Scunthorpe United 0 - 5 Aston Villa

Last updated : 06 August 2003 By Patrick Hill
The visitors took the lead after just seven minutes, England U21 regular Gareth Barry cutting the ball back from the right for Villa frontman Marcus Allback to slot home on the turn.

Moments later it was Barry again causing the Iron problem's curling a left footed effort just wide before Beagrie sent a menacing free kick into the side netting.

Andy Parton was stretchered off after a strong challenge from Villa left back Jlloyd Samuel to be replaced by Matt Sparow and Wayne Graves was also subbed off in the first half with a slight knock.

The rest of the first half was reasonably even, although the Premiership side always had the cutting edge wasting one or two good opportunities to extend their lead.

McLean went close in the 49th minute with a header but just three minutes later, Colombian international Angel slotted home at a second attempt after a good cross from Whittingham.

The third came on 54 minutes, Whittingham again making the opening, this time Allback finishing the chance thumping the ball home from eight yards.

England international Darius Vassell was subbed on to a good ovation from both sets of supporters and he looked extremely bright firing just wide after 61 minutes before setting up another sub De la Cruz for Villa's fourth of the evening.

From there on in, it was all Villa before Allback won the match ball in the 80th minute. De la Cruz was provider with Alback blasting the ball home for a comprehensive 5-0 victory.