The third round of the Carling Cup was one that Aston Villa supporters would love to forget. The fixture ended on a disappointing loss for the villains- they were beaten 0-1 by Championship outfit Queens Park Rangers at home (Villa Park).

The game’s only goal came from defender Damion Stewart, who headed home in the 58th minute to give the R’s the lead and the eventual winner. Villa started off positively with a string of chances, however they could not convert them into goals. Forward Marlon Harewood had a few chances to score, but squandered his opportunities.

Ashley Young had a splendid match on the left flank. He injected life into the villain’s attack with his unlimited skill and pace. On different occasions he tested the R’s defense with some tempting deliveries into the box, but the attacking duo of Harewood and Carew didn’t capitalize. Young had a chance of his own close to the break but saw it pass inches wide of the far post.

QPR struck two minutes before the hour mark with a “mean” header from the Jamaican International, which flew past American Brad Guzan like a missile. It was the 28 year old’s second goal in the League Cup this season and his third in all competitions.

Villa’s Manager Martin O’Neill brought Gabby Agbonlahor and Wayne Routledge into the mix to bolster the villain’s attack. More chances came and went, in particular, a high pass from John Carew which met the boot of Skipper Gareth Barry who missed the target and the opportunity to add a sixth League Cup to their Trophy Cabinet.

Stewart scored the winner in a 0-1 victory against Aston Villa