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Manchester United remain eight points off the top of the Premier League after failing to break down Aston Villa in a lively encounter at Villa Park.

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After Gabriel Agbonlahor hit an early chance straight at Edwin van der Sar, Ashley Young’s tackle prevented Ji-Sung Park from giving United the lead.

Villa wanted a penalty when Nemanja Vidic challenged Agbonlahor before Wayne Rooney miscued in front of goal.

Both teams created openings late on but could do nothing to break the deadlock.

Villa, who leapfrog Arsenal into fourth, will be pleased to have ended a run of 12 consecutive league defeat at the hands of United and claimed their first point against the Old Trafford club since 2002.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was urging his side forward at the end and he might reflect on two points dropped, despite Chelsea and Liverpool being held to goalless draws themselves.

LAST SEASON’S CORRESPONDING GAME

Aston Villa 1-4 Manchester United

20 December 2007 – Ref: Rob Styles
Villa scorer: Agbonlahor 13
Man Utd scorers: Rooney 36, 44, Ferdinand 45, Giggs 75
Sent Off: Reo-Coker 60, Carson 66 (both Villa)