Fulham boss Martin Jol was delighted for matchwinner Chris Baird after victory over Aston Villa.

The Northern Ireland international emerged as the unlikely hero, beating Villa goalkeeper Brad Guzan with a deft touch from John Arne Riise's near-post corner.

"Baird is very good at attacking the near post, he is always close but he hasn't scored for as long as I have known him," Jol said.

"It was most probably the worst corner kick ever. I don't think it was a good delivery but because he attacked the ball he could score.

"It is about players being at the end of the delivery and it was nice to see Chris there.

"We should have scored a goal earlier. I thought we played really well for the first 15 minutes.

"After that they had too much possession for my liking. It was a result ground out by us but I don't care. We need the points.

"We have to be strong at home. I am very pleased."