Joachim shines as Villa close the gap Julian Joachim made a dream full debut for Aston Villa with the opening goal in a comfortable Premiership success over Blackburn which left Brian Little's side fourth and Rovers ninth. Joachim, signed only five days earlier from Leicester for £1.2m capped a promising display with the 55th-minute opener. Gareth Southgate's first League goal for Villa wrapped up the points 16 minutes later. Villa were always in control, with skipper Andy Townsend impressive in midfield as they closed the gap on third-placed Liverpool, whom they visit on Sunday, to three points. Blackburn had virtually nothing to offer as an attacking force and Mark Bosnich made his only worthwhile save in the 89th minute from an Alan Shearer free kick. Villa stepped up a gear in the second period and it was no surprise when they broke the deadlock. Mark Draper's crossfield ball found Charles, who was given plenty of room on the right flank throughout, and his centre was headed wide of goalkeeper Tim Flowers by Joachim. Yorke twice went close before Villa wrapped up the points when Townsend's corner was headed in by the impressive Southgate.