Aston Villa overturned the odds and the form book to beat Chelsea 2-1 after going a goal down early in the game. It was Chelsea’s second away defeat and the shoddy defending on display will certainly raise questions at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea had taken the lead when Brad Friedel failed to deal with a long-range effort from Didier Drogba, but they failed to capitalise and conceded goals from set plays either side of half time.

An unmarked Richard Dunne headed the home side level after Ashley Young’s corner flicked off Frank Lampard in the 32nd minute while James Collins headed the winner from another Young corner in the 52nd minute. Chelsea put the Villa defense under siege in the final minutes of the game but couldn’t get the equaliser.

Chelsea’s defeat coupled with a potential win for Manchester United (who lead 2-0 at half time) means that the champions return to the top of the table, while Aston Villa, for now, move to 6th place.

Aston Villa 2-1 Chelsea – 17 October 2009 – Goals

Aston Villa 0-1 Chelsea (Drogba 15′)

Aston Villa 1-1 Chelsea (Dunne 32′)

Aston Villa 2-1 Chelsea (Collins 52′)

Aston Villa 2-1 Chelsea – Match Highlights