Norwich City lead Aston Villa by 2-0 at half time after a completely dominant first half at Carrow Road.

Stephen Ireland had the first effort on goal after three minutes, the midfielder got his shot away but it missed the target.

Norwich looked the better of the two sides going forward and they made their pressure count on nine minutes. Grant Holt gave the home side the lead with his 15th goal of the season.

Norwich continued to press and nearly made it two on 11 minutes through Jonny Howson's curling effort from distance, but Shay Given was equal to it with a superb save.

Simon Lappin was next to have an effort for Norwich on 18 minutes, but his shot was off target.

Norwich added a second goal on 22 minutes through Simeon Jackson to give the home side a comfortable lead.

The home side dominated the opening half-hour, with Jackson missing another attempt on goal after 33 minutes.

Elliot Bennett saw his shot saved on 36 minutes as Norwich continued to attack Villa's defence.

The half-time whistle went with Norwich deservedly leading 2-0.