Playing without fear: Paul Heckingbottom proud of how Barnsley punch above weight in Championship

The Tykes clinched just their second victory over Villa in their history as they extended the hosts' winless run to nine games.

Adam Armstrong's penalty put the visitors ahead before Bradshaw struck either side of Jonathan Kodjia's effort just before the break.

Barnsley's only previous triumph over Villa came in 1998, but they merited this victory which kept them within six points of the Sky Bet Championship play-off places.

Defeat left Villa seven points above the relegation zone, despite spending over £60million this season which was supposed to bring them an instant return to the Premier League. But they are now 19 points adrift of the top six

Tykes boss Paul Heckingbottom was full of praise for his players and insisted their underdogs tag makes them tick.

He said: "We use the fact we're a small group of players, staff and have a small budget as part of our power and what we are. This is us, what we're given, and how we're going to excel.

"What can we do better than everyone else? We don't shy away from what we're short of, but what we do is use that to work out to how to bridge the gap.

"We had to work really hard for that. I think we had to show everything. We're an aggressive team, we don't play with any fear."

Aston Villa boss Steve Bruce has told his struggling side they must start earning their huge wages.

Bruce said: "The reason why we've got one of the biggest wage bills in the Championship is we've got to deal with that mentality and expectation. That's why they get paid more than anyone else in this division.

"I'm convinced they are made of the right stuff and can get better, and it's my responsibility to make them better.

"There's been big change at the club for too long. It's tough to come in here (the press conference), tough to do the television but that's what it is. But it's now time you show your balls.

"It's the best and biggest club I've had in 20 years in management and arguably the toughest one to turn around. Given time I know for a fact I'll do it.

"It's difficult but that's when you show your mettle, roll your sleeves up, batten down the hatches and get ready to try and ride the storm - because there will be.

"Every man and his dog will have their say but I'm determined. I know what's required in this division, I've been around it long enough."

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