Enckelman denies crucial touch

Aston Villa goalkeeper Peter Enckelman says he did not touch the ball in the incident that led to his own goal against Birmingham on Monday.

Birmingham were awarded the second goal of their 3-0 win at St Andrews after referee David Elleray adjuged that the Villa keeper had touched Olof Melberg's throw-in on its way to goal.

I honestly don't think I touched the ball

Peter Enckelman

But Enckelman has denied that he made any contact with the ball - and insists that he understands the rule which states that a goal cannot be scored direct from a throw-in.

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"It should have been the easiest thing in the world to control," Enckelman told the BBC.

"But the next thing I knew I had missed it and it was in the net.

"I honestly don't think I touched the ball - I made a blunder and that's it."

As soon as Enckelman had made the error he held his head in his hands and looked utterly distraught - but did not protest to the referee.

Photo gallery: Enckelman's error in focus

"I know the rules - a throw-in cannot go straight in," said Enckelman.

"I can understand the fans' disappointment and I am sorry for my mistake.

"Villa fans need to get behind the team and we need a win on Sunday - I'm already looking forward to the next game."

Villa manager Graham Taylor has told his players to quickly get over their derby defeat.

Photo gallery: Classic own goals

"What the players have got to do is follow a rule that I have taken in the game for many years," said Taylor.

"That is to allow yourself either 24 hours to sulk or 24 hours to be happy - and then you have to get on with it.

"And this must apply to Peter Enckelman, in particular, because that is going to live with him and he is going to be reminded of it in this city.

"Now he's got to show great force of character to just get on with his game."

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