Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Legion on January 01, 2011, 05:54:39 PM
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Available Sunday afternoon.
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EDIT: Much improved performance, stifled by another bent referee. ALMOST heartbreaking end, but much better than we expected and at least the goal difference isn't looking quite as bad as I'd feared. Must beat Sunderland now, because despite all the fight, we've got the RENEWED HOPE OF AVOIDING of relegation about us.
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A well deserved point. Shame it wasn't all three.
Lee Mason is a twat.
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Much improved performance and great bit of courage to fight back at the end.
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Much improved performance, stifled by another bent referee. Heartbreaking end, but much better than we expected and at least the goal difference isn't looking quite as bad as I'd feared. Must beat Sunderland now, because despite all the fight, we've got the smell of relegation about us.
Hmm, was that posted before Clark popped up
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A great point for Villa, i'd have taken that before the game.
Plenty of spirit about the team today, and some good performances.
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Tremendous point. Battling performance.
Won't be relegated playing like that.
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Also you see that celebration when we equalised, showed real togetherness.
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A great point for Villa, i'd have taken that before the game.
Plenty of spirit about the team today, and some good performances.
That about sums it up for me too.
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Awful ref.
The lads played very well, and showed some real resilience in the end.
Lovely to see that wanker Terrys face nearly crying at full time.
3 points on Wednesday and it will have a been a decent week.
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Every player gave everything. Lost the dressing room? Happy with the point in the end, and a good note to go into the next game.
Phew.
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i love football
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still shaking
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Absolutly brilliant performance, yes we should have won but the whole team did great, if it weren't for the ref, we would have won.
Because of the ref an all the bookings we couldn't make a challenge second half.
No one can doubt Randy's love with that celebration!
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Infinitely better. Massively so.
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Well played lads, more like it.
UTV
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Clark deserved to play regularly. His finishing is good.
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Thought we so improved. Dunne solid again Freidel was excellent. But the spirit was the most impressive thing
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Fair play to them as a team, some big performances from a lot of them, and fitting that 2 kids combined to get the draw. Anyone offered that before kick off we would have bitten their hands off.
We are desperate for more forward options off the bench and central midfield options that we can really trust, but all in all it is a very positive day.
Well done villa, and for a night Gerard, enjoy a glass of red and feel pleased with yourself. Great result.
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I knew we'd bottle it and throw the win away, the writing was on the wall from 65 minutes onwards. What I really didn't expect was for them to keep pushing, incredible. Haven't seem them fight like that since that goal against Everton. Fantastic stuff.
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Finally saw a little bit of fight today.
We are still all too brittle, but a massive improvement on Man City.
I liked the look of the back 4 today (well up until 80 mins at least), we just looked a lot more solid.
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still shaking
And me, Chelsea were very lucky today!
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A great battling performance and I hope we draw confidence from the late goal.
That late strike from Clacker is the happiest I've felt RE the Villa in ages. Between Stan on the radio and me screaming at it god knows what the neighbours were thinking.
Never a PEN for their first.
The defence were all excellent. I think we should stick with that four as we continue to plug away. A point we didn't expect can only be a bonus and a fillip for our players and management.
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as much a I want a result, I want to see green shoots of progress. That is evidence of team unity, cohesiveness and fight. We might lose against Chelsea. I can take that. As long as we go down giving it everything we have.
I posted this before the game. I get everything I asked for. Yes, 3 points would have been great but that was quite brilliant. If we play like that between now and the end of the season, we'll be just fine.
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Great performance. Deserved all three points, but its the kickstart to the season we needed so badly! Reo-Coker was great today, realy composed on the ball and distribution was quality. A few substitions (and less yellow cards - stupid ref) and I think we'd have had that one. Hard to battle them in the last ten minutes with so many on yellow cards. Did Essien get booked in the end?
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I really enjoyed that. Where are the cries of "Houllier out" now?
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Fantastic. Cant knock them at all. Thats what I want from my team, work hard and never give up. Dunne was absolutely immense today, as was Gabby. Everyone played well though.
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Bit disappointed not to have all three points like after the Man U game. Much better performance though, just wish we'd changed it round when they were well on top. Ah well, it'll do.
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Only saw the second half, when they went 3-2 up it was like here we go again, conceding goals in the dying minutes We looked tired at that stage but fair do to em for pulling it back to 3-3.
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Brilliant. Fair play to GH and Dunne, looked like they patched up their differences and we looked like a team again today.
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GH need to know when he should take a sub. Hold the decision so long.
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Great desire at the end to score the 3rd, happy with the point overall really deservred, that result will get the villa dressing room bouyant ............ WELL DONE BOYS ;D
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Best part of the game - Randy's reaction to the third goal.
Not in Cleveland today for the Brown's final home game agains the Steelers either. Doubters take note.
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It would have been interesting if our players weren't stifled by reckless yellow card flashing what would have happened. Although Chelsea putting Boswinga on did throw it into their favour as he got forward more and put in better crosses then Ferrera did.
Very good performance from Carlos. Almost as good from Dunne although he misjudged the cross for their equaliser. Albrighton could have cost us the match but then showed he is the best crosser of the ball and that is the third Clark goal against traditional top 4 teams this season.
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After fearing a thrashing, that was a well earned point against all the odds. I feel that if we'd have been free to commit to tackles in the second half we could have taken all the points. Mason robbed some of the fight from us and has to be reported.
Hopefully that will have given the confidence kick some of the players needed. 3 points on Wednesday and progression to the next round of the FA Cup is a must though.
MOM: Clark. Solid performance out of position, some game saving tackles and a goal to boot.
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Very good stuff indeed, really pleasing result and, as many said before the game, a very encouraging performance - I don't think we can accuse them of a lack of fight!
Some excellent performances throughout the team, but special mention to Heskey, who was superb, and Clark, who should definitely keep his place at left back based on that.
Dunne was also very good (although I really think he should have cleared the ball for Drogba's goal), and he could well become an asset for us again; I hope so.
Also I thought Reo-Coker was very good too, although he looked very tired towards the end and so became slightly less effective.
Cracking game, good performances, lots of fight and determination - I would say there is enough in that to be a bit more optimistic.
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Well above all else that game made me believe there is fight and spirit aat Aston Villa.
....and if anyone doubted if Randy still has the passion for Villa, you can't question a man who stage dives across 3 seats in the directors box to hug his Chief Exec!!
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Well done Richard Dunne. I thought he was superb today and a lot like the best of what we saw of him last season. Yes, he was outjumped for their equaliser but that shouldn't take away from a really committed performance.
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Much more like it. We put in a shift today and everyone worked hard. Capitulation after 80 minutes is still a major issue though. But Clark is an absolute hero to me now, simply for wiping that stupid smile off John Terry's face. I fucking love it! That bloke is a total fox hunt!
Big Brad was immense today. The back 4 did okay, but still tried as best it could to switch off on regular intervals. Collins most guilty of that today. However Dunney was much improved today. Much more like the Dunney monster of last season. And we need him back to his best right now. Too big a game for Clarky to come in as a left back I felt, but to be fair to the lad, he's pulled us a thoroughly deserved point today.
Heskey led the line brilliantly. Ash was on/off and in and out of the game. Gabby played quite well. Didn't get into the game as much as he should have, but most importantly he really worked his bollocks off. He'd looked a little lazy so far this season.
Chelsea though were not very good at all. That may give some suggestion as to why we competed as well as we did. But they look way off their best. I don't see them winning the title this year by a long shot. They might struggle to grab 3rd or even 4th. Good! Assholes!
This is all for nought if we go and play like shit against Sunderland though. We need to keep this up and polish off teams that we should polish off.
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Well above all else that game made me believe there is fight and spirit aat Aston Villa.
....and if anyone doubted if Randy still has the passion for Villa, you can't question a man who stage dives across 3 seats in the directors box to hug his Chief Exec!!
That was brilliant. And Doug looked like he was really enjoying it too!!
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Much, much better, means I can show my face around these parts with pride, living as I do amongst loads of their gloryhunting, chavvy, never knew Chelsea existed before the year 2000 twats.
We nearly paid for doing what we seem to have done ever since I was about 5 years old and that is, sit on a lead as soon as we gain it
Hope we haven't picked up too many injuries with Sunderland fast on the heels of that one - Gabby, Young and Collins all seemed to be limping at or near the end
Thought Clark was outstanding despite some iffy positioning on occasions and Richard Dunne was back to his rollicking, 'thou shalt not pass if I bloody well have anything to do with it' best
I am now in trouble with the family for screaming obscenities at Tosser Terry when we equalised...
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I knew we'd bottle it and throw the win away, the writing was on the wall from 65 minutes onwards. What I really didn't expect was for them to keep pushing, incredible. Haven't seem them fight like that since that goal against Everton. Fantastic stuff.
yeah totally agree, once Chelsea equalised i thought we would totally collapse
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Still unbeaten this year.
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Much better. Freidel, Cuellar, Petrov and Dunne were all very good. NRC, Young and Heskey good, Agbonlahor, Downing and Clark not bad, Collins poor. Looked much more solid playing like that. We do give away a phenominal amount of goal > 80 mins.
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Best game of the season so far, we should of done a everton right at the end though to go 3-4 and silence the bridge!
A unexpected point is still good considering this time last season...
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as much a I want a result, I want to see green shoots of progress. That is evidence of team unity, cohesiveness and fight. We might lose against Chelsea. I can take that. As long as we go down giving it everything we have.
I posted this before the game. I get everything I asked for. Yes, 3 points would have been great but that was quite brilliant. If we play like that between now and the end of the season, we'll be just fine.
Don't quite agree with that. It took three world class saves from Friedel just to get a draw, and we still conceded 3. Our average goals conceded over the last 10 games must be well over 2, we've got to sort that out. But yes the performance overall was pleasing.
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Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
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WoW! Can't fault the battle and determination, yes we were under the cosh for long periods but even after going behind we fought back and deserved at least a point!
Hopefully this is the beginning of the revival, bring on Sunderland!
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Fucking get in!
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Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Dunne was totally out jumped for one of the Chelsea goals, that was bad defending.
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Well if that side don't want to play for Houllier I'd be amazed..
Its great when the first eleven get fit and keep on playing until the 91 st minute.
Superb performance on the back of a terrible run. This was an unlucky draw against the League Champions on their own pitch
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Great point under the circumstances but defensive frailties still a major concern.
Chelsea were there for the taking today and a better side than us would have taken full advantage.
Ref was a complete knob.
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Turned the fucking telly off in disgust after Chelseas third. Came stomping into the kitchen to vent my spleen on here when I heard the missus shriek "IT'S THREE ALL!!!" Thank fuck for Skyplus. Still, Gabby as a winger with Albrighton on the bench? I reckon we could have creamed 'em if Albrighton had started. Oh and well done Kieron Clarke, Man of the match by a long way.
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Suppose a point would have been widely greeted with many hands being bitten off pre match.
Much improved performance with a lot more fight. Great effort by the lads to come back at the end.
Can't help feeling that with Chelsea so poor today we should have taken all 3 points. Houllier made a mistake imo not making a couple of subs earlier. It was pretty clear we were tired and with so many players on a yellow card we were hampered in that regard.
Wednesday is such a huge must win game.
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Chelsea though were not very good at all.
I think a lot of that was down to how we played though Tom. We need to improve in a number of areas, but Chelsea are still a very solid team, and we limited them to very few clear cut chances. It was only in the 70-80th minute spell that they had the best of it. It was pretty even up until then. I think tactically we were correct, and it really helped having those senior players fit again.
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Great to see some fight from us. A good point.
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Well said friedel the talking has to stop and the performance has to start!
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Delighted to get a point. Lot's of positives. Probably the fair result at the end of the day. Awful referee. We need to build on it now and get three points against Sunderland.
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Dunne was back to be being good again which was good to see.
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Anyone doubting Randy's passion for Villa just needs to watch
his celebration when we equalised and they will never
question it again.... get in there Villa!!
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Fantastic effort- fully deserved a result.
Well done to everyone today including manager and coaches- Clark far better than warnock at left back!
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Clark was superb at left back, Warnock hasn't given a performance that good for the best part of a year.
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I'll have that. Thoroughly deserved point, some pride restored and hopefully some confidence. Fair play to Albrighton for that cross after the mistake for their third. Houllier IN.
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Dunne was back to be being good again which was good to see.
yeah deserves a slap up dinner erh maybe not
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Clark was superb at left back, Warnock hasn't given a performance that good for the best part of a year.
I couldn't agree more, he was very good indeed.
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Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Dunne was totally out jumped for one of the Chelsea goals, that was bad defending.
And Albrighton gave the ball away in a terrible position, Houlliers fault for subbing him.
Good decision by Houllier to bring Albrighton on his cross to Clarke was nice.
Superb performance, even if we'd lost.
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Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Dunne was totally out jumped for one of the Chelsea goals, that was bad defending.
If we are going to single out a players only mistake in the game, what the feck was Collins doing to concede the penalty. That was awful defending, but wasnt a penalty, if that makes sense. Dunne was Brilliant all game and deserves credit.
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as much a I want a result, I want to see green shoots of progress. That is evidence of team unity, cohesiveness and fight. We might lose against Chelsea. I can take that. As long as we go down giving it everything we have.
I posted this before the game. I get everything I asked for. Yes, 3 points would have been great but that was quite brilliant. If we play like that between now and the end of the season, we'll be just fine.
Don't quite agree with that. It took three world class saves from Friedel just to get a draw, and we still conceded 3. Our average goals conceded over the last 10 games must be well over 2, we've got to sort that out. But yes the performance overall was pleasing.
We were playing Chelsea at their place Risso. Given our current form and supposed discontent that was a massive result. Friedel is a Villa player, so him making saves is no different any other player pulling their weight. They all contributed to the cause. We wanted fight and grit, and given recent events that was as good as we all could have hoped today. The pre-match thread was all doom and gloom. Today shouldn't suggest we've turned the corner, but we're showing signs of life, which quite frankly is a major step forward.
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Anyone doubting Randy's passion for Villa just needs to watch
his celebration when we equalised and they will never
question it again.... get in there Villa!!
I love to see this also.
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Two points dropped but getting the last goal in a draw like that makes it feel like a win, and hopefully the players feel that way too and this gives them a lift to take into next week.
If only we had the confidence/personnel to ping it around amongst ourselves in the last 10 mins and kill the game.
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The thing that pleased me most about today was the fact that players actually looked like they wanted it together as a team. They fought together, they scrapped for each other and backed each other up. I don't like the bleating at the ref if i'm honest, but after the way we rolled over at Man City and accepted the decisions as we did it was good to see us show that we were actually bothered.
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Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Dunne was totally out jumped for one of the Chelsea goals, that was bad defending.
And there may have been a touch of hand ball from Drogba too.
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Anyone doubting Randy's passion for Villa just needs to watch
his celebration when we equalised and they will never
question it again.... get in there Villa!!
I love to see this also.
what's disappointing is those people who ever called into question his passion for the club. I hope this puts an end to all of that.
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Clark was my MOTM.
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4 centre backs in defence and we just miss out of a win, even Friedel got his game back and Heskey lasted to full time didn't he.
Looked much more sound in midfield with Coker and Petrov, and despite what some said I thought Downing was superb mostly.
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Dear santa,
Can I have my villa back for christmas please?
Well he was a bit late but I can now believe he exists again.
I've also realized that I won't die from smoking, it'll be a game like that which will finish me off
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Anyone doubting Randy's passion for Villa just needs to watch
his celebration when we equalised and they will never
question it again.... get in there Villa!!
I love to see this also.
what's disappointing is those people who ever called into question his passion for the club. I hope this puts an end to all of that.
I've never doubted his passion, but passion isn't going to buy the players we need.
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Anyone doubting Randy's passion for Villa just needs to watch
his celebration when we equalised and they will never
question it again.... get in there Villa!!
I love to see this also.
what's disappointing is those people who ever called into question his passion for the club. I hope this puts an end to all of that.
Nah they'll just go into hiding until the next opportunity.
What a moral victory that was.
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I'm quite sure a couple of players have taken a look in the mirror and decided they need to be doing a lot, lot more. Dunney for one, excellent today, and Gabby too. Both gave 100% today, and that's for starters, all you can ask.
We need the squad to pull together and especially the senior players, just get on with playing and giving their all for the current gaffer. If we're seeing 100% from everyone and we're still not getting points, then it's squarely on Houlliers shoulders. A bit of proffesionalism goes a long way though.
I'd quite like to see if Ireland can turn things around and show a bit of gumption.
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Anyone doubting Randy's passion for Villa just needs to watch
his celebration when we equalised and they will never
question it again.... get in there Villa!!
I love to see this also.
what's disappointing is those people who ever called into question his passion for the club. I hope this puts an end to all of that.
I've never doubted his passion, but passion isn't going to buy the players we need.
Why have you been so overly miserable recently. Look at the bright side for a few minutes.
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Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Must admit I thought it was a penalty. Also thought it was a really stupid challenge from Collins.
Dunnes defending for the equaliser was pretty poor. He had a good game though overall.
Friedel did have a blinding second half, but possibly could have pushed the ball wider from the header that led to the 3rd.
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A great point, some real good displays and a lot of fight.
BUT
This result will mean feck all if we don't beat Sunderland!
My fave moment.............Randy's dive.........why wasn't that a booking ref, you twat!!!
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Let's not forget that we couldn't tackle in the second half due to all the yellow cards.
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Clark was my MOTM.
His finishing is interesting. His defensive quite OK. Less pace compare to Warnock but make a lot of good defend.
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Massive point for us. Let's hope we take this performance into Sunderland. Clark's goal could be a very, very significant moment in our season.
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Fucking get in!
Could not have put it any better myself!
Well done the Villa, great result and a decent performance to boot
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Anyone doubting Randy's passion for Villa just needs to watch
his celebration when we equalised and they will never
question it again.... get in there Villa!!
I love to see this also.
what's disappointing is those people who ever called into question his passion for the club. I hope this puts an end to all of that.
I've never doubted his passion, but passion isn't going to buy the players we need.
Why have you been so overly miserable recently. Look at the bright side for a few minutes.
I'm not being miserable. I'm delighted we snatched a point, but Randy diving on Faulkner while funny to see doesn't alter the fact he needs to spend some serious cash.
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Anyone doubting Randy's passion for Villa just needs to watch
his celebration when we equalised and they will never
question it again.... get in there Villa!!
I love to see this also.
I saw that on Sky. Great celebration skipping down several steps to celebrate with a.n.other - assume Falconer? Doug was sat behind looking pleased as punch too.
Great point, a heartening performance and some solidity about our play.
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Let's not forget that we couldn't tackle in the second half due to all the yellow cards.
I think that was a massive factor.
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A cracking, spirited performance and a result that I think we'd all have taken had it been offered at 1.30 pm.
I hate to say it but we now need the Geordies to do us a favour at Wigan.
On to the "must win" Sunderland match, which will be harder in some ways than today when it could be said we had little to lose.
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Turned the fucking telly off in disgust after Chelseas third. Came stomping into the kitchen to vent my spleen on here when I heard the missus shriek "IT'S THREE ALL!!!" Thank fuck for Skyplus. Still, Gabby as a winger with Albrighton on the bench? I reckon we could have creamed 'em if Albrighton had started. Oh and well done Kieron Clarke, Man of the match by a long way.
Same here, I'm ashamed to admit. No Skyplus though.
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Good Happy New Year Result For All Of Us.... ;D
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Anyone doubting Randy's passion for Villa just needs to watch
his celebration when we equalised and they will never
question it again.... get in there Villa!!
I love to see this also.
what's disappointing is those people who ever called into question his passion for the club. I hope this puts an end to all of that.
I've never doubted his passion, but passion isn't going to buy the players we need.
Why have you been so overly miserable recently. Look at the bright side for a few minutes.
I'm not being miserable. I'm delighted we snatched a point, but Randy diving on Faulkner while funny to see doesn't alter the fact he needs to spend some serious cash.
The window just opened. Give the bloke a chance. The club have always back the manager, and I have no reason to doubt they will again.
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Clark was my MOTM.
His finishing is interesting. His defensive quite OK. Less pace compare to Warnock but make a lot of good defend.
I agree. Warnock has also made a lot of bad defend.
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I'm quite sure a couple of players have taken a look in the mirror and decided they need to be doing a lot, lot more. Dunney for one, excellent today, and Gabby too. Both gave 100% today, and that's for starters, all you can ask.
We need the squad to pull together and especially the senior players, just get on with playing and giving their all for the current gaffer. If we're seeing 100% from everyone and we're still not getting points, then it's squarely on Houlliers shoulders. A bit of proffesionalism goes a long way though.
I'd quite like to see if Ireland can turn things around and show a bit of gumption.
Fully agree, would love to see Ireland given a chance/apology, whatever it needs to be, and in the shirt playing. Massive potential in him
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:)
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EXCELLENT RESULT.
Should be a springboard for the Sunderland game.
Well done to Houllier and the boys.
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Anyone doubting Randy's passion for Villa just needs to watch
his celebration when we equalised and they will never
question it again.... get in there Villa!!
I love to see this also.
what's disappointing is those people who ever called into question his passion for the club. I hope this puts an end to all of that.
I've never doubted his passion, but passion isn't going to buy the players we need.
Why have you been so overly miserable recently. Look at the bright side for a few minutes.
Lets not kid ourselves. It was a much improved performance today, and togetherness a lot more fight a We still conceded 3 goals and could have shipped a few more.
We are still 15th in the table, with a couple of the teams below us with games in hand. We are still firmly in the shit desperately needing to win some games pronto. Admittedly more performances like this and we might be ok.
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great result.. heskey, young, petrov and friedel were immense and great team spirit... poor reffing as Essien commited about 6 fouls gave away a pen and didnt get booked? ... hopefully we can carry this on into wednesdays match come on you villa boys!
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Anyone doubting Randy's passion for Villa just needs to watch
his celebration when we equalised and they will never
question it again.... get in there Villa!!
I love to see this also.
what's disappointing is those people who ever called into question his passion for the club. I hope this puts an end to all of that.
I've never doubted his passion, but passion isn't going to buy the players we need.
Why have you been so overly miserable recently. Look at the bright side for a few minutes.
I'm not being miserable. I'm delighted we snatched a point, but Randy diving on Faulkner while funny to see doesn't alter the fact he needs to spend some serious cash.
The window just opened. Give the bloke a chance. The club have always back the manager, and I have no reason to doubt they will again.
Where did I say he wasn't going to? You seem to be reading into my posts all sorts of things that aren't there.
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Let's not forget that we couldn't tackle in the second half due to all the yellow cards.
Although Petrov seemed to forget this.
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Clark was my MOTM.
His finishing is interesting. His defensive quite OK. Less pace compare to Warnock but make a lot of good defend.
Yes, he was better than Warnock and did well for a young defender playing in a position he hasn't before for the first team. Could be our long term solution, but i still wouldn't mind seeing a more experienced player bought for the shorter term, and Warnock sold.
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For sixty minutes we were the better team, then we got deeper and deeper and Chelsea got lucky, two saves from Friedel that bounced to people in the right places and it looked like all our good work was undone but we went at it again and got an equaliser.
We were harshly treated by the ref, anywhere else on the pitch and Collins challenge is a free kick to the defender because the striker doesn't jump, Dunne missed a sitter in the first half too.
We showed passion, belief and desire today, I'm proud of them and Randy's celebration for the third was great.
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Gabby did well today he was very good defensively, today was all about experience and we got something which was our aim.
Marc showed his inexperience with their third, but redeemed himself with the assist.
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Good Happy New Year Result For All Of Us.... ;D
All your base are belong to us.
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Just back from pub full of Wolves fans - even they cheered when we got the equaliser - and just finished my humble pie after predicting we'd get a good tonking. Great battling performance especially in second half when we couldn't get out of our half. Their goals were coming but at least we stuck it out and didn't implode, and great to see two youngsters combine for the equaliser - and that celebration - together or what? May have got all 3 points if that knobhead of a referee hadn't booked so many of our players for ineffectual fouls so we couldn't get as stuck in in second half. So many cards for so few fouls and yet Essien didn't even get a yellow for up-ending Reo for our penalty and bringing Ash down at the end of the first half. But a point - and I'd have bitten your hand off for that before the game. And nice to see Houllier telling the players to go to the Villa fans at the end. Mightily pleased all round
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Well played lads passion fight everything at LAST must give heskey a big mention won everything in the air today and played superb
is it me or is RAY WILKES A FUCKING IDIOT OR WHAT
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1. Hats off to the travelling support - I had the chance of tickets and turned them down as I thought it would be throwing good money after bad.
2. superb result, performance and celebration from Randy.
3. Great discipline second half - most of ours were on a yellow - couldn't afford to tackle in second half
4. Welcome back Dunney - immense.
5. Time to get some positivity back - Wednesday is massive - after today I fancy us.
God bless and up the villa !
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well it did feel like a win for me in the end..
great fighting spirit. the media keep going on about turmoil at Villa, they just need gossip to fill the papers and people start jumping on the bandwagon. forgetting we actually havent had many players to pick in recent monthes.... well I saw passion and spirit today and players willing to fight for Villa today.
dunne was great but houlier was right to drop him, he was shit , just like Warnock as been and Carew dont give a toss no more, so why play him.
Houlier needs 3 or 4 more quality in in certain area and we will be ok and move forward...
Its great to see us not hoofing it up all the time and try and play some football at times..
3 pts at Sunderland please now...
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4 centre backs in defence and we just miss out of a win, even Friedel got his game back and Heskey lasted to full time didn't he.
Looked much more sound in midfield with Coker and Petrov, and despite what some said I thought Downing was superb mostly.
I agree with everthing apart from the Downing statement he didnt have one of his best games good cross for the 2nd goal but was waste full with shots
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Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Dunne was totally out jumped for one of the Chelsea goals, that was bad defending.
And Albrighton gave the ball away in a terrible position, Houlliers fault for subbing him.
Good decision by Houllier to bring Albrighton on his cross to Clarke was nice.
Superb performance, even if we'd lost.
That must be the quickest change of mind in the history of the universe. ;)
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Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Must admit I thought it was a penalty. Also thought it was a really stupid challenge from Collins. to the 3rd.
If the striker doesn't jump and it's not due to the centre half holding him down, he's making a back for the defender and that's a foul, that's what happnened, it should have been a free kick to us.
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is it me or is RAY WILKES A FUCKING IDIOT OR WHAT
i agree complete and utter banker just totally biased
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Good Happy New Year Result For All Of Us.... ;D
Well said.
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Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Must admit I thought it was a penalty. Also thought it was a really stupid challenge from Collins. to the 3rd.
If the striker doesn't jump and it's not due to the centre half holding him down, he's making a back for the defender and that's a foul, that's what happnened, it should have been a free kick to us.
Agree completely - Collins never took his eyes off the ball - Malouda backed in.
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Just back from pub full of Wolves fans - even they cheered when we got the equaliser - and just finished my humble pie after predicting we'd get a good tonking. Great battling performance especially in second half when we couldn't get out of our half. Their goals were coming but at least we stuck it out and didn't implode, and great to see two youngsters combine for the equaliser - and that celebration - together or what? May have got all 3 points if that knobhead of a referee hadn't booked so many of our players for ineffectual fouls so we couldn't get as stuck in in second half. So many cards for so few fouls and yet Essien didn't even get a yellow for up-ending Reo for our penalty and bringing Ash down at the end of the first half. But a point - and I'd have bitten your hand off for that before the game. And nice to see Houllier telling the players to go to the Villa fans at the end. Mightily pleased all round
I counted 5 fouls by Essien, including the one to give away the pen. Disgusting from the referee....
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Well played lads passion fight everything at LAST must give heskey a big mention won everything in the air today and played superb
is it me or is RAY WILKES A FUCKING IDIOT OR WHAT
he always thinks hes on question time not commenting on football but what would you expect from a chelsea fan
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I am still trembling.....supporting Aston Villa should carry a health warning. What a rollercoaster!
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Great committment and a display full of passion
Great to have Dunney back, Heskey and Ash were immense
Well deserved point
Onwards & Upowards now
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Just back from pub full of Wolves fans - even they cheered when we got the equaliser - and just finished my humble pie after predicting we'd get a good tonking. Great battling performance especially in second half when we couldn't get out of our half. Their goals were coming but at least we stuck it out and didn't implode, and great to see two youngsters combine for the equaliser - and that celebration - together or what? May have got all 3 points if that knobhead of a referee hadn't booked so many of our players for ineffectual fouls so we couldn't get as stuck in in second half. So many cards for so few fouls and yet Essien didn't even get a yellow for up-ending Reo for our penalty and bringing Ash down at the end of the first half. But a point - and I'd have bitten your hand off for that before the game. And nice to see Houllier telling the players to go to the Villa fans at the end. Mightily pleased all round
I counted 5 fouls by Essien, including the one to give away the pen. Disgusting from the referee....
And when he booked Ivanhoe he held up 4 fingers - woeful refereeing again.
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Pride - an emotion I've not felt for a while
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I'd have bitten your hand off if the point had been offered before kick-off, so can't complain.
We're still conceding far too many goals, but much more togetherness and fight out there today. We must now follow if up with a victory over Sunderland. If we do, maybe, just maybe, we can start to think that perhaps the darkest hour was indeed just before the dawn.
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is it me or is RAY WILKES A FUCKING IDIOT OR WHAT
i agree complete and utter banker just totally biased
Yep, dismissing us like we are Southend United. Wise up you ugly little, gob-eyed, Addams family resembling git, you were a no mark club until some dodgy Russian came along and in many respects you still are. You'll never win the Champions league and the only way from here is down for your poxy little chavvy club...
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Dunne was the Dunne of old. I hope we hold onto him.
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Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Must admit I thought it was a penalty. Also thought it was a really stupid challenge from Collins. to the 3rd.
If the striker doesn't jump and it's not due to the centre half holding him down, he's making a back for the defender and that's a foul, that's what happnened, it should have been a free kick to us.
Agree completely - Collins never took his eyes off the ball - Malouda backed in.
Did you all fail to notice that Collins had physically raised himself off the floor, such was his success in climbing up the back of Malouda?
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oh and I apolgise to my 5 year old son , for runing up to the TV at 3-3 and giving John Terry one of the biggest wanking signs ever.. I just got abit emotion son......
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I'm glad I don't live in That America.
I was watching a Fox Soccer stream and caught some of the summarising afterwards, which was fucking awful. "JT" this, JT that, and one tit saying Villa still look like a team on the slide further down.
Oh, and Warren Barton.
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Lets not get too carried away though.
This match was similar to the Manure game. We played pretty decent and got a point, the following week we got hammered 0-2 by blackburn!
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I'm glad I don't live in That America.
I was watching a Fox Soccer stream and caught some of the summarising afterwards, which was fucking awful. "JT" this, JT that, and one tit saying Villa still look like a team on the slide further down.
Oh, and Warren Barton.
Warren Barton - I'd like to repeatedly rub an industrial cheese grater across his face.
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Lets not get too carried away though.
This match was similar to the Manure game. We played pretty decent and got a point, the following week we got hammered 0-2 by blackburn!
Given how little we've had to cheer this season I am going to milk this for what I can!
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That was more like it. Let's hope that's a sign of things to come now we're getting the injured players back. I thought Dunne and Cuellar were superb but there were lots of great performances coupled with more spirit and fight.
I went from wanting to kill Albrighton to loving him in the space of 2 minutes.
The ref was a twat.
The season started today.
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Gabby and Ashley were brilliant.
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Sky was no better the commentator was saying 'Cuellar should of handled the ball for their equaliser.......... I couldn't believe it!
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I am really proud of that performance.
Can't fault any of them.
Proud that a product of our academy got the 3rd goal.
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You just saw the fight and belief come back into the side as we went on. Petrov and NRC showed how much we've missed them - neither played a blinder but both had good, solid games of a standard which you should expect from your holding midfielders. Good decision by GH to play the four centre backs, and though Clark didn't look comfortable I doubt Warnock would have done better. Still conceded three, which is a bit of a concern, but Brad's return to form and the fact that we did actually defend better were both real plusses.
Compare and contrast: we go one down early on against City and the heads drop, we give up without any of the game gone; today, we go 3-2 down in the dying minutes and not only do we not give up, we keep our heads to come back and score an equaliser. I think the fighting spirit was exemplified by when, at 3-3, we got a free-kick on the halfway line and everyone went up for it - we believed we could even nick a winner. Great to see and roll on Sunderland.
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The ref was utter garbage. Gave them everything he could. Terry should've been booked for dissent after our penalty but wasn't so his assault on Young meant he only got a yellow. As others have said, Essien's constant tripping and breaking up our counters were not punished with a card. Wankers. John Terry: cnut.
Great we equalised but it still feels like 2 points dropped the same as the Man Utd game did.
Some really good signs though. The team playing with some pride and some belief was great to see.
Young, Dunne, Gabby, Cueller and Petrov all had their best game of the season and Clarke was brilliant.
We have GOT to stop conceding last 5 minute goals though.
Finally, Lerner's reaction to the equaliser was ace. GO ON RANDOLPH!!!!
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Brilliant today. Hopefully it can be the start of a positive run and not a flash in the pan. The players all looked like they wanted to play for Houllier for the first time in a while, Wednesdays game is a big un now.
Skys commentators were annoying tho, I think they have forgot about all our injuries already, they kept banging on about Houllier using the kids, he had no choice, the biased gits!!
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Brilliant. Friedel was outstanding in goal. Their first goal was not a penalty. Clumsy defending, yes. Played with pride, passion and belief. Dunne was much improved. Great start to the New Year. Another goal to add to my signature!
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is it me or is RAY WILKES A FUCKING IDIOT OR WHAT
i agree complete and utter banker just totally biased
Yep, dismissing us like we are Southend United. Wise up you ugly little, gob-eyed, Addams family resembling git, you were a no mark club until some dodgy Russian came along and in many respects you still are. You'll never win the Champions league and the only way from here is down for your poxy little chavvy club...
I think that's a bit harsh the guy has just left them. He's chelski through and through what else is expected?
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oh and I apolgise to my 5 year old son , for runing up to the TV at 3-3 and giving John Terry one of the biggest wanking signs ever.. I just got abit emotion son......
Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Must admit I thought it was a penalty. Also thought it was a really stupid challenge from Collins. to the 3rd.
If the striker doesn't jump and it's not due to the centre half holding him down, he's making a back for the defender and that's a foul, that's what happnened, it should have been a free kick to us.
Agree completely - Collins never took his eyes off the ball - Malouda backed in.
Did you all fail to notice that Collins had physically raised himself off the floor, such was his success in climbing up the back of Malouda?
Collins jumped, Malouda didn't, that's a free kick to the defender. Collins didn't have his hands on the striker, it was a clean jump.
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Brilliant today. Hopefully it can be the start of a positive run and not a flash in the pan. The players all looked like they wanted to play for Houllier for the first time in a while, Wednesdays game is a big un now.
Skys commentators were annoying tho, I think they have forgot about all our injuries already, they kept banging on about Houllier using the kids, he had no choice, the biased gits!!
I know I heard Redknapp say we had one or two injuries. One or two it must have been around 10 or 11 at one point.
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One draw doesn't make things right, in the same way one pitiful performance last week didn't mean the sky was falling it. But it might shut a few agenda-driven gobs for a few days.
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I'd mentally prepared myself for a thrashing today, so much so that I just shrugged when they took the lead, trust us to then go and turn it round and slowly but surely my hope started to build, so much so that by the time they were 3-2 up I felt physically sick, what a time to pick to finally decide to show some fight and spirit, have'nt felt that excited by a goal since that Everton game, brilliant stuff and a complete roller coaster of emotions
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Very proud of them all. It looks like we've refound our team spirit as well. Randy's celebration was my highlight from today, fantastic
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Think the criticism of the ref is overly harsh. Essien should have been booked but cant think of any of our yellows that werent deserved. Thought he got both penalty calls right. Felt we played very well in the first half. It was MON style tactics, a bit Stoke esque at times with the long balls but we mixed it up at times well too. Ashley Young had a purple patch of about 20 mins and that was key to us going 2-1 up. Unfortunately I thought we shat the course a bit after that. Bit of a comedy of defensive errors for the second and a bad mistake from Albrighton for the third but didnt he do well to create the equaliser for Clark. Good character shown by the young man. A great point in the circumstances. If we had shown more ambition, three were on offer today and there is still a lot to work on but thankfully at last there was something to be proud of. Must say I thought Chelsea were terrible. Anelka, Essien and Ferreira in particular.
Friedel - Not much to do for the first half but a few great saves in the second. One of many that were at fault for their second but some great saves.
Cuellar - committed and good in the air as always. But he needed to step up and play offside on a few occasions. To be fair very little came down our right.
Collins - stupid for the penalty and gave the ball away criminally at times. Still a bit iffy for me.
Dunne - Much much better. Looked a lot quicker. Got under the ball for Drogba's goal but some great interceptions which will have given him confidence.
Clark - great for 70 mins until Kalou came on. Positionally caught out a bit after that as Gabby tired in front of him. Calmness personified with the equaliser and had another great chance in the first half.
Downing - jumped out of a few tackles and should have offered himself as an outlet in the second half more but very little came down our right to be fair.
Reo Coker - excellent first half but tired after the break and was empty long before the final whistle.
Petrov - very strong first half. As expected tired along with Reo Coker. Certainly Delph should have been introduced instead of one of them.
Gabby - showed a decent workrate for a change in an unfamiliar position. Exposed Ferreira and later Boswinga but a change was needed 10 mins before he went off as he was wrecked.
Young - our best player in the first half I felt. Just looked dangerous when on the ball. Needs to have more belief in his crossing when he whizzed them in today Chelsea were in trouble. Was disappointed with him in the second half though as we needed him to hold onto the ball better. Think Gabby and himself should have been switched for a bit.
Heskey - pissed me off initially as felt he was ambling about but to be fair once he got a few touches he improved and a fine header. Held it up well on occasion, just a pity he hasnt the pace to threaten the last defender anymore
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If a bloke the size of Collins jumps for a header, and a much smaller man like Malouda makes no effort and is backing into the defender, then the reasult is what you got. Malouda was very clever and conned the ref into giving them a pen. Fair play to Malouda, but the ref should have caught on to that.
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oh and I apolgise to my 5 year old son , for runing up to the TV at 3-3 and giving John Terry one of the biggest wanking signs ever.. I just got abit emotion son......
Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Must admit I thought it was a penalty. Also thought it was a really stupid challenge from Collins. to the 3rd.
If the striker doesn't jump and it's not due to the centre half holding him down, he's making a back for the defender and that's a foul, that's what happnened, it should have been a free kick to us.
Agree completely - Collins never took his eyes off the ball - Malouda backed in.
Did you all fail to notice that Collins had physically raised himself off the floor, such was his success in climbing up the back of Malouda?
Collins jumped, Malouda didn't, that's a free kick to the defender. Collins didn't have his hands on the striker, it was a clean jump.
You are probably correct in relation to the laws of the game, but what you fail to notice is that our player jumped onto their player, and as far as i know, that is not allowed.
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That was more like it. Let's hope that's a sign of things to come now we're getting the injured players back. I thought Dunne and Cuellar were superb but there were lots of great performances coupled with more spirit and fight.
I went from wanting to kill Albrighton to loving him in the space of 2 minutes.
The ref was a twat.
The season started today.
I hope so Chris. I hope we carry on with that level of performance, and don't follow it up like we did the Man U game which had a similar feel to it.
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oh and I apolgise to my 5 year old son , for runing up to the TV at 3-3 and giving John Terry one of the biggest wanking signs ever.. I just got abit emotion son......
Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Must admit I thought it was a penalty. Also thought it was a really stupid challenge from Collins. to the 3rd.
If the striker doesn't jump and it's not due to the centre half holding him down, he's making a back for the defender and that's a foul, that's what happnened, it should have been a free kick to us.
Agree completely - Collins never took his eyes off the ball - Malouda backed in.
Did you all fail to notice that Collins had physically raised himself off the floor, such was his success in climbing up the back of Malouda?
Collins jumped, Malouda didn't, that's a free kick to the defender. Collins didn't have his hands on the striker, it was a clean jump.
You are probably correct in relation to the laws of the game, but what you fail to notice is that our player jumped onto their player, and as far as i know, that is not allowed.
If the ball had been going to Malouda's chest, then yes it's a foul, but it wasn't, he needed to jump to win it, that's a foul on the defender if he doesn't jump.
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Brontebilly, did you watch the game? Chelsea committed 18 fouls villa committed 12. So you tell me how we got 7 bookings and they got 2? There were no nasty challenges just little jiggles from both teams, i cannot remember a ref more one sided.
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I think the thing people are forgetting about Downing is that he did an incredibly effective man marking job on Ashley Cole usually a huge outlet for Chelsea but still managed to create some issues for Chelsea including a sublime cross to the back stick for Emile's goal with his right foot. I get really annoyed with people who criticise him for being lazy when he's invariably working his bollocks off off the ball and he provides superb balance and width to our team. It was his hard work today that meant nothing came down our right hand side and Carlos could ably assist Collins and Dunne.
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That was more like it. Let's hope that's a sign of things to come now we're getting the injured players back. I thought Dunne and Cuellar were superb but there were lots of great performances coupled with more spirit and fight.
I went from wanting to kill Albrighton to loving him in the space of 2 minutes.
The ref was a twat.
The season started today.
I hope so Chris. I hope we carry on with that level of performance, and don't follow it up like we did the Man U game which had a similar feel to it.
I hope so too. The Man U performance ended with the team being gutted despite a really good performance. Scoring late on today in what was a really gritty and determined display will fill the squad with a lot of energy. Had we thrown away the game, which it looked as though we had, it might have really hammered the already fragile confidence.
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I think the thing people are forgetting about Downing is that he did an incredibly effective man marking job on Ashley Cole usually a huge outlet for Chelsea but still managed to create some issues for Chelsea including a sublime cross to the back stick for Emile's goal with his right foot. I get really annoyed with people who criticise him for being lazy when he's invariably working his bollocks off off the ball and he provides superb balance and width to our team. It was his hard work today that meant nothing came down our right hand side and Carlos could ably assist Collins and Dunne.
agree entirely. I think he was told to do a job, and essentially kept Cole quiet all game. Sometimes you don't need to be visible to have had a good game, and I think he carried out the manager's instructions really well.
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Brontebilly, did you watch the game? Chelsea committed 18 fouls villa committed 12. So you tell me how we got 7 bookings and they got 2? There were no nasty challenges just little jiggles from both teams, i cannot remember a ref more one sided.
yeah mate, I did. Unfortunately bookings dont measure up to number of fouls though. All our bookings were deserved. Petrov's was a bad tackle, the rest were unavoidable but dont think our players can have any complaints. Essien should have been booked a lot sooner but aside from that I was happy enough with him.
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Bring on Sunderland- the lion is roaring again and 2 wins over Sunderland and blues are very achievable, fabulous effort and pleased for everyone - this result could really turn our season around now!
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Today showed how much we have missed Petrov. He's a calming influnce in the middle, good at winning time with free kicks and tidy's up any loose balls from defence. Lets hope we can keep him fit and add a quality partner for him.
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The good thing at the moment is that we can use the likes of Albrighton and Bannan sparingly. What we need now is for a Stephen Ireland rebirth, because that bench was weak today.
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If a bloke the size of Collins jumps for a header, and a much smaller man like Malouda makes no effort and is backing into the defender, then the reasult is what you got. Malouda was very clever and conned the ref into giving them a pen. Fair play to Malouda, but the ref should have caught on to that.
Collins was never going to head the ball from his position so he should have just held his ground. He was rash. Malouda was clever alright but that would have been a foul on any other area of the pitch too so was deservedly a penalty.
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Brontebilly, did you watch the game? Chelsea committed 18 fouls villa committed 12. So you tell me how we got 7 bookings and they got 2? There were no nasty challenges just little jiggles from both teams, i cannot remember a ref more one sided.
yeah mate, I did. Unfortunately bookings dont measure up to number of fouls though. All our bookings were deserved. Petrov's was a bad tackle, the rest were unavoidable but dont think our players can have any complaints. Essien should have been booked a lot sooner but aside from that I was happy enough with him.
NRC's and Heskey's appeared to be for nothing at all.
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Oh and full credit to Houllier for todays team selection, particularly the olive branch he offered Dunney
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oh and I apolgise to my 5 year old son , for runing up to the TV at 3-3 and giving John Terry one of the biggest wanking signs ever.. I just got abit emotion son......
Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Must admit I thought it was a penalty. Also thought it was a really stupid challenge from Collins. to the 3rd.
If the striker doesn't jump and it's not due to the centre half holding him down, he's making a back for the defender and that's a foul, that's what happnened, it should have been a free kick to us.
Agree completely - Collins never took his eyes off the ball - Malouda backed in.
Did you all fail to notice that Collins had physically raised himself off the floor, such was his success in climbing up the back of Malouda?
Collins jumped, Malouda didn't, that's a free kick to the defender. Collins didn't have his hands on the striker, it was a clean jump.
You are probably correct in relation to the laws of the game, but what you fail to notice is that our player jumped onto their player, and as far as i know, that is not allowed.
If the ball had been going to Malouda's chest, then yes it's a foul, but it wasn't, he needed to jump to win it, that's a foul on the defender if he doesn't jump.
But whatever way you look at it, you are not supposed to climb all over the back of the defender, if the contact had purely been Malouda pushing Collins backwards then fair enough. He was all over him like a cheap suit. Either way, with the exception of him, they all played well and we got a deserved point. I would even say Collins was not as bad as he has been, but still needs massive improvement.
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Well the fight was there today and that is the most important thing. It was pretty much a MON type performance and we didn't play well at all with the ball for most of the match, but we battled and threw everything on the line and played to our strengths rather than pissing around with the ball in defence and midfield. I think Houllier might have started to realise his pretty passing game is going to have to wait until next season, because otherwise he might not even get a next season.
Friedel was outstanding today and kept us in the match, the defence all looked good for most of the match but they all had their shaky moments too, Cuellar was my pick of the bunch. Clark played well considering he got a goal and was out of position, but we looked amazingly exposed down that left hand side and that was the cause of many of our problems. Everyone battled though which was great to see. Anyone suggesting Ireland should be brought back into the fold needs to think back to his absolutley pathetic and gutless performances for us, i've got little doubt we would have lost if he had played today.
Houller should have made a couple of substitutions around 75th minute IMO as the writing was on the wall at that point and half of our team just looked wiped out.
As for the ref, what a complete twat - never a foul for the penalty by Colins, though it was a stupid challenge. 7 yellow cards to Villa players, only 2 to Chelsea, totally inconsistent.
At the end of the day it's a point, but a hard won point that should hopefully give us some confidence going into the new year. Now i want to see a victory at Sunderland and 2 or 3 new faces coming in. Psychologically it could make a big difference
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Really chuffed with the result but even more so with the performance. Our season starts from now!
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Brontebilly, did you watch the game? Chelsea committed 18 fouls villa committed 12. So you tell me how we got 7 bookings and they got 2? There were no nasty challenges just little jiggles from both teams, i cannot remember a ref more one sided.
yeah mate, I did. Unfortunately bookings dont measure up to number of fouls though. All our bookings were deserved. Petrov's was a bad tackle, the rest were unavoidable but dont think our players can have any complaints. Essien should have been booked a lot sooner but aside from that I was happy enough with him.
NRC's and Heskey's appeared to be for nothing at all.
Cant remember Heskeys but Chelsea were breaking when Reo Coker tripped someone (if memory serves correct) so it was a fair call
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oh and Dunne's tackle on Ramires in the box
That was class
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Match report from Pravda (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2256506,00.html):
Villa experienced the full range of emotions to earn a sensational draw at Stamford Bridge.
Gerard Houllier's team picked themselves up from the frustration of falling behind to Frank Lampard's penalty to overturn Chelsea's lead, only for the double winners to strike a double blow in the final six minutes through Didier Drogba and John Terry.
But the reward for a courageous performance came in the form of a dramatic last-minute equaliser from Ciaran Clark, who excelled in an unfamiliar left-back role.
He came in as part of a rejigged back four, which saw Richard Dunne return to partner James Collins in the centre while Carlos Cuellar moved to the right.
Despite shipping three goals, the quartet provided the backbone to a much-improved Villa display following back-to-back defeats against Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City.
However, it seemed as though there would be no change in Villa's luck when referee Lee Mason awarded a dubious penalty which allowed Lampard to fire Chelsea into a 23rd minute lead.
Everyone of claret and blue persuasion was up in arms when the official pointed to the spot after James Collins' aerial challenge on Florent Malouda, which resulted in the Chelsea forward going to ground.
It came as a hammer blow after an encouraging start from the away side, with Gabby Agbonlahor shooting wide from the edge of the area and Ashley Young almost catching Petr Cech out with a cross-cum-shot.
Villa were presented with a severe test of character - though it was a challenge they more than stood up to.
Mason levelled the penalty count on 41 minutes, allowing Young to thump home an equaliser which lifted the travelling supporters.
And the claret and blues began the second-half at an exhilarating tempo, with Cech getting down low to hold a powerful James Collins header.
Within two minutes of the restart Villa were ahead. Emile Heskey once again demonstrated how crucial his presence up front can be by leaping at the back post to connect with Downing's sublime cutback.
A mammoth task still lay ahead for the away team against the reigning Barclays Premier League champions and goalkeeper Brad Friedel had to be at his best to ensure Villa's lead remained intact until the closing stages.
Firstly, the American's strong hands pushed a thumping Lampard volley over the bar and Friedel then stood tall to thwart Malouda from a tight angle.
But while Villa showed unquestionable spirit throughout this enthralling contest, Chelsea displayed the resolve of champions to turn the tables on their opponents.
On 84 minutes, Drogba was in the right place at the right time to slot home an equaliser following a goal-mouth scramble and, with less than a minute of normal time to play, captain John Terry tucked away the rebound after Friedel acrobatically pushed away Drogba's header.
Cue the rescue act from Clark, who had been exemplary in a defensive capacity before becoming the hero at the sharp end.
The 21-year-old ghosted into the penalty area to beat the offside trap and guide substitute Marc Albrighton's floated left-wing cross past Cech.
Villa's players sprinted to the corner to join their supporters in celebration.
Who could blame them? It was the least they deserved following a passionate response to the two defeats suffered over the festive period.
CHELSEA: Cech; Ferreira, Bruma, Terry, Cole; Ramires, Essien, Lampard; Anelka, Drogba, Malouda. Subs: Turnbull, Bosingwa (for Ferreira, 57), Kalou (for Ramires, 73), Sturridge (for Anelka, 78), Van Aanholt, McEachran, Mellis.
VILLA: Friedel; Cuellar, Collins, Dunne, Clark; Downing, Petrov, Reo-Coker, A Young; Agbonlahor, Heskey. Subs: Marshall, Pires, Albrighton (for Agbonlahor 84), Delfouneso, Bannan, Lichaj, Herd.
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Did anybody notice that nobody seemed to congratulate Drogba when he equalised. And at the re-start he seemed to be arguing with some team mates about something?
Bit of a contrast to Terry running to Ancelotti.
Still angry the part the ref played in that.
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oh and Dunne's tackle on Ramires in the box
That was class
That was the Dunne of old. Get it wrong and it would have been another penalty and probably a sending off. It was an immaculately timed McGrathesque piece of defending though.
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Indeed, it almost brought a tear to my eye. I didn't realise it was Doug he was hugging though. I hope someone is going to GIF this for posterity.
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It was Paul Faulkner.
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Indeed, it almost brought a tear to my eye. I didn't realise it was Doug he was hugging though. I hope someone is going to GIF this for posterity.
It was Faulkner he was hugging, Doug was sat behind.
Any subsequent gif will have to go a very long way to beat the one of Doug shaking Abrahmovich's hand as he flounced out a few seasons ago.
That was without a doubt the finest animated gif ever.
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Indeed, it almost brought a tear to my eye. I didn't realise it was Doug he was hugging though. I hope someone is going to GIF this for posterity.
It was Faulkner he was hugging, Doug was sat behind.
Any subsequent gif will have to go a very long way to beat the one of Doug shaking Abrahmovich's hand as he flounced out a few seasons ago.
That was without a doubt the finest animated gif ever.
Nothing beats that. Nothing.
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
http://videa.hu/videok/sport/ch3-3asmatchhighlight.com-sVTUBSEaCPPNoeTz
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
http://videa.hu/videok/sport/ch3-3asmatchhighlight.com-sVTUBSEaCPPNoeTz
superb Paulie. Add that to your sig Leeg
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I had to pretend all afternoon that it wasn't happening. People kept coming in and saying `I don't believe you're not watching this.'
So I just watched the second half. Marc didn't let his mistake rattle him and it was a very, very mature finish from Ciaran. I hope they are Villa players for a long, long time because they are already playing like old hands.
It's not like the ManUre game at all - a point from that was like losing.
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Clark at left back is something others have suggested, he has to keep the shirt.
Might save us £5m
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Quote of the day:
Reporter "do you get a fine for so many bookings?"
Houllier: "If so I'll pay it myself!"
:)
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Did anybody notice that nobody seemed to congratulate Drogba when he equalised.
the ball bounced off two Villa players and went through two more before it went over the line.
i'd be demanding an og
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
http://videa.hu/videok/sport/ch3-3asmatchhighlight.com-sVTUBSEaCPPNoeTz
Is that Capello next to Doug?
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.....It's not like the ManUre game at all - a point from that was like losing.
Agree - the point against Manu felt like a defeat, being 2-0 up with 10 minutes to go; today's point felt like a win having gone from 2-1 up to 3-2 down and only minutes left.
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Clark at left back is something others have suggested, he has to keep the shirt.
Might save us £5m
He was very good today. My only concern is pace and if he faced a Lennon or similar he'd get done. Malouda turned him far too easily in one attack in the first half (I think).
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Quote of the day:
Reporter "do you get a fine for so many bookings?"
Houllier: "If so I'll pay it myself!"
:)
Ha ha! Well said, Gerard!
He's going some way to getting a bit more goodwill toward him today!
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Clark at left back is something others have suggested, he has to keep the shirt.
Might save us £5m
I'm not so sure. I mean, I agree with him ahead of Warnock, but he still didn't look totally comfortable and I'd rather see us sign a specialist.
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
http://videa.hu/videok/sport/ch3-3asmatchhighlight.com-sVTUBSEaCPPNoeTz
Pleat thought it was Petrov that crossed. Idiot.
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Quote of the day:
Reporter "do you get a fine for so many bookings?"
Houllier: "If so I'll pay it myself!"
:)
Brilliant response.
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
http://videa.hu/videok/sport/ch3-3asmatchhighlight.com-sVTUBSEaCPPNoeTz
superb Paulie. Add that to your sig Leeg
Love it.
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
http://videa.hu/videok/sport/ch3-3asmatchhighlight.com-sVTUBSEaCPPNoeTz
Is that Capello next to Doug?
Yes it is.
It probably isn't him, but the lad the row in front looks a bit like Hitzlsperger as well.
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That Brunette next to Faulkner looks ok
Lets hope that Mrs Faulkner :-) (for his sake)
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Ciaran Clarke is now trending on Twitter! Lol!
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
http://videa.hu/videok/sport/ch3-3asmatchhighlight.com-sVTUBSEaCPPNoeTz
Is that Capello next to Doug?
Yes it is.
It probably isn't him, but the lad the row in front looks a bit like Hitzlsperger as well.
I think it is Tommy, you know.
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David Pleat - can't get out of first gear, as usual
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Seeing Randy "going mental" was indeed a treat. I thought he was going to lead a conga through the Directors box!
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David Pleat - can't get out of first gear, as usual
Nob, any footage of him running onto the Maine Rd pitch
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Very proud today, particularly after watching the match on Tuesday.
However, I rarely criticise the ref but I was astounded this afternoon. Blatant is the only word I can use.
Anyway, well done boys, well done Hou, lets not make it a one off eh?
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Back at base in London.
Cracking game. I'm still on that roller coaster ride. Well done Villa, that's the Villa we know and love.
Thought the referee was awful.
In fact I think he was somebody who knows nothing about the rules of the game who'd sneaked into the referees dressing room and stole the black suit.
How the devil did he give us 6 yellows in the first half and only 1 to them? Truly dreadful refereeing.
When I start my celebratory drink later, I'll have an extra one to drown my sorrow of the poor refereeing - any excuse!
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oh and I apolgise to my 5 year old son , for runing up to the TV at 3-3 and giving John Terry one of the biggest wanking signs ever.. I just got abit emotion son......
Review of Chelsea goals.
1 Undeserved penalty and 2 shots turned in following saves. Hardly bad defending.
Must admit I thought it was a penalty. Also thought it was a really stupid challenge from Collins. to the 3rd.
If the striker doesn't jump and it's not due to the centre half holding him down, he's making a back for the defender and that's a foul, that's what happnened, it should have been a free kick to us.
Agree completely - Collins never took his eyes off the ball - Malouda backed in.
Did you all fail to notice that Collins had physically raised himself off the floor, such was his success in climbing up the back of Malouda?
Collins jumped, Malouda didn't, that's a free kick to the defender. Collins didn't have his hands on the striker, it was a clean jump.
You are probably correct in relation to the laws of the game, but what you fail to notice is that our player jumped onto their player, and as far as i know, that is not allowed.
I want to watch this tonight, I'm adamant it wasn't a penalty, from the angle I was at Collins jumped bloody high, no hands on him, Malouda went down under the weight, half heartedly backing into Jimbo.
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According to the TV stats, two thirds of our fouls in the first half were worthy of a booking compared to Chelsea's one ninth.
Make of it what you will.
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David Pleat - can't get out of first gear, as usual
Nob, any footage of him running onto the Maine Rd pitch
http://m.youtube.com/index?desktop_uri=%2F&gl=US#/watch?xl=xl_blazer&v=XyAUkaC6nsI
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Sky was no better the commentator was saying 'Cuellar should of handled the ball for their equaliser.......... I couldn't believe it!
Pleat. Plumbing new depths of stupidity.
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I think it was a pen, it was clumsy defending by Collins
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Rio Ferdinand just put this on Twitter...
"How are villa where they are in the league after playing that way against us and cfc...quality young players as well.."
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
http://videa.hu/videok/sport/ch3-3asmatchhighlight.com-sVTUBSEaCPPNoeTz
Is that Capello next to Doug?
Yes it is.
It probably isn't him, but the lad the row in front looks a bit like Hitzlsperger as well.
I think it is Tommy, you know.
it's definitely der Hammer. He really is Villa.
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And they say Randy dont care about the Villa? Fantastic fight back today brilliant, lets get 3 wins outta 3 and our season looks a whole lot better!! Remember O'Dreary's first season?
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not sure that's Capello bit it's definitely Der Hammer
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Rio Ferdinand just put this on Twitter...
"How are villa where they are in the league after playing that way against us and cfc...quality young players as well.."
I've always thought he was a great bloke, that Rio................
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Colins jumped, Malouda didn't, so Colins jumped slightly over the back of Malouda, but Malouda then also backed in, so when Colins came down he was slightly on top of Malouda, not enough to take him down though, that required all of the muscles in his legs to suddendly give way as though someone had just shot 50 volts up his arse. I'm not sure where Colins' finger was, but i'm pretty sure it wasn't there. Not a penalty IMO.
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Chelsea made 10 fouls PER BOOkING
Villa made 2 fouls per booking!
I can't get over how bad the ref was,
Someone with twitter tell Rio 13 first teamers injured is why!
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
http://videa.hu/videok/sport/ch3-3asmatchhighlight.com-sVTUBSEaCPPNoeTz
Is that Capello next to Doug?
Yes it is.
It probably isn't him, but the lad the row in front looks a bit like Hitzlsperger as well.
I think it is Tommy, you know.
it's definitely der Hammer. He really is Villa.
Spotter's badge for me then. He didn't look that delighted to be fair, maybe his pleasure was tempered by the fact that our result is bad for his current employers.
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Hey Rio!
Fuck off!
*The poster would like to point out that he is not on Twitter, or ever likely to be. Ta.
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Oh, and Jonathan Woodgate was sat three rows in front of us.
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
http://videa.hu/videok/sport/ch3-3asmatchhighlight.com-sVTUBSEaCPPNoeTz
Is that Capello next to Doug?
Yes it is.
It probably isn't him, but the lad the row in front looks a bit like Hitzlsperger as well.
I think it is Tommy, you know.
it's definitely der Hammer. He really is Villa.
Spotter's badge for me then. He didn't look that delighted to be fair, maybe his pleasure was tempered by the fact that our result is bad for his current employers.
Right. I'd imagine going mental woudn't be good for his career if he was seen by the perv twins.
It's not Capello, just some bloke that has the same gurn and is sporting a decidedly dodgy lid.
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Bit disappointed not to have all three points like after the Man U game. Much better performance though, just wish we'd changed it round when they were well on top. Ah well, it'll do.
How I saw it too. Chelsea were bloody lucky to get a draw but we're still at sixes and sevens at times in defence. Just one less silly error and we'd have had three more points, just like the Man Utd games.
Still, much more encouraging.
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I'm happy that we kept having a go, and despite the score I think our defence was good (obviously not in the clean sheet aspect) or at the very least a marked improvement. In a through back to the dark ages with Carlos at right back, he was a bit stifled, but won his headers and got his foot in whenever he could, When he saw Downing wasn't really in the game for the first 18 minutes he got forward to support him and give Downing a bit more freedom.
Dunne was getting back to his best, and Jimbo was immense in the air - dodgy penalty aside.
The jury is out on young Clark, but he got the equaliser so you can't really bemoan his effort either.
It seems to me that NRC is a worse player when Petrov's on the pitch though, not sure they've got the whole tandem partnership worked out. I saw Stan switch play directions, look for the quick pass and stay strong on the ball, NRC kept letting his man get goal side and stayed to loose to their midfield. NRC is better than that.
I think my main concern though is the striker situation, Ash is great on the wing, Sure Gabby ran his socks off and battled today, but I don't think it's the answer for a 4 5 1 with Heskey up top.
I really didn't expect much today, but went along because, well, if you're willing to overlook the 7 - 0 humiliation of last year we always try and play with no fear against Chelsea, always an entertaining game. I felt quite vindicated for going too. who wouldn't have settled for a draw before we started? A good never say die attitude and looks like we're turning the corner. Time will tell but you know one thing's for sure we'd fuck up all the good work against Wigan if MON was still here.
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what a nutter. Quality
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RE the chelsea penalty, Malouda looks at Collins stops and makes no attempt to go for the ball, Collins does nothing wrong there.
The Collymore screaming video - brilliant
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what a nutter. Quality
I had a great link on the net but had to go and pick the mrs up from work, I whacked on the radio on and got this, he went more nuts than I did!! I thought I can scare me kids when Villa score!
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Haha - that Collymore clip is great.
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RE the chelsea penalty, Malouda looks at Collins stops and makes no attempt to go for the ball, Collins does nothing wrong there.
The Collymore screaming video - brilliant
I disagree with the comments about Malouda he didnt have to jump the ball was his side and the only way a defender was going to win the ball in that situation was to go over the top of him which Collins did which you cant blame Collins in his desperation i would have done the same.
but Malouda won the penalty by going down after the challenge which Heskey would have done be it the other way round so no real complaints, what i would complain about is how many fouls Chelsea made without getting any yellows Essien for example
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If a bloke the size of Collins jumps for a header, and a much smaller man like Malouda makes no effort and is backing into the defender, then the reasult is what you got. Malouda was very clever and conned the ref into giving them a pen. Fair play to Malouda, but the ref should have caught on to that.
Collins was never going to head the ball from his position so he should have just held his ground. He was rash. Malouda was clever alright but that would have been a foul on any other area of the pitch too so was deservedly a penalty.
Malouda didn't go down from the initial jump, he moved 2 steps to the RH side before throwing himself down, therefore no penalty!
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RE the chelsea penalty, Malouda looks at Collins stops and makes no attempt to go for the ball, Collins does nothing wrong there.
The Collymore screaming video - brilliant
I disagree with the comments about Malouda he didnt have to jump the ball was his side and the only way a defender was going to win the ball in that situation was to go over the top of him which Collins did which you cant blame Collins in his desperation i would have done the same.
but Malouda won the penalty by going down after the challenge which Heskey would have done be it the other way round so no real complaints, what i would complain about is how many fouls Chelsea made without getting any yellows Essien for example
The fact is he looked at Collins, then stood still, if your gunna say collins dont jump for the ball when there players leaving it then its an unfair advantage surely? Even a level 4 ref said it wasnt a pen. Then John Terry did it outside the box on Heskey but there was no foul. Inconsistancy at its best.
Petrov's challenge for his yellow was dangerous could have been a red. Reo-Coker was fairly booked but then Drogba did exactly the same minutes later and the ref diddnt even speak to him!
I forgot to mention Essien, i counted 5 fouls from the penalty and the ref warned him 3 times, he should have been off.
The ref definately diddnt have his best of games today.
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I think the thing that made up the ref's mind (other than his innate shitness) for their penalty was the fact that Collins's arm came down around Malouda as he fell. They showed his view again as a replay, and the first response from the people I was watching with was that it was a pen from everybody.
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Essien should have been booked for the lunge on Coker
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Highlight was Randy and Doug celebrating that equaliser
Is there a clip of that somewhere? Doug laughing was brilliant.
http://videa.hu/videok/sport/ch3-3asmatchhighlight.com-sVTUBSEaCPPNoeTz
Pleat thought it was Petrov that crossed. Idiot.Sky was no better the commentator was saying 'Cuellar should of handled the ball for their equaliser.......... I couldn't believe it!
Pleat. Plumbing new depths of stupidity.
I thought that was Alan Smith
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Hey Rio!
Fuck off!
*The poster would like to point out that he is not on Twitter, or ever likely to be. Ta.
???
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As time goes on I'm becoming more convinced about Clarke; he's very similar to John O'Shea, both flexible players who can cover midfield and defence. I'd say he has potential to be better though.
He's played Right Back, Left Back, Centre Back and Midfield so far.
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Fair play to Herbert, still hacking up and down the M40 in his Roller to watch his beloved Villa
legend
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Fair play to Herbert, still hacking up and down the M40 in his Roller to watch his beloved Villa
legend
Lets not get too carried away!
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All the goals here
http://www.totalsportsmadness.com/2010/12/29/chelsea-vs-aston-villa-live-stream-highlights-2-january-2011/
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As time goes on I'm becoming more convinced about Clarke; he's very similar to John O'Shea, both flexible players who can cover midfield and defence. I'd say he has potential to be better though.
He's played Right Back, Left Back, Centre Back and Midfield so far.
he's our new Gareth Barry. I think he shows remarkable composure for someone so young, and as you've pointed is proving to be quite versatile.
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As time goes on I'm becoming more convinced about Clarke; he's very similar to John O'Shea, both flexible players who can cover midfield and defence. I'd say he has potential to be better though.
He's played Right Back, Left Back, Centre Back and Midfield so far.
That was my thinking too Drummond. He's still young enough that he can make one position his own in time, but flexible utility players don't tend to have great careers at Villa.
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As time goes on I'm becoming more convinced about Clarke; he's very similar to John O'Shea, both flexible players who can cover midfield and defence. I'd say he has potential to be better though.
He's played Right Back, Left Back, Centre Back and Midfield so far.
he's our new Gareth Barry. I think he shows remarkable composure for someone so young, and as you've pointed is proving to be quite versatile.
I thought he was channelling the spirit of Laursen today with that goal.
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Sky was no better the commentator was saying 'Cuellar should of handled the ball for their equaliser.......... I couldn't believe it!
Pleat. Plumbing new depths of stupidity.
I thought that was Alan Smith
[/quote]
It was on Sky.
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All the goals here
http://www.totalsportsmadness.com/2010/12/29/chelsea-vs-aston-villa-live-stream-highlights-2-january-2011/
Nice one. Thanks.
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That's more like the Villa I know and love.
Really proud of the performance today, good decision to bring Dunne back and play the 2 centre halves at full back.
Has anyone explained why Chelsea did 6 more fouls than us but we had 5 more bookings.
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Over the moon to come away with a point i thought everyone played there heart's out really good performance if we can carry on playing like that for the rest of the season i would thrilled to bits.
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(http://www.gifsoup.com/imager.php?id=14342)
Wow, what a topsy turvery match. Despite us choking like a DOG in the last 10 mins once again it's a very pleasurable result. Felt like Deja Vu after that eventful game on Boxing Day a few years ago... you can laugh all you want but even when Clark equalised I went out straight away and played some basketball for 5 minutes draining free throws because even though we'd just done a great thing I couldn't bare the tension and the strong possibility of Chelsea crushing my heart for the second time in the space of minutes.
We played great today apart from that silly few minutes when they scored those two goals (I just knew that 3rd goal for them was coming, just felt it) and hopefully we can really kick on now after a very good result and start making some serious progress climbing up the table and out down the bottom.
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Good debate this penalty lark.
Malouda did throw himself to the ground but the offence had already been committed. As soon as Collins put his arm / elbow on Malouda's back it's a penalty.
Just spoken to friend of mine who is a highly qualified ref and they said pen too.
Interesting.
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MOM - Randy Lerner for that goal celebration after the third goal! Quality! ;D
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what a nutter. Quality
I had a great link on the net but had to go and pick the mrs up from work, I whacked on the radio on and got this, he went more nuts than I did!! I thought I can scare me kids when Villa score!
1. I hope he smacked his co-commentator who assumed Chelski had won it.
2. I managed to scare our Rottweiller when we equalised. I was going barmy when we had a chance to win it, she was hiding in the kitchen!
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As time goes on I'm becoming more convinced about Clarke; he's very similar to John O'Shea, both flexible players who can cover midfield and defence. I'd say he has potential to be better though.
He's played Right Back, Left Back, Centre Back and Midfield so far.
he's our new Gareth Barry. I think he shows remarkable composure for someone so young, and as you've pointed is proving to be quite versatile.
I thought he was channelling the spirit of Laursen today with that goal.
the whole game had very familiar feel about it didn't it. Like we'd seen it before kind of knew how it might end. Clark took his goal as camly as both Barry with his penno and Laursen that day. The delivery from Albrighton was as perfect as Ash's ball. It was a big moment and he didn't fluff his lines.
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Guys, it was a blatant penalty for them... Collins yet again made another dumb decision in jumping all over Malouda when there was no need to as he was face the other way.
It's no debate, it was a peanlty.
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It wasn't a penalty. A clumsy challenge but not a penalty. Malouda went down like a powder puff after taking a step or two.
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I thought it was a penalty. Well, put another way, it wasn't cast iron, but there was sufficient there to make it giveable.
Whatever that means.
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It was against us. Therefore it wasn't.
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Good performance I thought, nice to see a bit of fight and effort for a change. Had my heart in my mouth for the last half an hour but if we play like that for a few games we'll be alright. Nice to see Randy at the game and showing a bit of emotion
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If you make a challenge like that in the box there's always the chance the ref will give it. If that was at the other end we'd all be calling for a penalty.
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Lets not get too carried away though.
This match was similar to the Manure game. We played pretty decent and got a point, the following week we got hammered 0-2 by blackburn!
Aye.
Lets leave celebrating draws to the peasants down the road.
It might (might) be a turning point if we follow it up with a win on Wednedsay and put a run of form together.
Not sure how we're going to fortify the defence though. Four CB's today didn't do it. Maybe 5 at the back (all centre halves) and two centre halves in midfield might give us a fighting chance.
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Just finished watching it now,its been a long time coming,but it was good to see them show some fighting spirit,play really well at times,and stick to a game plan. Special mention to Clark who shows great composure at both ends,and Ivanhoe who put in a good shift and bullied their defence. I think Petrov showed what we've missed when he was out.
A special word on Terry,who we all know is a complete tool at best,so pleased that we didnt see his ugly mug smiling at the end of the game.
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If you make a challenge like that in the box there's always the chance the ref will give it. If that was at the other end we'd all be calling for a penalty.
Yes - but we wouldn't get it!
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Lets not get too carried away though.
This match was similar to the Manure game. We played pretty decent and got a point, the following week we got hammered 0-2 by blackburn!
Aye.
Lets leave celebrating draws to the peasants down the road.
It might (might) be a turning point if we follow it up with a win on Wednedsay and put a run of form together.
Not sure how we're going to fortify the defence though. Four CB's today didn't do it. Maybe 5 at the back (all centre halves) and two centre halves in midfield might give us a fighting chance.
while we shouldn't get too carried away, the big difference between the two situations is with Man U, we gave away the lead. This time we scored last and saved a point. The effect on the players will be different. The proof will be on Wednesday. We need a good attendance and a win.
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It was against us. Therefore it wasn't.
I think that is what quite a few on here should say rather than trying to justify it, because to the neutral it was clearly a pen, but i can't argue with your take on it!
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If you make a challenge like that in the box there's always the chance the ref will give it. If that was at the other end we'd all be calling for a penalty.
Yes - but we wouldn't get it!
True i'm amazed ours was given Essien actually tried to claim it as a foul on him.
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Nice Bon Jovi piece there
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It was no pen to them. Malouda backing into Collins so clearly. Good performance, great to see spirit. Great to see Dunne back to his best and Heskey was imperious.
We need to follow this up on Weds.
It was my son's first away game today. What an introduction!
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It was no pen to them. Malouda backing into Collins so clearly. Good performance, great to see spirit. Great to see Dunne back to his best and Heskey was imperious.
We need to follow this up on Weds.
It was my son's first away game today. What an introduction!
If we all chip in,can you take him to every away match now?!
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Did your friend not say that the penalty )if the correct decision and I'm a qualified ref albeit retired and I don't think it was) should have been re-taken due to Chelsea encroachment
Good debate this penalty lark.
Malouda did throw himself to the ground but the offence had already been committed. As soon as Collins put his arm / elbow on Malouda's back it's a penalty.
Just spoken to friend of mine who is a highly qualified ref and they said pen too.
Interesting.
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I thought that aswell.
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It was no pen to them. Malouda backing into Collins so clearly. Good performance, great to see spirit. Great to see Dunne back to his best and Heskey was imperious.
We need to follow this up on Weds.
It was my son's first away game today. What an introduction!
If we all chip in,can you take him to every away match now?!
He's seen us play Chelsea 4 times now - 2 draws and 2 wins...I tihnk he has some special power over them...
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It was no pen to them. Malouda backing into Collins so clearly. Good performance, great to see spirit. Great to see Dunne back to his best and Heskey was imperious.
We need to follow this up on Weds.
It was my son's first away game today. What an introduction!
If we all chip in,can you take him to every away match now?!
He's seen us play Chelsea 4 times now - 2 draws and 2 wins...I tihnk he has some special power over them...
now all you need is to get 18 more sons, each assigned with a special power against the other PL sides.
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A big point for us.
'Spirit' is an overused word in today's game but it was back today and delighted to see the bloke who stole Richard Dunne and replaced him with Jonny Vegas has returned him.
And to correct a poster from earlier if I may, it was more like a Villa performance, not a MON one. Let's use this as a building block starting with a win on Wednesday.
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Talking of referee decisions, hows this stat for you (from Sky website):
Fouls:
Chelsea 20 Villa 13
Yellow Cards:
Chelsea 2 Villa 7
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It was no pen to them. Malouda backing into Collins so clearly. Good performance, great to see spirit. Great to see Dunne back to his best and Heskey was imperious.
We need to follow this up on Weds.
It was my son's first away game today. What an introduction!
If we all chip in,can you take him to every away match now?!
He's seen us play Chelsea 4 times now - 2 draws and 2 wins...I tihnk he has some special power over them...
now all you need is to get 18 more sons, each assigned with a special power against the other PL sides.
Except we're emigrating to British Columbia in April....
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Tremendous result today. I dont think we can under estimate how important that comeback at the death was.
Coming back in the manner we did will restore a lot of confidence in the players.
Special mention for Gabby & Heskey today, they both worked there socks off.
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most of our cards were deserved, I actually thought petrov should have walked for his too
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I'm amazed we kept all 11 on the field to be fair
Thought the ref on the whole was ok, albeit Essien should have got a Y and maybe Terry
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most of our cards were deserved, I actually thought petrov should have walked for his too
The problem isn't really our yellow cards, but the lack of cards for them, Essien in particular.
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Talking of referee decisions, hows this stat for you (from Sky website):
Fouls:
Chelsea 20 Villa 13
Yellow Cards:
Chelsea 2 Villa 7
and essien did a scholes all match, trip after trip and not cautioned! How the frig do they get away with it?
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On the point of Collymore's topic (Big 4 getting favourable pens):
Past 3 seasons at 6th, refs were not just giving us clear pens, they were booking us left right and centre and ignoring advantages (Carew being climed over etc, Gabby fouled by last man).
Tonight's ref just confirmed this IMO. But still a brilliant result. Now lets push on to Sunderland.
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All the goals here
http://www.totalsportsmadness.com/2010/12/29/chelsea-vs-aston-villa-live-stream-highlights-2-january-2011/
Nice one mate. What the hell is going on with the background music though? Its fucking atrocious!
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Missed the game. Great point. Well done the lads! Clark seems to be MOTM according to radio reports?
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most of our cards were deserved, I actually thought petrov should have walked for his too
For fucks sake that's not the point. I agree, Petrov was lucky, but the equivalent fouls by Chelsea players did not incour the same censure as ours did. Thats the point. In fact I loved the fact that we got stuck in after Tuesdays awful showing.
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Well I've given both Houllier and the players plenty of stick in recent weeks. However, cannot argue with today, superb display of fighting spirit demonstrated by 7 bookings even though half of them were a joke. Well done, however, why they have taken to this point to show this sort of spirit. Also Chavski are cheating diving scumbags.
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most of our cards were deserved, I actually thought petrov should have walked for his too
For fucks sake that's not the point. I agree, Petrov was lucky, but the equivalent fouls by Chelsea players did not incour the same censure as ours did. Thats the point. In fact I loved the fact that we got stuck in after Tuesdays awful showing.
Agreed. Not much complaint with our bookings. He could maybe have dished out a warning or two first mind.
They weren't punished equally. Essien, ferr... (whatever his name is) for example.
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Great fighting spirit which is really all we wanted too see. That exact line up would give most teams a problem.
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I don't know how the ref could book NRC for hardly a challenge in the middle, then Essien went unpunished the whole game.
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The worst tackle in the whole match was from Terry and he was lucky to just get a yellow. Didn't stop the cheating scum-bag moaning about it though like he was being unfairly picked on.
But the moaning about the ref was totally justified when he cautioned Heskey and indicated the reason was it was his third foul, then finally warns Essien that his 6th foul was his last one before he was going to be booked, and then doesn't book him for the next one that eventually lead to our late equalizer.
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Have'nt read all the comments , but has anybody mentioned how well Carlos played today.For me Friedel was MOM. but Carlos and Emile were not far behind.
Collins for me gave another goal away, did'nt need to go for it, stupid penalty, like last year.Dunne apart from his mistake giving the 2nd away, had a reasonably good game.
Gabby...still not sure about him, a bit brain dead for me sometimes.
Ashley, Petrov, NRC.........all much better.
Albrighton, has a top quality cross on him, we should be getting more goals off these.
Overall, happy with the point, should give us a bit more confidence, and belief.All go to waste if we don't get a result on Wens.
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Cuellar was very good but a lot of that is down to Downing helping him admirably and keeping Cole in check. Cuellar is arguably the best pure defender that we have at the club.
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I think the thing people are forgetting about Downing is that he did an incredibly effective man marking job on Ashley Cole usually a huge outlet for Chelsea but still managed to create some issues for Chelsea including a sublime cross to the back stick for Emile's goal with his right foot. I get really annoyed with people who criticise him for being lazy when he's invariably working his bollocks off off the ball and he provides superb balance and width to our team. It was his hard work today that meant nothing came down our right hand side and Carlos could ably assist Collins and Dunne.
agree entirely. I think he was told to do a job, and essentially kept Cole quiet all game. Sometimes you don't need to be visible to have had a good game, and I think he carried out the manager's instructions really well.
I kind of agree,yes he had a job, but when he does get in a good postistion is final ball has to be better , just like the cross for the goal. he wastes too much at times..
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We've had shit loads of penalties since 2006. Alot of very favourable decisions.
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I think the thing people are forgetting about Downing is that he did an incredibly effective man marking job on Ashley Cole usually a huge outlet for Chelsea but still managed to create some issues for Chelsea including a sublime cross to the back stick for Emile's goal with his right foot. I get really annoyed with people who criticise him for being lazy when he's invariably working his bollocks off off the ball and he provides superb balance and width to our team. It was his hard work today that meant nothing came down our right hand side and Carlos could ably assist Collins and Dunne.
agree entirely. I think he was told to do a job, and essentially kept Cole quiet all game. Sometimes you don't need to be visible to have had a good game, and I think he carried out the manager's instructions really well.
I kind of agree,yes he had a job, but when he does get in a good postistion is final ball has to be better , just like the cross for the goal. he wastes too much at times..
I said the same at half time. The goal aside, both he and Ash were a little disappointing from wide positions today and especially from dead ball situations. By comparison Albrighton's cross for Clark was very similar to the cross Ash delivered to Carew's first when we battered the scum 5-1.
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Quote of the day:
Reporter "do you get a fine for so many bookings?"
Houllier: "If so I'll pay it myself!"
:)
fantastic and send that twat mason the bill.....
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Clark's goal was so reminiscent of Laursen's a few year's back!
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Looked a right loon bouncing round the car park in Bewdley as we equalised - at least my son joined in!
That's the problem with havng friends who don't like footie...
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Just seen Lerner's celebration.
Absolutely brilliant.
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Satisfied with today. Pride worth more than a point.
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Satisfied with today. Pride worth more than a point.
Absolutely, the pride and fight are my valuable than the point
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I´m in the Canaries at the moment ánd watched the game on Sky in one of those bars I hate - overweight, multi-tattoed men, full English Breakfast, Sky Sports, why bother going abroad type places except the weather´s better. Made 2 soda waters last 90 minutes. Making up for it now.
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Every day I wake up & it's Sunday
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Not 100% convinced about their penalty but I guess the acid test is ...if Terry had challenged Gabby/Ivanhoe like that would I be shouting for a pen? Absolutely
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I´m in the Canaries at the moment ánd watched the game on Sky in one of those bars I hate - overweight, multi-tattoed men, full English Breakfast, Sky Sports, why bother going abroad type places except the weather´s better. Made 2 soda waters last 90 minutes. Making up for it now.
Enjoy the drink and the holiday Lizz.
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I´m in the Canaries at the moment ánd watched the game on Sky in one of those bars I hate - overweight, multi-tattoed men, full English Breakfast, Sky Sports, why bother going abroad type places except the weather´s better. Made 2 soda waters last 90 minutes. Making up for it now.
I was in Tenerefe once observing something very similar.
Put me off that place for life !
UTV Lizz
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I was in Fuerteventura this time last year. Watched the Liverpool home game when Torres scored in the last second. To say I was pissed off is an understatement. The pratts on the table next to me had done my head in all game. Stormed out of the bar on my own at FT and went straight back to the hotel to go to bed.
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No argument in my view, when he jumps he's nowhere near the ball, goes right across the other bloke's body and lands in a big heap.
Good job he only landed on Paul Faulkner
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No argument in my view, when he jumps he's nowhere near the ball, goes right across the other bloke's body and lands in a big heap.
Good job he only landed on Paul Faulkner
You should be on telly.
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No argument in my view, when he jumps he's nowhere near the ball, goes right across the other bloke's body and lands in a big heap.
Good job he only landed on Paul Faulkner
You should be on telly.
Very good both of you.
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did anybody see the tv camera focus on Andy Jacobs off talksport?? His show on a monday is fabulous when chelsea havent given anyone a good stuffing!
Also i was in portugal this aug and my 9 year old and i made our selves known when we got a penalty against Newcastle! We soon knew how many geordies were in there as the bar went up when carew stuck it over the bar! They continually let me know after every goal went in, but we got a round of applause for stopping till the end of the game!
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Deserved point from a battling performance.
Lot of debate about the Collins penalty. Sometimes they are given, sometimes not. If that had been Terry on Heskey, would it have been given as a penalty. Did anybody else notice Malouda lash out with his arm (could have been his elbow) as he went down. He certainly connected as it cut Collins.
Not impressed with Mason, although he has always been a bit of a 'home' referee. As others have said, Essien should have been booked for the foul at the end of the first half as the Villa player went past him on the edge of the area. If he had been booked perhaps that would have curbed his tackling in the 2nd half like it did with Petrov and Reo Coker.
We do tend to see everything with claret and blue glasses on and whilst it was a great fighting performance there were still passages of play when we didn't get our act together. Everybody has their own opinion about individual performances but I do not think any of them had superb games as we still conceeded three goals. Yes, there were individual errors but we allowed them too much of the ball 2nd half and backed off too much. On a better day for Essien and Lampard we could have been taken apart. I think we should have brought an extra central midfield player on to replace Gabby with about 15 minutes to go as Petrov an Reo Coker were getting nowhere near their players. I do not understand the love-in with Cuellar on here as I think he puts a lot of effort in but is quite limited in what he can do. What he cannot do is jump and head the ball, so I have difficulty in understanding how some can say he is the best central defender at the club. Still too many statues when we have the ball.
Anyway, perhaps I am being a bit too critical on what was a good day and a good overall performance. Let's enjoy it as we haven't had much to be cheerful about of late.
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Looked as though there has been some bonding between the players who
wore the shirt today or was it that we rescued a point in injury time?
Whatever .......more desire today from everyone, the result should give
everyone a lift ..........even Gerard looked pleased
Heskey provided he stays clear of niggling injury might yet become a
cult hero (albeit a minor one)
Need a couple of clean sheets now
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I shut the internet screen down in disgust when Terry scored, and grabbed my coat to go out. In a moment of masochism I decided to listen to last few minutes of the game on my phone as I walked towards the front door, just to hear the aftermath.
Cue Clark scoring and me going absolutely mental, doing what can only be described as a "rapid double fist pump" in full view of everyone on my road. I think the neighbours are now planning to have me sectioned.
I still haven't seen Clark's goal, so I'm waiting for MOTD to fully savour it.
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what a nutter. Quality
Brilliant
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Looking forward to MOTD for the first time this season. The 7-0 thrashing at Stamford Bridge last season did a lot to damage the spirit of this team and I hope that today's excellent department will do much to repair it. After yesterday's result, I'm sure that the Knuckledraggers won't be looking forward to the 16th much. We've got a really good run in for the rest of the season and still believe that we can finish very strongly if we can maintain the attitude shown today.
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It was 7-1.
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Clark was my MOTM.
His finishing is interesting. His defensive quite OK. Less pace compare to Warnock but make a lot of good defend.
I agree. Warnock has also made a lot of bad defend.
I love it when Sarunyu posts. He's always positive and he's very perceptive. He puts some of our local fans to shame.
Top man.
Up the Villa
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Well done SVC, top commentary that
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They should play that before every game to get this feckin team going. Sends shivers down ya spine when you here a famous Villa fan scream with delight..................
SVC for coach!
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A week is a long time in football, wonder what we'll be saying next weekend ::)
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Still hilarious is that. Collymore has done more in that 5 seconds than in the few years he played at Villa. Absolute quality.
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It was 7-1.
Of course.
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Well proud of me boys today. Any other result would have been great injustice.
Sat in very expensive seats with die hard life long Chelsea supporters from Singapore, Tokyo, Oslo and Helsinki. They had all obviously been in the club store before the game and were kitted out in their £30 hats and £50 scarfs. I felt no need to disguise my support in that crowd.
A very good performance indeed. The penalty for them an absolute joke. The ref (i think it was Lee Mason) is an imbecile. Malouda played for that and the cock in the black bought it. However we should have been 2 up by than and I thought the unjust award may result in killing the spirit team started with but no we kept going.
Very nervy last 30 mins and just after Scum JT scored I was devastated because the lads did not deserve 3-2 based on todays performance.
Fantastic feeling when Clark scored. I just had to jump up and down like a compression spring coming loose and the bastards in high viz jackets came around and asked me to leave. For your safety they said!
On the drive back I listened to Stan on talksport and he kept playing the commentary on Clark equaliser. Brilliant can't believe his reaction. a true fan, the man is a legend!
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I bet SVC was getting all kinds of shit off them cockney tosspots when Terry scored. How lovely to be able to return the compliment live on national radio. Fair play to him.
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Great result, great SVC clips, shame we couldn't hang on but Ciaran's goal was justly deserved... as it has been said already if we play like that for the rest of the season we should end up in mid table.
Randy celebration was fantastic... I wonder where he was off to?
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I said on the pre-match thread that i was too overly optimistic bearing in mind our good record against Chelsea, but i was'nt was'nt expecting a performance like that. Much Much Much better than in recent weeks, it was liking watching a MON team.
Keep playing like that and we'll be ok. It's up to the players to keep that level of commitment up, there's no excuses from now on.
Oh, and the ref was fucking shocking.
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It was against us. Therefore it wasn't.
I think that is what quite a few on here should say rather than trying to justify it, because to the neutral it was clearly a pen, but i can't argue with your take on it!
Strange, as most neutrals seem to say that it wasn't.
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I went mental when Clark scored too, I was jumping up and down the living room and kissed my poor 15 year old brother on the cheek in delighted before bear hugging him. He's a united fan!
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Mostly impressed with Houllier's decision to bring on Albrighton, as I was specifically concerned about his ability to change the dynamic of the team in a positive fashion, but today he brought super Marc on and within minutes he made a goal with his superb and clever assist.
I may not like him, but I tip my beer and hatred-soaked hat to you Gerard.
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Mostly impressed with Houllier's decision to bring on Albrighton, as I was specifically concerned about his ability to change the dynamic of the team in a positive fashion, but today he brought super Marc on and within minutes he made a goal with his superb and clever assist.
Although you could argue that if he hadn't been brought on he might not have stupidly given away their third goal (winky emoticon)
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Everyone I've heard talk about Chelsea's penalty said it was a penalty. Me and my old man saw it and said it was a peno. period. Don't know anyone in real life who think's it wasn't a penalty. No point in complaining, the game is over and finished, we got a good result we'd all take before the game... I can see more logic behind complaining at how we choked yet again in the final few minues or how we managed to get 7 players booked.
Collins doesn't exactly do himself any favours climbing all over Malouda in the PENALTY BOX. If we'd been given a penalty like that I doubt anyone on here would be complaining we got a penalty when we shouldn't of.
What Collins did was silly, clumsly and foolish... there was just no need to do that when Malouda was facing the opposite direction and didn't have control of the ball.
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It was against us. Therefore it wasn't.
I think that is what quite a few on here should say rather than trying to justify it, because to the neutral it was clearly a pen, but i can't argue with your take on it!
Strange, as most neutrals seem to say that it wasn't.
Strange indeed. We could argue this forever, as everyone I was watching with, all Villa fans and no neutrals to be fair, said it was a pen.
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I love hearing Collymore voice his support for the club, but for someone who shows so much passion for the Villa off the pitch now, its a shame he never showed it on it.
Please dont take this as criticism of Stan, I'm sure he had issue's outside of football that had an effect on his time for us.
I'm just saying like.. how much he pissed me off at the time.
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Blame the femme fatale that is Ulrikka
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Much improved performance, thought young Clark great. We can't get carried away though, Weds game will be tough just hope all the fans get behind them now. No point booing and getting on their backs we have to support the lads.
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Strange how ex-players who fancy a career in the media suddenly develop a passion for the game they never showed before.
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It was my son's first away game today. What an introduction!
You weren't in row 12 seats 82 and 83 were you?; I noticed a wide eyed young lad and his dad in these seats - a row in front of us - and the lad was clearly enjoying himself.
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Strange how ex-players who fancy a career in the media suddenly develop a passion for the game they never showed before.
Yeah, never showed it when he plqyed for his 'boyhood team'.
Although I do remember his goal against AthleticnMadrid, I think it was, fondly. I scraped the skin off my shins on the seat in front, dancing around like a loon!
Edit: feckin stoopid iphone keypad! Forever hitting other buttons instead of the space bar!
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He had a good game against the Dippers & olbyion too from memory
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Strange how ex-players who fancy a career in the media suddenly develop a passion for the game they never showed before.
Not strictly relevant but thought I'd mention it anyway, but who thought it was a good idea to have Dean Windass as a match day reporter on Sky? When he tries to be over excited he sounds like a fat bloke eating four pies at once.
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I noticed Windass too. At first I thought it was a very ugly woman who'd won a competition to be on telly
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The penalty was given because of Collins raised arms, all season they have been clamping down on players using their arms for leverage. Thought once the senior players got back we would improve and pleased to say it happened. Ashley Young must not be sold, Freidal should keep the knockers at bay for a while, Dunne made one mistake but made some great interceptions, Cuellor gave us extra height and played well. One disappointment for me was Petrov, he played with passion and desire but in the first half in particular he gave the ball away too many times and his shooting effots were woeful. We looked like we did last season that with a classy midfielder and a top forward we would be a really good side.
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Strange how ex-players who fancy a career in the media suddenly develop a passion for the game they never showed before.
That's cos he is a fat bloke eating four pies at once
Not strictly relevant but thought I'd mention it anyway, but who thought it was a good idea to have Dean Windass as a match day reporter on Sky? When he tries to be over excited he sounds like a fat bloke eating four pies at once.
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Have another go deero, quotes are tricky
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Have anoNot if you know what you're doingther go deero, quotes are tricky
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Can see why the ref gave the pen but he was coned. Chelsea player backed into Collins for starters then dived. Ref booked us for everything but how many fouls did Essian have to comit before getting booked.
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Just a thought: is John Terry past it? I am really looking forward to the twilight of his career. He will have to keep playing long after the engine has gone, he needs the money
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Just got back, Clark was imense today he is not the best footballer in the world but 10 out of 10 for concentration and effort, after Albrighton gave the ball away for thier 3rd he was turned on by all the players, collins being the most vitriolic he was going beserk at him for about a minute, oh what joy it was to see him a couple of mnutes later stick the ball on Clarks head for the equaliser. Heskey won every areal chalenge so much so that they stopped chalenging him. Gabby and Downing did a great job of tracking thier full backs. The effort was there, We were tired out from the Chelsea pressure in the second half and the 10 minute spell they scored having made sustitutions ,
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I was in Fuerteventura this time last year. Watched the Liverpool home game when Torres scored in the last second. To say I was pissed off is an understatement. The pratts on the table next to me had done my head in all game. Stormed out of the bar on my own at FT and went straight back to the hotel to go to bed.
Crap game. I was in a bar/restaurant in Natal Brazil. And all who were there went quiet - as my expression when that slip gave Torres the goal was to hurting, for them even to joke about it.
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Regardless of what happened in the game and there was lots of talking points, getting a 3-3 draw at Stamford Bridge is a result we all would have taken beforehand. Therefore I am extremely pleased and hopefully the players can show the same attitude and fight against Sunderland on Wednesday.
Today I shall be happy ;)
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Just got back, Clark was imense today he is not the best footballer in the world but 10 out of 10 for concentration and effort
Agree.
But does anyone know why Super Mark (our most creative player at the moment) started on the bench and Gabby (our best striker) played left winger, far from the goal, in the 4-2-3-1? I didn't understand these two moves tbh.
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I have a feeling our lineup will be as unpredictable under GH as it was predictable under MON.
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Much improved performance----we played as a team today----great to see the togetherness celebrating Clark,s goal,to me he was man of the match,what a prospect this lad is, 3 different positions 3 goals so far in his first prem season--magic
well played you Villa Boyz-----keethe momentum going for Wednesday,----we fans must play our part and fully get behind the lads---we are all in this together,------great reaction shown by RL
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Much improved performance, I didnt see us winning at any point but great to see us come back from the dead to grab a draw. Heartwarming to see us winning tackles and working hard.
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Just got back, Clark was imense today he is not the best footballer in the world but 10 out of 10 for concentration and effort
Agree.
But does anyone know why Super Mark (our most creative player at the moment) started on the bench and Gabby (our best striker) played left winger, far from the goal, in the 4-2-3-1? I didn't understand these two moves tbh.
It was Houllier's tactics, which worked.
First he wanted as much experience as possible in the side,
Second gabby was very disciplined in his defensive duties, he used his pace a number of times to stop a counter attack.
Everyone from the manager to the subs were great today, we were very unlucky, both Chelsea's late goals were as a result of Brad making a save and it landing at a Chelsea player.
Nothing accounts for experience.
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Just a thought: is John Terry past it? I am really looking forward to the twilight of his career. He will have to keep playing long after the engine has gone, he needs the money
I think you could ask some interesting questions as to where Chelsea and some of their players are heading if they don't win the league or Champions League this season, neither of which looks very likely. Terry, Lampard and Drogba are all starting to look to me as if they have just crept over their peak and are on the downward slope. I reckon Cole might bugger off this summer too. Whereas previously, they might have had the monopoly on signing someone like Bale, that definitely isn't the case anymore. I keep my fingers crossed...
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It was against us. Therefore it wasn't.
I think that is what quite a few on here should say rather than trying to justify it, because to the neutral it was clearly a pen, but i can't argue with your take on it!
Strange, as most neutrals seem to say that it wasn't.
Including Warnock and Dixon on MOTD. Glad they agree with me that it definitely wasn't a penalty. The ref knew he had cocked it up and so compensated for us at the other end. You could see it written all over his face. When the whistle went for our pen, NRC was flapping hsis arms trying to claim he hadn't fouled Essien as he thought the whistle was against him. Says it all really...
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Just got back, Clark was imense today he is not the best footballer in the world but 10 out of 10 for concentration and effort
Agree.
But does anyone know why Super Mark (our most creative player at the moment) started on the bench and Gabby (our best striker) played left winger, far from the goal, in the 4-2-3-1? I didn't understand these two moves tbh.
My guess is that he played Downing and Gabby to counter Chelseas propensity to attack with thier full backs, both stronger than Albrighton defensively, the fact that we had 4 centre halves playing narrow which i think was necessary. At least we had a plan today and for the most part it worked
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Mac made the point earlier that nobody wanted to celebrate with Drogba. If *Chelsea players* think somebody is an arrogant arsehole, God help him
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Randy celebration was fantastic... I wonder where he was off to?
He was off to ask Cheklsea staff if he can use a private room to talk to his Manager!
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It was against us. Therefore it wasn't.
I think that is what quite a few on here should say rather than trying to justify it, because to the neutral it was clearly a pen, but i can't argue with your take on it!
Strange, as most neutrals seem to say that it wasn't.
Including Warnock and Dixon on MOTD. Glad they agree with me that it definitely wasn't a penalty. The ref knew he had cocked it up and so compensated for us at the other end. You could see it written all over his face. When the whistle went for our pen, NRC was flapping hsis arms trying to claim he hadn't fouled Essien as he thought the whistle was against him. Says it all really...
The ref gave us a penalty because it was a stonewall penalty... nothing to do whether or not they got a penalty.
I imagine Albrighton didn't play because he's had it pretty tough since coming back from his operation... maybe Ged thought he needed a little rest.
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It was so stonewall that barely any Villa player appealed for a penalty and NRC thought the ref was blowing up for a foul by him on Essien. It might have been a penalty, but it certainly wasn't a stonewall one for me, or evidently most of our players...
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as soon as Coker went down I said ''penalty'', before the ref blew for the penalty. Both penalties were penalties and the referee got both decisions right. Didn't see the Chelsea fans having any problem with the penalty being given against them.
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But does anyone know why Super Mark (our most creative player at the moment)
Probably because for every goal he creates, he costs us one by giving away the ball or committing stupid fouls close to the area. He's got some talent going forward, but he's a liability when he's in our half.
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Our penalty was the most obvious penalty award I have seen in a long time. There was no need to appeal as everyone knew it was 100% nailed on. Very surprised that Essien did not get booked.
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This was interesting in the Independent match report.
Did anyone see what happened here?
That they did not was a testament to a Villa team who looked badly short of anything that might loosely be described as fighting spirit in their defeat to Manchester City last week. But they had it yesterday, in outstanding performances from Brad Friedel, Emile Heskey and Ashley Young, right through to assistant Gary McAllister who spent the aftermath of Villa's celebrations offering to fight a member of the Chelsea staff.
Nice to read, after all the stuff this week about the two of them sitting there like they're waiting for a bus to arrive, or Wetherspoons to open.
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Something happened this week. Some sort of riot act was was read and it worked.
Well done Villa. Roll on Wednesday, fucking roll on.
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Had a good feeling going into this game and glad we walked away with a point and a spirited showing.
Anyone know why Delph wasn't on the bench today? Has he re-injured himself?
What did everyone think of Ash playing behind Heskey and Gabby on the left of midfiled? Both had good games but would have loved to see Ash running at Ferreira in the first half and us using the wing as an outlet.
Lets hope this is the start of a great second half of the season!
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Never seen such a turn around in team spirit. I don't know how or why we suddenly fought like tigers as a unit, with committment and passion from Chairman to Mc Allister.
Whoever managed to instill it - it was great to have our Villa back!
Well done everyone.
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Wonder who McAllister wanted to chin ? Any footage anywhere ?
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This was interesting in the Independent match report.
Did anyone see what happened here?
That they did not was a testament to a Villa team who looked badly short of anything that might loosely be described as fighting spirit in their defeat to Manchester City last week. But they had it yesterday, in outstanding performances from Brad Friedel, Emile Heskey and Ashley Young, right through to assistant Gary McAllister who spent the aftermath of Villa's celebrations offering to fight a member of the Chelsea staff.
Nice to read, after all the stuff this week about the two of them sitting there like they're waiting for a bus to arrive, or Wetherspoons to open.
Perhaps we could also stop some of this hugging, kissing and high fives in the tunnel before the game as well. Not that we are the only team that does that by any means but I prefer the Roy Keane approach myself...
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Our penalty was the most obvious penalty award I have seen in a long time. There was no need to appeal as everyone knew it was 100% nailed on. Very surprised that Essien did not get booked.
Watch it again then, carefully, and explain to me why NRC throws his arms up in frustration and very evidently thinks the ref has blown for a foul against him? It was so obvious that even the player fouled didn't realise it was a pen? Hmmmm......
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Our penalty was the most obvious penalty award I have seen in a long time. There was no need to appeal as everyone knew it was 100% nailed on. Very surprised that Essien did not get booked.
Watch it again then, carefully, and explain to me why NRC throws his arms up in frustration and very evidently thinks the ref has blown for a foul against him? It was so obvious that even the player fouled didn't realise it was a pen? Hmmmm......
Because the chances of getting a pen away at the Champions are slim,even if it is a nailed on pen. NRC was probably fearing the worse. It was a blatant penalty.
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Our penalty was the most obvious penalty award I have seen in a long time. There was no need to appeal as everyone knew it was 100% nailed on. Very surprised that Essien did not get booked.
Watch it again then, carefully, and explain to me why NRC throws his arms up in frustration and very evidently thinks the ref has blown for a foul against him? It was so obvious that even the player fouled didn't realise it was a pen? Hmmmm......
My interpretation of NRC throwing his arms up was he felt he had a stonewall penalty and that the knobhead ref wouldn't give it
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Our penalty was the most obvious penalty award I have seen in a long time. There was no need to appeal as everyone knew it was 100% nailed on. Very surprised that Essien did not get booked.
Watch it again then, carefully, and explain to me why NRC throws his arms up in frustration and very evidently thinks the ref has blown for a foul against him? It was so obvious that even the player fouled didn't realise it was a pen? Hmmmm......
My interpretation of NRC throwing his arms up was he felt he had a stonewall penalty and that the knobhead ref wouldn't give it
As I said, watch it again carefully. You will see quite clearly that NRC thinks a foul has been given against him and almost doesn't know what to do when he sees it is, in fact, a pen his way
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Oh, and lest we lose sight of things, all I am contesting is that it was not the most obvious penalty one has seen in a long time. Unless, perhaps, one only watches Villa games as we often seem to win quite dodgy pens in my opinion and can hardly have any complaints on that front. It may well have been a pen, but it doesn't deserve that description! And not everyone (i.e. NRC himself) knew 100% that it was a pen. I may well be wrong in this assertion, but I don't think I saw one Villa player appeal...
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Very pleased with the result of course. From the highlights the game looked to be quite error strewn on all sides, not helped by the pitch. We clearly defended much better; but made errors for all 3 goals. Albrightons in particular was pretty unforgivable I thought.
I've stood up for petrov in the past, and we will be better with him and NRC in the middle. But I'm a bit worried that he's knacked.
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Our penalty was the most obvious penalty award I have seen in a long time. There was no need to appeal as everyone knew it was 100% nailed on. Very surprised that Essien did not get booked.
Watch it again then, carefully, and explain to me why NRC throws his arms up in frustration and very evidently thinks the ref has blown for a foul against him? It was so obvious that even the player fouled didn't realise it was a pen? Hmmmm......
My interpretation of NRC throwing his arms up was he felt he had a stonewall penalty and that the knobhead ref wouldn't give it
As I said, watch it again carefully. You will see quite clearly that NRC thinks a foul has been given against him and almost doesn't know what to do when he sees it is, in fact, a pen his way
Maybe he threw his arms thinking the ref wasn't going to give the penalty?
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I think centre-midfield is a bit of a thorny one for us to deal with in some ways, although I suppose the easy answer is 'buy someone better'!
I had originally thought that Delph would be a replacement for NRC, but on reflection I think he's more a candidate to replace Petrov. He is hard-working and can keep posession well, like Petrov, but he has a lot more energy and, I think, a more creative element to his passing. Alongside NRC (or a possible upgrade, although I still think Reo-Coker can be a very good player in the right role), I think Delph might just add something to our midfield in the same way as Milner did.
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Our penalty was the most obvious penalty award I have seen in a long time. There was no need to appeal as everyone knew it was 100% nailed on. Very surprised that Essien did not get booked.
Watch it again then, carefully, and explain to me why NRC throws his arms up in frustration and very evidently thinks the ref has blown for a foul against him? It was so obvious that even the player fouled didn't realise it was a pen? Hmmmm......
My interpretation of NRC throwing his arms up was he felt he had a stonewall penalty and that the knobhead ref wouldn't give it
As I said, watch it again carefully. You will see quite clearly that NRC thinks a foul has been given against him and almost doesn't know what to do when he sees it is, in fact, a pen his way
Maybe he threw his arms thinking the ref wasn't going to give the penalty?
Watch it carefully. Including the look on his face when the whistle goes. He throws his hands up in the air and grimaces after the whistle is blown and there is a pause before he realises he has won the pen at which point he looks vaguely sheepish...
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Our penalty was the most obvious penalty award I have seen in a long time. There was no need to appeal as everyone knew it was 100% nailed on. Very surprised that Essien did not get booked.
Watch it again then, carefully, and explain to me why NRC throws his arms up in frustration and very evidently thinks the ref has blown for a foul against him? It was so obvious that even the player fouled didn't realise it was a pen? Hmmmm......
My interpretation of NRC throwing his arms up was he felt he had a stonewall penalty and that the knobhead ref wouldn't give it
As I said, watch it again carefully. You will see quite clearly that NRC thinks a foul has been given against him and almost doesn't know what to do when he sees it is, in fact, a pen his way
Richard, it was a split second situation as Mason did blow very quickly for the penalty. Reo Coker's reaction was equally as quick and, yes he did think the whistle was for a foul against him but as others have said it was because he naturally thought that Villa wouldn't get a penalty based on the way the referee had been performing up until then. All of the players were getting very wound up by the way the referee was booking Villa players but letting Chelsea players get away with fouls that were, in some cases, no less than things that Villa players were being booked for.
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Anyway, let's move on, I am very glad a pen was given obviously!
I did think all the Villa bookings were deserved, much as it pains me to say it, the problem being that Essien should also have gone in the book and Terry perhaps should even have been shown a red for his two footed lunge second half and was not even booked...
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better...
still concerns about the defending, but its a start...
hopefully, some match fitness and some incoming players can now act as a springboard for a strong second half of the season...
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Our penalty was the most obvious penalty award I have seen in a long time. There was no need to appeal as everyone knew it was 100% nailed on. Very surprised that Essien did not get booked.
Watch it again then, carefully, and explain to me why NRC throws his arms up in frustration and very evidently thinks the ref has blown for a foul against him? It was so obvious that even the player fouled didn't realise it was a pen? Hmmmm......
As the ref had been so poor all day I guess NRC reckoned he'd cocked up again. It was an absolute, 100% penalty. Their's was debatable.
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That was a MON team performance if ever I saw one, but comes as no surprise given that only Ciaran Clark was the only difference in the team (though maybe NRC as well).
We play like that, we'll be fine, but that much was clear from the last three seasons.
I suggest GH keeps this style up until we're clear of any relegation worries, then he must try and get the team playing how he wants them to, ready for next season.
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I think centre-midfield is a bit of a thorny one for us to deal with in some ways, although I suppose the easy answer is 'buy someone better'!
I had originally thought that Delph would be a replacement for NRC, but on reflection I think he's more a candidate to replace Petrov. He is hard-working and can keep posession well, like Petrov, but he has a lot more energy and, I think, a more creative element to his passing. Alongside NRC (or a possible upgrade, although I still think Reo-Coker can be a very good player in the right role), I think Delph might just add something to our midfield in the same way as Milner did.
I think Jean Makoun would be a great addition to the midfield.
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Anyway, let's move on, I am very glad a pen was given obviously!
I did think all the Villa bookings were deserved, much as it pains me to say it
I disagree, apart from the Petrov one which was a terrible challenge, and another which escapes me at the moment, he could have easily used common sense and just given free kicks. Instead he got his cards out almost every time. NRC's booking for example was ridiculous. Drogba tripped himself up and he was only past the half way line. Sorry Richard, it was possibly the most over the top refereeing perfomance i've seen for a long time.
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Richard - I agree with you in terms of Reo Cokers reaction. It was one of the funniest moments in a game I have seen in a long while, and is clearly after the whistle, thinks another poor decision has gone against him and starts having a benny, realisation hits, and he meekly high fives the nearest player while exiting the scene as quietly as he can!
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Our penalty was as blatant a penalty I can remember. Reo-Coker's reaction was due to the ref's performance during the previous 40 minutes.
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Anyway, let's move on, I am very glad a pen was given obviously!
I did think all the Villa bookings were deserved, much as it pains me to say it
I disagree, apart from the Petrov one which was a terrible challenge, and another which escapes me at the moment
Gabby's definitely was.
You could argue that all of them warranted a booking. As long as the equivalent fouls by Chelsea players received the same punishment. Which they didn't.
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I think centre-midfield is a bit of a thorny one for us to deal with in some ways, although I suppose the easy answer is 'buy someone better'!
I had originally thought that Delph would be a replacement for NRC, but on reflection I think he's more a candidate to replace Petrov. He is hard-working and can keep posession well, like Petrov, but he has a lot more energy and, I think, a more creative element to his passing. Alongside NRC (or a possible upgrade, although I still think Reo-Coker can be a very good player in the right role), I think Delph might just add something to our midfield in the same way as Milner did.
I agree with that. Whilst accepting Stan brings a lot of experience with him, he appears to be the weaker of the two central midfielders. For those that still think NRC can't pass, yesterday's game was yet another demonstration of just how much he's improved that side of his game. I counted one misplaced pass all game but what was impressive was what he actually did with the ball when he had it. I really hope he signs a new contract as the alternative is somebody getting a bloody good player for nothing.
As for Delph, he's still what, 19 years old, he needs time and games under his belt to get to a level whereby he's first choice. He'll get there but let's not throw him in the deep end just yet, he's going to be a great player if brought through correctly.
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Delph is the long term solution for Stan. Let's hope he keeps improving.
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I think centre-midfield is a bit of a thorny one for us to deal with in some ways, although I suppose the easy answer is 'buy someone better'!
I had originally thought that Delph would be a replacement for NRC, but on reflection I think he's more a candidate to replace Petrov. He is hard-working and can keep posession well, like Petrov, but he has a lot more energy and, I think, a more creative element to his passing. Alongside NRC (or a possible upgrade, although I still think Reo-Coker can be a very good player in the right role), I think Delph might just add something to our midfield in the same way as Milner did.
I agree with that. Whilst accepting Stan brings a lot of experience with him, he appears to be the weaker of the two central midfielders. For those that still think NRC can't pass, yesterday's game was yet another demonstration of just how much he's improved that side of his game. I counted one misplaced pass all game but what was impressive was what he actually did with the ball when he had it. I really hope he signs a new contract as the alternative is somebody getting a bloody good player for nothing.
As for Delph, he's still what, 19 years old, he needs time and games under his belt to get to a level whereby he's first choice. He'll get there but let's not throw him in the deep end just yet, he's going to be a great player if brought through correctly.
Reo Coker had a good first half but virtually disappeared in the second so didn't have the chance to give the ball away. I want us to get back to the stage where he's the player we bring on for 20 minutes to help kill the game.
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Richard - I agree with you in terms of Reo Cokers reaction. It was one of the funniest moments in a game I have seen in a long while, and is clearly after the whistle, thinks another poor decision has gone against him and starts having a benny, realisation hits, and he meekly high fives the nearest player while exiting the scene as quietly as he can!
Richard - I agree with you in terms of Reo Cokers reaction. It was one of the funniest moments in a game I have seen in a long while, and is clearly after the whistle, thinks another poor decision has gone against him and starts having a benny, realisation hits, and he meekly high fives the nearest player while exiting the scene as quietly as he can!
Kinda sums Reo-Coker up really! His brain always seems to be one step behind his actions to me, odd as he appears very coherent and with it off the pitch...
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I would like to see more of Delph as I don't see Petrov as 90 minute player.There was an instance when Reo Coker won the ball and pushed it forward,Petrov couldn't get to the ball quicker than the Chelsea player and they were back in possession.Teams have kept saying we tire after 70 minutes,this being the case we need to use the subs more.
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Teams have kept saying we tire after 70 minutes,this being the case we need to use the subs more.
No, we need to have a team that does not tire after 70 minutes and use substitutions for injuries and tactical to change games.
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I think centre-midfield is a bit of a thorny one for us to deal with in some ways, although I suppose the easy answer is 'buy someone better'!
I had originally thought that Delph would be a replacement for NRC, but on reflection I think he's more a candidate to replace Petrov. He is hard-working and can keep posession well, like Petrov, but he has a lot more energy and, I think, a more creative element to his passing. Alongside NRC (or a possible upgrade, although I still think Reo-Coker can be a very good player in the right role), I think Delph might just add something to our midfield in the same way as Milner did.
I agree with that. Whilst accepting Stan brings a lot of experience with him, he appears to be the weaker of the two central midfielders. For those that still think NRC can't pass, yesterday's game was yet another demonstration of just how much he's improved that side of his game. I counted one misplaced pass all game but what was impressive was what he actually did with the ball when he had it. I really hope he signs a new contract as the alternative is somebody getting a bloody good player for nothing.
As for Delph, he's still what, 19 years old, he needs time and games under his belt to get to a level whereby he's first choice. He'll get there but let's not throw him in the deep end just yet, he's going to be a great player if brought through correctly.
Reo Coker had a good first half but virtually disappeared in the second so didn't have the chance to give the ball away. I want us to get back to the stage where he's the player we bring on for 20 minutes to help kill the game.
I know you don't rate him Chris but second half it was obvious he'd been given a job to do, specifically stopping Anelka and Lampard making runs from deep. So successful was he, Chelsea were forced to push everything to the flanks, eventually replacing the frustrated Anelka. Lampard had one chance second half but that was from a very advanced position. Even the lunatic that is David Pleat, managed to note that neither Essien or Lampard had been able to get in the game, such was the way we strangled them.
As Mac mentioned earlier, with six players on a yellow card, including NRC, it was very difficult for us to commit to the type of challenges we had first half. It would be wonderful to bring NRC on for the last 20 minutes to close up the game, at the same time it would be great to bring on Gabby or Ashley with 20 minutes to go to win the game. Problem is, they're the best we have at the moment and deserve on this season's performances to be in the starting XI.
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We definately could have done with some fresh legs in midfield for the last 20minutes Gabby NRC and Stan had run themselves out, but not surprising when you consider that they are probably not match fit
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That was a MON team performance if ever I saw one, but comes as no surprise given that only Ciaran Clark was the only difference in the team (though maybe NRC as well).
We play like that, we'll be fine, but that much was clear from the last three seasons.
I suggest GH keeps this style up until we're clear of any relegation worries, then he must try and get the team playing how he wants them to, ready for next season.
Lest I am mistaken, "Team MON" got beaten 7-1 in the corresponding fixture last season.
More seriously, I thought the "graphic" presented by Lee Dixon on MOTD, and also a tactical analysis that has been floating about on the internet, provided interecting viewing/reading. They illustrated how Houlliers team held a much wider formation throughout the team, and pushed up further, thereby preventing Chelsea attacking down the wings.
Certainly my recollection when at Stamford Bridge last season is Chelsae looking like they were going to score every time the ball went out to the wings, and Luke Young being taken to the cleaners.
Whilst Houlliers tactics were probably somewhat elementary, I think he has already demonstrated himself to be tactically more astute than MON. If he can win over, and motivate, the players, I think we will do better than if MON had stayed.
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That was a MON team performance if ever I saw one, but comes as no surprise given that only Ciaran Clark was the only difference in the team (though maybe NRC as well).
We play like that, we'll be fine, but that much was clear from the last three seasons.
I suggest GH keeps this style up until we're clear of any relegation worries, then he must try and get the team playing how he wants them to, ready for next season.
Lest I am mistaken, "Team MON" got beaten 7-1 in the corresponding fixture last season.
More seriously, I thought the "graphic" presented by Lee Dixon on MOTD, and also a tactical analysis that has been floating about on the internet, provided interecting viewing/reading. They illustrated how Houlliers team held a much wider formation throughout the team, and pushed up further, thereby preventing Chelsea attacking down the wings.
Certainly my recollection when at Stamford Bridge last season is Chelsae looking like they were going to score every time the ball went out to the wings, and Luke Young being taken to the cleaners.
Whilst Houlliers tactics were probably somewhat elementary, I think he has already demonstrated himself to be tactically more astute than MON. If he can win over, and motivate, the players, I think we will do better than if MON had stayed.
What about the game at Villa Park? Or Man Utd? Or Liverpool? Do you just judge MON on one game? What about all the others?
Already demonstrated himself to be tactically more astute than MON?!?!?!? How on earth you can say that after we've tried passing the ball around in previous matches (or just not bothered playing at all (Blackburn/Spurs/Man City) and then we converted to a more direct style against Chelsea and pressed them hard (just how MON played) and we got a good result.
I'm not against GH, I think he can take MON's team and improve it, but to say that in the short period he's been there that he's demonstrated himself to be tactically more astute than MON is just plain wrong.