Bent denies Baggies derby win

30 September 2012 17:58
Darren Bent came off the bench to score the 150th league goal of his career to earn Aston Villa a 1-1 draw with West Brom on Sunday. West Brom, who have enjoyed a bright start under new boss Steve Clarke, took the lead early in the second half through Shane Long only to be pegged back by Bent's finish on 80 minutes. The first half was a predictably competitive contest, but lacking in width and quality, with clear-cut chances at a premium. Perhaps the best opportunity fell to Long, who headed wide at the far post after just five minutes, while Brett Holman twice forced West Brom keeper Ben Foster into two smart saves. However, it took barely five minutes for the second half to spring into life with Long initially thinking he had put the Baggies ahead before officially getting on the scoresheet a minute later. The Republic of Ireland striker's header was ruled out for offside, but just 60 seconds later, Long finished from six yards out after Ron Vlaar had failed to clear James Morrison's low cross. Villa boss Paul Lambert brought on Bent for the ineffective Christian Benteke on 68 minutes and the decision was vindicated 10 minutes from time when the England striker clinically volleyed home after West Brom had failed to deal with a corner. More to follow...

Source: team_talk