Richard Dunne: Aston Villa can compete for a top-four finish

Oct 6 2009 by Mathew Kendrick, Birmingham Mail

RICHARD Dunne believes Villa have proved they can challenge Manchester City for a top-four place after refusing to celebrate his emotional goal against his former club.

Ironically, Dunne outjumped ex-Villan Gareth Barry in a battle of the old boys to head the opener in last night’s frenetic 1-1 draw with Mark Hughes’ Champions League hopefuls.

But the former Eastlands captain greeted his first claret and blue goal by maintaining a dignified silence and was applauded by City’s travelling supporters for respecting their feelings.

It was a far cry from the reception Barry received on his first return to Villa Park with the England midfielder booed by large sections of the home fans every time he touched the ball.

“I don’t have a celebration, when I score it’s usually a surprise,” said Dunne. “I really enjoyed my time at City and I really respect the club and the fans and not celebrating seemed the right thing to do.

“It just seems to happen playing against your former club, people seem to score. I wasn’t expecting to score tonight.”

Dunne admits a draw was probably a fair result and shows his new club have the ability to compete with his old one for a Champions League spot.

“Unfortunately we couldn’t go on from there and get the second,” added Dunne.

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