Brighton had the better chances in the first half with Tariq Lamptey and Leo Trossard both having efforts saved by Villa keeper Martinez.
While Brighton keeper Jason Steele preformed well on his Premier League debut to keep out Matty Cash and Danny Ings.
The hosts improved after the break and pinned Albion back. Villa’s first goal of the Gerrard era arrived seven minutes from time courtesy of a superb curling strike from Ollie Watkins.
Tyrone Mings then smashed home a second goal after 88 minutes to send Villa Park wild and hand Gerrard’s team victory.
Scroll down and click through to see how each player rated on a highly-charged afternoon at Villa Park
The hosts improved after the break and pinned Albion back. Villa’s first goal of the Gerrard era arrived seven minutes from time courtesy of a superb curling strike from Ollie Watkins.
5. Tariq Lamptey 7/10
Always making runs down the right and prepared to take on his man. Helped stretch the Villa defence. One effort at the end of first half well saved by Martinez. Replaced by Maupay with 12 to go
6. Adam Lallana 7/10
The protection of Bissouma and Gross allowed Lallana to get into advanced areas. Always clever in possession and enjoying his injury-free run of football
7. Pascal Gross 6/10
Linked well with Lamptey at times and good delivery from set-pieces. Booked in the second half for a foul on McGinn. Solid.
8. Yves Bissouma 7/10
A very controlled and mature performance in midfield from the Mali international. Knows his role in the team to a tee.Powerhouse.