Lambert - Villa have momentum

Christian Benteke scored Villa's equaliser in their 2-1 win over Reading.

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert says his side now has momentum following their 2-1 victory over Reading on Saturday.

Goals from Christian Benteke and Gabriel Agbonlahor cancelled out an own goal from Nathan Baker as the Villans secured a vital away victory against one of their main relegation rivals.

The response to the own goal, which saw Baker slice the ball into his own net, was swift, with Benteke scoring a minute later before Agbonlahor sealed the victory with a stunning volley on the stroke of half-time. It was only their second win in 12 attempts and their first away win since beating Liverpool in December.

The win saw Villa climb out of the relegation zone as 18th placed Wigan had FA Cup commitments this weekend. The Midlands club are now three points ahead of the Latics but they have played one game more. Villa are 2.25 to be relegated, while Wigan are 1.72.

Villa have another crucial relegation six-pointer next weekend when they host QPR, but Lambert feels that his side will head into the game full of confidence.

"There will be a few teams looking over their shoulder. We have a bit of momentum," he said following the victory over the Royals.

"To lose an own goal was a blow but the way we bounced back was terrific and I am very proud of my players, they deserve so much credit.

"The goals that we scored were excellent - we don't look like a team fighting for its life.

"I see a lot of confidence in the players - they have been playing really well without the rewards."

Aston Villa are 2.10 to beat QPR on Saturday, while Harry Redknapp's side are 3.50 to grab a crucial three points. The draw is 3.40.

Don't forget all Premier League matches by the bet365 100% Euro Soccer Bonus, where you could earn a bonus of up to 100% on your returns on pre-match accumulator bets.

http://www.ukbettips.co.uk/images/stories/Joomla/StiriRSS/christian-benteke-2.jpg via today's-betting-football-news http://www.ukbettips.co.uk/football-betting-news/4423-lambert-villa-have-momentum.html