Graham Potter said Aaron Mooy's red card was a major factor in his side's cruel defeat at Villa Park.

But he added he was proud of their efforts and performance in a 2-1 reverse.

Matt Targett sent Villa Park into delirium with a goal at the end of added time.

Mooy saw red when Albion led through an Adam Webster header and Jack Grealish then levelled in first-half added time.

Albion head coach Potter said: "It’s a painful one, that is for sure. They gave everything and, when it happens in that manner, with the last kick, it is particularly heart-wrenching for the players.

“In the context of the game, the sending-off has a big influence.

“Until that, we were the better team, controlled the game and were deservedly 1-0 up.

“Then the sending-off means the crowd get involved and Villa Park was lively today and got behind the team.

“Having said that, we played with tremendous courage, tremendous quality, great understanding and personality.

“I am just disappointed with the result but I’m proud of how we conducted ourselves on the pitch, how were on the pitch, fantastic.”