With heavyweights such as Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea leading the chasing pack to overtake Villa, a positive performance and result was sorely needed here.
But despite potential perks of entertaining a struggling Brighton side who came into the encounter with one victory in 12 PL outings, the first half was tepid at best – even if the hosts did find themselves in several dangerous positions.
Morgan Rogers' effort from a tight angle, which was comfortably saved by Bart Verbruggen, marked their best chance.
Nevertheless, history was made before the interval as Brighton’s James Milner – formerly of Villa – replaced the cautioned Carlos Baleba inside the opening 20 minutes for his 653rd PL appearance, drawing him level with all-time record holder Gareth Barry.
The second period started similarly to the first, only with Brighton threatening more frequently. Shortly before the hour mark, the Seagulls went closest thus far as Emiliano Martínez produced a stunning fingertip save to tip Ferdi Kadıoğlu’s rasping drive onto the crossbar.
Both managers then turned their benches in an attempt to give their respective sides extra impetus, yet both teams dealt well with what was thrown at them.
Villa had far more possession as the end neared, but just as it looked like they would have only a point to show for it, they found a winner in the final five minutes.
The goal was fortuitous, as Tyrone Mings’ flick-on took a big deflection off Hinshelwood on its way past Verbruggen, although no one in the Holte End cared.
Brighton immediately pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but it wasn’t forthcoming, allowing Villa to see out the remainder of the game.
The win sees Unai Emery’s men move five points behind league leaders Arsenal ahead of the Gunners’ clash with Brentford on Thursday – but much more importantly, they are now six ahead of Chelsea in fifth.
And while Brighton are not in any immediate danger of dropping into the relegation zone, they are only seven points above the bottom three as their dreadful run of form continues.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa)