Richard Dunne conceded Aston Villa may have been fortunate not to concede a late penalty in the 0-0 draw with Tottenham.

Both sides have their eyes on a a spot in the top four but could not be prised apart in north London.

Spurs were visibly upset at not getting a spot-kick when Stiliyan Petrov appeared to trip Jermain Defore in the box and Dunne appeared to confirm suspicions that the visitors were lucky.

The Republic of Ireland centre-back told ESPN: "It looked like a penalty, but we got a good decision and we're happy.

"It was very difficult. Tottenham are a very good side and the same as ourselves are pushing for the top four.

"Our main objective was to come here and take some points so we're quite pleased.

We had a blip over Christmas so to get back in the points is important."

Villa boss Martin O'Neill was more pragmatic on the contested penalty shout.

He added: "I honestly have not seen it. Where have you heard that phrase before? If you tell me it looks like a penalty and we've had a bit of luck then we're content."