Defoe was shown a red card by referee Martin Atkinson four minutes later after he caught Villa defender James Collins with his elbow as they challenged for a high ball, the striker vehemently protesting his innocence to no avail.
Gallen's experience proved to be the difference as the veteran former Queens Park Rangers striker produced two high-class finishes to secure the Hatters' victory.
Bolton did finally create a decent chance on 35 minutes, although it was more by luck than judgement with Kevin Davies's mishit shot ending at the feet of El-Hadji Diouf only for the Senegal striker to fire high over the bar.
BBC: SPORT | Football | Europe | Rabotnicki Kometal 1-1 Bolton
During an enthralling and competitive opening half, the heavily involved Grant had been kicked in the head by a very high foot from Andrew as the striker stretched to reach a looping ball, while James O'Connor sustained a cut above his eye as he competed for a loose ball.
Hughes, whose club gave up in their high-profile attempt to sign Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o - now likely to join Inter Milan in a swap deal with Zlatan Ibrahimovic - has a glut of forwards in his bloated, 57-strong squad.
Celtic failed to clear a free kick from the right by Scott Severin, and the striker pounced to rattle the ball high into the net.
Wednesday skipper Purse argued vociferously that he could not avoid Blackstock's powerful shot but his appeals fell on stony ground and the Forest striker struck his subsequent spot-kick high beyond the dive of Grant.
However, Darlington did not have to wait long for their second goal, Hodgson again involved with a high-quality pass converted by on-loan Newcastle striker Richard Offiong.
England midfielder Stewart Downing, Egyptian striker Mido and goalkeeper Ross Turnbull were the only high-profile names to leave the Riverside during the close season.
City have reportedly made a 35m Euro bid for Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic , although the offer doesn't appear to be high enough to land the Swede.
However, referee Steve Conroy ruled that the striker had led with the arm as he challenged McGregor to a miss-hit McGeady volley that flew high into the air.
应用推荐