Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Legion on April 06, 2011, 04:38:52 PM
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2-0 Aston Villa win
Bent 4, 88
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4-1 Bent, Gabby, Downing, OG; don't care who scores for them.
The Bells Are Ringing.
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2-1 to us with Bent and Ashley Young scoring.
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The term 'must win game' is over used.
But bloody hell, this IS A MUST WIN GAME.
2 -1 Villa
I don't care who scores.
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Nil nil
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We will actually win this, thirteen... no, one-nil. Bent.
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1-1 Draw. A Young and Nolan for them.
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3-1.
Ameomi 15
Bent 36
Bent 55
Downing 78
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3-0
Dunne
Bent
Downing
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1-1 Draw. A Young and Nolan for them.
Isn't Nolan banned ?
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We've been playing must win games now for over a month and it still hasn't dawned on our manager or players that winning a game might be a good idea.
I fear the worst again - probably a sound thrashing not quite on the scale of the 6-0 but enough for even the few remaining 'we're too good to go down' doubters to sit up and take notice.
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5-0 (Bent 2, Downing 2, Young) fuck knows were the confidence has come from, just a feeling I've got
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Bent's on a roll right now. Give him the service and he'll score a few goals. We're shit at the back mind, so it's a case of who'll score more. But Newcastles lack of firepower means we'll shade this one I think.
3-1
Bent x2
Downing
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I think all of our big players will turn up and it will click on Sunday
4-1 home win Bent x 2, Young, Downing
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From Newcastle United- mad website:
"Why do we always get more of a friendly welcome when we visit Villa Park rather than up the road at St Andrews? The fans are like chalk and cheese".
CLASS!
Lets give them another friendly welcome from true supporters, but we will have the three points!
UTV
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The term 'must win game' is over used.
But bloody hell, this IS A MUST WIN GAME.
2 -1 Villa
I don't care who scores.
We've had a few of these this season, maybe we'll crack it this time.
Just have a feeling it will be a draw, a point closer to safety, but a continuation of the agony for a while longer.
Where we are at present, we could have done without a Sunday kick-off. The results will already be in for most of the sides around us, even more pressure. We don't 'do' pressure.
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yes, we could be in the drop zone by the time we kick off
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Or results could go in our favour giving us an advantage and some confidence.
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Or results could go in our favour giving us an advantage and some confidence.
Oh yes, i hadn't seen it from that angle
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We ALWAYS concede 53 league goals already this season :(
On this basis...
2-1 Villa
Bent
Downing
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Head says draw heart says win, so I will go for a 1-1, Bent for us and Gutierrez for them.
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ill go for a very nervpous 1-0 win! Bent the scorer
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Has anyone used the term 'must win game' yet? Well they were right to do so. The problem with us and those kind of games is that we lose and put in miserable performances (CF Wolves and Sunderland).
We absolutely have to win and win we shall.
I'll go for 2-0 with a Bent double like Legion.
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I'll go for 3-1 Villa with Bent amongst the goals again
Newcastle should be safe after beating The Dingles last week and in addition to losing Andy Carroll back in January they are without Leon Best (injured) and Kevin Nolan (suspended) for this match; that pretty much eradicates their entire goal threat apart from Joey Sodding Barton... so keep him quiet and we'll be alright!
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Wolverhampton v Everton, 12:45
Blackburn v Birmingham, 15:00
Bolton v West Ham, 15:00
Chelsea v Wigan, 15:00
Man Utd v Fulham, 15:00
Sunderland v West Brom, 15:00
Tottenham v Stoke, 15:00
Never easy to call it with absolute certainty, particularly this season.
But you'd expect Chelsea to see off Wigan and Arsenal must be favourites v Blackpool.
Of the others, Wolves/Everton could go either way. Ditto Bolton/West Ham. A win for both the 'W' teams -nailed on relegation certs a few weeks back- in those games would not be particularly unusual. Nor would a win (or at least a draw) for WBA.
Blackburn or B-lose also stand a decent chance of being in a much better position come 5pm on Saturday. It's a six pointer for them, but a lose/lose for us. A win for either opens up a 3 point margin and would push them quite a bit higher in the league, a timely boost to morale at this stage of the campaign. Even a draw (probably the preferred result) gives two of the sides around us an extra point.
So yes, we face the very real prospect of being in the bottom 3 by the time we kick off on Sunday. If we are, it's how we stand up to the pressure. We'll be seen as the next big club on the slide, the 'crisis' club and so on. And there will be plenty of reactions similar to the Everton fans last week, people almost willing us to go down.
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Had a text from Villa today
Seats in the Trinity wings for Sunday are only £15 if anyone is tempted
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Leeg - have you jinxed us by not stickying this?! May need to break out the orange dot again to compensate.
Again our opponents are doing their best to help us with injuries/suspensions. They lost Carroll obviously, Leon Best is out for the rest of the season and Nolan is suspended. They've still got the Amoeba and that Underpants guy, but we should have got some confidence from last week to carry in to this game. Villa win 3-1
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Conceding is a given.
1-1 Downing
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We'll win.
3-1.
Bent x 2.
Downing.
Barton.
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Got a feeling in my water that Barton will be sent off.
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Got a feeling in my water that Barton will be sent off.
For hacking down Ashley Young 10 times.
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PLEASE, PLEASE VILLA WIN.
Villa 2 Newcastle 1
Bent, Albrighton - Taylor
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I wish it wasn't on Sunday so there is even more pressure after the results form Saturday.
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4-0 Villa
Walker
Bent x2
A Young
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Goals bonanza
3-3
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With luck, none of the bottom eight (us excepted) will be getting any more than a point at the weekend. Some tough games for all of 'em.
A seriously must win game, ahead of the trip to the Spammers!
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Bburn will prob draw with Blues
I can see Arsenal bottling out and losing at Blackpool
I also think Wolves will beat an injury ravaged Everton after we softened them up last week
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Got a feeling in my water that Barton will be sent off.
Could do with something like that in our favour, particularly nice and early to take full advantage of it. That said, with 11 players Newcastle will come to our place and think they can win. With a man down, they'll just put men behind the ball and try to kill the game. It probably suits us better if they actually go for it.
If we could somehow eke out 4 points from the next two games that will kill a lot of the pressure. I don't care how we do it, whether we grind it out, play well or have the opposition bagging own goals left right and centre.
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Got to be optomistic this week.
4 - 2.
Us: Bent, Bent, Young, Bent.
Them: Ameobi, Dunne (o.g.)
A bloser asked me at work today, who was the last Villa player to score a hat trick in the league? I felt bad not remembering. Thought it may have been big Dion.
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Got to be optomistic this week.
4 - 2.
Us: Bent, Bent, Young, Bent.
Them: Ameobi, Dunne (o.g.)
A bloser asked me at work today, who was the last Villa player to score a hat trick in the league? I felt bad not remembering. Thought it may have been big Dion.
Carew scored three against Newcastle a few years ago and didn't Gabby get one against Man City on the opening day of the season in 2009 too?
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correct re Gabby in a 4-2 win in the sun
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I think we'll win, whatever people think of last Saturday I think they players will gain confidence from the draw at Everton.
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correct re Gabby in a 4-2 win in the sun
Of course. Put under pressure by a Bloser, how could I not remember Gabby's perfect hat-trick or Big John's last minute penalty against Newcastle.
Hopefully I'll be telling the Bloser on Monday that Bent was the last Villa player to score a hat-trick.
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Leeg - have you jinxed us by not stickying this?! May need to break out the orange dot again to compensate.
Again our opponents are doing their best to help us with injuries/suspensions. They lost Carroll obviously, Leon Best is out for the rest of the season and Nolan is suspended. They've still got the Amoeba and that Underpants guy, but we should have got some confidence from last week to carry in to this game. Villa win 3-1
I bloody well hope not! Sorry, I was in a bit of a rush at work. Orange Dot will be on the Match Thread.
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2-0 to the Villa - downing (15) , bent (27)
As the game has been moved to 4pm on Sunday I will not be able to attend - as I will be in that, there London.
Anyone know any pubs with Sky Sports by the London eye ?
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Cannot afford a loss. My prediction is a scrappy and unfair (on the geordies) 1-0 Victory.
Downing 78'
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3-1 Villa win. Bent, Downing, Young for us.
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My word they really do hate us don't they.
http://www.nufc-forum.com/nufcforum/index.php?topic=38304.30
There's even a baggie giving it large on there. Let's hope we batter them on Sunday. They don't seem to realise that had Carew scored that penalty and we'd gone on to win up there then we would be above them in the table. They are going on about how they are 9th and we are 16th but the gap is fuck all.
Anyway, a much needed win. 2-0 with Bent getting both.
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Got a feeling in my water that Barton will be sent off.
and me , now they have made him captain..
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2-0 Villa. Collins Downing. Barton sent off 17th minute ...........
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I think we need to go out with an attacking line up for this match. To that end I'd start with a narrow 4-3-3
---------------------Friedel------------------
---Walker---Cuellar---Clark---Young---
---------Petrov---Makoun---Delph-------
---------Young----Bent---Downing-------
Marshall, Dunne, Bradley, NRC, Albrighton, Agbonlahor, Heskey
That is what I would start with anyway.
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Forgot my prediction -
Aston Villa 3-1 Newcastle United
Makoun 17
Bent 39
Bent 90+3
Barton (Pen) 44
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Win this one and we will be OK ...come on Villa
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Have to play 4-4-2 and for me we have to play Gabby against Taylor if he is in, so, so slow!
Think we will lose to a nervy late goal unfortunately.
Brad
Cuellar,
Collins
Dunne,
L Young
Downing,
Reo Coker
Delph
Young
Bent,
Gabby
That would be my starting 11. Makoun looked poor for much of last week again. Delph might give us the drive forward from midfield we need.
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Newcastle are safe now, hopefully they've spent the week drinking Stella and reading travel brochures
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I'd really fear for us and the rest of the season if we can't win this one.
Seems strange to say that about a team that destroyed us 6 nil at the start of the season but their last away game was a 4 nil defeat at Stoke.
Plus Carroll eat our back 4 for lunch that day.
Good that Tiote and Nolan are suspended so that will significantly weaken their midfield although annoyingly Barton always seems to have a wonder game against us whatever mental state he's in.
2-0 us. Bent and Gabby.
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Got a feeling in my water that Barton will be sent off.
His individual duel against NRC (with Makoun chipping in no doubt) will take no prisoners certainly.
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2-2 draw. Our defence is as leaky as a collander but so is theirs.
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---------------------Friedel------------------
---Cuellar---Dunne---Collins---Clarke---
-------Reo-Coker---Makoun---Delph-------
---Young----------Bent----------------Downing---
My preferred formation for this encounter.
Predicting 1-0 to the Claret & Blue with Downing scoring midway through the second half; the game will be feisty, scrappy, tough, and Newcastle will dominate.
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2-2 draw for me aswell.
Cannot trust our defence one bit.
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NEW YORK NEW YORK
Those of you in the know about New York can you help me? This weekend I am going to be there staying in a hotel in Lexington Avenue at the 25th. Where is the nearest sports or Irish bar I can catch the match at 11.00AM? :D
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NEW YORK NEW YORK
Those of you in the know about New York can you help me? This weekend I am going to be there staying in a hotel in Lexington Avenue at the 25th. Where is the nearest sports or Irish bar I can catch the match at 11.00AM? :D
nevada smiths on 3rd, between 11th and 12th (near union sqaure) is where all the new york-based villa fans go and they have got it on live - http://www.nevadasmiths.net/
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After Everton I think the players will have more confidence and belief.
So I am going for a home win. 2.1 or 3.2.
We really need 3 points.
Come on me babbies.
UTV.
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nervy win 2-1
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Us 3 - 2 Them
Bent (2) & Gabby for us.
Ant & Dec for them.
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Wouldn't you just love a straightforward, uncomplicated win for a change
You know, where we go one up in about the 30th minute, then two up around the 70th and the game just fizzles out as we coast to an unremarkable but much needed 2-0 win
How many of those have we had this season? Blackburn at home maybe..
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NEW YORK NEW YORK
Those of you in the know about New York can you help me? This weekend I am going to be there staying in a hotel in Lexington Avenue at the 25th. Where is the nearest sports or Irish bar I can catch the match at 11.00AM? :D
nevada smiths on 3rd, between 11th and 12th (near union sqaure) is where all the new york-based villa fans go and they have got it on live - http://www.nevadasmiths.net/
Cheers. That's where I 'll be.
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I hate predictions and its even worse when I think we will get soundly beaten. Not disloyal but simply looking at the current state of things.
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I hate predictions and its even worse when I think we will get soundly beaten. Not disloyal but simply looking at the current state of things.
It's going to be anything but easy, they're a better team.
Having said that, the bookies have us as favourites.
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I'm shitting it about this game now.
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No injuries,no suspensions,positive support,no excuses :
http://http://www.physioroom.com/news/english_premier_league/epl_injury_table.php
4-2 Villa
Bent hat trick,Downing Barton x2 Thank God Nolan is suspended and we don't have to put up with the possibility of that ridiculous and highly irritating chicken goal celebration
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I'm not to be honest, at some point this season we are going to give someone an absolute tonking, and I think it will be Newcastle.
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I'd be inclined to drop Walker for Cuellar & rest Makoun and bring either Delph or Petrov into the middle
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I'm shitting it about this game now.
Me too,im hoping that the crowd will be up for it,we get an early goal to settle everyone down,and get a comfortable win,especially as theyre not great on their travels.
But if we get into the second half level and struggling to score its gonna be really tense.
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Lets get the old place rocking!
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---------------------Friedel------------------
---Cuellar---Dunne---Collins---Clarke---
-------Reo-Coker---Makoun---Delph-------
---Young----------Bent----------------Downing---
My preferred formation for this encounter.
Predicting 1-0 to the Claret & Blue with Downing scoring midway through the second half; the game will be feisty, scrappy, tough, and Newcastle will dominate.
I want that formation
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1-0 Gabby
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---------------------Friedel------------------
---Cuellar---Dunne---Collins---Clarke---
-------Reo-Coker---Makoun---Delph-------
---Young----------Bent----------------Downing---
My preferred formation for this encounter.
Predicting 1-0 to the Claret & Blue with Downing scoring midway through the second half; the game will be feisty, scrappy, tough, and Newcastle will dominate.
I want that formation
I like that too!
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I cant see Newcastle dominating. I have watched them a bit this year, and away from home, they try to play on the counter attack. It should be interesting though
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---------------------Friedel------------------
---Cuellar---Dunne---Collins---Clarke---
-------Reo-Coker---Makoun---Delph-------
---Young----------Bent----------------Downing---
My preferred formation for this encounter.
Predicting 1-0 to the Claret & Blue with Downing scoring midway through the second half; the game will be feisty, scrappy, tough, and Newcastle will dominate.
I want that formation
I like that too!
That looks a pretty solid team. I can see Bent scoring,and though they tanned Wolves last week i can only see them winning because of our defensive troubles and not due to their attacking qualities. Feel sorry for Carlos,would rather see himin than Collins,who's form is really bad at the minute.
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Is there going to be a H&V contingent in the Bartons before this? Might be able to get down there for a few.
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Again there is not much chance of us guessing the side correctly.
Houllier is bound to throw a curve ball in, somebody like Bradley or Pires.
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Is there going to be a H&V contingent in the Bartons before this? Might be able to get down there for a few.
I'll be in there from 1 getting pissed.
A. To lubricate my throat for the singing pre-match.
B. To anesthetize me in case we lose
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I'll be there too.
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5-1 to Villa. Bent 3, Downing, Young (pen).
Some twat for them.
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Is this the most positive pre match thread we have had for some time ?
Whats going on !!
Wishful thinking...desperation.....confidence ?
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Villa to win comfortably, 3.0
Bent, Young and Gabby
If we dont beat Newcastle then we are in the shit big style!
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Is there going to be a H&V contingent in the Bartons before this? Might be able to get down there for a few.
I'll be in there from 1 getting pissed.
A. To lubricate my throat for the singing pre-match.
B. To anesthetize me in case we lose
Are you the one with the mullet?
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Prayer mats out!
Nervy 2-1 Villa win as we never do things easy!
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We'll be winning by a single goal with 5/10 minutes to go, then the inevitable will happen.
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I've gone for us to win, but it's more hope than prediction as who knows what Villa will show up on Sunday?
I can see clark coming back in and am imagining the following team:-
Freidel
Walker
Dunne
Clark
L Young
NRC
Makoun
Downing
Young
Albrighton
Bent
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Must win this, otherwise it doenst look very well is it. Up the villa
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Freidel
Cuellar, Dunne, Collins. L Young
Downing, NRC, Makoun, A Young
Agbonlahor, Bent
3-0
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Freidel
Cuellar, Dunne, Collins. L Young
Downing, NRC, Petrov, A Young
Agbonlahor, Bent
Delph on for Petrov at 65 if all going to plan
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For me:
---------------------Friedel------------------
---Walker----Cuellar---Clark---LYoung--
-------Reo Coker---Makoun---Delph-------
-----------Young---Bent---Downing---------
I expect those incompetent clowns will remain together at centre back though.
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Are we still all taking scarves to this game.
I'm not keen on Newcastle - there, I've said it.
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I fear that this will be an Andy Carroll return to form.
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Is there going to be a H&V contingent in the Bartons before this? Might be able to get down there for a few.
I'll be in there from 1 getting pissed.
A. To lubricate my throat for the singing pre-match.
B. To anesthetize me in case we lose
Are you the one with the mullet?
Heavens no, mullets are soooo 2010.
I'm the weedy one with the porn star moustache.
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I fear that this will be an Andy Carroll return to form.
Say what now?
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For me:
---------------------Friedel------------------
---Walker----Cuellar---Clark---LYoung--
-------Reo Coker---Makoun---Delph-------
-----------Young---Bent---Downing---------
I expect those incompetent clowns will remain together at centre back though.
You expect right.
I reckon he'll go
Brad
Walker
Dunne
Collins
Clark
Albrighton
Reo Coker
Makoun
Downing
A.Young
Bent
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Still relieved that Best is out for them.
Six goals in nine games, he'd have been rubbing his hands together at the prospect of giving Fatty and the pub bouncer the runaround.
Even Loverpants and Ameobi will put the shits up them.
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Is there going to be a H&V contingent in the Bartons before this? Might be able to get down there for a few.
I'll be in there from 1 getting pissed.
A. To lubricate my throat for the singing pre-match.
B. To anesthetize me in case we lose
Are you the one with the mullet?
No. You are close though. He just smells of fish.
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I fear that this will be an Andy Carroll return to form.
Say what now?
Whachu talkin about Willis?
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I fear that this will be an Andy Carroll return to form.
Say what now?
Whachu talkin about Willis?
That's Insania.
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Is there going to be a H&V contingent in the Bartons before this? Might be able to get down there for a few.
I'll be in there from 1 getting pissed.
A. To lubricate my throat for the singing pre-match.
B. To anesthetize me in case we lose
Are you the one with the mullet?
No. You are close though. He just smells of fish.
Only on the days I bang your Missus.
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I fear that this will be an Andy Carroll return to form.
Say what now?
Whachu talkin about Willis?
Office is 33C and the heating is still on. Not making very good decisions or judgements!
Can't see them being much of a goal threat. We'll win.
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Does Nolan normally skipper them ?
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I fear that this will be an Andy Carroll return to form.
Say what now?
Whachu talkin about Willis?
Office is 33C and the heating is still on. Not making very good decisions or judgements!
Can't see them being much of a goal threat. We'll win.
Sir's that is top class banter
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I'd give Walker another go. It's a tough one now cos we've alot of options. I'd like to get one of Cuellar or Clark for the added height at set pieces. But we need to win so Walker would be in there.
Perhaps Walker LB with Cuellar right back?
But midfield wise it's got to be:
Ashley - Makoun - NRC - Downing
Gabby - Bent.
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It is a tough one. Newcastle have a decent left side with Gutierrez and Enrique's back too, I think. Walker's raw still but I'm a bit loathe to leave him out, and he's quick and mobile enough to stay with Gutierrez. I'd have Cuellar in at right-sided CB to cover Walker if he gets into trouble, and go with this from the start:
Friedel
Walker-Cuellar-Dunne-Clark
Reo-Coker Makoun Delph
Young Bent Downing
Even with Nolan out, Newcastle's midfield is pretty good with Barton and Tiote. I think that midfield three could impose themselves on Newcastle. Gabby, Albrighton and Petrov the trio I'd consider introducing to change the shape of the side if we need to.
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I think Tiote is also out. Like Everton last week we could be playing a somewhat understrength side - perhaps we could win this time!!!
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Villa win, it's got to be. This is THE game, the fans will be behind the players, determined that the fate that our opponents suffered (partially because of us) will NOT befall our club. 3-1 Villa.
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Villa to win because we're the Villa.
2-0. Gabby and Benty.
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2-2 when 2-0 up for another unsatisfactory draw.
They'll be agony right till the end this season. McGrath I hope i'm wrong.
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They can't do anything against 'the bells are ringing'
Don't underestimate the 12th Man!
(everything crossed)
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Newcastle injuries
Newcastle United 9
T Kadar Hamstring Injury 1st May 11
K Lua Lua Broken Leg Jun 11
S Ferguson Calf Muscle Strain no return date
L Best Ankle/Foot Injury Jun 11
J Enrique Hamstring Injury 10th Apr 11
D Gosling Knee Injury 22nd May 11
A Smith Ankle/Foot Injury Aug 11
S Ireland Thigh Muscle Strain 19th Apr 11
H Ben Arfa Broken Leg 7th May 11
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I actually starting to feel quite sick about this game.
I reckon this is THE pivotal game in the rest of our season.
If we win, I think we will take a load of pressure of ourselves and go on to be comfortably safe.
If we don't win, even a draw, I think it will show that we don't really have the nous or ability to get out of the shit.
I think we will be right down amongst the deadmen for the remaining games with every chance of actually going down.
I'm sticking with my prediction of a villa win though.
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keep the faith, as its on TV the likes of Ash, NRC, Dunne, Collins etc will all have big games as they'll see it as a "shop window" opportunity
bent is on fire and will score x 2
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I fear that this will be an Andy Carroll return to form.
I'd like to bet you a few quid that he won't start against us on Sunday????
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Newcastle injuries
Newcastle United 9
T Kadar Hamstring Injury 1st May 11
K Lua Lua Broken Leg Jun 11
S Ferguson Calf Muscle Strain no return date
L Best Ankle/Foot Injury Jun 11
J Enrique Hamstring Injury 10th Apr 11
D Gosling Knee Injury 22nd May 11
A Smith Ankle/Foot Injury Aug 11
S Ireland Thigh Muscle Strain 19th Apr 11
H Ben Arfa Broken Leg 7th May 11
Bear in mind that Everton had a few key players out, yet we couldn't beat them.
Hopefully, home advantage and a noisy crowd might make a difference.
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It's a good job Cahill, Arteta, Fellaini, Saha etc were out last week otherwise we might not have won (Err...). Nolan and Tiote (yes that one, the Messi of the north) are out so we should be ok. Seriously though, it means bugger all who they have out if we don;t turn up ourselves. We will though. 3-1.
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4-2 win. Bent x 2 ,Gabby and Walker. Barton and og for them.
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Will be a very tasty atmosphere as the Geordies now hate us as much as the Mackems (check out their forums)...Praying for a comfortable win (3-0) but this team don't do comfortable. A very nailbiting 2-1 with Dunne scoring from a set-piece at the death (would be about time!).
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Might be 4-4-2 again ?
http://http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2333419,00.html
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Might be 4-4-2 again ?
http://http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2333419,00.html
'New system'
Does make it sound like's it's now in place.
If it is, give Heskey a trot with Bent upfront.
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2-1. Bent 89, 90. Barton 45.
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2-1. Bent 89, 90. Barton 45.
And heart failiure all round if it does go like that!
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With no Carroll, 4-4-2 might not be so bad against Newcastle. They aren't a team to pass anyone to death, and their 4-5-1 beat us mainly because because their big, boofy direct balls hit their target without exception, and the loss of Carroll leaves them with nobody else to bully us quite the same way. My only concern is the usual one with 4-4-2, that I think we should go for this game and that system is such a false friend - you lose options in the midfield and are easier to counter against, so you give the ball away more AND concede more chances. Ah well.
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Lawro speaks
Aston Villa v Newcastle
This is a very important game for Villa, who I thought were decent in their draw at Everton last week. I am not a believer in saying that a team is 'too good to go down' but Gerard Houllier has so many matchwinners that I am convinced they will be fine.
Newcastle have been a bit up and down on the road, and I think teams think they can get at them. You have to think Villa will get at least a couple of goals here.
It was interesting to hear about Magpies midfielder Joey Barton claiming in midweek that he is the best midfielder in England. Good on him, and I don't mind things like that because he genuinely believes it - but, although he has had a really good season, I don't think he should be in the England team.
Prediction: 2-1
Take That have predicted us to lose 2-3. >:(
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I just have a bad feeling about this one. All my confidence is now gone where we are concerned.
If we lose this one, we are doomed.
0-1 Barton pen 90
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5-3
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Going to be a hot one for Sunday, weather wise.
Up to 22!
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0-0 AET 4-5 on pens, Collins to miss.
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Going to be a hot one for Sunday, weather wise.
Up to 22!
Cue mass moob display from the Toon Army :O
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Going to be a hot one for Sunday, weather wise.
Up to 22!
In that case no way am I wearing a scarf, I'll just have to be the 11.5th man.
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No ifs, not buts, no more excuses - we quite simply must win.
2-1.
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I'm hoping we have a fit team of first choice picks who all stay on the pitch. Makoun vs Barton bothers me.
Then we should win.
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Going to be a hot one for Sunday, weather wise.
Up to 22!
In that case no way am I wearing a scarf, I'll just have to be the 11.5th man.
I shall tie mine around my wrist, 70's style.
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sportinglife.com
Newcastle manager Alan Pardew will be without suspended trio Kevin Nolan, Cheick Tiote and James Perch.
Skipper Nolan picked up his 10th booking of the season in last weekend's 4-1 victory over Wolves and must sit out two games, while Tiote completes a similar ban and Perch serves his punishment for a red card on reserve-team duty.
Ryan Taylor returns to contention after completing his three-match suspension and full-back Jose Enrique (hamstring) is fit, but Stephen Ireland is ineligible under the terms of his loan agreement.
French winger Hatem Ben Arfa is back on Tyneside and is expected to resume training with the first-team squad after recovering from a double leg fracture the week after next, but Leon Best is out for the season after undergoing ankle surgery and Dan Gosling (knee) and Alan Smith (ankle) remain on the sidelines.
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Nolan seems to always notch against us so i'm happy he's out.
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I'm not to be honest, at some point this season we are going to give someone an absolute tonking, and I think it will be Newcastle.
Oh yeah im feeling a bit of that :) I was gonna go for a nervy 2-1 but now im gonna go for 6-0
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Might be 4-4-2 again ?
http://http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2333419,00.html
'New system'
Does make it sound like's it's now in place.
If it is, give Heskey a trot with Bent upfront.
Does anyone think GH is bowing to a bit of pressure to all of a sudden go 4-4-2?
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Pleased Ireland can't play. He's been bloody brilliant for Newcastle since signing for them.
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Might be 4-4-2 again ?
http://http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2333419,00.html
'New system'
Does make it sound like's it's now in place.
If it is, give Heskey a trot with Bent upfront.
Does anyone think GH is bowing to a bit of pressure to all of a sudden go 4-4-2?
Does seem odd, nearly every Villa fan i've spoken to thinks we ought to go 4-4-2.
I think he finally saw sense.
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I think he realises that its time to stop trying a formation that could be good but isn't and just be compact.
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I do wonder if someone had a word in his ear.
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If it is 4-4-2 i hope its not NRC and Makoun as that would be useless. Petrov if only to get the ball from the defence and pass it to the forwards.
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The problem was that stupid outdated 4-4-1-1 system and playing between 3 and 4 wingers as per Wolves game.
With Young playing as the supporting 1 and Downing hopeless defensively meant the full back was exposed. Also playing Gabby on the wing was stupid. In MON's first season he tried Gabby on the wing and Young supporting Carew and it wasn't effective so why Houllier thinks it will be 4 years on is beyond me.
I don't mind whether it is 4-3-3 (with two wide) or 4-4-2 provided the right players are playing.
Personally we are more solid with 3 in the middle so tomorrow would like to see NRC, Petrov and Delph/Bradley.
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I don't mind whether it is 4-3-3 (with two wide) or 4-4-2 provided the right players are playing.
Personally we are more solid with 3 in the middle so tomorrow would like to see NRC, Petrov and Delph/Bradley.
I agree. We need to first win the midfield battle before we can go on and show our attacking strengths. We got seriously bullied at SJP earlier in the season and even without Nolan, they're a tough and dirty side. For all the wonderful first time passes Makoun can offer, he man can't tackle, preferring to track the player with the ball. We really need to be in their faces from the first minute as we were second half in 2007/8. Despite giving them too much space and allowing them to control the game first half, we came out and won every 50/50 ball and came back from 1 down to win 4-1. The fans that day also played their part, finishing off with a delightful "There's only one Kevin Keegan".
I'm going for a 3-0 home win. Villa Park on Sunday will be a wonderful place to be. Newcastle won't know what's hit them.
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Villa win, its has to be. Not only for the obvious but the lady is a Toon fan!
Aston Villa F.C 2 - 0 Newcastle United F.C
Bent 23' & Dunne 56'
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I hope he rests Makoun, brings Delph in and then Petrov on after 65 to close the game out
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I hope he rests Makoun, brings Delph in and then Petrov on after 65 to close the game out
I'd like Makoun playing tomorrow, why rest him ?
Delph is a different type of player and we need to give Makoun a real go at stamping his mark.
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I think Makoun needs a run of games in the reserves just to get him fully aclimatised
I think we're pushing him too soon, he's trying too hard and is an accident waiting to happen - see Blackpool, Everton
I'd get the most out of Petrov in his last 7 games with the club and keep Delph fully involved
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Remember about there being no trains from New Street to Aston/Witton and vice-versa.
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With a fully fit squad for just about the 1st time this season, them having some out, plus we will be out for revenge after the 6-0, and it being a must win game. We will win, 3-0 at least :D
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With a fully fit squad for just about the 1st time this season, them having some out, plus we will be out for revenge after the 6-0, and it being a must win game. We will win, 3-0 at least :D
I need some of your optimism. I'm going down on Sunday and I'm already bricking it.
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Gabby has not scored a PL goal at home in a year so he must be due one
Still think 4-1 but perhaps with gabby amongst the goals
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If it is 4-4-2 i hope its not NRC and Makoun as that would be useless. Petrov if only to get the ball from the defence and pass it to the forwards.
Would also like to see Petrov on. So we have a better link with the forwards. Think it also time to start using Delph who would be good against Barton ......
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After today's results (excepting the Stripeys), it's up to us to use it to our advantage. We talk about not having much luck but that's a massive dollop of it right there. A win will give us the momentum we need, I'm positive about that.
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Let's hope the twats don't let us down tomorrow.
3 points will give us much needed breathing space.
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I really hope all four sides of the ground are rocking tomorrow and i hope the players don't let us down.
I did that BBC predictor thing in the week and for this weekend i had Albion to win, West Ham to lose, Wolves to lose, Wigan to lose, Blues to draw, and i had us to draw with Newcastle...
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A repeat of the European Cup 25th Anniversary atmosphere, performance and result against Sheffield United would be very welcome.
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I dreamed last night that we lost 5-0. Also it was announced that the champions league final was to be played at the sty.
At this point I woke up and went and watered the allotment.
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I dreamed last night that we lost 5-0. Also it was announced that the champions league final was to be played at the sty.
At this point I woke up and went and watered the allotment.
I dreamt we'd won 4-0 with a Bent hat-trick.
Alas, like so many dreams, it was a sad illusion.
I woke up to find i'd fouled myself (again)
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I think /hope there will be decent atmosphere pre kick off tomorrow -similar to Man Citeh at home.
I'm reasonably confident we'd have been able to do this even without the cock rock version of the Bells are Ringing being blasted out.
How much all that will be worth if the players turn in a performance similar to the Wolves one, I'm not sure. But hopefully we don't find out. A decent start and a surge of confidence would take the pressure off no end in that regard.
I have a feeling it will be a battling draw though, maybe an equalizer for us in the last ten minutes (for a change).
Results were a mixed bag today, wouldn't have minded Blackburn actually winning as they can still come a cropper in their remaining games. Genuinely don't know what's going on with the Olbiyun. Spurs in the CL (though soon to be bowing out), B-lose winning a trophy and the Stripey cants mid table in April? Proof positive of a truly mental season.
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I dreamed last night that we lost 5-0. Also it was announced that the champions league final was to be played at the sty.
At this point I woke up and went and watered the allotment.
Is that a euphemism for pissing the bed?
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No, it refers to the use of the nearest wardrobe as a latrine.
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Have to win, there are no excuses. Even the Houllier defenders cant defend a lose or draw at home to this shite.
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Have to win, there are no excuses. Even the Houllier defenders cant defend a lose or draw at home to this shite.
I really hope we win. But NU's away record is won 5 drawn 3 lost 7. There are worse records!
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Might be 4-4-2 again ?
http://http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2333419,00.html
'New system'
Does make it sound like's it's now in place.
If it is, give Heskey a trot with Bent upfront.
Does anyone think GH is bowing to a bit of pressure to all of a sudden go 4-4-2?
Does seem odd, nearly every Villa fan i've spoken to thinks we ought to go 4-4-2.
I think he finally saw sense.
I don't. Hardly anyone plays 4-4-2, and certainly not with the type of out and out strikers we've got.
I'd play 4-3-3, with Makoun, NRC and one other in midfield. I'm a bit tempted to think of Pires for some reason. But I'd probably go with Petrov. AY and Downing on the 'wrong' sides a la England. I'd probably play LY at left back, but it would cut down our attacking threat.
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Have to win, there are no excuses. Even the Houllier defenders cant defend a lose or draw at home to this shite.
I really hope we win. But NU's away record is won 5 drawn 3 lost 7. There are worse records!
Don't care about their away record.
Don't care if we batter them for 90 minutes, miss 800 sitters and they scrape a win from a very dodgy goal. Today is about getting a win, time is running out and we need to get away from the drop. We have to win no excuses.
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I have woken up, found the phone I thought I had left in the pub, done the washing up, stuck the steriliser on, had a dump. The sun is out, results went our way yesterday and I see no reason to alter my prediction of 3-1 to Villa.
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After the results yesterday if (yes I know) we win our next two games then we all but guarantee survival. It will put us 8 points ahead of Wolves and West Ham.
So, Villa, please don't let us down.
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Agreed Chris, time for them to show what they're made of.
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This is a brilliant chance, following yesterday's results, for us to put some distance between ourselves and the bottom three.
Must take it, absolutely must.
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After the results yesterday if (yes I know) we win our next two games then we all but guarantee survival. It will put us 8 points ahead of Wolves and West Ham.
So, Villa, please don't let us down.
One game at a time, let's deal with the barcodes first
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This is a brilliant chance, following yesterday's results, for us to put some distance between ourselves and the bottom three.
Must take it, absolutely must.
But after supporting Villa for so many years, we just know what's going to happen...
Prove me wrong boys!
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Indeed.
I'm bricking it.
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Whilst it would be disappointing, as someone pointed out earlier, a draw wouldn't be a disaster as it would inch us further from the from the bottom 3. With another point and a slight difference appearing in the goal difference column, we'd effectively be the equivalent of 4 points clear. From there, maybe 1 win or a few draws might see us safe. Not good for the nerves though.
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Today is the day that our fucking about must end. Let's win and move up that league.
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I only hope Barton doesn't read about Young calling him shit in the paper or we could have a broken leg on our hands with that thug
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Considering he's been Newcastle's best player this season that might not be the smartest move from Young. It'll only motivate Barton and it is worrying that we underestimate an opponent who has done well this season.
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I have only one thing on my mind at the moment. What time should I leave home to get to the pub to ensure the optimum amount of alcohol intake.
The temptation is to get my skates on.
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With all the results going our way yesterday a win would be perfect. In fact, a win of any sort and by any means.
But after the season we've had so far anything could happen and thats whats making me nervous.
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well to be fair to Young, he doesn't slag him off at all, but its been written up in typically journo "Young blasts Barton" style
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Very nervous about today. We can beat them (and need to) but I'm sure we all have the same concerns.
I'll go 2-1 villa. Bent with a brace. Clean sheet would be nice but I can't see it.
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Feeling remarkably optimistic about this one this morning. Have plonked a load of bets on.
16/1 Villa to win 3-1 £1 stake
25/1 Villa to win 3-2 £1 stake
40/1 Villa to win 4-1 £1 stake
25/1 James Collins first scorer
33/1 Richard Dunne first scorer
20/1 Darren Bent hat-trick £2 stake
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If it's a fully fit squad i'd go;
Freidel,
LYoung, Cuellar, Dunne, Clark,
AYoung, ReoCoker, Makoun, Downing
Agbonlahor, Bent
Subs
Marshall, Walker, Baker, Delph, Petrov, Albrighton, Heskey.
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I have only one thing on my mind at the moment. What time should I leave home to get to the pub to ensure the optimum amount of alcohol intake.
I'm making sure that i'm comfortably numb by kick off.
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Currently bricking it. The pub is a calling!
The bells are ringing.........
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its going to be real tight this year. Looking at west ham in 3rd from bottom, i've got them getting at least 7 points in the last 6 games so 41 points.... Desperately need a win today
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Yesterday's results generally went in our favour. We now need to take advantage and get three points.
I reckon a scrappy 2-1 victory.
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If it's a fully fit squad i'd go;
Freidel,
LYoung, Cuellar, Dunne, Clark,
AYoung, ReoCoker, Makoun, Downing
Agbonlahor, Bent
Subs
Marshall, Walker, Baker, Delph, Petrov, Albrighton, Heskey.
I'd go along with that. I think Walker had a mare against Everton. A bit more experience at the back might be an idea today.
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A draw is not acceptable in my view, we're at full strength but Newcastle are not, we can't keep drawing and hoping that everybody else fucks up.
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We need 7 PTs from the crucial 3 home games
Today, Stoke and Wigan are all massive
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I have only one thing on my mind at the moment. What time should I leave home to get to the pub to ensure the optimum amount of alcohol intake.
I'm making sure that i'm comfortably numb by kick off.
That's settled it, I'm off.
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Feeling remarkably optimistic about this one, although I have absolutely no grounds to feel this way as Ged will play exactly the same way/team that doesn't suit us, however 3-1 to the Villa.
P.S. I will definitely not be a happy bunny if we don't win this game, its about time the players delivered on the pitch, they are certainly good enough irrespective of whether they are playing in their 'proper' positions!
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I'm now really confident we will win this.
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Setting out in 5 for a pre-match beverage, still feeling strangely confident and sticking with my 5-0 prediction
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I have only one thing on my mind at the moment. What time should I leave home to get to the pub to ensure the optimum amount of alcohol intake.
The temptation is to get my skates on.
Ooh, no, I really don't think you should go roller-skating after a few pints.
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On the train so about forty mins away from a pint
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I have just been talking to a bloke who was actually ringing bells in his church this morning. That has to be a good sign doesn't it?
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I just asked a yam yam Newcastle fan if he fears crying into his man tits like last time they came to Villa Park. They are expecting their lot to roll over today.
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To the greatest fussball supporters in the world, we need a twelfth man out there today.
So, where are you?
Come on, where are you?
Let's be having you!
And fade to more gin...
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Off to the cafe now, got my scarf tied round my wrist. Got that big game feeling, quite excited despite the feeling of nervousness.
Whatever happens, we're all in it together. Come on you Villa boys!
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I really am as nervous as a kitten about the game today - knot in stomach and all - come on Villa get us a win today to ease this pain !
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Very nervous about today and yet very confident as well. Just don't sing too loud, I have a hangover!
UTV
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No idea why, but confident of a win today.
Don't care who scores...
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Am currently stuck in college, nervously waiting for game. Have had to give up the season ticket for this game, which I resent. At least the lecturer has confirmed we will be out before 4 as he wants to watch game. I think he's a Newcastle fan.
If anyone sees a nervous villa fan in the horn in hand pub in Nottingham, that'll be me!
Massive day
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Blackpool 0-2 down. IF we can scrape 3 points together today, then the task is much more positive.
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Absolutely shite-ing myself.
I really hope they prove me wrong but I can't see us getting anything. This stage of the season is all about momentum and we don't have it.
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Come on you Villa boys! Proper nervous and now i've been hoodwinked into watching the game with a Newcastle fan..
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3-0 please......I leave for the airport at 4.45 and not a minute earlier....so please get it sorted and match over by half time thank you....Up the Villa
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Am currently stuck in college, nervously waiting for game. Have had to give up the season ticket for this game, which I resent. At least the lecturer has confirmed we will be out before 4 as he wants to watch game. I think he's a Newcastle fan.
If anyone sees a nervous villa fan in the horn in hand pub in Nottingham, that'll be me!
Massive day
College on a Sunday? What the feck is all that about? The lecturer is on triple time and has the cheek to finish early. Hmm...and careful about having your horn in your hand in public.
I increasingly believe that this game will end in a draw, most likely 1-1.
It's the Villa way, a constant state of flux with no resolution whilst us supporters are left dangling on the edge of a cliff.
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I'm beginning to shake already.
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Please please please let us have the three points today.