James Milner penalty seizes points for Aston Villa in city derby

Aston Villa reignited their chances of claiming fourth and its prized place in next season's Champions League with a fiery 1-0 Premier League victory over neighbours Birmingham City on Sunday.                                           

James Milner scored a hotly contested penalty seven minutes from time to give Villa a crucial win and move his side level on points (64) with fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur, who have a game in hand.                                           

A bustling encounter swung in Villa's favour when Roger Johnson was adjudged to have brought down striker Gabriel Agbonlahor as he bore down on goal, although replays showed he got a touch on the ball before the striker was felled.                                           

With England coach Fabio Capello watching from the stands, Milner powered the ball past goalkeeper Joe Hart.                                           

Later on Sunday, Chelsea have the chance to reclaim the Premier League lead when they entertain Stoke City at Stamford Bridge (1500GMT).                                           

Liverpool, in seventh, travel to Burnley (1400), who need a win to give themselves any real chance of avoiding relegation.