Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill admitted Tottenham deserved a point from their 1-1 draw at Villa Park on Saturday evening.

Gabriel Agbonlahor had fired the Midlands club ahead in the 10th minute as Villa dominated the first half.

However, Spurs grabbed a point thanks to skipper Michael Dawson's first goal of the season in the 77th minute.

"We played very well in the first half and tried to close them down as quickly as we could," said O'Neill.

"As that half-time whistle blew I thought we were the better side.

"But Tottenham showed their real quality in the second half. Despite the fact Emile Heskey almost got the goal for us at the end, it was probably us who were hanging on.

"In the second half, they came out and got a grip of midfield. When we were clearing it, we couldn't get out quickly enough. We lost rhythm and momentum and got a bit tired. Tottenham deserved the equaliser.

"They are a good team and a side in good form. We will try and learn something from the game hopefully - maybe to try and get a second goal when we are in charge.

"That is easier said than done, of course, in this Premier League."