Half-Time Report: Aston Villa hold crucial lead over Stoke City

Gabriel Agbonlahor has given Aston Villa a 1-0 advantage heading into the break of their clash against fellow strugglers Stoke City this afternoon.

Villa defender Nathan Baker gave away a penalty during last week's clash against Liverpool and the youngster was involved in another incident within the opening two minutes today. He appeared to handle Jonathan Walters's cross, but the referee allowed play to continue.

The visitors then went on to make the most of that let-off in the ninth minute when they broke the deadlock. Matthew Lowton sent over a cross from the right and Agbonlahor got ahead of his marker to send the ball into the net from four yards out.

Having taken the lead, Paul Lambert's side created further chances to add another. Summer signing from Chesterfield Jordan Bowery went close with 15 minutes played, but he dragged his effort from the edge of the box just wide of the target.

Next to try his luck was Austrian attacker Andreas Weimann, who beat Stoke goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, only to see his curling effort in the 30th minute cannon to safety off the post.

However, despite their domination and chances, the away side had to settle for just a one-goal lead as the half-time whistle was blown.