Lewis Grabban gives Aston Villa promotion hope with Leeds goal

Aston Villa moved to within two points of the Championship automatic promotion places with a 1-0 win over Leeds. Lewis Grabban's first-half header was enough to give the hosts victory at Villa Park as Leeds fell to their 10th defeat of 2018.

Villa, who at the very least are guaranteed a play-off spot, have played one game more than second-placed Fulham, while Cardiff ' a point better off than Steve Bruce's side ' have played two games fewer.

Paul Heckingbottom suffered his seventh defeat in 13 games since taking over as Leeds manager, while his Villa counterpart, Steve Bruce, extended his managerial record of never having been beaten at home by Leeds to eight games.

Villa completely dominated the first half but had a more difficult job on their hands after the break when Leeds started to cause some problems. Jack Grealish, who produced a fine goal against Cardiff on Tuesday, again provided some silky play as he tormented Leeds and played a leading role in Villa dominating for long spells of the first half.

Villa, buoyed by their success over promotion rivals Cardiff, were relentless from the start and Leeds had to stage a rearguard action to keep on level terms.

Manchester City need two more wins from their last six games to clinch the league title. Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham look set to finish in the top four with Chelsea 10 points behind in fifth. Arsenal could reach the Champions League if they win the Europa League, while Burnley are well-placed for Europe in seventh.

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