who was on loan at Villa last season - added to the visitors misery, for whom James Morrison's goal was scant consolation.

Villa are now unbeaten in nine league games, from which they have taken 21 points, and there is a momentum about the team which suggests they could clinch a Champions League spot.

Albion, however, remain anchored at the bottom but they were far from disgraced despite being unable to end their 30-year run without a league win at Villa Park.

The opener came when Gareth Barry delivered the ball into the danger area for a third time and no-one picked up Davies who headed past Carson.

After 41 minutes some dreadful defensive play by the visitors led to Villa doubling their lead.

Barry slipped the ball into the path of England striker Gabriel Agbonlahor on the left flank and he cut into the box, only for Carson to allow his off-target shot from a narrow angle to deflect off him, squirm under his body and roll over the line.

Roman Bednar made a telling impact, four minutes after coming on at the break, as he headed the ball down for Morrison who had time to steady himself before drilling a fierce shot, which took a slight deflection, past Brad Friedel.