Robbie Keane returned to haunt his old club by scoring a brace as Aston Villa ended a topsy-turvy game 3-2 victors away to local rivals Wolves. History was always with Villa in this encounter as they had not lost away to Wolves in any competition since 1978 and the Villans were handed the perfect start with a penalty after 11 minutes.
Darren Bent scored from the spot kick after being crudely brought down by Christopher Berra, but Wolves hit back with a marvellous solo effort from Michael Kightly and by the half-hour the home side had completed their comeback and taken the lead.
Roger Johnson flicked on a corner and David Edwards was perfectly placed to head home past Shay Given.
Then former player Keane, on loan with Villa from LA Galaxy, took centre stage after the break.
The former Tottenham player levelled when he collected Ciaran Clark's cushioned header to finish with a splendid volley.
The turning point of the game arrived in the 74th minute as Karl Henry stamped on Marc Albrighton for a third red card of his career.
The visitor's then made their numerical advantage count with six minutes remaining. Keane hammered in a 25 yard shot which crashed into goal via the underside of the crossbar.
Wolves have now gone eight games without a win and find themselves in the relegation places on goal difference.
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Venue: Molineux Attendance: 27,084
Wolves scorers: Kightly 21, Edwards 31 Villa scorers: Bent (pen) 11, Keane 51, 84
TRIBAL ASKS: The pressure is building on Wolves boss Mick McCarthy, will he be the next PL boss for the sack?
Yellow cards: Kightly (WOL) Red card: Henry (WOL)
