An 89th-minute strike from Gabriel Agbonlahor has earned Aston Villa three precious points against Norwich City in the Premier League this afternoon.

Aston Villa's Gabriel Agbonlahor celebrates after scoring against Norwich on May 4, 2013 © PA Photos

Both sides struggled to create chances in a frantic opening, with Andreas Weimann finally testing Mark Bunn with a low strike required a strong save.

Villa were then forced to make an early change as Matthew Lowton was forced off with a thigh problem, ending his run of playing every minute in the Premier League this season for Paul Lambert's side.

Eric Lichaj quickly came on to deputise at full-back, with Norwich unable to profit as Robert Snodgrass failed to deliver with a free kick just outside the penalty area.

Javier Garrido then sent a dangerous curling cross into the box, with Grant Holt just unable to make proper contact with a diving header that went well wide of the target.

Villa then went close with a touch of fortune before the break, with Agbonlahor's deflected cross clipping the woodwork after taking a touch off Garrido.

Christian Beneteke was kept largely quiet by the home side as a frustrating first period ended in stalemate.

Ten minutes into the second half Villa broke the deadlock as Agbonlahor buried a measured finish into the far corner from 20 yards.

Hoolahan and Weimann then both missed gilt-edged chances at both ends with the game stretched as Norwich pushed for an equaliser.

With 16 minutes left, the home side were handed a lifeline as Joe Bennett conceded a penalty after bringing down Robert Snodgrass.

Holt made no mistake from the spot, sending Brad Guzan the wrong way with a powerful effort.

Norwich were unable to hold in the closing stages as Agbonlahor's pace proved decisive, with the forward racing onto a pass from Ashley Westwood before slotting from close range.

Villa held on in stoppage time to secure a second successive victory and ease their relegation fears, with Norwich still looking nervously over their shoulders.