Gabriel Agbonlahor scored his first goal of the season for Aston Villa to enliven a dull opening 45 minutes against visiting Charlton.
The 19-year-old finished in impressive style when he volleyed home after 35 minutes from skipper Gareth Barry’s centre.
Charlton could feel slightly aggrieved after knocking the ball around in confident style and Villa goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen saved well from Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.