Aston Villa and Albion have been locked in a dramatic first half at Villa Park, with a controversial penalty decision grabbing the spotlight.

The drama unfolded in the 32nd minute when Aston Villa was awarded a penalty after João Pedro was penalised for a foul on Morgan Rogers in the box.

The decision went to VAR, but the on-field call stood, frustrating Albion players and fans.

Ollie Watkins converted the penalty, levelling the score at 1-1 after Albion took an early lead.

The big screen shows a message to fans about a VAR decision (Image: Bradley Collyer) Social media erupted, with fans and pundits divided.

Brighton supporters described the call as "soft" and said it was "ruining the flow of the game," while Villa fans saw it as justified.

The first half also featured a well-crafted goal from Brighton, catching Villa’s defence off guard in the early stages.

Watkins equalised in the 36th minute.

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Watkins narrowly missed with a header in stoppage time, while João Pedro tested Emiliano Martínez with a low shot earlier in the half.

The match has seen its fair share of fouls and cards:

• 38': Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa) booked for a foul on Carlos Baleba.

• 45+3': Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa) booked for a foul on João Pedro.

• 45+7': Yasin Ayari (Brighton) shown yellow for a late challenge.

Both teams will be eager to take control in the second half.