Time to map out a plan for Villa's future
- Says blogger Matthew Turvey
Blues 1 Portsmouth 0 – Verdict
Wednesday 19th August 2009, 10:00PM BST.
A controversial stoppage-time penalty handed Birmingham their first three points back in the Premier League at St Andrew’s.
Portsmouth goalkeeper David James’ collision with Sebastian Larsson saw referee Lee Probert point to the spot, and up stepped James McFadden to fire home the penalty.
Blues’ hearts were then in mouths as John Utaka raced straight up the other end and – with seconds remaining – squandered a chance to equalise.
But in the end the goal settled a tight game, with Garry O’Connor and sub Kevin Phillips both forcing good saves out of James, while Pompey lone striker Frederic Piquionne tested home goalkeeper Joe Hart.
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