Emile Heskey scored the only goal in his debut for new club Aston Villa to defeat Portsmouth at Fratton Park.
The England international scored a half-volley in the 21st minute and Pompey could not claws themselves back despite goal scoring opportunities, notably to Peter Crouch who missed from two yards.
Nadir Belhadj was dismissed for the home side in the 71st minute for a second bookable offense.
Villa has now drawn level with Liverpool on points and sit third on goal difference as Portsmouth remain in a relegation battle, just three points above bottom-placed West Brom.