The Claret and Blue second string could have clinched the FA Premier League Reserve League title with a win but two penalty awards proved to be their downfall.
Villa's Dominik Hofbauer opened the scoring on 38 only to see Ryan Mason level three minutes later after Nathan Baker was adjudged to have fouled Takura Mtandari.
The winning goal came 15 minutes after the break as Jacques Maghoma slotted home a twice taken spot kick.
Incidentally, Villa keeper Elliot Parish managed to save the first penalty only to see the referee rule that his efforts were in vain.
Despite the defeat there was more encouraging news on Wilfred Bouma, with the defender managing to complete 84 minutes of action.
Kevin MacDonald was also able to name Nicky Shorey and Nathan Delfouneso in his starting XI as his side went in search of back to back league titles.
Unfortunately, they will now have to wait until April 20 and the home clash with Fulham to claim the crown. One consolation being that if, as presumed, they manage to win that game, then at least they will get to celebrate in front of their own fans.