Richard Dunne backed after own goal

Stewart Downing has insisted team-mate Richard Dunne would face no recriminations in the Villa dressing room over the own goal which gifted Sunderland victory.

Dunne's 25th minute gaffe, when his attempted clearance from Steed Malbranque's cross ended up in the back of Brad Friedel's goal, proved the difference between the sides as Steve Bruce's men claimed a 1-0 win at the Stadium of Light.

The Irishman, Villa's reigning players' player of the season, holds the unenviable record of being the Premier League's highest own goal scorer with eight.

But Downing was adamant he was not to blame for the defeat and pointed to his high level of performances since arriving from Manchester City last summer.

He said: "It can happen at any time. If he missed it then someone else was probably going to tap it in. Dunney has been brilliant for us. There's no finger-pointing or blaming him.

"He's been absolutely magnificent for us and he was again Saturday, he made some great blocks and last-ditch tackles.

"I won't be reminding him about the record! He's been absolutely brilliant for us and he's carried that on into this season.

"He's a great leader and a top player."

Downing's sentiments were echoed by manager Gerard Houllier, who praised the performances of Dunne and central-defensive partner James Collins.

The Villa boss said: "The goal was very unfortunate, because the two centre-backs played well.

"I told him 'don't worry, that happens'. You win games for us.

"It was a bit sad but that happens in football."

Downing admitted Villa, who have scored just once in their last three games, again paid for their profligacy.

He added: "It's happened to us a few times I think - at Tottenham, at Chelsea - although obviously with that one it was slightly different. You've got to take your chances.

"It's disappointing."