Sunderland's hopes of avoiding relegation received a huge boost on Saturday as they snatched a shock 1-0 victory over Aston Villa in their Premiership clash at Villa Park.

Michael Chopra came off the bench to grab the winner seven minutes before full time as Sunderland registered their first away win of the season leaving the home fans frustrated with yet another disappointing performance in the league.

Sunderland have struggled for points on road throughout the season and any hopes of avoiding a 13th away defeat received a blow when star striker Kenwyne Jones was unable to take part in the match due to illness.

Villa were almost off to a perfect start when John Carew's acrobatic overhead kick flew inches wide of the post with Craig Gordon rooted to his spot. Scott Carson's shaky form continued as he handled the ball outside the area in the 23rd minute but referee Howard Webb failed to notice the blunder even after Sunderland player appealed strongly.

Sunderland's first chance of the match fell to Roy O'Donovan but his header flew harmlessly over the bar from just eight yards out while Carew had another great chance at the other end though Gordon was quick to deny the striker.

Marlon Harewood replaced Nigel Reo-Coker and almost made an instant impact when he raced past Nyron Nosworthy but was unable to hit the target with just Gordon to beat. With time running out, Sunderland snatched the victory in the 83rd minute when Chopra latched on to Richardson's through ball before slotting it past Carson to give vital three points for his side.