ASTON VILLA SUFFERED their first defeat of pre-season after going down 3-1 at League One newcomers Chesterfield on Wednesday.
Paul Cook’s side, League Two champions back in May, were two goals to the good at half-time and although Villa pulled one back shortly after the interval, the hosts made the game safe with a third late on.
Tendayi Darikwa put the former Sligo Rovers manager’s side in front early on, before Sam Hird gave Chesterfield some breathing space close to half-time.
Irish U21 star Jack Grealish brought the Premier League outfit back into the match in the 51st minute, but as the visitors pressed for an equaliser Sam Morsy restored Chesterfield’s two-goal advantage six minutes from time. Irish hope Samir Carruthers also featured for Villa with new assistant Roy Keane on the bench.