Aston Villa have made their worst start to a season in 44 years after being held to a draw by Norwich City at Villa Park.

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The hosts, who took the lead through Christian Benteke, had to play almost half the match with 10 men after Joe Bennett was given his marching orders early in the second half.

Michael Turner headed home 11 minutes from time to earn the Canaries a well-deserved point.

The first real chance of the game fell to Wes Hoolahan, who was denied from six yards by the outstretched leg of Villa goalkeeper Brad Guzan.

Benteke fired Villa in front on 26 minutes, collecting Brett Holman's clever square pass before beating John Ruddy with a clinical finish from 10 yards.

The Belgium international went close to doubling his tally late in the first half, but his left-footed effort from close range was deflected wide.

Martin O'Neill's men made a dreadful start to the second period, as Joe Bennett was shown a second yellow card within seven minutes of the restart for pulling back Elliott Bennett on the halfway line.

The Villa defender had earlier picked up an equally soft booking for a foul on Hoolahan in the first half.

Norwich began to use their numerical advantage well and laid siege to the Villa goal.

Hoolahan was again denied by Guzan - as was Grant Holt after being put through one on one.

The equaliser deservedly came on 79 minutes, as Turner rose highest to plant Hoolahan's whipped corner beyond Guzan at the far post.

Villa, who are now winless in six games, were booed off at the final whistle.