Pompey level with 10-man Villa

Portsmouth 1 Aston Villa 1

Aston Villa took advantage of Portsmouth’s second home own goal this season, just seconds after Nolberto Solano’s sending-off – but Pompey equalised with a wonder strike from Lomana LuaLua to reach half-time level.

Solano was dismissed by Graham Poll for an elbow retaliation to Richard Hughes’ foul in the 10th minute – but it was Hughes who headed the subsequent free-kick from Olof Mellberg past his own goalkeeper.

Dangerous LuaLua missed two great chances before finally sweeping a superb half-volley just inside the far post on 39 minutes.