Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Legion on November 01, 2017, 09:40:04 PM
-
Away we go.
-
Really excellent stuff on the whole. Terry, Hutton, Davis and Onomah were particularly excellent.
-
Very good indeed tonight. Arguably the best and most complete display under Bruce.
-
Can't think of a better away performance since we've been down here
Entire back four, Whelan, Davis all excellent
Onomah, Adomah and Snodgrass in patches
Hourihane did well too
Great stuff
-
Very good team performance. UTV!!!!
-
Fuck "we go again", we win again is our new motto.
-
25pts from the last 12 games. 7 clean sheets in the last 10 games. We look more of a team with big Keinan up front. Tough decisions to make when everyone is fit, the jury is out but we are well on a roll now. Beat Sheff Wed and we have a nice run of fixtures after that and we should be right up there at Christmas. Fairplay, thoroughly proffessional job done tonight.
-
Most enjoyable.
-
Shame about hogan though
Oh dear
-
Comfortable game, no one really really poor today. Decent goals for, second best defence, 5th spot. That will do for me the beginning of November.
-
Enjoyed that, I thought it was a very good team performance and a well deserved 3 points.
-
We looked oppressive. Never gave them sniff.
-
Nicely done.
Hard to pick out a MOTM but Terry probably nicks it.
-
Yes very good. Terry MOM for me although Davis was great too particularly second half. Johnstone is some young goalkeeper too, I hope we get him permanently.
-
Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the way.....
-
Excellent stuff. The juggernaut is rolling at long last.
-
That was superb. Great all round performance. Terry and Davis were giants.
-
I love it when a plan comes together.
-
All over at half time in hindsight. Very professional performance overall. I’d really like us to cut out some of the sloppiness but at this level I suppose it’s to be expected.
-
That was lovely. 😁
-
Excellent progress. (Also, Cotterill in!)
-
How refreshing to win away and hear of a good performance from everyone. Well done Villa.
-
Avoid defeat against Sheff Weds and it will be 1 defeat in 3 months. We normally only manage a record like that from late May to early August.
-
Brilliant. Can't complain.
-
Great performance. With the number of games we play we need a squad to rotate as players will come in and out, i dont think there is a first 11 as such.
-
Avoid defeat against Sheff Weds and it we'll be 1 defeat in 3 months. We normally only manage a record like that from late May to early August.
And then, only if you don't count friendlies.
-
This Villa is a very hard team to play against for others ....great.
-
It's nice not going into stoppage time on tenterhooks. Well played lads.
-
For once in our lives our midfield is full of goals. Once the strikers start chipping in, there'll be no stopping us.
We can't be happy with a play-off place, Bruce has to go balls-out for automatic promotion. There's no one to be scared of.
-
This Villa is a very hard team to play against for others ....great.
Yes, about time.
-
Avoid defeat against Sheff Weds and it will be 1 defeat in 3 months. We normally only manage a record like that from late May to early August.
When you look at it like that then that's shit hot. And over 60% still want Bruce out!
-
I don't think ive ever felt so comfortable watching us, we didn't look like we were ever going to conceed.
-
Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the way.....
Oh what fun it is to see, the Villa win away,
again.
-
This thread is way too happy for h&v
-
And looks as though we have found a very good left back in Mr Hutton.
-
Never appreciated how good Terry was when he played for Chelsea, but he really is immense. Loved the way he ran into the melee to get into the refs ear and protect Davis. A proper captain and the first since Laursen.
Whelan’s best game for us and Taylor is not getting his left back spot back if Hutton keeps playing like that.
We look like a better team without Kodjia too.
-
Superb, well done Villa on a job well done. Most enjoyable performance of the season easily.
-
Terry MOTM.
Only negative is that we didn't score more because we got into some great positions. The table is looking good both top and bottom ;)
-
For once in our lives our midfield is full of goals. Once the strikers start chipping in, there'll be no stopping us.
We can't be happy with a play-off place, Bruce has to go balls-out for automatic promotion. There's no one to be scared of.
Wolves taught us a lesson.
-
Just keep doing this.
Would like The Kodge to be in form again but winning like this without him is a good thing.
-
When Jimmy Danger returns to full fitness, the dilema is do we go with 2 up top or Jimmy out wide? Jimmy on the bench? Nice decision to have.
Keinan Davis has turned our season around.
-
Very good stuff, when we press as a team it makes such a difference, we then break against them quickly. Davis holding the ball up changes us too, he makes the other players play well. Well done to Hutton, guess he's found his level, but deserves praise for tonight.
-
Strangely we seem to have benefited from JK injury. I thought Davis was a giant but Josh played his part too. A special mention for Hutton. We now have a good attacking left back.
Need to stick 5 past Wednesday.
-
Never appreciated how good Terry was when he played for Chelsea, but he really is immense. Loved the way he ran into the melee to get into the refs ear and protect Davis. A proper captain and the first since Laursen.
Whelan’s best game for us and Taylor is not getting his left back spot back if Hutton keeps playing like that.
We look like a better team without Kodjia too.
Totally agree RE Terry. It pains me to say it but I absolutely love having him in the side and I can see why they loved him so much at CFC.
-
Villa won and scum heath bastards lost good evening.
-
Thats a great performance, cant remember the last time I was so relaxed watching Villa. Back four dealt with everything and midfield simply bossed it. That's up there with the two Brighton performances from last season although Preston obviously did have their injuries. Still you can only beat whats in front of you and they've only lost at home something like 3 times all calender year. Onwards and upwards.
-
Looked like a team tonight.
-
And looks as though we have found a very good left back in Mr Hutton.
I am still boggling about this!
-
Good performance. We're clicking now. Good all round from everyone. Terry's not my favourite person but he's been rock solid of late. A class apart, and Chester too.
I wanna give props too, to a guy who is still a little maligned. Mr Alan Hutton. He's had his ups and downs it's fair to say in 6 years here. But any time it seems like he's on the scrap heap, managers keep coming back to him. The fact he's in and playing at left back also says a lot. He's not the best player in the world by any stretch but I've a lot of time for Hutts because he's a proper trooper. Model pro and we've had dozens of absolute shysters come and go during his time here. We've seen people waste away and disappear in a cloud of fart, or players just drift off in shame and disappointment. As much as some want to see the back of him, I actually think all told he's been one of the best buys of the last 6 years. That's not to say he's been a huge success. But even in the darker times he's just kept on plugging away. He doesn't hide and he's kept himself in good nick. He might shank crosses into row z but for large periods in his time here he's been treated like our main playmaker (such was the tactical ineptitude of many of our managers).
He wasn't even the best player today, but he was solid, pleasingly quiet today and got on with his job. Our horrible last season in the top flight he was one of maybe 2-3 players who could look at themselves in the mirror and say they gave enough. I for one don't want to see the back of Hutton. He annoys me sometimes I'll admit, but I love his attitude and he's a credit to the club.
-
solid win again, should have made it a lot more comfortable but looked rock solid at the back
-
Keep up the good work.
Win on Saturday and sets us up nicely to consolidate Top 6.
Onwards after international break
-
Good performance. We're clicking now. Good all round from everyone. Terry's not my favourite person but he's been rock solid of late. A class apart, and Chester too.
I wanna give props too, to a guy who is still a little maligned. Mr Alan Hutton. He's had his ups and downs it's fair to say in 6 years here. But any time it seems like he's on the scrap heap, managers keep coming back to him. The fact he's in and playing at left back also says a lot. He's not the best player in the world by any stretch but I've a lot of time for Hutts because he's a proper trooper. Model pro and we've had dozens of absolute shysters come and go during his time here. We've seen people waste away and disappear in a cloud of fart, or players just drift off in shame and disappointment. As much as some want to see the back of him, I actually think all told he's been one of the best buys of the last 6 years. That's not to say he's been a huge success. But even in the darker times he's just kept on plugging away. He doesn't hide and he's kept himself in good nick. He might shank crosses into row z but for large periods in his time here he's been treated like our main playmaker (such was the tactical ineptitude of many of our managers).
He wasn't even the best player today, but he was solid, pleasingly quiet today and got on with his job. Our horrible last season in the top flight he was one of maybe 2-3 players who could look at themselves in the mirror and say they gave enough. I for one don't want to see the back of Hutton. He annoys me sometimes I'll admit, but I love his attitude and he's a credit to the club.
But would you have his babies?
-
Good performance. We're clicking now. Good all round from everyone. Terry's not my favourite person but he's been rock solid of late. A class apart, and Chester too.
I wanna give props too, to a guy who is still a little maligned. Mr Alan Hutton. He's had his ups and downs it's fair to say in 6 years here. But any time it seems like he's on the scrap heap, managers keep coming back to him. The fact he's in and playing at left back also says a lot. He's not the best player in the world by any stretch but I've a lot of time for Hutts because he's a proper trooper. Model pro and we've had dozens of absolute shysters come and go during his time here. We've seen people waste away and disappear in a cloud of fart, or players just drift off in shame and disappointment. As much as some want to see the back of him, I actually think all told he's been one of the best buys of the last 6 years. That's not to say he's been a huge success. But even in the darker times he's just kept on plugging away. He doesn't hide and he's kept himself in good nick. He might shank crosses into row z but for large periods in his time here he's been treated like our main playmaker (such was the tactical ineptitude of many of our managers).
He wasn't even the best player today, but he was solid, pleasingly quiet today and got on with his job. Our horrible last season in the top flight he was one of maybe 2-3 players who could look at themselves in the mirror and say they gave enough. I for one don't want to see the back of Hutton. He annoys me sometimes I'll admit, but I love his attitude and he's a credit to the club.
But would you have his babies?
We'd end up with sprogs looking like Sloth from Goonies, but yes...I would have his babies.
-
Just had a chat to my 2 sons who went, said we looked very assured, we are finally looking like a proper team, beat Wednesday and were right in the mix for promotion.
-
Good win, and I agree with what was said about Hutton, a team player if there ever was one.
Solid team performance.
And the so-called expert pundit David Prutton knows naffing.
-
Good stuff. On the whole we'd won the game by half-time, so the second half really was about keeping them out and hitting them on the break. Thought we did that well and could have got a couple more. As for the players, thought Johnstone did the little he had to do well, back four was solid again with Chester and Terry hardly putting a foot wrong, Whelan had one of his best games for the club so far, Hourihane had his moments here and there, Adomah was a threat but just couldn't quite put away his chances, Snodgrass was a bit of a mixed bag but chipped in with a goal and assist and Davis was a real threat throughout.
-
I hold my hands up and say fair play to Bruce. That's the best and most complete away performance we've had against a 'decent' side.
Davis offers so much more to the team than Kodjia. He's a presence, he holds the ball up, he passes the ball and brings team mates into the game.
Terry is a class above at this level. He makes it all look so easy and walks through games.
"We're going up and the shit are going down..."
UTV
-
Will take that all day long. We were in cruise control for pretty much the whole second half. It's great to have a reliable defence, and I enjoyed watching Terry today and his reading of the game - when he goes in, when he stands off.
3 out of the next 4 at home, so this decent run should continue for a while yet (hopefully Sunderland will stay dysfunctional and not have a new manager bounce at VP in a couple of weeks).
-
Good solid performance tonight. I suspect other teams will now be giving us some respect
-
Good performance. We're clicking now. Good all round from everyone. Terry's not my favourite person but he's been rock solid of late. A class apart, and Chester too.
I wanna give props too, to a guy who is still a little maligned. Mr Alan Hutton. He's had his ups and downs it's fair to say in 6 years here. But any time it seems like he's on the scrap heap, managers keep coming back to him. The fact he's in and playing at left back also says a lot. He's not the best player in the world by any stretch but I've a lot of time for Hutts because he's a proper trooper. Model pro and we've had dozens of absolute shysters come and go during his time here. We've seen people waste away and disappear in a cloud of fart, or players just drift off in shame and disappointment. As much as some want to see the back of him, I actually think all told he's been one of the best buys of the last 6 years. That's not to say he's been a huge success. But even in the darker times he's just kept on plugging away. He doesn't hide and he's kept himself in good nick. He might shank crosses into row z but for large periods in his time here he's been treated like our main playmaker (such was the tactical ineptitude of many of our managers).
He wasn't even the best player today, but he was solid, pleasingly quiet today and got on with his job. Our horrible last season in the top flight he was one of maybe 2-3 players who could look at themselves in the mirror and say they gave enough. I for one don't want to see the back of Hutton. He annoys me sometimes I'll admit, but I love his attitude and he's a credit to the club.
But would you have his babies?
We'd end up with sprogs looking like Sloth from Goonies, but yes...I would have his babies.
That head down charge through the middle towards the end was a thing of beauty.
-
Didn't want my opinion influenced by others posting, so starting by writing my thoughts.
Finally a game where I want to write my opinion. For a long time I haven't been able to enjoy a Villa game (because being shit) - but today was an awesome performance. Yes some things can be better and some players were not really good - but the whole feeling was just good.
I ENJOYED A GAME!!!
We were massive in defence - Sam Johnston, Chester and Terry - the latter fantastic, the other two awesome. John Terry's "block" at the end just was power.
The game started with Hutton playing like some latino super star, probably his best game for us. Maybe should have had man of the match, but Davis had the best performance overall - yess a talent.
I thought our right side was not very potent going forward with Elmo and Snodd - but still okey. Left side was very very good.
And we started positive! WTF Steve? Well done.
-
Lots of pleasing things tonight, eg:
Taking the lead when we were well on top
Not having a crap second half after a very good first half
Good movement off the ball
Not looking like we were going to shit the bed at any point.
I'd almost forgotten what all of that felt like.
-
Lots of pleasing things tonight, eg:
Taking the lead when we were well on top
Not having a crap second half after a very good first half
Good movement off the ball
Not looking like we were going to shit the bes at any point.
I'd almost forgotten what all of that felt like.
Summed it up perfectly, Risso.
-
Good performance. We're clicking now. Good all round from everyone. Terry's not my favourite person but he's been rock solid of late. A class apart, and Chester too.
I wanna give props too, to a guy who is still a little maligned. Mr Alan Hutton. He's had his ups and downs it's fair to say in 6 years here. But any time it seems like he's on the scrap heap, managers keep coming back to him. The fact he's in and playing at left back also says a lot. He's not the best player in the world by any stretch but I've a lot of time for Hutts because he's a proper trooper. Model pro and we've had dozens of absolute shysters come and go during his time here. We've seen people waste away and disappear in a cloud of fart, or players just drift off in shame and disappointment. As much as some want to see the back of him, I actually think all told he's been one of the best buys of the last 6 years. That's not to say he's been a huge success. But even in the darker times he's just kept on plugging away. He doesn't hide and he's kept himself in good nick. He might shank crosses into row z but for large periods in his time here he's been treated like our main playmaker (such was the tactical ineptitude of many of our managers).
He wasn't even the best player today, but he was solid, pleasingly quiet today and got on with his job. Our horrible last season in the top flight he was one of maybe 2-3 players who could look at themselves in the mirror and say they gave enough. I for one don't want to see the back of Hutton. He annoys me sometimes I'll admit, but I love his attitude and he's a credit to the club.
But would you have his babies?
We'd end up with sprogs looking like Sloth from Goonies, but yes...I would have his babies.
That head down charge through the middle towards the end was a thing of beauty.
I do like a Hutton charge. Much like a Reo-Coker charge it can often end in disappointment but during the charge itself, majestic, like a leopard at full pelt chasing a gazelle, there's that moment of promise, that faint hope of an end product. But he keeps going. Lets face it we've had so many players who just disappear in games or go hiding. He goes for it. For better or worse. (In all fairness he's generally solid and dependable).
-
After years of being on semi permanent crap runs I'm bloody reveling in this right now. We have our limitations but with Keinan and the way we play around him I'm starting to believe.
-
Lots of pleasing things tonight, eg:
Taking the lead when we were well on top
Not having a crap second half after a very good first half
Good movement off the ball
Not looking like we were going to shit the bes at any point.
I'd almost forgotten what all of that felt like.
This is more or less my same summary. Oh the joy to watch Villa win away (even if on sofa)
-
Good performance. We're clicking now. Good all round from everyone. Terry's not my favourite person but he's been rock solid of late. A class apart, and Chester too.
I wanna give props too, to a guy who is still a little maligned. Mr Alan Hutton. He's had his ups and downs it's fair to say in 6 years here. But any time it seems like he's on the scrap heap, managers keep coming back to him. The fact he's in and playing at left back also says a lot. He's not the best player in the world by any stretch but I've a lot of time for Hutts because he's a proper trooper. Model pro and we've had dozens of absolute shysters come and go during his time here. We've seen people waste away and disappear in a cloud of fart, or players just drift off in shame and disappointment. As much as some want to see the back of him, I actually think all told he's been one of the best buys of the last 6 years. That's not to say he's been a huge success. But even in the darker times he's just kept on plugging away. He doesn't hide and he's kept himself in good nick. He might shank crosses into row z but for large periods in his time here he's been treated like our main playmaker (such was the tactical ineptitude of many of our managers).
He wasn't even the best player today, but he was solid, pleasingly quiet today and got on with his job. Our horrible last season in the top flight he was one of maybe 2-3 players who could look at themselves in the mirror and say they gave enough. I for one don't want to see the back of Hutton. He annoys me sometimes I'll admit, but I love his attitude and he's a credit to the club.
But would you have his babies?
We'd end up with sprogs looking like Sloth from Goonies, but yes...I would have his babies.
That head down charge through the middle towards the end was a thing of beauty.
That through ball in the first half which led to that Davis chance was lovely as well, although I'm not sure how intentional it was.
Feel like the fact that he had the option to cut inside onto his right foot made a difference though, as opposed to a simple straight-on charge down the right which is too predictable.
-
Lots of pleasing things tonight, eg:
Taking the lead when we were well on top
Not having a crap second half after a very good first half
Good movement off the ball
Not looking like we were going to shit the bes at any point.
I'd almost forgotten what all of that felt like.
Summed it up perfectly, Risso.
Long night for you fella but pleased they made it a good one...UTV.
-
I was waiting for the moment where we gifted them a goal, particularly just before half time where it would have fired Preston up and put us under pressure. It never happened thankfully and we look like we are far more tougher mentally than say the Lambert/Sherwood/Garde teams where we'd collapse after conceding.
-
Great at times. Only downside is that we didn't add another in the second half. Got a bit scrappy as the game went on but our defence looks rock solid. There was no way we were going to let a goal in let alone two. Let's hope we put teams away at home and a few mistakes from those above us should hopefully see us closing in on the automatic places.
-
I was waiting for the moment where we gifted them a goal, particularly just before half time where it would have fired Preston up and put us under pressure. It never happened thankfully and we look like we are far more tougher mentally than say the Lambert/Sherwood/Garde teams where we'd collapse after conceding.
Its a good point. I credit Bruce in part for that mental toughness he was shouting all game, including a profanity ridden screed at Snodgrass to get in position, several minutes later Snodgrass scored :)
The other part I give to John Terry. Not just because of his great defensive work but because of his calm but firm captaincy style. It seems to have strengthened the whole squad mentally.
-
Play like that and we will go up. Am worried about Saturday surely we can’t be as dominant again
-
I’d like to take some of the credit for that performance, I saw Villa go 1-0 upand next thing I knew it was 10.15pm, if each midweek match is televised I’m happy to do my bit for the team.
-
A very accomplished and clinical performance. Every player did well, even the much derided Hogan who had almost certainly been told not to try anything which gave the ball away, but still managed to tee up a sitter for Albert.
Davis was magnificent, but he is going to need tuition in the dark arts if he is not going to start getting sent off. SB should get Terry or Chester to show him what's what; they know the drill.
Great to see that Whelan and Snodgrass have now sorted themselves out as a unit, just as Terry and Chester did a while back. Dare we believe that everything is now clicking into place?
-
It's amazing to think how worried I was leaving the Madejski in August to what we're seeing now, especially when you see what's happened to Reading since as well. We look a proper outfit and never gave them a sniff. Keep it up Villa!
-
Really bad night for noses.
No doubt mildly disappointed to have lost but must be absolutely gutted with our win.
-
Amazing what a bit of confidence can do. Feels like the first time we’ve had positive momentum since MON walked out. Players look like they have belief in themselves and each other which massively helps their collective decision making.
Onwards and upwards.
-
Fair play to Bruce and the players they got pretty much everything right tonight, including taking Davis off before his spat with the defender got him a second yellow. We always looked comfortable and could have had more than two. If we could play like that consistently there's no reason why we can't finish top 2, and the play-offs would be a given.
-
Good performance. We're clicking now. Good all round from everyone. Terry's not my favourite person but he's been rock solid of late. A class apart, and Chester too.
I wanna give props too, to a guy who is still a little maligned. Mr Alan Hutton. He's had his ups and downs it's fair to say in 6 years here. But any time it seems like he's on the scrap heap, managers keep coming back to him. The fact he's in and playing at left back also says a lot. He's not the best player in the world by any stretch but I've a lot of time for Hutts because he's a proper trooper. Model pro and we've had dozens of absolute shysters come and go during his time here. We've seen people waste away and disappear in a cloud of fart, or players just drift off in shame and disappointment. As much as some want to see the back of him, I actually think all told he's been one of the best buys of the last 6 years. That's not to say he's been a huge success. But even in the darker times he's just kept on plugging away. He doesn't hide and he's kept himself in good nick. He might shank crosses into row z but for large periods in his time here he's been treated like our main playmaker (such was the tactical ineptitude of many of our managers).
He wasn't even the best player today, but he was solid, pleasingly quiet today and got on with his job. Our horrible last season in the top flight he was one of maybe 2-3 players who could look at themselves in the mirror and say they gave enough. I for one don't want to see the back of Hutton. He annoys me sometimes I'll admit, but I love his attitude and he's a credit to the club.
But would you have his babies?
We'd end up with sprogs looking like Sloth from Goonies, but yes...I would have his babies.
That head down charge through the middle towards the end was a thing of beauty.
I do like a Hutton charge. Much like a Reo-Coker charge it can often end in disappointment but during the charge itself, majestic, like a leopard at full pelt chasing a gazelle, there's that moment of promise, that faint hope of an end product. But he keeps going. Lets face it we've had so many players who just disappear in games or go hiding. He goes for it. For better or worse. (In all fairness he's generally solid and dependable).
What a brilliant line " Like a leopard at full pelt chasing a gazelle" made me smile and well done Alan Hutton.
-
We looked completely comfortable and dominant. Could have won by more, arguably should have been more clinical in some of the attacking positions we found ourselves in in the second half but didn't need to be. Well done lads.
-
Well done lads.
-
I don’t think we will go down this season.
-
Very comfortable, well done lads
-
Pleasing
-
Was concerned when I saw the bench but thought we applied ourselves from the start. Onomah and Davis pressing them high up caused them all sort of problems.
All played well but special mentions for :
Terry - the most accomplished CB since God. He does not even break sweat and makes it all look so easy.
Hutton - I'm not his biggest fan but he works his socks off and I think Taylor quite rightly will have to wait.
Whelan - thought he was MOTM tonight. Was involved in every break up of their play in the middle and played simple balls to get possession back
Davis - completely rattled their back line and ensured out attacking moves flowed. Deserved a goal for his efforts.
Really enjoyed the game and felt we looked in control throughout. Even when they eventually had a spell towards the end it was like we almost let them as we oozed confidence that they would not score
Well done everyone UTV
-
Was concerned when I saw the bench but thought we applied ourselves from the start. Onomah and Davis pressing them high up caused them all sort of problems.
All played well but special mentions for :
Terry - the most accomplished CB since God. He does not even break sweat and makes it all look so easy.
Hutton - I'm not his biggest fan but he works his socks off and I think Taylor quite rightly will have to wait.
Whelan - thought he was MOTM tonight. Was involved in every break up of their play in the middle and played simple balls to get possession back
Davis - completely rattled their back line and ensured out attacking moves flowed. Deserved a goal for his efforts.
Really enjoyed the game and felt we looked in control throughout. Even when they eventually had a spell towards the end it was like we almost let them as we oozed confidence that they would not score
Well done everyone UTV
Never mind all that, did you take any of my boozer recommendations. :)
There are good and bad times to play teams in the season. This was a very good time to play PNE (they lost another two defenders to injury in the first half incredibly).
So very good we didn't make a pigs ear of the game and had a very comfortable nights work. After the draw on Sunday I demanded a win tonight so very pleased we delivered.
We are bang on track for top 6 given we can keep clean sheets with ease and have goals throughout the team. Results like tonight will help a challenge for top 2.
Beat Sheff Weds and it will have been an excellent response since the no show at Wolves.
-
Reset "Bruce out" Thingy? we're enough games in now to have a good basis for looking at where we are and the season ahead?
-
Tonight was the sort of game Newcastle and Brighton were winning last season. Score a couple of early goals and then soak up pressure and see out the game with ease so it's a very good sign.
We looked a million miles away from doing that last season, even winning a game a year ago was an achievement.
Our squad is much stronger aswell. We still have Green and Grealish to come back as creativity options which is exciting.
-
For once in our lives our midfield is full of goals. Once the strikers start chipping in, there'll be no stopping us.
We can't be happy with a play-off place, Bruce has to go balls-out for automatic promotion. There's no one to be scared of.
Wolves taught us a lesson.
Below Wolves there's no one to be scared of.
No one on here could type with a straight face we couldn't catch Sheffield United or Cardiff. Bring it on I say.
-
Only sour note about tonight is Junction 27 to 26 being closed.
Excellent and thoroughly professional away win.
Bit sloppy second half in keeping the ball, but we looked dangerous on the break. Defensively we're excellent.
Davis is a bully. Excellent the way he's developing although they did their best to get him sent off.
We limited them to not a lot at all, with barely two half hearted efforts at goal and a long diagonal ball to their front man.
Could have add a couple more, but still enjoyable to see us boss a game against a side who've had a good start.
-
Brilliant result. Come January we’ll be top of the league.
-
Good night and good performance.
Made what was a horrible journey up there and back again worth while. That M6 gets worse every year.
-
OS post-match interview https://www.facebook.com/avfcofficial/videos/1725754174135311/
Sky post-match interview (http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/competitions/championship/11109298/bruce-delighted-with-villa-performance)
Sky highlights (http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/competitions/championship/11109211/preston-0-2-aston-villa)
-
Excellent tonight. That sets the benchmark for away performances in this league and they all need to be of that standard from this point on.
Preston never looked close to scoring tonight as we strangled the life out of them. 2-0 really did flatter them as we were so much more dominant than that.
-
Routine win. Long may that continue.
-
Great result and performance Villa boys, well done!
-
best performance I can remember for a long long while, and best away performance by a mile
can’t pick between Terry and Chester both compliment each other as a very solid back 2
Love Davis
you could never drop Hutton in this form
Midfield are ok still not convinced about some of them but all had a good night
First time I’ve enjoyed watching us for over a year (didn’t see the Norwich match)
-
Hutton defensively has issues. He doesn't get close to his man to stop crosses and he attacks the wrong side of his man to often.
-
Hutton defensively has issues. He doesn't get close to his man to stop crosses and he attacks the wrong side of his man to often.
maybe but no player is perfect
You can't knock Hutton the way he's playing at the moment
-
One Alan Hutton, theres only one Alan Hutton!!!
-
I thought the entire defensive unit were immense last night, pretty much won everything.
-
And looks as though we have found a very good left back in Mr Hutton.
I am still boggling about this!
Me too-what was most fascinating to watch was when he could not get the ball onto the inside he knocked it past his opponent and transformed into an attacking full back.
-
Play like that and we will go up. Am worried about Saturday surely we can’t be as dominant again
Why and why not🙂?
-
Much better than last season - Bruce in!
The whole team worked hard and got a fully deserved result.
Terry was my MOM, but Hutton came close. The whole defence looked very accomplished and never looked shaken.
Midfield I am still concerned how cheaply we give the ball away in the middle of the park, but we looked very good down both wings.
Davis is really good.
My little lad is liking being a Villa fan a bit more now.
-
What made it better, apart from having my brother in law with me (PNE fan), was that Preston are no mugs. This was an accomplished performance against a team that has a good chance of making the playoffs, and despite injuries are more than capable of causing problems.
I am starting to believe we can make automatic promotion.
-
steady, steady.
-
Great win last night defence is looking really solid as is the keeper (sign him up) Davis is a proper handful and he's only 19! Midfield also looked pretty decent and in control. This could be Grealish's chance to finally show what he can do when he is ready. Finding a place for him will be the challenge. O'hares also pushing hard for a place as will Green when he's ready. I can finally say that I have a strange feeling that I used to have years ago, I think it's called optimism. UTV.
-
I thought we were great. At 2-0, you always like the extra goal to properly kill the game off but last night it wasnt needed we looked so comfortable. Whelan man of the match for me, his best game yet.
-
Only sour note about tonight is Junction 27 to 26 being closed.
Excellent and thoroughly professional away win.
Bit sloppy second half in keeping the ball, but we looked dangerous on the break. Defensively we're excellent.
Davis is a bully. Excellent the way he's developing although they did their best to get him sent off.
We limited them to not a lot at all, with barely two half hearted efforts at goal and a long diagonal ball to their front man.
Could have add a couple more, but still enjoyable to see us boss a game against a side who've had a good start.
The journey back to N Yorks was fine ... ;D
I agree, the second half was a little sloppy at times.
Snodgrass really isn't very good and Hourinhane was very in and out; otherwise, a decent collective performance.
To be fair, PNE were rubbish, with one or two exceptions (Daniel Johnson being one; thanks for giving that one away, Lamberk).
-
After his performance for the U23 the other night I was disappointed not to see O"Hare on the bench at the very least
-
What made it better, apart from having my brother in law with me (PNE fan), was that Preston are no mugs. This was an accomplished performance against a team that has a good chance of making the playoffs, and despite injuries are more than capable of causing problems.
I am starting to believe we can make automatic promotion.
It would be nice but don't forget that there is only the runners up place to aim for.
Dingles have already won the league by a record points tally, scoring the most goals, conceding the least, playing the most attractive football on the planet and being watched by the biggest crowds (almost).
-
What made it better, apart from having my brother in law with me (PNE fan), was that Preston are no mugs. This was an accomplished performance against a team that has a good chance of making the playoffs, and despite injuries are more than capable of causing problems.
I am starting to believe we can make automatic promotion.
It would be nice but don't forget that there is only the runners up place to aim for.
Dingles have already won the league by a record points tally, scoring the most goals, conceding the least, playing the most attractive football on the planet and being watched by the biggest crowds (almost).
We can catch Wolves.
-
Only sour note about tonight is Junction 27 to 26 being closed.
Yes and as far as I know Bruce made no changes to open that up☹️
-
After his performance for the U23 the other night I was disappointed not to see O"Hare on the bench at the very least
Probably because he only played on the Monday.
-
Just home after a night on the Yorkshire Moors with Damon. I am, and have been from the start a massive fan of Keinan but my man of the match was John Terry. It was a master class of central defending.
-
Excellent result. Defensively we were fantastic... Everyone worked as a unit. Albert had an off day, quite a few of his touches were poor. Hogan to be fair when he came on did run around a lot but his touch was terrible, he kicked it straight out of play at one stage under no pressure... not sure if his head is straight at all. I guess its hard when you only have bit parts...
Well done chaps!
-
The most positive thing for me is that it was such a comfortable win, and yet there are still plenty of areas in which we can improve: Davis and Onomah were both great, but can get even better and more consistent. Snodgrass and Hourihane have more to offer than they're currently showing (I accept that Snodgrass scored and got an assist, but still think his overall game is below par for a man of his ability). We missed plenty of chances, and we generally lacked composure when we were breaking in the second half. If these things start clicking, we'll be unstoppable.
I do think, though, that Preston were there for the taking and played into our hands with their direct approach. Anyone who's watched us this season will know that's not the way to get at our centre backs.
Saturday is still huge. 7 points from these 3 matches is brilliant. 5 or 4 is not good enough. Such are the fine margins in this league.
-
We can catch Wolves.
No no we can't. Don't you realise that they are from another planet and untouchable. I understand from their honest down to earth supporters that the Championship trophy will be handed to them on Christmas eve.
-
After his performance for the U23 the other night I was disappointed not to see O"Hare on the bench at the very least
Hare hare.
-
Disappointed that we gave the ball away too much in the second half but overall very pleased.
Not sure what all the fuss is about - we always play well on SKY
:o
-
First time watching the team this season. Picked a good one. Defensively, very very good, although quick wingers and forwards might have given us more headaches. I still fear that I don't see in our midfield anyone unlocking defences. Can't wait to see Grealish back.
PS - Daniel Johnson would look great in our midfield right now.
-
How did Maguire play up front for Preston last night guys? Only saw last 20 mins
-
Really happy with the performance and result another clean sheet we just need to keep like that every game.
-
How did Maguire play up front for Preston last night guys? Only saw last 20 mins
The only thing I remember him doing was diving.
-
Disappointed that we gave the ball away too much in the second half but overall very pleased.
Not sure what all the fuss is about - we always play well on SKY
:o
Jednik don’t think he passed to a villa man once
-
How did Maguire play up front for Preston last night guys? Only saw last 20 mins
The only thing I remember him doing was diving.
The one in the first half was a decent shout for a penalty but the one in the second half was as blatant a dive as you'll ever see. He should have got a yellow card.
-
How did Maguire play up front for Preston last night guys? Only saw last 20 mins
The only thing I remember him doing was diving.
The one in the first half was a decent shout for a penalty but the one in the second half was as blatant a dive as you'll ever see. He should have got a yellow card.
it was only after several replays did I think it was a pen, Chester's "tackle" and the way the ball moved it looked like no foul to me in real time.
as we all know the ref who was right behind it gets to see it once and yes the 2nd one was a dive and he should of got a yellow for it...
UTV
The Doc
-
If Kodjia fit then the only place for him would be to replace Adomah on the LW and Adomah replace Snodgrass on RW.
Agreed that Whelan was excellent - he broke everything up in the middle then gave it simple to someone else to start an attack.
The clear key last night was the high pressing by Davis and Onomah - all these teams that like to play tippy tappy from their own box struggle with it and we should do the same on Sat - do not give them time on the ball.
6pts behind the leaders - keep this up and we will soon be pressuring them
-
If Kodjia fit then the only place for him would be to replace Adomah on the LW and Adomah replace Snodgrass on RW.
Agreed that Whelan was excellent - he broke everything up in the middle then gave it simple to someone else to start an attack.
The clear key last night was the high pressing by Davis and Onomah - all these teams that like to play tippy tappy from their own box struggle with it and we should do the same on Sat - do not give them time on the ball.
6pts behind the leaders - keep this up and we will soon be pressuring them
I thought that Adomah pressed well and also chased back to help the defence as much as anyone.
-
6pts behind the leaders - keep this up and we will soon be pressuring them
If we had beaten them we would be level on points. Imagine that, on the same points as Barcahampton. That's how tight this league is.
-
We also missed a golden opportunity to put away a dreadful SHA team but never mind for now.
-
Very impressed, Chester and Terry gotta be the best CB partnership in the league. Keinan and Josh will only improve as the season goes on and I'm sure it will not be long until Kodge finds his true form.
Wolves favourites to win the league, but at the moment I reckon us and Derby are the favourites for the 2nd spot.
Bruce IN.
-
Everyone else is fighting for second place as sha will piss the league with all their moral victories.
-
Just about the easiest win of the season so far.
Now on to 3 points against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday. That would really say 'we've arrived, and we're here to stay' as a top 6 side.
UTV!
-
For the first time in ages I enjoyed watching us on the telly. More please.
-
If Kodjia fit then the only place for him would be to replace Adomah on the LW and Adomah replace Snodgrass on RW.
Would definitely consider that for Saturday. He got a goal and an assist last night, but I think Snodgrass has looked a bit off the pace for a few weeks now. I too would go with Kodjia and Adomah either side of Davis in attack and maybe keep Snodgrass back for a cameo in the closing stages.
-
How did Maguire play up front for Preston last night guys? Only saw last 20 mins
The only thing I remember him doing was diving.
The one in the first half was a decent shout for a penalty but the one in the second half was as blatant a dive as you'll ever see. He should have got a yellow card.
it was only after several replays did I think it was a pen, Chester's "tackle" and the way the ball moved it looked like no foul to me in real time.
as we all know the ref who was right behind it gets to see it once and yes the 2nd one was a dive and he should of got a yellow for it...
UTV
The Doc
I thought he ran into Mr Chester's foot, falling almost before he touched it. Still 60/40 a penalty.
Good ref all round though, I thought.
-
Watching our performance last night I came away a little optimistic that we may gain promotion this season. However today I had a long chat with myself and realised that as a villa fan once optimism raises it's ugly head a swift kick to the balls usually follows.
-
We also missed a golden opportunity to put away a dreadful SHA team but never mind for now.
small heath scum lifted thier game it was thre cup final.
-
Excellent performance. I can't be arsed to break it down by individuals but an all round display. We look a totally different team with Davis leading the line. That injury crisis that meant he had to be thrown in may very well have saved Bruce's job.
-
Hear hear Stuart.
-
I also predict that you will see a very different Lansbury when he gets back in if we are going at teams. He can pass and might just unlock Hogan if he is needed in the coming months.
Hopefully, this financial fair play lark that means we can't throw cash around like confetti will mean we have to use the youngsters even if we do go up. Because there is some real talent in there.
-
Whisper it Stu but we have some bloody good youngsters to bring on.
-
I don't know who scouted Davis at Biggleswade but they deserve a pay rise. It is exactly what this "Villa Engine" should be focused on.
-
I also predict that you will see a very different Lansbury when he gets back in if we are going at teams. He can pass and might just unlock Hogan if he is needed in the coming months.
Hopefully, this financial fair play lark that means we can't throw cash around like confetti will mean we have to use the youngsters even if we do go up. Because there is some real talent in there.
I’ve given us on Lansbury, and Hogan for that matter.
-
I also predict that you will see a very different Lansbury when he gets back in if we are going at teams. He can pass and might just unlock Hogan if he is needed in the coming months.
Hopefully, this financial fair play lark that means we can't throw cash around like confetti will mean we have to use the youngsters even if we do go up. Because there is some real talent in there.
I’ve given us on Lansbury, and Hogan for that matter.
I am sure you have. But you about as cheerful as a shit in a cereal bowl.
-
I don't know who scouted Davis at Biggleswade but they deserve a pay rise. It is exactly what this "Villa Engine" should be focused on.
I said this a while ago. It was a bloody good spot.
-
I don't know who scouted Davis at Biggleswade but they deserve a pay rise. It is exactly what this "Villa Engine" should be focused on.
Seems we found the starter motor in any event.
-
I don't know who scouted Davis at Biggleswade but they deserve a pay rise. It is exactly what this "Villa Engine" should be focused on.
I said this a while ago. It was a bloody good spot.
Whereas the Stevenage coaches who ditched him probably aren't in employment any more!
-
I don't know who scouted Davis at Biggleswade but they deserve a pay rise. It is exactly what this "Villa Engine" should be focused on.
Seems we found the starter motor in any event.
My worry is that Davis is the keys to this team, as it were. Lose them and your motor goes nowhere. We must get a similar type as cover in January. Like Hugill from Preston.
-
I don't know who scouted Davis at Biggleswade but they deserve a pay rise. It is exactly what this "Villa Engine" should be focused on.
Seems we found the starter motor in any event.
My worry is that Davis is the keys to this team, as it were. Lose them and your motor goes nowhere. We must get a similar type as cover in January. Like Hugill from Preston.
I think Davis is definitely the key to our recent form. Not sure that ugly fucker from last night is an adequate stand in though !!
-
A really professional performance. Two good goals and some fine individual performances
-
Villa gave a competant performance last night. Before you all get carried away you might want to consider that you beat a team 2-0, were just about matched in the second half ( btw Davies should have seen red) by a team that cost £1.5M to put together. The crowd of 14k last night was an above average gate (we only came to see the Villa of course) so we will never compete in gate receipts and we are not too far behind in the league, add to that we are suffering a drop in form and had 4 first choice defenders out and still managed to keep it to 2 puts the “ brilliant” Villa display in perspective.
A fair result, but Villa are a long way off being a promtion side.
-
Villa gave a competant performance last night. Before you all get carried away you might want to consider that you beat a team 2-0, were just about matched in the second half ( btw Davies should have seen red) by a team that cost £1.5M to put together. The crowd of 14k last night was an above average gate (we only came to see the Villa of course) so we will never compete in gate receipts and we are not too far behind in the league, add to that we are suffering a drop in form and had 4 first choice defenders out and still managed to keep it to 2 puts the “ brilliant” Villa display in perspective.
A fair result, but Villa are a long way off being a promtion side.
As all my Preston colleagues told me today boys against men. Of course we have more resource than Preston, why you quite feel the need to come on a villa forum to tell us that I don't know. The performance was adequate for what we needed to do. At any point in the end half we could have upped our game and scored more. We didn't need too
-
You didn't match us at all. We weren't in second gear second half, we were in stop mode waiting at lights, yawning and checking our teeth in the rear view mirror. That was the equivalent of dealing with your solitary tactic of lumping a big hoofball diagonally to Hugill which we dealt with comfortably.
You were utterly clueless and a bigger stroll about we've seldom had.
You're supposed to be a decent side and we brushed you away without really trying.
As for Davis being sent off, what for? Bullying the Preston kids?
-
Villa gave a competant performance last night. Before you all get carried away you might want to consider that you beat a team 2-0, were just about matched in the second half ( btw Davies should have seen red) by a team that cost £1.5M to put together. The crowd of 14k last night was an above average gate (we only came to see the Villa of course) so we will never compete in gate receipts and we are not too far behind in the league, add to that we are suffering a drop in form and had 4 first choice defenders out and still managed to keep it to 2 puts the “ brilliant” Villa display in perspective.
A fair result, but Villa are a long way off being a promtion side.
Long way off.....have you seen the league table? Btw...There aren't many, if any, on here that would argue that Villa should be anywhere close to Preston in the league table given the gap in resources available to both clubs.
-
Whisper it Stu but we have some bloody good youngsters to bring on.
I was disappointed that O'Hare didn't make the bench last night. He was one of our few decent players at Wolves and has just scored a hat-trick for the u23's
-
Re madferret62 get over yourself, stop bawling and accept that you were beaten by the better team. Be content with the fact that you beat the bluenose sc-m earlier in the season.
-
Villa gave a competant performance last night. Before you all get carried away you might want to consider that you beat a team 2-0, were just about matched in the second half ( btw Davies should have seen red) by a team that cost £1.5M to put together. The crowd of 14k last night was an above average gate (we only came to see the Villa of course) so we will never compete in gate receipts and we are not too far behind in the league, add to that we are suffering a drop in form and had 4 first choice defenders out and still managed to keep it to 2 puts the “ brilliant” Villa display in perspective.
A fair result, but Villa are a long way off being a promtion side.
Six points off to be exact.
For what its worth I thought Prestons frontline was the best I have seen all season (including Wolves). It just so happened you ran into our defence, which is in very good form currently.
Also, I know other fans are welcome here but I really dont see the point in your post.
I cant imagine this time last year logging into whatever passes for Preston fan websites and telling them not to read much into their victory. I mean, why would you care what I think? So I wonder why you give a damn about us and what we think? We dont care about you lot at all.
-
It's called free speech, that quaint old concept of a democracy where people have equal voices, and whilst I don't agree with him or her, they have every right to an opinion that differs from mine.
-
Villa gave a competant performance last night. Before you all get carried away you might want to consider that you beat a team 2-0, were just about matched in the second half ( btw Davies should have seen red) by a team that cost £1.5M to put together. The crowd of 14k last night was an above average gate (we only came to see the Villa of course) so we will never compete in gate receipts and we are not too far behind in the league, add to that we are suffering a drop in form and had 4 first choice defenders out and still managed to keep it to 2 puts the “ brilliant” Villa display in perspective.
A fair result, but Villa are a long way off being a promtion side.
As all my Preston colleagues told me today boys against men. Of course we have more resource than Preston, why you quite feel the need to come on a villa forum to tell us that I don't know. The performance was adequate for what we needed to do. At any point in the end half we could have upped our game and scored more. We didn't need too
I'm not sure about this. Given how tight this league is goal difference may become key and if we were that capable of scoring more then we bloody well should have. I remember Gary Neville as pundit once saying on a half time analysis of a fairly one sided game, "at this point my Man United team would have had one thing on our mind - goal difference." That's a winning mentality.
-
Villa gave a competant performance last night. Before you all get carried away you might want to consider that you beat a team 2-0, were just about matched in the second half ( btw Davies should have seen red) by a team that cost £1.5M to put together. The crowd of 14k last night was an above average gate (we only came to see the Villa of course) so we will never compete in gate receipts and we are not too far behind in the league, add to that we are suffering a drop in form and had 4 first choice defenders out and still managed to keep it to 2 puts the “ brilliant” Villa display in perspective.
A fair result, but Villa are a long way off being a promtion side.
Six points off to be exact.
For what its worth I thought Prestons frontline was the best I have seen all season (including Wolves). It just so happened you ran into our defence, which is in very good form currently.
Also, I know other fans are welcome here but I really dont see the point in your post.
I cant imagine this time last year logging into whatever passes for Preston fan websites and telling them not to read much into their victory. I mean, why would you care what I think? So I wonder why you give a damn about us and what we think? We dont care about you lot at all.
Preston's frontline better than Wolves'. Can I have a toke?
-
I don't know who scouted Davis at Biggleswade but they deserve a pay rise. It is exactly what this "Villa Engine" should be focused on.
Seems we found the starter motor in any event.
My worry is that Davis is the keys to this team, as it were. Lose them and your motor goes nowhere. We must get a similar type as cover in January. Like Hugill from Preston.
Totally agree. A loan of that type would probably be a smart move and then we can see where we are in the summer.
-
It's called free speech, that quaint old concept of a democracy where people have equal voices, and whilst I don't agree with him or her, they have every right to an opinion that differs from mine.
I don't think anyone is questioning that, it was more a query about why they would bother to voice that opinion on another club's forum.
-
It's called free speech, that quaint old concept of a democracy where people have equal voices, and whilst I don't agree with him or her, they have every right to an opinion that differs from mine.
I don't think anyone is questioning that, it was more a query about why they would bother to voice that opinion on another club's forum.
I know the number of posts might be a clue but he's been here before under different circumstances! That's Mr Amfy! That post is the result of a conversation we had when I said how delighted everyone was with the performance and he said he didn't think it was that good and Villa, not only with the resources, but the actual players we've got, should be doing much better. The post is actually made, in a way, partially as a Villa fan. Read it again in that context and it's not so far off what some of us post on other weeks!
For my part I realised that whilst I am generally not as distraught/angry at poor performances as some others on here, and can usually find something to be positive about, I am exactly the same about good ones & it's just that I don't think in extremes. I thought we started brilliantly but faded badly and Preston could have got back into the game if they had been able to risk throwing everything forward more - but with 3/4 of the defence out they couldn't. I saw a game where we showed what we are capable of in patches, and in patches, it was better than what we've seen before. However, just like any other week I'd say a 'better' (or less injury hit) side were given enough opportunities by errors and failure to press to have got back into that game.
I do think we are starting to be more 2 steps forward one back than the other way around. It's a steady improvement and I'm happy if a little bored.
-
It's called free speech, that quaint old concept of a democracy where people have equal voices, and whilst I don't agree with him or her, they have every right to an opinion that differs from mine.
I don't think anyone is questioning that, it was more a query about why they would bother to voice that opinion on another club's forum.
I know the number of posts might be a clue but he's been here before under different circumstances! That's Mr Amfy! That post is the result of a conversation we had when I said how delighted everyone was with the performance and he said he didn't think it was that good and Villa, not only with the resources, but the actual players we've got, should be doing much better. The post is actually made, in a way, partially as a Villa fan. Read it again in that context and it's not so far off what some of us post on other weeks!
For my part I realised that whilst I am generally not as distraught/angry at poor performances as some others on here, and can usually find something to be positive about, I am exactly the same about good ones & it's just that I don't think in extremes. I thought we started brilliantly but faded badly and Preston could have got back into the game if they had been able to risk throwing everything forward more - but with 3/4 of the defence out they couldn't. I saw a game where we showed what we are capable of in patches, and in patches, it was better than what we've seen before. However, just like any other week I'd say a 'better' (or less injury hit) side were given enough opportunities by errors and failure to press to have got back into that game.
I do think we are starting to be more 2 steps forward one back than the other way around. It's a steady improvement and I'm happy if a little bored.
I think Mr Amfy is bang on: Ifelt the same as I walked away. We should have put PNE to the sword, and we didn't because our control of the football was really poor at times. Players that should have more influence on the game – Hourihane and Snodgrass – we mediocre. We have a long way to go; but, at least, we’re facing in the right direction now.
-
Villa gave a competant performance last night. Before you all get carried away you might want to consider that you beat a team 2-0, were just about matched in the second half ( btw Davies should have seen red) by a team that cost £1.5M to put together. The crowd of 14k last night was an above average gate (we only came to see the Villa of course) so we will never compete in gate receipts and we are not too far behind in the league, add to that we are suffering a drop in form and had 4 first choice defenders out and still managed to keep it to 2 puts the “ brilliant” Villa display in perspective.
A fair result, but Villa are a long way off being a promtion side.
You obviously make some very true points about resources and injuries such as Preston are suffering do make it very difficult, but to say that you almost matched us in the 2nd half is frankly a little deluded. You didn't even muster a half chance all game and the second half was tantamount to a training ground stroll for us.
The yellow for Davis was fair as there was no malicious intent, and it wasn't an elbow. I do think you probably should have had a penalty in the 1st half in fairness.
I think to say that we are a long way from being a promotion side is a little odd. We've lost one game in 12, from which we have collected 25 points. We've kept 7 clean sheets in the last 10 games. That's clearly the form of a side which will be pushing for promotion.
-
It's called free speech, that quaint old concept of a democracy where people have equal voices, and whilst I don't agree with him or her, they have every right to an opinion that differs from mine.
I don't think anyone is questioning that, it was more a query about why they would bother to voice that opinion on another club's forum.
I know the number of posts might be a clue but he's been here before under different circumstances! That's Mr Amfy! That post is the result of a conversation we had when I said how delighted everyone was with the performance and he said he didn't think it was that good and Villa, not only with the resources, but the actual players we've got, should be doing much better. The post is actually made, in a way, partially as a Villa fan. Read it again in that context and it's not so far off what some of us post on other weeks!
For my part I realised that whilst I am generally not as distraught/angry at poor performances as some others on here, and can usually find something to be positive about, I am exactly the same about good ones & it's just that I don't think in extremes. I thought we started brilliantly but faded badly and Preston could have got back into the game if they had been able to risk throwing everything forward more - but with 3/4 of the defence out they couldn't. I saw a game where we showed what we are capable of in patches, and in patches, it was better than what we've seen before. However, just like any other week I'd say a 'better' (or less injury hit) side were given enough opportunities by errors and failure to press to have got back into that game.
I do think we are starting to be more 2 steps forward one back than the other way around. It's a steady improvement and I'm happy if a little bored.
I think Mr Amfy is bang on: Ifelt the same as I walked away. We should have put PNE to the sword, and we didn't because our control of the football was really poor at times. Players that should have more influence on the game – Hourihane and Snodgrass – we mediocre. We have a long way to go; but, at least, we’re facing in the right direction now.
What exactly are we expecting from the Championship? The teams that got promoted last season didn’t do it by playing scintillating, edge of your seat football every week. They did it through being efficient in the areas that matter and better than their opponents a sufficient number of times throughout the season. That means defensive solidity and taking enough of the chances created to get the points. When you consider that the majority had played in a highly charged derby a few days earlier to respond so positively was really encouraging. Do it again tomorrow and it will have been a great week.
-
Whisper it Stu but we have some bloody good youngsters to bring on.
I was disappointed that O'Hare didn't make the bench last night. He was one of our few decent players at Wolves and has just scored a hat-trick for the u23's
agreed
-
Fine performance and result.
Was this the most negative bench of seven in our history? One keeper, three defenders, a defensive midfielder, a non-creative midfielder and a non-scoring striker!!
Not much game-changing potential there!
Where were Grealish and O'Hare?