Dealt efficiently with everything that was thrown at him after the goal. Most competent performance for some time.
Wilfred Bouma 8
Left back was barnstorming in the tackle and capped a fine performance with his first goal for the club
Martin Laursen 7
Typically strong and snuffed out any chance of a Newcastle coming back into the game.
Curtis Davies 6
Is thankful for Laursen's presence as his defensive partner shoulders most of the workload.
Olof Mellberg 5
Had a poor first half as he wasn't protected by Petrov meaning Duff roamed. His distribution was particularly disappointing.
Ashley Young 7
Was a growing force in the second half and put in some trademark deliveries. Carew must love this man.
Gareth Barry 8
Great performance from the skipper. His passing was pinpoint everything went through him as usual.
Nigel Reo-Coker 7
Not as influential as Barry but did what was necessary and provided a platform for the second half special.
Stiliyan Petrov 2
Awful performance from the Bulgarian as he not only stopped attacks for the Villa, but started them for the visitors. Had a row with Mellberg and was replaced at half time. The difference was noticeable and fans will be wondering if this is the end of Petrov.
Shaun Maloney 8
Provided some good deliveries and was clever in his general distribution.
John Carew 9
The big Norwegian was brilliant in the second half and deserved his hat-trick. He was helped by a fantastic performance by Marlon Harewood and some great deliveries from Young.
Substitutes
Craig Gardner 8
Added attacking impetus at right back and had a couple of cracking shots well saved by Harper.
Marlon Harewood 9
Villa-MAD Man of the Match: Changed the game as he revitalised the team. Was so hungry and this performance reaffirms the view that he is worth a starting place.