Julian Speroni: Made three superb saves from Carew in the second half and claimed crosses well. Had to be helped out by Clyne on the line once though when he flapped at a corner. 8

Nathaniel Clyne: There are many Premier League defenders who cannot cope with Ashley Young but Clyne had him in his pocket all game. Apart from the stupid back pass that almost gifted a Villa a goal he was solid and completely unfazed by the occasion. Man of the match. 9

Clint Hill: Struggled with Heskey's height early on but got better as the game progressed. He was beaten to the ball by Collins though for the first equaliser. 8

Claude Davis: Like Hill he sometimes struggled with Villa's height but made a number of key challenges and interceptions. He was a bit unlucky to be booked. 8

Danny Butterfield: Switched back into defence and looked a lot more comfortable. He kept Downing quiet for most the match though shouts of shoot every time he got the ball were a little optimistic. 8

Johnny Ertl: Returned to midfield and he stuck to his job well, hassling and hurrying Petrov and Delph so they didn't have any time on the ball. Scored his first Palace goal with a good header. 9

Shaun Derry: Given the job of marking Milner and he thrived at it, keeping the England man unusually quiet. Broke up play and got stuck in when he had to. 9

Nick Carle: Showed some wonderful touches on the ball and some neat trickery. Enjoyed the game more because Palace were passing the ball on the floor rather than just hoofing it to Lee. Took a couple of good corners. 9

Neil Danns: Superb performance and like Carle he enjoyed having the ball to his feet rather than over his head. Did a wonderful pirouette at one point and Villa struggled to cope with his movement. 9

Darren Ambrose: Can claim an assist for Ertl's header from his corner and you will struggle to find a better free-kick goal than his 36-yard-screamer all season. Almost scored again but his header came off the bar. 9

Alan Lee: Did not stop trying and he caused Collins and Dunne all sorts of problems by contesting everything with them. Got a deserved standing ovation when he was substituted. 9

Subs: Calvin Andrew (Lee, 90): No time. 6