Birmingham have us on the back foot for most of the first half and look by far the most likely to score. It therefore comes as little surprise when Lukas Jutkiewicz heads their opening goal half an hour in.
Things almost go from bad to worse as a shot from Che Adams hits the post with Orjan Nyland left stranded and motionless. It proves to be the trigger that stirs Villa into life. Two fantastic crosses from man of the match, Albert Adomah, are met first by Jonathan Kodjia then by Jack Grealish. The crowd erupts and Villa head in for the break two-one up.
The second half starts in similar style. With just five minutes gone Tammy Abraham is fouled in the box by Michael Morrison. He takes the penalty himself and calmly slots it into the back of the net.
Two goals up and you would have thought it was all plain sailing from here on in. However, Birmingham have different ideas. They've fought with dogged determination and resolute spirit throughout the match and a goal from Kristian Pedersen on the hour mark pulls them back into the game.
Villa are not to be denied, though. Alan Hutton scores a sublime solo goal, taking the ball all the way from ten yards inside his own half to the other end of the pitch before taking aim and firing. The two goal lead is restored and Villa see out the reminder of the game safely to the rapturous applause of the home crowd.
What a derby! All credit to Birmingham who came here looking for a result. They look impressive under manager, Garry Monk, and it won't be long until they bounce back.
