Holman, who was signed by ex-Villa boss Alex McLeish before Paul Lambert took charge, was one of the standout performers in the warm-up clash.

The Australian was introduced at the break, with Lambert replacing his entire outfield line-up at half-time.

And Holman made the decisive impact late in the contest, when he worked his way into the left-hand side of the box, before guiding home a fine finish.

"It was a great goal from Brett, it really was," Lambert told the club's website after the game.

Holman, who some believed may not be a certain regular under new boss Lambert, was one of the best afield with his work-rate and support play in attack and combined well with Barry Bannan on several occasions.

Earlier in the weekend, Holman had told the Daily Star: "I signed for one manager and I'm now playing for another, but it hasn't really affected me at all. I've spoken to the new manager and he's told me to give it everything. He's reassured me.

"Nobody has played for him, so we all start with a clean slate. I have got to show him what I can produce and make it hard for him. Hopefully I will play my way into the first team. Paul said, 'You're here, give it everything'.

"So, it was good to have a word with the new manager. He said I was part of his plans but that I have to show myself, otherwise he's not going to pick me."