Even with West Brom trailing 2-1 to Aston Villa in the closing stages of today's game at Villa Park, many observers will have felt that they still had a real chance of progressing from the second leg.

Of course, they still do have a chance. All hope is not lost with Dean Smith's men only having a one goal advantage heading to the Hawthorns.

However, Dwight Gayle's controversial sending off late on in today's game may be the decisive moment in the tie.

The Albion forward was outstanding for large parts, showing a different side to his game as he harried the Villa back four and did a great job for the team out of possession.

As you would expect with the striker, he also took the big chance that came his way, ruthlessly finishing after Glenn Whelan had lost the ball for the hosts.

That showed Gayle at his clinical best and he was always going to be the main man in terms of the Baggies trying to book a place at Wembley.

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Therefore, the on-loan Newcastle man, along with everyone connected to the club, will be furious at Graham Scott for his controversial call.

Gayle, who had rightly been booked for time wasting earlier on, appeared to pull out of a challenge with Jed Steer when it became clear he wouldn't get the ball - a ball he had every right to go for.

If your striker isn't trying to get on the end of crosses like that then managers would be furious and the 28-year-old did his best to avoid contact with the keeper.

The reaction of the Villa players didn't help and Gayle will have to watch on from the stands as his teammates try to turn things around.

It's going to be a very tough task for West Brom to do so, and if they fail in their quest to reach Wembley then that big decision may be seen as a pivotal one.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.