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A late Michael Chopra strike gave Sunderland’s survival ambitions a lift and hit Aston Villa’s European hopes.

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Chopra raced on to Kieran Richardson’s pass with seven minutes left to beat Scott Carson and seal Sunderland’s first away win in the league this term. Villa were disappointing, with Marlon Harewood wasting their best chance when he was clean through after the break. Sunderland were worthy winners, with Roy O’Donovan off target before substitute Chopra struck. As Sunderland fans celebrated wildly at the final whistle, Villa’s supporters rounded on Martin O’Neill’s side as their recent indifferent form continued. Sunderland suffered a blow before kick-off when influential striker Kenwyne Jones was ruled out through illness, while Villa’s only change was the recall of Craig Gardner for suspended Olof Mellberg.