On december 2010
Rafael van der Vaart scored twice giving Tottenham Spurs an important victory at Villa Park on Boxing Day (1-2). The Harry Redknapp's team survived the first-half sending off of Jermain Defoe to secure three vital points.
Aston Villa were without Ashley Young because of a knee injury, while Spurs were able to recall Van der Vaart, out since going off early against Liverpool last month. And he played a decisive part in the match.
In the first minutes, Villa had strong penalty appeals rejected as Heskey clashed with Gomes in a tussle for possession, referee ruling that the Spurs keeper had just got a touch to the loose ball before there was any contact between the pair.
Spurs took the lead in the 23', but Defoe was sent off for making contact with Collins only one minute later.
In the second half, Aston Villa dominated the ball possession, but Van der Vaar scored again (67th minute).
Albrighton's goal eight minutes from time gave Aston Villa some chances in the closing stages, but Spurs maintained their three points.
Carlos Cuéllar played all the match and had a serious chance to score (63').
The next Villa's match will be against Manchester City (28 december).
Carlos Cuéllar Official website © 2026