Cast your mind back to September 8th, 2001  the last time Aston Villa beat Liverpool on their own turf. Dion Dublins header was cancelled out by Steven Gerrard, the midfielder sent off later on for a malicious tackle on George Boateng, but goals from Lee Hendrie and Darius Va sell ensured a 3-1 victory.And so began a torrid 7-season spell. Since then, Villa have picked up just 2 points from Anfield, their most recent visit ending in a 5-0 drubbing and a harsh red card for former Liverpool goalkeeper Brad Friedel, rightly rescinded after the game. So it was no surprise that, after an awful opening league defeat to Wigan, and a le s than impre sive 1-0 lo s to Kyle Korver Jersey  Rapid Vienna in the Europa League, even the most optimistic of Villa fans were anticipating 90 minutes of pure torture, with a scoreline similar to something Andrew Flintoff and co might encounter on a daily basis. Out of all the supporters, journalists and pundits showing an interest in the game, very few would have predicted Villa to collect even one point, let alone three.Whod have thought, the next Villa victory at Anfield would see Heskey on the away teamsbench, and Alpaywho knows where?But it happened. Against all odds, Aston Villa left Merseyside victorious, a brave and inspired performance earning them a 3-1 win.After his teams poor start to the season, manager Martin ONeill had come under criticism, mostly surrounding his choice of tactics and the starting 11 used. Judging by the teamsheet announced shortly before kick-off, he seemed to have taken note of his  Matt Mooney Jersey errors; ONeill this time opted for a 4-5-1 formation. This was used in many of Villas impre sive away performances of last season, including victories against Everton and Arsenal, and provided cover to a fragile back four while giving Gabriel Agbonlahor a chance to improve on his dismal form.As expected, it was Liverpool who dominated the game, particularly  Kevin Love Jersey in the early stages. The chances were flying in for the Reds, Yo si Benayoun and Gerrard both coming close, followed by a dramatic goalmouth scramble which looked as though it was easier to find the net; Friedel made sure this was not the case.The pre sure from the men in red was immense  but it was Villa, against the run of play, who took the lead. Young Brazilian Lucas was heavily involved, heading an Ashley Young free kick (which he himself needle sly conceded) past his own goalkeeper after pre sure from James Milner.Liverpool were beginning to look sloppy, their frustration epitomised by Pepe Reinas yellow card. The Spanish keeper kicked the ball away after disagreeing with the referees decision to award a corner against them. Ironically, Villa took full advantage. Nicky Shoreys cro s from the corner flag was met by Curtis Davies, whose header put his side 2-0 up.And  Marquese Chriss Jersey after the interval it was much the same. Chance after chance fell to Liverpool, including two headers from Kuyt and a strong drive by Gerrard, but it took them 72 minutes to capitalize. Emiliano Insua set up Torres, whose fierce shot found the back of the net. Would this be the beginning of a remarkable comeback by Liverpool? The sinking feeling in the pit of the away fans stomachs seemed to agree.This lasted only two minutes. Nigel Reo-Cokers burst into the penalty box was halted rather abruptly by Gerrard. The England star, the centre of so many of Liverpools penalty dramas, now found himself on the other end  his rash tackle gave Villa the opportunity to make it 3-1. And it was Ashley Young who welcomed the opportunity; his spot kick sent Reina the wrong way, and made sure Villa left with all three points.Ashley Young celebrates his succe sful penalty kickVilla came to Anfield with a gameplan. Davies and Carlos Cuellar gave everything they had in the centre of defence, ensuring the strikeforce of Dirk Kuyt and Fernando Torres did not find a way through. And despite their po se sion, Liverpool could not quell the strength of the Villa midfield. Steve Sidwell, captain Stiliyan Petrov and in particular Nigel Reo-Coker made tackle after tackle, and thwarted the majority of their attempts to break through. And Fridel was heroic between the sticks, throwing himself in front of every ball. This unexpected result is surely a confidence boost for Villa going into the second leg of their European tie  Dante Exum Jersey on Thursday, and a sign that, with a few more signings and continued organisation, the Villans are capable of competing with the big boys this season. Click here Click here Click here