Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Toronto Villa on November 10, 2018, 04:49:51 PM
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Absolutely fucking dominant. I love Dean Smith
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A breath of fresh air.
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He's been in charge for exactly 1 month and look at the difference in us. Exactly why I wanted Bruce out for so long as the amount he was holding these players back was ridiculous. We won't win every game but we won't go out looking like we've never seen each other before playing negative outdated tedious shit.
Aston Villa, finally no longer playing football that was outdated 20 years ago.
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Hasn’t finished yet, I’m living in the past
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I love football .....again.
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Finally! A dick swinging performance from the Villa.
About fucking time.
Derby know they came up against a better team today we haven't behaved like that at all since we've been down here.
Go on deano.
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Yes...oh yes...oh fucking yes. ...who said on here earlier we couldn't win 3-0 ? Oh fuckin yes.
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Totally deserved. A new era has begun and we can finally start enjoying watching our team again
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Fantastic result.
This could be a good season after all.
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GET
THE
FUCK
IN
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One of our best 90 minute performances in years, all credit to the new manager for that. Under the previous one it would've been very much 8-9 men behind the ball.
Great win and we're creeping up the league. 4 points from next two home games and we can properly start talking about top 6 again.
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He's been in charge for exactly 1 month and look at the difference in us. Exactly why I wanted Bruce out for so long as the amount he was holding these players back was ridiculous. We won't win every game but we won't go out looking like we've never seen each other before playing negative outdated tedious shit.
Aston Villa, finally no longer playing football that was outdated 20 years ago.
100% agree. The only time I saw us turn in a performance like that was the Wolves result where the performance came out of nowhere and disppeared just as quick. This looks and feels like it's built on more solid foundations. (or coaching as I believe it's called.)
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Wow, I had to pinch myself to make sure this was real.
The best I have seen us play in a long, long time. Well done everyone, even though Kodjia's finishing looked dodgy.
We. Are. Back.
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Play like that on a regular basis and i wouldn't bet against us going up automatically.
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He's been in charge for exactly 1 month and look at the difference in us. Exactly why I wanted Bruce out for so long as the amount he was holding these players back was ridiculous. We won't win every game but we won't go out looking like we've never seen each other before playing negative outdated tedious shit.
Aston Villa, finally no longer playing football that was outdated 20 years ago.
Sums up my thoughts completely. The only mystery is why he was in charge for 12 months too long?
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Hell's bells: we have lift off!
What a remarkable result. I bloody love you Deano! UTV
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Fucking well done Villa!
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I bet it’s absolutely bouncing in the Villa.
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Perfect. Great performance against one of the better teams in the division, front foot football, created loads of chances, carried on attacking after scoring the first instead of shutting up shop, clean sheet and Jack didn't get booked. Dean Smith has brought my Villa back and the future is at last starting to look bright.
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Best performance in years. Only Leeds had picked up a win at Derby previously this season - we can play like that against anyone in this league.
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Zero to be scared off in this division.
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Strangely enough I was saying to my pal that I fancied us to put down a marker performance today.
Then again, I’ve been saying that most Fridays for three years.
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Norwich scoring twice in injury time to win 4-3 is only disappointment of today.
9 points to 1st position now.
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Sounds like a great performance and could have been a lot more. The revolution is gaining momentum. UTV.
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Brilliant result!!!! Well played all the Villa players and management team. Especially pleased for Conor Hourihane.
Are you watching Stevie Bruce! See what can be done with this team and an attacking intent!
Very pleased also with the clean sheet!
I bet the sychophantic media won't be calling them Frank Lampard's Derby County tonight just Derby. Some of their fans already showing their lack of class on twitter.
A great result, this has set the weekend up brilliantly! UTV!
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Wow what a result, onwards and upwards.
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According to the Beeb we had 53% possession and 21 shots (only 5 on target though) as well as a three goal win away from home . Not something we would've had under Bruce.
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I think the belief will start to flow through the club with Deano in charge.
Imagine being a player and comparing our approach to games now from 6 weeks ago, they will be chomping at the bit for the next game to hurry up and come.
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Not only did we win but we won in style. Top 2 we’re coming for ya
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Is that the first time since we've been down here that we've gone to one of the better teams and really handed them their arse on a plate? Lovely.
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great win but since when did it become the norm to play around 10 minutes of injury time? It's definitely something of a worrying trend .
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Great performance, disappointing result. We should have scored 10. I guess we'll have days like this from now on.
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Foo King Hell! Get in Villa!!!!
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Just back in the car. Huge queue of traffic. Not one fuck given.
Just wow. Just fucking wow.
We've absolutely hammered them. It should have been 6 or 7. Fuck me that was special!
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Fucking get in Villa!
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It was 6 mins, 5 subs and 3 goals is 4 mins on its own.
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That was a bit special. The Villa job continues to look far too big for Dean Smith.
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Just seen footage of Hourihane’s goal.
Feckin hell !! It was wonderful.
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Absolute brilliant second half! How nice to see that our players actually do have technique!
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Terrific second half. Looks like it's starting to click...
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Today's performancr just confirms that Bruce turned a silk purse into a sow's ear.
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Same result against the noses.. oh please.
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That's the way football should be played. Sod being 1-0 up and nervously clinging on for a draw.
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Great performance. Looked threatening in the first half but also a bit shaky at times. Second half was totally one sided and the only worry was that we were going to waste by missing our chances. Once we scored there was no doubt. Derby were devoid of ideas and we played them off the park. A performance that said 'We are AVFC and we are back'. If we can sustain this then there's no reason why we can't be back in the picture by Xmas and a couple of shrewd signings could see us have a tremendous second half of the season.
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I'm so chuffed with this!!
My only note of caution is when people call this a "statement" game.
We had one of those when we smashed Wolves last season, and we all know how the next set of games went after that.
Having said that, we now have a proper manager. One who can coach. One who actually understands and promotes tactics for modern football.
We genuinely have nothing to fear.
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Just queuing in traffic and reflecting that this is the day that we started to play proper football again.
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And the mind the gap comments coming out of the sty will stop.
Bloody international break is coming at the wrong time for us.
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I'm so chuffed with this!!
My only note of caution is when people call this a "statement" game.
We had one of those when we smashed Wolves last season, and we all know how the next set of games went after that.
Having said that, we now have a proper manager. One who can coach. One who actually understands and promotes tactics for modern football.
We genuinely have nothing to fear.
We're a different side now. Every now and again, Bruce's random and unscientific approach would click and we'd look quite good. He was just as likely to see them look disjointed and ineffective though.
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Just checking.......no bookings today for Jack I hope?
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We've got our villa back,we've got our villa back, we've got our villa back,we've got our villa back. Get in. I love you Dean Smith.
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Play like that on a regular basis and i wouldn't bet against us going up automatically.
And that's just it. We're 3 points of Play-off places and 7 off automatic. With everyone to play.
We're going up.
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Didn't go today but caught the last half hour online. Probably the best we've looked since we beat Wolves. We were also very impressive in closing down when we didn't have the ball. It's looking promising.
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Just checking.......no bookings today for Jack I hope?
AdomahBooked at 17mins
7McGinnBooked at 76mins
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Just checking.......no bookings today for Jack I hope?
Nope. All clear.
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Highlights (https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/11550590/derby-0-3-aston-villa)
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Sounds like a special performance, and is most definitely a brilliant result.
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Mad. We went from being a team that spanners clear chances in tight games to being one which scores three great goals like it ain't no thang. That is the dream.
All the more annoying to see Norwich on top of the pile. This division is so mediocre that this Dean Smith side could have been ten points clear by now.
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And to think we could have been 2 or 3 up at half time. Good substitutions as well
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We've got our villa back,we've got our villa back, we've got our villa back,we've got our villa back. Get in. I love you Dean Smith.
This is how I feel right now, as well.
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Interesting to see that the celebrations for the 3rd goal were edging towards the Villa bench almost like they wanted to include them.
I feckin love it !
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Frank Lampard's Derby County 0 Dean Smith's Aston Villa 3, brilliant result. Just looking at the stats, 21 shots on goal, when was the last time we did that away and against the form team of the league. Looking forward to watching EFL on Quest at 9.
UP THE VILLA
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I have just been reading a Derby County forum. That's how good we were.
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Play like that on a regular basis and i wouldn't bet against us going up automatically.
And that's just it. We're 3 points of Play-off places and 7 off automatic. With everyone to play.
We're going up.
It's a completely different season compared to our first one down, when even a series of wins barely dented the gap to the playoffs. If we keep in touch and do some smart business in january then I'd put us as one of the favourites.
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About time we gave someone a good twatting.
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Let’s not get carried away. I’m sure a Steve Bruce team would have won 3-0 with more possession, shots and passes. Lol.
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Well, I may just have to watch or tape ‘The EFL on quest’ tonight.
Strange times.
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Then he got hit on the head by a cabbage and woke up Dave P.
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Norwich scoring twice in injury time to win 4-3 is only disappointment of today.
9 points to 1st position now.
6 points if you count our home victory to come against Norwich.
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And the mind the gap comments coming out of the sty will stop.
Bloody international break is coming at the wrong time for us.
Don’t agree at all my friend. That’s what it was under Bruce. Under Dean Smith the players who will be at the club will learn more. The manager and his staff will watch more film to look for advantages against future opponents. Dean Smith will use the break to advance his education. Steve Bruce used it to eat more kebabs.
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I haven't moved but I don't give a fuck. That second half was brilliant. We maruaded all over them.
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Play like that on a regular basis and i wouldn't bet against us going up automatically.
And that's just it. We're 3 points of Play-off places and 7 off automatic. With everyone to play.
We're going up.
It's a completely different season compared to our first one down, when even a series of wins barely dented the gap to the playoffs. If we keep in touch and do some smart business in january then I'd put us as one of the favourites.
We need to shed a few players, get in two solid full backs and another CB. Add a proper inside left forward if that’s what approach Dean wants vs Kodjia who just isn’t that player and we have the makings of a very, very solid team.
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And the mind the gap comments coming out of the sty will stop.
Bloody international break is coming at the wrong time for us.
Don’t agree at all my friend. That’s what it was under Bruce. Under Dean Smith the players who will be at the club will learn more. The manager and his staff will watch more film to look for advantages against future opponents. Dean Smith will use the break to advance his education. Steve Bruce used it to eat more kebabs.
I see your point but was thinking more from a momentum perspective.
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I haven't moved but I don't give a fuck. That second half was brilliant. We maruaded all over them.
We put our fists all over them and gave them a good funeraling.
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And the mind the gap comments coming out of the sty will stop.
Bloody international break is coming at the wrong time for us.
Don’t agree at all my friend. That’s what it was under Bruce. Under Dean Smith the players who will be at the club will learn more. The manager and his staff will watch more film to look for advantages against future opponents. Dean Smith will use the break to advance his education. Steve Bruce used it to eat more kebabs.
I see your point but was thinking more from a momentum perspective.
Under Bruce momentum was like an elastic band being stretched. You knew that at any point it would snap and we’d be plodding through weeks of shit before a new run of better results was stumbled upon. Now there will be a defined playing style and all of the players will know their roles. We’re far from the finished article but the one thing we’ll know is the players he will bring in will be suited to a specific approach. I just fucking love it.
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Lift off.
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Faith restored. The result was the bonus, the play was the highlight - best performance in 5 odd years
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It feels like if we dont go up this season, we will next season with 100 points.
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For those who were there / watched the game, what was Grealish and Nyland like as their performances have come under scrutiny recently?
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For those who were there / watched the game, what was Grealish and Nyland like as their performances have come under scrutiny recently?
Grealish was elegant and always a threat. He brings two or three players into him every time opening space for others. Nyland was solid and made one terrific save. His most complete performance so far.
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My theory is that once we have a consistent scoring rate, Nyland will be okay. It's the thought of protecting a 0-0 or a one goal lead that makes him nervous.
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It feels like if we dont go up this season, we will next season with 100 points.
I haven't moved but I don't give a fuck. That second half was brilliant. We maruaded all over them.
We put our fists all over them and gave them a good funeraling.
To confirm;
If the approach today is consistent, Dean, the lads and the club will have cracked the automatics by Christmas.
UTV!
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I didn't see that coming to be honest. I was thinking this morning that a draw would be a good result. Well done all, enjoy the night boys and girls.
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Cracking result but important we follow it up. what a very tight division this is proving to be this season. Well done Dean. Taking shape nicely.
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We should have been 5 up at 0-0
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great win but since when did it become the norm to play around 10 minutes of injury time? It's definitely something of a worrying trend .
Think it is something the referees union has picked up on. There is definitely more time being added on nowadays in matches in all the divisions.
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2 wins 2 clean sheets ---5 goals in two games----well done to all----now weve got another international break! just as we hit a bit of momentum!!
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And the mind the gap comments coming out of the sty will stop.
Bloody international break is coming at the wrong time for us.
Don’t agree at all my friend. That’s what it was under Bruce. Under Dean Smith the players who will be at the club will learn more. The manager and his staff will watch more film to look for advantages against future opponents. Dean Smith will use the break to advance his education. Steve Bruce used it to eat more kebabs.
Yep completely agree with you TV, Smith and his team will be at work and working all around him. I’m so sure now when we train we are being coached and also learning at the same time. We’re becoming something we’ve all wanted for a long time. A team with identity, a team with a strict approach, a team we’ll enjoy watching. Exciting times ahead.
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Tsk. We didn't score from the half-way line.
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It feels like if we dont go up this season, we will next season with 100 points.
104 points
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Next game. Bring it on.
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Well done you Villa boys. To go and win 3-0 at a team who only last week gave Small Heath a goal start and thrashed 3-1 is impressive .
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It’s not just the results it’s the performances that are so much better
attacking, entertaining, positive approach every match that’s the difference
although the strikers had me pulling my hair out today for over an hour
Kodja was abysmal and Tammy was wasteful
but we dominated that match and a 3-0 did not flatter us
it was a great result that wasnt reliant on a stand out Grealish display and I say that in a positive way, we can’t always have our eggs all in one basket,
he played well enough but this was a team performance
My motm was John Mcginn absolutely first class
I will always blame Bruce for wasting two years of my footballing life
but he Bought in Mcginn just before he went and that could well be the only positive thing he left in his entire time here
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Post match interview https://www.facebook.com/avfcofficial/videos/1934597696849862
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Couldn't watch it, but it sounded bloody amazing. The most encouraging thing for me is not the scoreline or the clean sheet, both of which are great, but the fact that we are finally playing with an identity and an ethos, under a coach who's clearly wedded to attractive, attacking football.
Marvellous!
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Have Deano done his post match interview yet?
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Have Deano done his post match interview yet?
2 posts above your post.
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Post-match on WM (https://audioboom.com/posts/7080933-listen-dean-smith-reflects-on-villa-s-superb-performance-and-result-3-0-win-away-at-derby-county)
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From the highlights that was a fantastiv ball in by Mcginn for the 2nd.
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Post match interview https://www.facebook.com/avfcofficial/videos/1934597696849862
Interesting at the end when he says regarding the next game, that it will be different to thus because Birmingham play a different way. To think we have a manager and staff that will gameplan specific to the opponent versus just whacking it long as tactic A,B,C,D etc is so refreshing.
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Post match interview https://www.facebook.com/avfcofficial/videos/1934597696849862
Love how he states at the end how he told the players: "Look..we not coming to Derby for a Draw. We coming here to win the game!"
How we missed a manager with that approach!
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From Derby City Fan Forum (Before the game)
A great game to look forward to, two teams who both will try and play football, that's why we will win, 2-0, we are the best footballing team in the football league, also hoping this one sells out, we deserve to be playing in front of a full stadium, this is the best football we have been playing for years, let's all enjoy the ride.
https://dcfcfans.uk/topic/30931-derby-county-v-aston-villa-match-thread/?page=1
90 mins is a long time in the championship
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Hot Lips' free kick was a lovely little dink...nice technique.
Nice result. It would warm the cockles...
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One of the best away days for years.Great camaraderie,singing,piss up.
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Derby fans were quite magnanimous. Almost all pretty accepted they got battered by a much better team.
Yep. They did.
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Post match interview https://www.facebook.com/avfcofficial/videos/1934597696849862
Interesting at the end when he says regarding the next game, that it will be different to thus because Birmingham play a different way. To think we have a manager and staff that will gameplan specific to the opponent versus just whacking it long as tactic A,B,C,D etc is so refreshing.
And he’s already played them with Brentford
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From Derby City Fan Forum (Before the game)
A great game to look forward to, two teams who both will try and play football, that's why we will win, 2-0, we are the best footballing team in the football league, also hoping this one sells out, we deserve to be playing in front of a full stadium, this is the best football we have been playing for years, let's all enjoy the ride.
https://dcfcfans.uk/topic/30931-derby-county-v-aston-villa-match-thread/?page=1
90 mins is a long time in the championship
Lots of empty seats in the Derby areas - must be about 3,000 of them - a lot more on show when the fire alarm went off (when our 3rd went in)
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It feels like if we dont go up this season, we will next season with 100 points.
104 points
104? Where the heck are we going to drop 34 points?
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And the mind the gap comments coming out of the sty will stop.
Bloody international break is coming at the wrong time for us.
Don’t agree at all my friend. That’s what it was under Bruce. Under Dean Smith the players who will be at the club will learn more. The manager and his staff will watch more film to look for advantages against future opponents. Dean Smith will use the break to advance his education. Steve Bruce used it to eat more kebabs.
Yep completely agree with you TV, Smith and his team will be at work and working all around him. I’m so sure now when we train we are being coached and also learning at the same time. We’re becoming something we’ve all wanted for a long time. A team with identity, a team with a strict approach, a team we’ll enjoy watching. Exciting times ahead.
Bruce's team lacked energy. Another two weeks and the team will be closer to their fitness potential. 20 goal attempts away from home against a team in form. Kodja would never have come off under Bruce as 0-0 away was a great result😂
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The main thing about this game, especially playing away, is that once we cranked up the gears we kept on churning through them which if I'm honest was surprising to see. We definitely played with a different mentality throughout and long may it continue.
Kodjia was a lot more active today but good god his finishing was abysmal. He needs a goal or two and fast and there's no better game than the next to come good again.
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I've just read their match thread and posts match analysis and to be fair, they called it as it was and overall, pretty complimentary.
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I've just read their match thread and posts match analysis and to be fair, they called it as it was and overall, pretty complimentary.
Agreed very impressive and realistic thread. I liked this comment:
"Grealish started to run the show and drifted past big Tom whilst he was doing his impression of a shop dummy. We got worse and villa got better and better."
and
"Villa are the most dangerous team in the league. We'll be back to our best next game and we'll square things up with them at Villa Park."
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My theory is that once we have a consistent scoring rate, Nyland will be okay. It's the thought of protecting a 0-0 or a one goal lead that makes him nervous.
Nyland was rock solid today, which was one of the biggest positives amongst many.
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The great thing was that the team looked relaxed, confident and dynamic, and the Villa crowd really seemed to believe. The noise was deafening at times and the team scintillating.
Awesome.
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Outstanding second half and you wonder what Dean said at half time, maybe a stirring talk about rolling your sleeves up? Nah, listen to,his post-match comments, all very tactical, purposeful and decisive. Loved the fact that I’m stoppage time we had a corner and did we keep it there? Did we fuck!
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Been home for about 30 mins, just ordered the takeaway, wife thinks it’s funny that I have such a smile on my face, well I am smiling, glad I could go away with my son & watch Villa play like that. Well done to Villa & Dean & his staff, & some great lads by me for the songs. Excellent day, so happy & a wee bit drunk 🤣🤣
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Post match interview https://www.facebook.com/avfcofficial/videos/1934597696849862
What's all this setting traps for the opposition and having game plans? It's witchcraft.
Brilliant performance by Villa and thoroughly deserved.
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I've just read their match thread and posts match analysis and to be fair, they called it as it was and overall, pretty complimentary.
Agreed very impressive and realistic thread. I liked this comment:
"Grealish started to run the show and drifted past big Tom whilst he was doing his impression of a shop dummy. We got worse and villa got better and better."
and
"Villa are the most dangerous team in the league. We'll be back to our best next game and we'll square things up with them at Villa Park."
Lampard was very gracious in post match interview also
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Why did Neil Taylor go off?
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I've always said that it's results not performances that matter. However, the way we are playing we're getting both!
The tactics and style we're playing is great and so, so overdue.
When was the last time a central midfielder broke into the box and scored a header?
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Why did Neil Taylor go off?
'Cos they left him out in the sun too long. Sorry.
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thought our fans were fantastic today
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Why did Neil Taylor go off?
Surely the question is why was he on in the first place?!
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From the highlights that was a fantastiv ball in by Mcginn for the 2nd.
Quality assist from Bolasie for the first too. First time in with left foot.
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Why did Neil Taylor go off?
Surely the question is why was he on in the first place?!
Yes, the balance was so much better with Elmo at right back. He comes in for some criticism, but the formation is much better with him back there and Hutton at left back. He was supporting the attacks relentlessly a bit like with Snoddy last season.
The whole team was tremendous and I can only really criticise the front two for their profligacy, but they worked hard. I thought after so many chances had gone begging that we'd rue the misses.
Tuanzebe is now looking the part at centre back apart from a couple of first half blips in letting the ball bounce and McGinn now has the energy and drive for a full 90. As Smith said, the standard has been set!
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What a day. What a performance. Fans were class. Dean Smith is sexy. Villa's going up.
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Spare a thought for Steve Bruce tonight. He questioned who we could get that that would be better than him and his impeccable 4 promotions record. It's taken a mere month to erase his 2 years of dirge and dull as ditch water approach.
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Pity Deano wasn't in charge from the start of the season. I reckon we'd be top two now....
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Due to family commitments all I knew was that it was 0-0 at half time. When there was eventually an appropriate moment to check the result, which at best I was hoping would be a draw, there was a silent 'f*cking hell' moment.
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A real pity Deano wasn't in charge at the start of the season. I reckon we'd be top two now.....
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Hi Villa.. Derby fan here in peace!
First things first: well done on the thoroughly deserved win! 0-3, but could easily have been six or more. Brought back painful memories of your infamous 6-1 win at PP...
Have to admit I didn’t see it coming ... we have been playing some top stuff lately, so easy on the eye compared to the hoof ball served up under ‘long ball Rowett’ last year. I expected a tough game but thought we’d edge it, even though man for man I reckon you have a stronger squad, due to your dodgy away form.
From our perspective it was a massive disappointment - we missed a couple of sitters first half (as you did) but never came out of the dressing room second half and you should have had a few before the inevitable breakthrough. In mitigation, we were missing three key midfielders in Mount, Bryson and Waghorn, and you steamrollered us in that area second half.
That said, Villa were hugely impressive and did a great job stopping us playing. You actually did to us what we have done to so many others this season, with a high-pressing, energy-filled game where you defended from the front on the edge of our own box. Smith had clearly learnt from seeing his Brentford team beaten easily at PP earlier in the season.
I thought your keeper looked good, having been unimpressed by what I’d seen of him on the box in other games. Tuinzebe and Hutton were outstanding at the back and your midfield excellent.
Probably the most interesting thing - and a big positive for you moving forward - was the fact that you played so well without Grealish being at the top of his game! I’d previously thought EVERYTHING Villa do well went through him, but not today. I think McGinn will turn out to be a master stroke signing... as will Bolasie; can’t see Kodjia getting a start much longer with him around for the duration!
Abraham was always going to be a massive signing and - even though he missed a few today - will guarantee you a 20 goal striker.
In a nutshell, I’ll be getting a few quid on Villa to win the division after today. With a bit of tweaking in January and with a top manager at this level in Smith at the helm, I can genuinely see you steamrollering it second half of the season. The rest of us won’t be able to achieve that level of consistency. Just remember what Fulham did after Xmas last year - and they stated from well behind where you are now!
One word of warning though - the Championship is the most exciting yet unpredictable mistress. There will be ups and downs to come.
Speaking of which, the missus is a Villa fan - so today wasn’t all bad! 😉
Good luck for the rest of what I’m sure will be an exciting season for the Claret and Blues- and hope you stuff the Bluenoses as I can’t stand ‘em! 🤣
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Hi Villa.. Derby fan here in peace!
First things first: well done on the thoroughly deserved win! 0-3, but could easily have been six or more. Brought back painful memories of your infamous 6-1 win at PP...
Have to admit I didn’t see it coming ... we have been playing some top stuff lately, so easy on the eye compared to the hoof ball served up under ‘long ball Rowett’ last year. I expected a tough game but thought we’d edge it, even though man for man I reckon you have a stronger squad, due to your dodgy away form.
From our perspective it was a massive disappointment - we missed a couple of sitters first half (as you did) but never came out of the dressing room second half and you should have had a few before the inevitable breakthrough. In mitigation, we were missing three key midfielders in Mount, Bryson and Waghorn, and you steamrollered us in that area second half.
That said, Villa were hugely impressive and did a great job stopping us playing. You actually did to us what we have done to so many others this season, with a high-pressing, energy-filled game where you defended from the front on the edge of our own box. Smith had clearly learnt from seeing his Brentford team beaten easily at PP earlier in the season.
I thought your keeper looked good, having been unimpressed by what I’d seen of him on the box in other games. Tuinzebe and Hutton were outstanding at the back and your midfield excellent.
Probably the most interesting thing - and a big positive for you moving forward - was the fact that you played so well without Grealish being at the top of his game! I’d previously thought EVERYTHING Villa do well went through him, but not today. I think McGinn will turn out to be a master stroke signing... as will Bolasie; can’t see Kodjia getting a start much longer with him around for the duration!
Abraham was always going to be a massive signing and - even though he missed a few today - will guarantee you a 20 goal striker.
In a nutshell, I’ll be getting a few quid on Villa to win the division after today. With a bit of tweaking in January and with a top manager at this level in Smith at the helm, I can genuinely see you steamrollering it second half of the season. The rest of us won’t be able to achieve that level of consistency. Just remember what Fulham did after Xmas last year - and they stated from well behind where you are now!
One word of warning though - the Championship is the most exciting yet unpredictable mistress. There will be ups and downs to come.
Speaking of which, the missus is a Villa fan - so today wasn’t all bad! 😉
Good luck for the rest of what I’m sure will be an exciting season for the Claret and Blues- and hope you stuff the Bluenoses as I can’t stand ‘em! 🤣
I like you. Thank you for your post.
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Cheers for the kind words and best of luck for the rest of the season -apart from March 2, obv.
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Cheers Ramsfan.
Always associate Derby as I remember them as a kid - with a full, intimidating Baseball Ground - can you bring it back, please?
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Hi Villa.. Derby fan here in peace!
First things first: well done on the thoroughly deserved win! 0-3, but could easily have been six or more. Brought back painful memories of your infamous 6-1 win at PP...
Have to admit I didn’t see it coming ... we have been playing some top stuff lately, so easy on the eye compared to the hoof ball served up under ‘long ball Rowett’ last year. I expected a tough game but thought we’d edge it, even though man for man I reckon you have a stronger squad, due to your dodgy away form.
From our perspective it was a massive disappointment - we missed a couple of sitters first half (as you did) but never came out of the dressing room second half and you should have had a few before the inevitable breakthrough. In mitigation, we were missing three key midfielders in Mount, Bryson and Waghorn, and you steamrollered us in that area second half.
That said, Villa were hugely impressive and did a great job stopping us playing. You actually did to us what we have done to so many others this season, with a high-pressing, energy-filled game where you defended from the front on the edge of our own box. Smith had clearly learnt from seeing his Brentford team beaten easily at PP earlier in the season.
I thought your keeper looked good, having been unimpressed by what I’d seen of him on the box in other games. Tuinzebe and Hutton were outstanding at the back and your midfield excellent.
Probably the most interesting thing - and a big positive for you moving forward - was the fact that you played so well without Grealish being at the top of his game! I’d previously thought EVERYTHING Villa do well went through him, but not today. I think McGinn will turn out to be a master stroke signing... as will Bolasie; can’t see Kodjia getting a start much longer with him around for the duration!
Abraham was always going to be a massive signing and - even though he missed a few today - will guarantee you a 20 goal striker.
In a nutshell, I’ll be getting a few quid on Villa to win the division after today. With a bit of tweaking in January and with a top manager at this level in Smith at the helm, I can genuinely see you steamrollering it second half of the season. The rest of us won’t be able to achieve that level of consistency. Just remember what Fulham did after Xmas last year - and they stated from well behind where you are now!
One word of warning though - the Championship is the most exciting yet unpredictable mistress. There will be ups and downs to come.
Speaking of which, the missus is a Villa fan - so today wasn’t all bad! 😉
Good luck for the rest of what I’m sure will be an exciting season for the Claret and Blues- and hope you stuff the Bluenoses as I can’t stand ‘em! 🤣
Lovely post. Best of luck for the rest of the season (apart from the obvs)
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Would love to bring back the BBG Ground pal.. spent my formative years cheering us through thick and mostly thin there. There really was NO atmosphere like the BBG.. you had to experience it to believe it. Don't think today's modern all-seater stadia will ever be able to generate that sort of noise and passion. But then, I think the type of people that frequent many football grounds has also changed .. and not for the better in most cases! Best atmosphere at PP this season though today - thanks to your great away following! Nothing better than seeing your team win big away - I enjoyed our trip to the Baggies the other week! 4-1 lol ;D
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Nothing better than seeing your team win big away - I enjoyed our trip to the Baggies the other week! 4-1 lol ;D
I enjoyed that game, too. Vanishing in-law's act was repeated for a couple of weeks, lmao
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That's a brilliant post Ramsfan. We lived through our own hoof ball bollocks for too long ourselves now so nice to hear that Lampard has brought in a more attractive style of play. In time with a few of his own signings he'll turn out just fine and I reckon next season more likely than this you lot will go up. Good luck with that.
I think you might be right about us. Momentum is building, the players are starting to believe and you can see the freedom it brings. A collection of players who could barely retain possession or control a football look a completely transformed group after a month or so. It's remarkable. We always had the players, just a tactically inept donkey in charge. It's different now. Very different.
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clean sheet, dominant, what the fuck
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Nice post...hope you're right. Some of my extended family are Derby season ticket holders so I've got a soft spot for them. One thing though, I don't remember Derby getting a consolation in the game we scored 6 in. I'm thinking of the one where Petrov scored THAT goal, maybe you're not?
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No sorry - think you’re right! Correction: 6-0!
I was right behind the goal Petrol scored in .. amazing finish!
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Petrov! ;D
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First away game of the season for me thanks to Horatio and it was absolutely fantastic!
Brilliant atmosphere, singing, support and total utter mayhem when we scored.
That second half was the best we have played since Wolves last season, total football and the joy to see when we had gone 0 - 1 up we still attacked and didn't drop back to defend the 18 yard box and hope to win 0 - 1!
I am proud to have the Aston Villa that I love back! UTV
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And the mind the gap comments coming out of the sty will stop.
Bloody international break is coming at the wrong time for us.
Don’t agree at all my friend. That’s what it was under Bruce. Under Dean Smith the players who will be at the club will learn more. The manager and his staff will watch more film to look for advantages against future opponents. Dean Smith will use the break to advance his education. Steve Bruce used it to eat more kebabs.
That made me chuckle, he was a lovely bloke but looked and acted more like your favourite uncle with each passing day.
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Most enjoyable away performance for quite a few years. I was starting to think we just weren’t going to score, but in the end I think 3-0 flattered Derby.
And, the championship highlights show’s coverage really was pathetic.
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Would love to bring back the BBG Ground pal.. spent my formative years cheering us through thick and mostly thin there. There really was NO atmosphere like the BBG.. you had to experience it to believe it. Don't think today's modern all-seater stadia will ever be able to generate that sort of noise and passion. But then, I think the type of people that frequent many football grounds has also changed .. and not for the better in most cases! Best atmosphere at PP this season though today - thanks to your great away following! Nothing better than seeing your team win big away - I enjoyed our trip to the Baggies the other week! 4-1 lol ;D
I reckon the hottest I’ve ever been at a football ground was 1990 at the Baseball Ground.
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I like this one. Can we keep him?!
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I thought Axel was brilliant again today. What the fuck was Bruce doing playing him at RB and Jedinak at CB?!
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I backed Bruce but watching Dean Smith turn this team around in a month is quite incredible. We now have a plan and shape. A bit of tweaking in January and I can see us doing a Fulham and going on a long run. Now lets just get this blue nose business out the way. I think our strikers will destroy their defence. Hull walked the ball in today .....UTV
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Just back. A really great away day, performance and result. As Smith said the standard has now been set.
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Just for balance , that Derby team under Clough and ultimately mcKay was a side that deserved everything that came their way. When you consider the state of the pitches that we played on in those days, their football was a joy to behold. Especially when the BBG was one of the worst. I always liked Derby.
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That made me chuckle, he was a lovely bloke but looked and acted more like your favourite uncle with each passing day.
Favourite uncle with Nan's hair. Wonder if he's wishing us well or hoping we fail without him.
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I sometimes wonder if managers like him watch something like the Man City All or Nothing or even a Dean Smith interview and ever question themselves why it seems they are talking about an entirely different sport.
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Due to family commitments all I knew was that it was 0-0 at half time. When there was eventually an appropriate moment to check the result, which at best I was hoping would be a draw, there was a silent 'f*cking hell' moment.
same Lizz. I’m in Oz, but woke up this morning after a mate’s 50th birthday, rum in hand. Thought I would check the score, expecting nothing better than 1-1. It was like you say, a ‘fucking hell moment’!!
Up the Villa!
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" My philosophy is this : 1-0, 2-0 or 5-0 up: never ever settle for it, you must be hungry for more. If you do sit back not only are you inviting the opposition to get back into the game but you are showing them mercy. You have to look at the bigger picture, I don't only want us to destroy our current opponent's. I want to breed fear into our next ones "
God Amighty 👍🏻
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My view entirely Steve. All I want, and have ever wanted is for the upcoming opposition to fear playing us.
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" My philosophy is this : 1-0, 2-0 or 5-0 up: never ever settle for it, you must be hungry for more. If you do sit back not only are you inviting the opposition to get back into the game but you are showing them mercy. You have to look at the bigger picture, I don't only want us to destroy our current opponent's. I want to breed fear into our next ones "
God Amighty 👍🏻
I know it’s ace
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I thought Axel was brilliant again today. What the fuck was Bruce doing playing him at RB and Jedinak at CB?!
It's a conspiracy theory but I wonder whether he wanted out and was waiting for the pay-off. Decisions like that and that he left us with only 2 centre backs in the squad, having been one himself, are just too odd.
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Chester got caught under a straight ball again and Marriot got the wrong side of Axel twice. The first time I thought Marriot was off side, but we corrected it at half time and Marriot never came out of Axel's pocket.
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Chester got caught under a straight ball again and Marriot got the wrong side of Axel twice. The first time I thought Marriot was off side, but we corrected it at half time and Marriot never came out of Axel's pocket.
That's the beauty of having a gaffer who's capable of changing it during the game based on what's happening in front of him. He said in his post-match that he also changed it so that Tammy took Huddlestone out of the game.
It's so bloody basic but it's a breath of fresh air to see it happening, finally.
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Tammy dropped of Tamori and came deeper and Huddlestone had to respond. With McGinn pressing him, he was utterly ineffectual and the only out ball was a 40 yard punt. We caused their midfield to disintegrate.
First half they used their full backs to try and beat the press as we couldn't cover both Keogh and Huddlestone.
Not that we were ineffective first half, we were the better side.
Smith doesn't just react, he does something truly terrifying...he thinks! Pre-empts!
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I thought Axel was brilliant again today. What the fuck was Bruce doing playing him at RB and Jedinak at CB?!
Setting himself up for a £1.7 m pay off!!
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Chester got caught under a straight ball again and Marriot got the wrong side of Axel twice. The first time I thought Marriot was off side, but we corrected it at half time and Marriot never came out of Axel's pocket.
It's starting to look like the only way teams will score against us is if our centre-halves get themselves stuck under the ball. The longer they play together, get used to each other, this'll stop. Be the good ol' one up, one round on the cover routine. And the only way teams can counter that basic ploy will be to play two out-and-out up top.
Given how we're playing, and still progressing, it's going to take a fucking brave manager to deploy that against us.
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I thought Axel was brilliant again today. What the fuck was Bruce doing playing him at RB and Jedinak at CB?!
Woke up this morning with 'Tuanzebe, Tuanzebe, zebe, zebe' in my head - feet keep tapping out the rhythm as well.
There are signs of McGrath about him. The time he has when he gets the ball under pressure, calms things down and extinguishes the threat. Anticipation as well. Positioning improves with every game lately. Once he and Chester sort out the high balls down the centre they will be OK.
I don't want Elphick back at Xmas, he gave Small Heath the first yesterday then made no challenge for their second.
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I thought Axel was brilliant again today. What the fuck was Bruce doing playing him at RB and Jedinak at CB?!
Woke up this morning with 'Tuanzebe, Tuanzebe, zebe, zebe' in my head - feet keep tapping out the rhythm as well.
There are signs of McGrath about him. The time he has when he gets the ball under pressure, calms things down and extinguishes the threat. Anticipation as well. Positioning improves with every game lately. Once he and Chester sort out the high balls down the centre they will be OK.
I don't want Elphick back at Xmas, he gave Small Heath the first yesterday then made no challenge for their second.
You're right about Elphick, but we sure as hell need CB cover and a new left back. At the moment we are an injury or two away from looking very makeshift at the back again.
And, the "Tuanzebe" song has been buzzing around my head too!What a bloody turnaround for the kid!!
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I thought Axel was brilliant again today. What the fuck was Bruce doing playing him at RB and Jedinak at CB?!
Woke up this morning with 'Tuanzebe, Tuanzebe, zebe, zebe' in my head - feet keep tapping out the rhythm as well.
There are signs of McGrath about him. The time he has when he gets the ball under pressure, calms things down and extinguishes the threat. Anticipation as well. Positioning improves with every game lately. Once he and Chester sort out the high balls down the centre they will be OK.
I don't want Elphick back at Xmas, he gave Small Heath the first yesterday then made no challenge for their second.
Yes, I saw the goals too. Shocking wasn’t he?
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" My philosophy is this : 1-0, 2-0 or 5-0 up: never ever settle for it, you must be hungry for more. If you do sit back not only are you inviting the opposition to get back into the game but you are showing them mercy. You have to look at the bigger picture, I don't only want us to destroy our current opponent's. I want to breed fear into our next ones "
God Amighty 👍🏻
d
in fairness though that's great when it works out but remember the stick Sherwood got when he did the same at Leicester in the 3-2 game
it will happen from time to time and we need to respect the managers actions, obviously Smith is a lot better tactically than Sherwood but the attack philosophy is the same
you can't pick and choose what you want only when it goes right
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My theory is that once we have a consistent scoring rate, Nyland will be okay. It's the thought of protecting a 0-0 or a one goal lead that makes him nervous.
That is a very good point. Being the last line of defence and knowing how vulnerable we have been when trying to defend a slim lead is sure to come with pressure, especially when you invite a team to come at you continuously for 40 odd minutes.
Another factor is how the forwards and midfield are now also closing the ball down much higher up the pitch, relieving the pressure also on the back four.
Great win yesterday. Onwards and upwards Villa. Automatic promotion is still there for the taking.
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Post match interview https://www.facebook.com/avfcofficial/videos/1934597696849862
No mention of sleeves rolled up or putting boots on. What an intelligent man. I really enjoy listening to his analysis.
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I do wonder what Bruce is making of it all.
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I do wonder what Bruce is making of it all.
"I told everybody we had the nucleus of a great team, we were one match away fro everything falling into place. Yes, the hot chilli sauce please."
Something like that, probably.
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I do wonder what Bruce is making of it all.
"I told everybody we had the nucleus of a great team, we were one match away fro everything falling into place. Yes, the hot chilli sauce please. No salad"
Something like that, probably.
Fixed that for you.
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Queuing to get in yesterday, I was behind 3 very smartly dresses Norwegians and two young kids. No Villa colours but said they supported Villa. I wonder if they were part of Nylands family?
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Any standout performances or is this the team's systems and tactics paying dividends?
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When do the extended highlights appear?
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About lunchtime Hookey, usually.
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Can anyone tell me the words to the 1982 song I heard yesterday ?
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Best performance since Wolves last season. Thought we were fantastic yesterday and we pinned Derby in the own half for most of the second half. Loved every minute of it.
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We were very beatable apparently and didn't show anything 2nd half, we just pounced on three gifts. And we dive a lot.
Good lord.
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How refreshing to listen to a manager that understands the game. To have a style of play...which he will change against different teams..To have tactical awareness and change things during a game. A bloody long overdue breath of fresh air. It just makes the wasted years so fuckin annoying but here's to the future now....Come on you villa boys....I'm fuckin loving it again.
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The overall style will stay the same, but the tactical tweaks before and importantly durung games are what will make the difference.
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The overall style will stay the same, but the tactical tweaks before and importantly durung games are what will make the difference.
It's insane that it's taken us this long to find a manager who understands these quite fundamental aspects of the job.
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I just hope that performance shuts up the 'mad few'
- Steve Bruce 2018
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It’s off wi me head
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We were very beatable apparently and didn't show anything 2nd half, we just pounced on three gifts. And we dive a lot.
Good lord.
Who said that shit, Ads?
That second half we were absolutely awesome and to be fair to the Derby forum I read they appreciated that and said it could easily have been 6 or 7.
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Dean Smith is really impressive. A statement of the bleedin' obvious, but the particular reason I want to highlight from his post-match interview on the Villa Facebook page is that:
1. He knew why we were able to take Derby apart (set traps to win possession, plans to create chances)
2. He knew how to tweak it (chat with Tuanzebe at half-time)
3. He points to how we could have done better and been more clinical, and
4. He's not getting carried away
There will still be the odd bump in the road and decisions on recruitment for the new regime will be crucial, but I really think we are on the way back.
I will always be proud of my club, now I am excited about them as well. UTV.
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We were very beatable apparently and didn't show anything 2nd half, we just pounced on three gifts. And we dive a lot.
Good lord.
Who said that shit, Ads?
That second half we were absolutely awesome and to be fair to the Derby forum I read they appreciated that and said it could easily have been 6 or 7.
Some Derby meff. To be fair most have given credit where it's due. That's the best side they'll play all season, well, till they turn up for a humblimg at B6.
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I do wonder what Bruce is making of it all.
"I told everybody we had the nucleus of a great team, we were one match away fro everything falling into place. Yes, the hot chilli sauce please."
Something like that, probably.
made me chuckle
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I do wonder what Bruce is making of it all.
"I told everybody we had the nucleus of a great team, we were one match away fro everything falling into place. Yes, the hot chilli sauce please."
Something like that, probably.
made me chuckle
Just shows why Bruce had to go.
It’s got to be mint sauce on a kebab.
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Enjoyed that yesterday.
The change in attitude on the pitch was clearly demonstrated when we got a corner with about two minutes to go. Everyone went up apart from Elmo (I think) and whilst it came to nothing we were three up and looking for more.
Under Bruce we probably wouldn’t have got a corner in the first place.
I like that McGinn and Grealish are getting ahead of the strikers and that for the first time in donkeys years we have players making both near post and far post runs for the crosses.
Long way to go but we turned over a pretty decent championship outfit yesterday, dominating them second half.
Fun to watch.
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Official extended Derby highlights (https://youtu.be/H1n24LemUGE) are up on the YouTube channel.
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Enjoyed that yesterday.
The change in attitude on the pitch was clearly demonstrated when we got a corner with about two minutes to go. Everyone went up apart from Elmo (I think) and whilst it came to nothing we were three up and looking for more.
Under Bruce we probably wouldn’t have got a corner in the first place.
I like that McGinn and Grealish are getting ahead of the strikers and that for the first time in donkeys years we have players making both near post and far post runs for the crosses.
Long way to go but we turned over a pretty decent championship outfit yesterday, dominating them second half.
Fun to watch.
when defending corners do we leave anyone up now ??
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What a wonderful bit of play it was to win the free kick for the third.
Kodjia really needs to start burying these chances. There's a couple of moves that are so beautiful it's almost criminal that they weren't dispatched in a befitting manner.
Pod people. They must be. It's the only way to explain away the difference from 5 weeks ago.
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Official extended Derby highlights (https://youtu.be/H1n24LemUGE) are up on the YouTube channel.
Just watching that with subtitles: 1st goal -
"...Chestup. Greenish. It's nicely done for the substitute Molasses...crossed it's a really good one and knotted in by them again...but it was all about Pulaski the substitute.
Marvellous. Not too sure who they are, but let's hope we can keep them.
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Did the ball hit Chester in the arm or chest for their best chance? Couldn't see it properly, seems to be the one thing they're carping about.
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It was 6 mins, 5 subs and 3 goals is 4 mins on its own.
Sounds like a Romanian movie.
Buzzing after yesterday as would have been happy with a draw. Roll on Nov. 25th.
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Thanks lads. As a Villain who lives and works in Derby, I am on such a high!
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The Quest highlights were a bit brief, but having watched the extended version we played some very good stuff. It's a breath of fresh air to see decent crosses going into the box and two or three of our players being there trying to get on the end of it. The second goal started from Grealish pressing Carson and we ultimately forced an error. Cracking crosses for the goals. Hutton playing first time passes down the line, accurately.
So three wins and two narrow and possibly undeserved defeats from 5 games and more good football in any one of them than in two years under Bruce. And three clean sheets with a less than stellar defence and a keeper prone to attacks of nerves. Amazing what coaching and a positive philosophy can do.
Imagine how good we could be if our strikers start putting more of their chances away (and if Kodija can find some form) and we get upgrades on some of the defenders and a more reliable keeper.
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Official extended Derby highlights (https://youtu.be/H1n24LemUGE) are up on the YouTube channel.
Just watching that with subtitles: 1st goal -
"...Chestup. Greenish. It's nicely done for the substitute Molasses...crossed it's a really good one and knotted in by them again...but it was all about Pulaski the substitute.
Marvellous. Not too sure who they are, but let's hope we can keep them.
Brilliant!
(https://thumb.ibb.co/dYPBCq/Screenshot-2018-11-12-at-09-59-34.png) (https://ibb.co/dYPBCq)
It is plenty coal for a hard with hair keeper indeed!
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The tactical switch having McGinn attacking the ball just behind the main striker worked very well. Even before he scored McGinn had worked himself into good positions about 3 times. Amazing what happens when midfielders arrive in the area but a manager has to be brave enough to let that happen.
Of course opponents will learn that and will plan to nullify it.
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The tactical switch having McGinn attacking the ball just behind the main striker worked very well. Even before he scored McGinn had worked himself into good positions about 3 times. Amazing what happens when midfielders arrive in the area but a manager has to be brave enough to let that happen.
Of course opponents will learn that and will plan to nullify it.
Which will leave gaps elsewhere for us to exploit. I imagine. I have no idea, having been watching us for too long.
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It's amazing how quickly things have changed and how backwards the previous regime was. Just a few weeks ago we had Jack on the left, McGinn nowhere near the box and Abrahams cut adrift on his own.
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The interesting thing is this weekend it was McGinn attacking the box and scoring, last week Jack did and scored. I love midfielders who can get up and down but add that penalty box threat to their game. It also takes the pressure off our forwards and creates space when a defender or midfielder has to pick up what essentially becomes an extra attacker.
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Those two will also get fitter under proper training and in McGinn's case learn a little about when not to waste too much energy chasing around like a terrier. It's refreshing that he does it but there are times he'll need to conserve a bit more.
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The tactical switch having McGinn attacking the ball just behind the main striker worked very well. Even before he scored McGinn had worked himself into good positions about 3 times. Amazing what happens when midfielders arrive in the area but a manager has to be brave enough to let that happen.
Of course opponents will learn that and will plan to nullify it.
Which will leave gaps elsewhere for us to exploit. I imagine. I have no idea, having been watching us for too long.
That's why you need full backs who can create. 4 attacking players (striker, wingers and attacking midfielder) moving and creating space and then the full backs and box-to-box midfielder moving into those gaps is hard for anyone to defend and if you have a strong pressing game and pace in the 3 defensive players it's not that risky because you're generally forcing teams to play on the counter, especially if you're just have better players than them.
This is the sort of thing I mean when I talk about acting like a big club, if we're willing to regularly commit 6-7 players forward and press high if we lose the ball rather than racing back we'll win plenty of games in this league.
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A quite remarkable performance in the second half.
What a contrast to last season, when we had only two shots on target here!
The only drawbacks are the continued weakness of our backline under the long ball, and the profligate finishing of Kodjia and Abraham.
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A quite remarkable performance in the second half.
What a contrast to last season, when we had only two shots on target here!
The only drawbacks are the continued weakness of our backline under the long ball, and the profligate finishing of Kodjia and Abraham.
would agree with all that
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The tactical adjustments made at HT ensured Derby couldn’t play the ball over the back. Will be interesting to see if the Noses try that next week.
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If the Noses do, they'll be doing it from 24-30% of the play and with somebody less accomplished at hoofing it as Fat Tom.
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If the Noses do, they'll be doing it from 24-30% of the play and with somebody less accomplished at hoofing it as Fat Tom.
My one worry for the Knuckledraggers game is that they drag us down to their level. If we play our natural Dean Smith game we'll batter them.
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Skip to 5:40 mins for the villa bits
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Couple of decent opposition vlogs
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And the highlights from the Derby OS