Aston Villa kept up their push for a Champions League spot with a comfortable 2-0 win over relegation threatened Hull City at the KC Stadium. Any thought's Hull had of containing a rampant Villa were quickly exposed as the visitor's took an early lead.

Gabriel Agbonlahor fired Villa into a deserved lead with a fine finish after some woeful defending from the hosts.

Paul McShane sliced a clearance straight at John Carew and the England international finished clinically.

Kevin Kilbane had the one opportunity to level but with a clear sight of goal shot straight at the defender James Collins.

Early in the second half Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink suffered a serious-looking head injury after an accidental clash with Richard Dunne.

With Hull surprisingly subdued considering their Premiership survival is at stake Villa doubled their advantage in the 76th minute form the penalty spot.

George Boateng tripped James Milner and referee Mike Dean had no hesitation in awarding his 17th penalty of the campaign - Milner it was who then did the business from 12 yards.

Even with nine minutes of added time the Tigers failed to launch a late fightback and are three points adrift of safety with three games remaining.