Roberto De Zerbi admitted Brighton did not beat ‘the true Aston Villa’ after his side ended a miserable run with their first win in seven games.
Joao Pedro’s late goal, scoring from the rebound after his penalty had been saved by the excellent Robin Olsen, proved the difference, but the Seagulls were the better side throughout.
‘To be honest, Villa were not themselves, maybe a little tired,’ said the Italian. ‘They are playing in the Europa Conference League and they have a lot of injuries.
‘I am proud because we played a great game against one of the best teams in the Premier League.