Aston Villa claimed a first leg play-off advantage as they came from behind to see off West Brom 2-1. Dwight Gayle had given Albion an early lead but Villa hit West Brom with two goals in three minutes through Conor Hourihane and a Tammy Abraham penalty. Gayle was later sent off and his season is now over due to suspension.

Villa welcomed back Abraham while Jack Grealish and John McGinn played after being rested. West Brom appeared at their best as they employed a wing back system.

West Brom were a huge threat from the off with Gayle and Jay Rodriguez continuing their constant threat in attack. It was Gayle who capitalised on an error by Glenn Whelan to score his 24th of the campaign.

Villa's decision to bring on Hourihane for Whelan paid dividends as the midfielder levelled matters with a superb finish having been set up by Grealish.

Within moments and Villa had taken the lead as Abraham scored his 26th of the season as the impressive Grealish was brought down by Kieran Gibbs.

To compound West Brom's misery, Gayle was sent off late on in harsh circumstances, a second bookable offence for fouling Villa keeper Jed Steer.

Advantage Villa but this tie is certainly in the balance and it promises to be an intriguing second leg. West Brom will be annoyed that they now have Gayle suspended as he has been a vital player for them this season.