Aston Villa took a huge step towards the play-off places with a convincing 3-1 win over promotion rivals, Nottingham Forest at The City Ground on Wednesday evening.
It was Forest that took the lead through Jack Colback after just three minutes, but John McGinn responded just minutes later to draw the scores level.
McGinn then netted his second of the game with a fiercely struck effort from distance to see Villa head into the break with a one-goal-lead.
Kortney Hause gave Dean Smith's side breathing space as he found the back of the net on the hour mark to see Villa move to within two points of the top six.
There were unsavoury scenes during the game, with Roy Keane clashing with Villa's John Terry on the touchline, and the former
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Terry's side had the last laugh as Villa took a crucial three points away from one of their play-off chasing rivals on the night.
Villa will be one of the most feared teams to come up against in the Championship now, especially given that they have now won their last three league matches.
There is certainly enough quality in Dean Smith's side to challenge for a top six finish, and they're rapidly climbing the table at the perfect time during this year's campaign.
The Verdict:
What a vital win this is for Aston Villa.
They needed to be winning this one to close the gap on their play-off chasing rivals, and they did just that.
If they can build on these impressive results, then I have no doubt in saying that they will sneak into the play-offs when the season reaches a conclusion.