Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Legion on December 18, 2011, 07:36:21 PM

Title: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 18, 2011, 07:36:21 PM
Us: nil
Them: a lot

Sighs.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 18, 2011, 07:38:25 PM
Us 0 Them 4.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaAlways on December 18, 2011, 07:39:09 PM
0-5
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Edvard Remberg on December 18, 2011, 07:39:54 PM
1-7
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 18, 2011, 07:41:36 PM
Does Ted Drake still play for them? He might beat his own record if he does.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: D.boy on December 18, 2011, 07:44:42 PM
Us...
(http://media1.break.com/dnet/media/2010/1/29/65%20Hot%20Ass%20under%20Torn%20Jeans.jpg)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TheSandman on December 18, 2011, 07:52:35 PM
3-0 Arsenal. Van Persie hat-trick
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on December 18, 2011, 08:26:45 PM
Don't see the point of even trying against such giants of the game...its going to be ugly on Wed night.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Eigentor on December 18, 2011, 08:32:32 PM
I fear that on Wednesday, we'll be saying, like the giant once said, "It is happening again."
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on December 18, 2011, 08:39:41 PM
Just me going for the win then?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: markeeeebeeee2005 on December 18, 2011, 08:39:58 PM
They're giants and Villa should know their place.

Shall we just send them 3 points in the post? We can save the cash it costs to turn the floodlights on as an added bonus.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 18, 2011, 08:43:42 PM
Just me going for the win then?

I so hope you prove me wrong.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: mrfuse on December 18, 2011, 09:01:43 PM
Maybe like Villa i wont bother turning up.................
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: luke25 on December 18, 2011, 09:07:04 PM
My enthusiasm about our great club has almost completely gone, I imagine it will be about 1-3 and unfortunately its hard to care :-(
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: berneboy on December 18, 2011, 09:13:56 PM
I have NEVER predicted another team to beat Villa before even when I know they will win.

But this time I predict Arsenal will ....  no, I can't, I can't ...
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Lizz on December 18, 2011, 09:34:55 PM
I'm supposed to be going for a drink with an Arsenal supporter on Thursday. I'm deciding which of my excuses not to go sounds the most feasible.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Irish villain on December 18, 2011, 09:39:07 PM
My boss is an Arsenal fan.

Thank God Christmas holidays are on the way! At least the game is at fortress Villa Park...oh wait, we usually sit back there too :-(
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 18, 2011, 09:40:43 PM
Fortress? More like a bouncy castle.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Risso on December 18, 2011, 09:43:12 PM
I think this will turn into the most one sided result prediction on here in years.  I just can't see anything other than another really dispiriting defeat.  Still, with Gabby and Bent back we'll have a chance of scoring, but I honestly think this will be a bit of a thrashing.  Hopefully though, it'll be one of those surprising games when we actually do a lot better than everybody is expecting.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Irish villain on December 18, 2011, 10:01:10 PM
Fortress? More like a bouncy castle.

Heartbreaking isn't it? To think we wanted to surround the place with Ron Saunders quotes. It would be an insult to the man given how utterly pathetic we have been in our last two home games.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: The Left Side on December 18, 2011, 10:04:13 PM
I can hear the excuses from AM already, we will lose unfortunately.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Pete3206 on December 18, 2011, 10:04:29 PM
After this afternoon, my old man said he wasn't going to bother on Wednesday. That's the first time I've heard him say that in 30 years of attending matches with him.

0-4
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: The Left Side on December 18, 2011, 10:06:53 PM
After this afternoon, my old man said he wasn't going to bother on Wednesday. That's the first time I've heard him say that in 30 years of attending matches with him.

0-4

Sad to hear that but i'm hearing that more and more often.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Irish villain on December 18, 2011, 10:10:18 PM
After this afternoon, my old man said he wasn't going to bother on Wednesday. That's the first time I've heard him say that in 30 years of attending matches with him.

0-4

Sad to hear that but i'm hearing that more and more often.

You can't blame people. Even Alex Ferguson doesn't bother going down the villa, and he loves McLeish and Lerner!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Fin Feds Dad on December 18, 2011, 10:15:56 PM
Having caught the 2nd half of city vs arsenal after our game ......................

But its my own fault - I never watch 'Grand Designs' cos I know I am never going to build a big house.

I never watch Miss World cos I am never going to sleep with a gorgeous 20 year old woman again.

So why did I watch Man City vs Arsenal ....................

Us - Nil and shit , Them - 4 without getting out of 2nd gear.

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TaxDodger on December 18, 2011, 10:58:00 PM
11 all.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: l_mckay on December 18, 2011, 11:02:23 PM
an easy 3-0 win for Arsenal im afraid
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on December 19, 2011, 12:33:23 AM
Can't see anything other than a comfortable defeat.  Probably 3-0
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Greg N'Ash on December 19, 2011, 03:13:41 AM
I hate to think what will happen if they start doing their
new-fangled passing thing.

0-2
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: KRS on December 19, 2011, 04:35:58 AM
Villa 0
Arsenal as many as they want to score.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: OzVilla on December 19, 2011, 05:36:41 AM
Going on AMcL's comments post 'The Mighty Reds YNWA' it'll be another surrender against superior opposition, it's already been decided.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaSpen on December 19, 2011, 06:02:51 AM
They're hardly impenetrable but I fear that they'll rip our indifferent rearguard to shreds whenever they fancy getting out of first gear. We'll probably score in a heavy defeat. 1-4, I reckon.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: UK Redsox on December 19, 2011, 07:51:23 AM
3-0 Arsenal. Van Persie hat-trick

Surely this game is an opportunity for Arse to rest RVP
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: The Laughing Policeman on December 19, 2011, 07:57:47 AM
Gone for the draw simply because I can't bring myself to click for a London Arsenal win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Walmley_Villa on December 19, 2011, 08:34:27 AM
Can see the crowd turning very quickly if we start poorly. Then we will all be told by the press that our expectations are unreasonable, Villa crisis pages in the Mail and Talksport putting the boot in....

3-1 Arse
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VinnieChase84 on December 19, 2011, 08:48:55 AM
This one will be the most one sided of them all im afraid. 4-0 Arsenal. Van Rapist hattrick
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: andyh on December 19, 2011, 09:48:18 AM
Villa 2 - Arse 0

nah....Only joking

I think we will be tanked, I can't see us creating anything, let alone scoring.
I wonder if Arsenal will play the game at walking pace like ManU and Lplop  did ?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on December 19, 2011, 09:55:01 AM
Villa 0-4 Arsenal

They attacked with some much pace v Man City yesterday, there is now way we'll even get a sniff.

Their midfield will just pass it around us all day long, we won't even touch the ball.

I've gave my ticket away.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TimTheVillain on December 19, 2011, 09:56:20 AM
0-3 to the Arse

I'm watching it happen at home.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: midnite on December 19, 2011, 09:58:27 AM
Being an evening kick off after a busy day at work for me. I think I'll struggle to stay awake. 3-0 to the gunners
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: levico on December 19, 2011, 10:42:15 AM
Never I have I been more certain of a result than this. It's just a question of how many Arsenal will score. Maybe a significant trouncing will wake up RL but I think he's managed his own expectations on that score. This could be our worst season since the mid- 1980's.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 19, 2011, 10:43:28 AM
I think we're in for an absolute tonking here.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on December 19, 2011, 10:46:47 AM
I'll go 0-0, with some of the most wasteful finishing ever seen from Arsenal.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Concrete John on December 19, 2011, 10:47:24 AM
I think they Liverpool performance will be used as a spur and they'll react well to it, but still lose.  0-1 Arsenal.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 19, 2011, 10:49:16 AM
I'm sure the disintergration of Aston Villa will continue here and we'll play for a 2 or 3 nil defeat.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Jon Crofts on December 19, 2011, 11:08:20 AM
An optimistic Villa 0 Arsenal 4.  Any time soon we will be at a Billy McNeil level of shitness..
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: darren woolley on December 19, 2011, 11:09:06 AM
3-0 to Arsenal.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Cooper please on December 19, 2011, 11:11:34 AM
2-1 to us.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on December 19, 2011, 11:43:14 AM
Us...
(http://media1.break.com/dnet/media/2010/1/29/65%20Hot%20Ass%20under%20Torn%20Jeans.jpg)

Good point well made! Thank You.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on December 19, 2011, 11:45:22 AM
Mods Can we change the title of this thread to Aston Villa  v GIANTS 1/2/3/4 or however many giants are in the PL just in Eck  wanders over here and knows exactly what match we are talking about?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Marlon From Bearwood on December 19, 2011, 12:23:25 PM
They're giants and Villa should know their place.

Shall we just send them 3 points in the post? We can save the cash it costs to turn the floodlights on as an added bonus.

Can't really rely on the post during Xmas week. It would be better to fax or email the 3 points to The Emirates today, meaning we are all spared another 90 minutes of depressing torture on Wednesday.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: not3bad on December 19, 2011, 12:30:44 PM
It won't be a heavy defeat I think.  I'm sure they've worked out that once they take the lead they won't need to defend it too hard.  1-0 to the Arsenal.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Newquay_AVFC on December 19, 2011, 12:38:43 PM
First time ever i have gone against us. We will lose, 3 or 4 nil.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: achilles on December 19, 2011, 12:47:06 PM
Much of the same, huffing and puffing and then rolling over to the tune of a 2-0/3-0 defeat.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on December 19, 2011, 12:53:41 PM
My brother in law and nephew are Arsenal fans . im turning my phone off today for a week ...
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Nelly on December 19, 2011, 12:54:25 PM
We're gonna lose while looking totally inept and without any discernible tactics, other than to hoof it every chance we get.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Villafirst on December 19, 2011, 12:55:17 PM
I'm sure the disintergration of Aston Villa will continue here and we'll play for a 2 or 3 nil defeat.
[/quot

Yeah, agree.......AM will be happy and see it as a result if we restrict them to 2-0. Damage limitation is what he's all about.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on December 19, 2011, 12:55:54 PM
Heskey , Delph , Collins , Warnock , Dunne and Hutton all to start .

Oh what fun we will have  ;(
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Mark H on December 19, 2011, 01:16:51 PM
We will be happy to only lose 2-0 but then they are a massive club so we are lucky to be on the same field as they are .......
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Chris Jameson on December 19, 2011, 01:21:32 PM
3-0  Villa win. Heskey hat trick to answer his critics in the best possible way.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Hoppo on December 19, 2011, 01:23:18 PM
We need to put in Cuellar at centre back. Clark centre mid and if fit Herd at right back. im going 1-1 though.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaAlways on December 19, 2011, 01:28:42 PM
My brother in law and nephew are Arsenal fans . im turning my phone off today for a week ...
Coincidence so are my brother in law and nephew are as well. The difference being they're coming down from Leeds to watch it They'll be going home happy
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on December 19, 2011, 02:25:40 PM
My brother in law and nephew are Arsenal fans . im turning my phone off today for a week ...
Coincidence so are my brother in law and nephew are as well. The difference being they're coming down from Leeds to watch it They'll be going home happy

Ive been too many times with them and come away feeling humiliated , I remember a 3-2 that was great but my nephew wasnt born and a pissed off day when Henry scored with that free kick but I cant face taking them to this .



p.s   and he is french ;(
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: monkeyboy on December 19, 2011, 02:33:06 PM
3-0  Villa win. Heskey hat trick to answer his critics in the best possible way.

Chris - i admire your glass half full attitude, i really do - either this or the glass has been half full too many times in the last 24 hours

Heskey hat trick is as likely as Kate Moss turning up at my front door (pretty version not pissed and stinking of fags) and demanding that I service her until Big Ben sounds off for 2012

Hang on was that the door....no it wasn't

UTV!!

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Chris Jameson on December 19, 2011, 02:45:27 PM
In a 16 year career that has seen him play upwards of 500 top flight games as well as many Internationals i'm sure that one day my prediction will come true and he will indeed answer his critics in the best possible way, he may well be playing in a veterans match on a beach somewhere in 15 years time but he will prove once and for all that he is not a buffoon nor a spectaculary crap footballer.

When he does we will all feel incredibly foolish for ever doubting his ability. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: monkeyboy on December 19, 2011, 02:58:13 PM
In a 16 year career that has seen him play upwards of 500 top flight games as well as many Internationals i'm sure that one day my prediction will come true and he will indeed answer his critics in the best possible way, he may well be playing in a veterans match on a beach somewhere in 15 years time but he will prove once and for all that he is not a buffoon nor a spectaculary crap footballer.

When he does we will all feel incredibly foolish for ever doubting his ability. 

You're right, I already feel foolish

Heskey hat trick it is then
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Chris Jameson on December 19, 2011, 03:11:32 PM
In the admittedly highly unlikely scenario of Heskey answering his critics i'm going for defeat with Heskey throwing himself to the floor whenever anybody breathes on him, missing a fairly simple chance and trapping the ball further than anybody can kick it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on December 19, 2011, 03:15:41 PM
Does anybody remember an Arsenal game at VP in the mid 80's when they went 4 nil up and I think it was before HT.  Well if AM doesnt bring Clark, Carlos and Gardner into the team - we could be looking at history repeating itself.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on December 19, 2011, 03:16:39 PM
In the admittedly highly unlikely scenario of Heskey answering his critics i'm going for defeat with Heskey throwing himself to the floor whenever anybody breathes on him, missing a fairly simple chance and trapping the ball further than anybody can kick it.

He managed to chest the ball further than I can kick it yesterday.

You can't teach that.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: monkeyboy on December 19, 2011, 04:27:41 PM
In the admittedly highly unlikely scenario of Heskey answering his critics i'm going for defeat with Heskey throwing himself to the floor whenever anybody breathes on him, missing a fairly simple chance and trapping the ball further than anybody can kick it.

Make your mind up Chris - i've sent Kate back to Croydon with a flea in her ear - now you give me this!!

I"ll run down to the station see if i can catch her - Kaaaaaaaate, Heskey really is shit afterall let's get funky - Kaaaaaaate !!!

:-)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: jembob on December 19, 2011, 05:09:13 PM
In a 16 year career that has seen him play upwards of 500 top flight games as well as many Internationals i'm sure that one day my prediction will come true and he will indeed answer his critics in the best possible way, he may well be playing in a veterans match on a beach somewhere in 15 years time but he will prove once and for all that he is not a buffoon nor a spectaculary crap footballer.

When he does we will all feel incredibly foolish for ever doubting his ability. 

How many non-buffoons here earn £60k a week? He may not be the footballer we would like him to be but he'll retire early and wealthy - that's pretty smart in my view.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: jembob on December 19, 2011, 05:16:34 PM
I can only see us getting thumped, with Hutton being sent off before half time. If we go 2 or 3 down in the first half I suspect that the vitriol aimed at Mcleish will be so severe that he'll need security to get off the pitch. If we really get hammered badly then I can't possibly see him surviving or there will be a riot at VP.
It's disgraceful going to see Villa play knowing that we are going to get mauled and I'm going to have to try and detach myself emotionally from what is about to happen. I've worked fucking hard this year and the money spent on a season ticket was done so without question but it really makes my piss boil that some of these twats are getting paid so handsomely for being so shite.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: luke25 on December 19, 2011, 05:36:41 PM
Just been reading an Arsenal forum (Arsenal mania I think it was) and they seem to dislike McLeish more than we do, one comment from a Gooner was "I hope we annihilate them and free them from the curse that is Mcleish", the majority seem to think we're going to kick them all over the pitch, judging by the Liverpool game though we won't get with in 5 yards of an Arsenal play to as much as sniff there hair let alone kick them.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Des Little on December 19, 2011, 05:40:39 PM
Anyone who thinks the outcome will be anything other than a comprehensive defeat is clearly off their tits.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: supertom on December 19, 2011, 06:06:03 PM
We'll get royally turned over, and undoubtedly we'll merely roll over and let them stroll undisturbed around us for 90 minutes. Arsenal won't have a bloody easier game all season (at least until we play them at the Emirates), I garauntee it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: D.boy on December 19, 2011, 06:08:21 PM
In the admittedly highly unlikely scenario of Heskey answering his critics i'm going for defeat with Heskey throwing himself to the floor whenever anybody breathes on him, missing a fairly simple chance and trapping the ball further than anybody can kick it.

He managed to chest the ball further than I can kick it yesterday.

You can't teach that.
That's because he fell on it and it fired out from under him like flipping a tiddley wink.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 19, 2011, 06:09:39 PM
He has the touch of a camel.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: midnite on December 19, 2011, 06:19:56 PM
Brings out a whole new meaning for camel's toe
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: woody4866 on December 19, 2011, 07:00:26 PM
I was gonna go - but phuk it

think I`ll go shopping with Benty!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ozzjim on December 19, 2011, 07:23:34 PM
How many does RVP need to get the calendar year record? I am going 1-5 in a complete horror show, and hopefully a significant nail in the coffin, to be delivered by Stoke. Quick appointment of Hughes by new year, 3 new men in Jan, a rejuvenated Ireland under the only man who seems to get football out of him and a decent honeymoon period as we are all now thankful for a man we didn't really want in the summer. If his back room thing is what he wants, with the way the first team is, I would be tempted to say let him have them, apart from the youth team.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: wombat on December 19, 2011, 07:39:40 PM
I will be there.
It will be cold
I will make use of my free pie voucher
I will leave depressed, nothing but an easy Arsenal win in the offing and some vitriol I imagine.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: dave.woodhall on December 19, 2011, 07:40:20 PM
I will be there.
It will be cold
I will make use of my free pie voucher
I will leave depressed, nothing but an easy Arsenal win in the offing and some vitriol I imagine.


You're wrong there.

The forecast is quite mild.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 19, 2011, 07:42:06 PM
New H&V out aswell. Buy it. It might be the only decent thing you look at all evening.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TheSandman on December 19, 2011, 07:43:21 PM
If the Christmas post is timely I might read it instead of watching the game.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 19, 2011, 07:48:15 PM
Have to go with the majority...1-3 Arsenal.

I think serious questions need to be really asked if we can't even put up some sort of performance in this. If McLeish can beat this mob in the cup final (when SHA actually played well in that game) he can certainly get us to give it a go on Wednesday but I'm not holding my breath.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ozzjim on December 19, 2011, 07:49:50 PM
New H&V out aswell. Buy it. It might be the only decent thing you look at all evening.

Dunno, Arsenal are always nice to watch.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 19, 2011, 07:51:16 PM
Last week I got chatting to a bluenose at the Walsall F.A. Cup match. He said that whilst McLeish was manager of Small Heath Alliance, his excuse for the negative tactics was that he had inferior players. We have far superior players, so what is his excuse now? This came from him, not me.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JJ-AV on December 19, 2011, 07:53:29 PM
We often seem to play Arsenal at Villa Park on the evening in the cold.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 19, 2011, 07:54:40 PM
Does anybody remember an Arsenal game at VP in the mid 80's when they went 4 nil up and I think it was before HT.  Well if AM doesnt bring Clark, Carlos and Gardner into the team - we could be looking at history repeating itself.


This was my first ever game. I can't believe I went back!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TheTimVilla on December 19, 2011, 08:09:37 PM
I'm going for an Arsenal win so that Villa will prove me wrong, out of spite.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: wombat on December 19, 2011, 08:11:21 PM
I will be there.
It will be cold
I will make use of my free pie voucher
I will leave depressed, nothing but an easy Arsenal win in the offing and some vitriol I imagine.


You're wrong there.

The forecast is quite mild.

Dang Nabbit.... can't the club do anything right??? (tongue firmly in cheek!)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: andyh on December 19, 2011, 08:45:46 PM
How many does RVP need to get the calendar year record? I am going 1-5 in a complete horror show, and hopefully a significant nail in the coffin, to be delivered by Stoke. Quick appointment of Hughes by new year, 3 new men in Jan, a rejuvenated Ireland under the only man who seems to get football out of him and a decent honeymoon period as we are all now thankful for a man we didn't really want in the summer. If his back room thing is what he wants, with the way the first team is, I would be tempted to say let him have them, apart from the youth team.
bloody hell, I'm quite excited now !!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Lobsterboy on December 19, 2011, 08:54:19 PM
Us 0 (same as v the other giants Spurs, Man Ure and Liverpool)
Them 2

They'll score 2 before HT and spend the second half writing Christmas cards and wrapping presents in their own penalty area without any interruption from our players
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: lovejoy on December 19, 2011, 09:03:17 PM
Well done the 10 who voted home win. Good for you.

Mad as hatters.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on December 19, 2011, 09:30:30 PM
Anything under 4 or 5 I'll be delighted, why do people think mark Hughes would be a good manager for us?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on December 19, 2011, 09:39:45 PM
Anything under 4 or 5 I'll be delighted, why do people think mark Hughes would be a good manager for us?

I was'nt that keen on him to be honest but at least the footy would have been better. He was possibly badly advised in the summer by that clown of a agent. Even Tevez has made a mess of his career.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 19, 2011, 09:42:49 PM
New H&V out aswell. Buy it. It might be the only decent thing you look at all evening.

And if the match doesn't sufficiently fill you with gloom, read my piece in there, it'll finish you off.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paulcomben on December 19, 2011, 09:53:40 PM
Startling headline on BBC.co.uk football page:

"Villa to miss rest of season." 

They mean David....or do they ?!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt C on December 19, 2011, 09:58:26 PM
0-3. True to form I expect us to meekly surrender. Please prove me wrong.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paulcomben on December 19, 2011, 10:02:34 PM
I will be there.
It will be cold
I will make use of my free pie voucher
I will leave depressed, nothing but an easy Arsenal win in the offing and some vitriol I imagine.



Free pie vouchers? Those numpties behind the counter get stymied by a modest number of customers.

One has to stare dumbly at the person ordering whilst another heads off in the wrong direction to fetch something not included in the order and then pour beer from a perfectly adequate can into a flimsy plastic cup.

To really baffle them, add change to a note to round up what they have to return e.g. hand over £10.09 for a £5.09 purchase.

Free pies will lead to an unsustainable stampede.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: WALTERS WARRIORS on December 19, 2011, 11:47:36 PM
Do not like to say this but he has to take Delph out the midfield and put Clarke in there with Petrov and Herd. Think Makoun would of been ideal now. Someone who can keep the ball and create a passing game ......
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Nirog72 on December 19, 2011, 11:52:25 PM
I think after Sunday Arsenal will want to win and win in style. How lucky for them they have us next! 0-5 and I'll be really delighted if I'm wrong.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Mazrim on December 20, 2011, 01:27:39 AM
Startling headline on BBC.co.uk football page:

"Villa to miss rest of season." 

They mean David....or do they ?!

It shows how much I'm enjoying this season; I got my hopes up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: KevinGage on December 20, 2011, 03:15:23 AM
My my,  we're a gloomy lot on here recently.

Haven't we forgotten that this time of year always throws up crazy results?

Villa to fight a fantastic rearguard action and hold on to a hard fought 0-2 deficit.

Keep the faith!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 20, 2011, 03:53:31 AM
I'm going for a spirited draw as long as McLeish finally comes to his senses and makes changes in defence. If not expect the obvious.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JD on December 20, 2011, 06:48:16 AM
Anyone who thinks the outcome will be anything other than a comprehensive defeat is clearly off their tits.

Maybe that's for the best Des. I think at the moment being clearly off my tits is much more desirable than watching Villa. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Fergal on December 20, 2011, 06:49:26 AM
My my,  we're a gloomy lot on here recently.

Haven't we forgotten that this time of year always throws up crazy results?

Villa to fight a fantastic rearguard action and hold on to a hard fought 0-2 deficit.

Keep the faith!
Sadly our manager seems to think that is a real good result...
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JD on December 20, 2011, 06:50:27 AM
I'm going for a spirited draw as long as McLeish finally comes to his senses and makes changes in defence. If not expect the obvious.

So Heskey at Centre Back then.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on December 20, 2011, 07:52:32 AM
 Villa 1
GIANTS 0
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on December 20, 2011, 07:53:33 AM
I'm going for a spirited draw as long as McLeish finally comes to his senses and makes changes in defence. If not expect the obvious.

So Heskey at Centre Back then.

Why not? I thought he was Liverpool's best defender on Sunday!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: preston28 on December 20, 2011, 07:57:51 AM
I think we will lose 2-0.

Post match interview AM will say that yet another giant has come to VP and whilst it is hard to come up against these giants every match we showed some promise as we strung 2 passes together on TWO ocassions and we made their keeper make one save...........
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paulcomben on December 20, 2011, 09:57:51 AM
And also one of the youngsters will be trotted out to tell the OS that the lads will pull together and do better next time. Although I think that they have all been used for that purpose, possibly leaving only Weimann.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pav on December 20, 2011, 10:00:07 AM
Bum smacking 4-0 victory to arsenal, and that's that .on Sunday watching there game after ours was like a different sport
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: MarkM on December 20, 2011, 10:01:38 AM
0-4

I just can't see us keeping Van the man under control AND create any chances at the same time.

McCrap looked beat on the touchline on Sunday, I can't see where the improvement will come from
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 20, 2011, 10:06:36 AM
I wonder if he'll rest Van Persie.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: MarkM on December 20, 2011, 10:12:42 AM
I wonder if he'll rest Van Persie.

Would it make a difference if he did?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: MarkM on December 20, 2011, 10:13:53 AM
Any one remember the Arsenal match over Xmas when Flight Sargeant Rogoff hit the Trinity Road Stand roof and nearly died during that parachute jump display?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Archbishop Herbert Cockthrottle on December 20, 2011, 10:18:32 AM
A galvanizing performance from the Villa with all three points in the bag.
The comeback starts here.
Villa 2 Arsenal 1.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on December 20, 2011, 10:41:15 AM
You get better odds for a Villa win here than at Ladbrokes. What can I get for Villa 2-0 with N'Zogbia getting the winner from a 25 yard free kick after snatching the ball from Bannan, telling him that, just because Young has left, he doesn't have to take them all?
This pisses Bannan off and he makes a dazzling solo run from the half way line and fires it past the keeper from the edge of the box.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ozzjim on December 20, 2011, 10:41:31 AM
Any one remember the Arsenal match over Xmas when Flight Sargeant Rogoff hit the Trinity Road Stand roof and nearly died during that parachute jump display?


Dion double and a sensational 45 minutes from stan.  Amazing game. Sadly overshadowed by the most disturbing few seconds as rogoff dangled there.

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: MarkM on December 20, 2011, 10:47:49 AM
Any one remember the Arsenal match over Xmas when Flight Sargeant Rogoff hit the Trinity Road Stand roof and nearly died during that parachute jump display?


Dion double and a sensational 45 minutes from stan.  Amazing game. Sadly overshadowed by the most disturbing few seconds as rogoff dangled there.



I remember it was like slow motion as he slowly tumbled over the edge and fell to the ground.

Horrible
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: KevinGage on December 20, 2011, 10:52:22 AM
Not to make light of the poor blokes injuries, but I've often wondered how parents explained that one away to impressionable youngsters.

Santa being taken away by paramedics and the whole ground gasping.

Not something any of us are ever likely to forget.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on December 20, 2011, 11:09:00 AM
Any one remember the Arsenal match over Xmas when Flight Sargeant Rogoff hit the Trinity Road Stand roof and nearly died during that parachute jump display?


Dion double and a sensational 45 minutes from stan.  Amazing game. Sadly overshadowed by the most disturbing few seconds as rogoff dangled there.



I remember it was like slow motion as he slowly tumbled over the edge and fell to the ground.

Horrible

I'll never forget that.

:(
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 20, 2011, 11:14:04 AM
I had to look away as he fell to the ground. Terrible few moments.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Marlon From Bearwood on December 20, 2011, 01:08:02 PM
And wasn't that game the last time we beat Arsenal at home? 1998?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: garyshawsknee on December 20, 2011, 01:15:36 PM
I was there in the holte,and you could see that the guy was coming in at a wrong angle compared to the others. A horrible hush fell over the ground,a tragic scene. I think I heard that the poor fella died ( not due to the incident)a few years later.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: garyshawsknee on December 20, 2011, 01:42:32 PM
Another poor loss,we'll be lucky to get 25% of the ball.

Collins,Delph,Heskey,Fonz out,Cuellar,Clark,Bannan and Gab in.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TheSandman on December 20, 2011, 01:51:13 PM
As much as I think a loss is likely I wouldn't put it past us to beat Arsenal then take a pounding at Stoke.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Hookeysmith on December 20, 2011, 02:11:40 PM
As much as I think a loss is likely I wouldn't put it past us to beat Arsenal then take a pounding at Stoke.

More like take a pounding off both of them - i get paid to watch that shite and even i dont want to go!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 20, 2011, 02:23:13 PM
At least Bent said he's fully committed and loves playing for Villa, and I'm going to take him on his word.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Merv on December 20, 2011, 02:24:41 PM
Bent, Herd and Heskey all unavailable, apparently.

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paulcomben on December 20, 2011, 02:25:29 PM
"Dressed as Santa Claus for the jump, Rogoff broke his pelvis, hips and several ribs in the accident, and subsequently had to have his leg amputated. Fortunately he survived and the story has a happy ending – Rogoff fell in love with one of the nurses who helped save his life and the couple had twins in 2001."
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Simon Ward on December 20, 2011, 02:27:50 PM
Bent, Herd and Heskey all unavailable, apparently.



Collins doubtful.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TheSandman on December 20, 2011, 02:28:51 PM
Shame that Herd and Bent might be out. The other two names are reasons to put the bunting up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 20, 2011, 02:28:55 PM
Bent, Herd and Heskey all unavailable, apparently.



Collins doubtful.

I assume that's on form....
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Marlon From Bearwood on December 20, 2011, 03:03:23 PM
Shame that Herd and Bent might be out. The other two names are reasons to put the bunting up.

Ha ha Very true. All we need now is for Hutton and Warnock to collide in training, leading to them both being out injured for at least 6 months, and I'll believe there really is a Santa.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: IRISHPHIL on December 20, 2011, 03:18:00 PM
team should be
guzan, hutton, dunne, clarke, warnock , delph, petrov,bannan , ireland, gabby and delfonzo.
playing with diamond formation ( ireland being most foward of the midfielders)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Merv on December 20, 2011, 03:31:50 PM
I'd pick this:

                 Guzan

Hutton Cuellar Dunne Warnock

                 Clark
     Petrov            Bannan   

  Albrighton Agbonlahor  N'Zogbia

Subs: Marshall, Collins (if fit enough), Delph, Ireland, Delfouneso, Weimann, Johnson.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: MarkM on December 20, 2011, 03:56:11 PM
I'd pick this:

                 Guzan

Hutton Cuellar Dunne Warnock

                 Clark
     Petrov            Bannan   

  Albrighton Agbonlahor  N'Zogbia

Subs: Marshall, Collins (if fit enough), Delph, Ireland, Delfouneso, Weimann, Johnson.

We can pick who we like, the fact is that at the moment they are playing like a buch of strangers who have no direction.

We may as well play the youth or the reserve team, we will loose but it will be far more entertaining with far more passion than whats currently on offer
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Karlos96 on December 20, 2011, 05:02:07 PM
According to the Official Site Bent, Herd, and Heskey are all out and Collins is doubtful.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: luke25 on December 20, 2011, 05:04:34 PM
According to the Official site Heskey is out and Collins is doubtful.
Praise the lord.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: monkeyboy on December 20, 2011, 05:39:03 PM
team should be
guzan, hutton, dunne, clarke, warnock , delph, petrov,bannan , ireland, gabby and delfonzo.
playing with diamond formation ( ireland being most foward of the midfielders)

Not directed at you at all Phil - as i think this could be the line up.

But what a paper thin squad full of garbage we have if this is the best we can put up against one of the giants - that has to be the most uninspiring midfields i've ever seen represent Villa in the nigh on 30 years i've been going to VP

Luckily we have a manager who has an uncanny knack of getting the best out the guys - sorry actually we have a ginger tosser, deep joy!

Amazed if we get past the half way line - especially as McBollocks will set up up not to do so and defend bravely a 0-4 reverse, also our chief attacking weapon during the McTurd era is the Collins slide rule 90 yard hoof - without that we are doooomed i'm telling you doooomed!!!

UTV!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Boz on December 20, 2011, 05:55:13 PM
RvP to pass Shearer's scoring record tonight, unless we can obtain a bus to park in front of the goal  :-[

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TheSandman on December 20, 2011, 06:00:05 PM
Tomorrow, surely?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 20, 2011, 06:38:13 PM
I'd play Gabby right through the middle and just instruct the players to hit it forward as quickly as possible (which is what they bleeding do anyway). Will be awful to watch and no doubt Wenger will be on his high horse after the game but we might get a goal from it as certainly Gabby will easily beat Merteckser for pace.

They're also playing Miquel at full back so might aswell keep the two wide players in and test him out.

On reflection I'd probably keep the Fonz in aswell as he did o.k in the first half against Liverpool dropping deep and if we played 3 centrally, we'd probably still be dominated possession wise.

This Collins injury and Clark coming in seems too good to be true dosen't it? No doubt he'll be playing through the pain bar and gifting Arsenal space and goals tommorrow night
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on December 20, 2011, 06:50:01 PM
I'd pick this:

                 Guzan

Hutton Cuellar Dunne Warnock

                 Clark
     Petrov            Bannan   

  Albrighton Agbonlahor  N'Zogbia

Subs: Marshall, Collins (if fit enough), Delph, Ireland, Delfouneso, Weimann, Johnson.
Cannot argue much with this team.   
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 20, 2011, 07:14:48 PM
We have got to have a go at them.

The worst thing McLeish could do is see us go a goal down then shut up shop to try and keep the score down.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on December 20, 2011, 07:17:23 PM
A draw is about as good as we can expect I think.  Gabby will make a difference and I'm looking forward to seeing him play again.  He has been one of very few highlights this season. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 20, 2011, 07:19:27 PM
There are some interesting bets to be had on this one. I've had Vermaelen first scorer (likes to get up for corners, and we all - well almost all - realise how shit we are at defending them) with Arsenal to win 3-0 at a whopping 175/1.couple of quid.

I've also had a couple on Arsenal 4-0 and 5-0, plus an Arsenal, Man U, Man City, Liverpool accumulator.

I'm not expecting a good night on the pitch, so a bit of cash would be nice.

Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Witton Warrior on December 20, 2011, 07:19:35 PM
We have got to have a go at them.

The worst thing McLeish could do is see us go a goal down then shut up shop to try and keep the score down.

If that does happen then we will have reason for complaint for sure. Being crap, having a go and losing is one thing, "keeping the losing score down will just be an embaressment" that should not be tolerated
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: frank on December 20, 2011, 07:27:09 PM
There are some interesting bets to be had on this one. I've had Vermaelen first scorer (likes to get up for corners, and we all - well almost all - realise how shit we are at defending them) with Arsenal to win 3-0 at a whopping 175/1.couple of quid.

I've also had a couple on Arsenal 4-0 and 5-0, plus an Arsenal, Man U, Man City, Liverpool accumulator.

I'm not expecting a good night on the pitch, so a bit of cash would be nice.
I stood to win £750 for £1 last Saturday if Hutton had scored the first goal (at their end) and we'd won 3-0. I don't normally bet against Villa but I think you might be onto a good thing tomorrow. It would sweeten the pill of defeat.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: preston28 on December 20, 2011, 07:30:34 PM
RvP to pass Shearer's scoring record tonight, unless we can obtain a bus to park in front of the goal  :-[



Ah I see cunning plan to win the game by McKnob. Tell Arsenal it is a Wednesday but actually play unopposed on a Tuesday night............we'd still lose by a Dunne Own Goal.............
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Deano's Mullet on December 20, 2011, 07:54:54 PM
Usually we dont play too badly in this fixture but still find ourselves a goal or two down against the run of play. Cant see that happening tomorrow though. Poor performance, poor result. 3-0 loss.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Can Gana Be Bettered!?!? on December 20, 2011, 07:57:57 PM
(Un)fortunately I am quite ill at the moment (there seems to be a virus going round) and so cannot see myself attending this anymore.

With this game I'm not sure if I'd be going to see how good Arsenal are (which they usually are the best team to watch in the league) or just to moan about how shit we are. However, I won't get to make that decision.

On second thoughts, I'm not able to go, so we'll probably win with the best performance of the season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Steve kirk on December 20, 2011, 09:15:05 PM
Another 2 0 defeat, Arsenal will pass us to death, we will be chasing shadows, god I am so underwhelmed.   
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Des Little on December 20, 2011, 09:44:08 PM
There are some interesting bets to be had on this one. I've had Vermaelen first scorer (likes to get up for corners, and we all - well almost all - realise how shit we are at defending them) with Arsenal to win 3-0 at a whopping 175/1.couple of quid.

I've also had a couple on Arsenal 4-0 and 5-0, plus an Arsenal, Man U, Man City, Liverpool accumulator.

I'm not expecting a good night on the pitch, so a bit of cash would be nice.
I stood to win £750 for £1 last Saturday if Hutton had scored the first goal (at their end) and we'd won 3-0. I don't normally bet against Villa but I think you might be onto a good thing tomorrow. It would sweeten the pill of defeat.

I'm surprised you didn't stand to win a million by betting a quid on Hutton scoring and us winning 3-0 against Liverpool.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: luke25 on December 20, 2011, 11:31:41 PM
I'd go 4-3-3 because Arsenals midfield will cut through us with ease playing 4-4-2, Guzan, Hutton, Cuellar, Dunne, Warnock, Clark, Petrov, Gardner, Delfouneso, Gabby, N'zogbia.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: caster troy on December 20, 2011, 11:47:13 PM
0-3 I think. Can't see us scoring or even getting the ball for most of the game.

Sad times, always used to fancy us beating Arsenal.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Bad English on December 20, 2011, 11:54:33 PM
Has anybody mentioned the e-mail from Aston Villa today? It is entitled "Watch Arsenal under the floodlights". Not Villa, Arsenal. (I suppose I could end this post with "Oh!", couldn't I?)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Walmley_Villa on December 21, 2011, 06:56:47 AM
(Un)fortunately I am quite ill at the moment (there seems to be a virus going round) and so cannot see myself attending this anymore.

With this game I'm not sure if I'd be going to see how good Arsenal are (which they usually are the best team to watch in the league) or just to moan about how shit we are. However, I won't get to make that decision.

On second thoughts, I'm not able to go, so we'll probably win with the best performance of the season.

Can you supply a sick note please? Why should you escape the agony?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 21, 2011, 08:06:37 AM
Zero enthusiasm for this, like others. I just want to get the Arse and Chel$ea games out the way to be honest.

I think the logical thing would be to play 433. We're not going to compete in passing football, even if we play 3 in there. It seems we literally can't keep the ball when up against any kind of pressure. But it should stop us being run through quite so readily, especially without Herd in there.

The only real weak spot I can see is in Arsenal's defence. Mertesacker is slow and ponderous and Gabby could get the better of him I think, and they are likely to have Koscielny and Coquelin at full back; so I reckon Albrighton and N'Zogbia wide.

In midfield, I think we need Clark, Petrov and one more. Probably Bannan although I'm losing a bit of faith in his ability to play at the top level. Delph still looks talented to me, but he struggles to impose himself in midfield and seems to be going backwards.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Sister of Top Cat on December 21, 2011, 08:08:26 AM
If we're 3-0 down at half time I'm going home.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 21, 2011, 08:10:03 AM
Arsenal have lost only two of their last 25 meetings with Aston Villa.
Aston Villa have not won any of their last 12 home games against Arsenal (D6, L6).
Aston Villa have failed to score in four of their past five league games.
Alex McLeish's side have won only two of their last nine matches.
They have lost three of their last four home league matches.

Hooray!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cheltenhamlion on December 21, 2011, 08:23:33 AM
Nope. Decision made, I am not going.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: sid1964 on December 21, 2011, 08:29:30 AM
Cant see anything else other than an Arsenal win, if they play like they did against City they will beat us comfortably 2-0
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ads on December 21, 2011, 08:30:26 AM
You all do know we'll win this. In ugly fashion and much to the dismay of Wenger and some Villa fans, but we will end up beating them.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: andrew08 on December 21, 2011, 08:32:13 AM
Going to be a long night. Back in the day, like Sunday, a two goal early lead for the opposition would have seen me in the pub before half time. Can't do that these days with the little un in tow and one of these Super Big Boys are going to absolutely muller us one day..... could be tonight.

But you never know...a draw or a narrow defeat will make my Xmas !
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on December 21, 2011, 08:36:59 AM
I cannot make this match tonight, devastated isn't the word.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Hookeysmith on December 21, 2011, 08:43:37 AM
I watched the Blackburn / Bolton game last night. Although the quality of player on the pitch was not very good (which is the blame of the owners not supporting the manager) at least both teams went for it in an open, decent game.

My point being even if the team are filled with inferior players, how they are set up and motivated means everything

We know our players are not shit (Heskey apart) so it has to be the way they are coached and managed

No escape - McCliesh out!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ads on December 21, 2011, 08:45:52 AM
I don't know what game you were watching Hookey. Blackburn were awful, with the exception of the young lad Hoilett, while Bolton just sat back.

The fans are getting like some of the players.

I think something has changed, Dunne was clearly losing the plot with a lot of them and hopefully dishing out some slaps in the dressing room.

They'll stand up and be counted tonight.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 21, 2011, 08:49:09 AM
they do seem very lacking in character. It seems Gardner has that character. I wonder if he'll be tempted to bring him in soon. Cov seem to have confirmed he's coming back, but Mcleish didn't mention him so I expect him on the bench.

I imagine Clark would play DCM, but I guess Gardner is an option to add some bollocks in there at least, albeit a very different player. Petrov would hold presumably.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on December 21, 2011, 08:49:46 AM
id go with
Guzan
Hutton, Cuellar, Dunne, Warnock
------Herd, Clark------------
Nzogbia, Petrov, Gabby
----------Bent-------------

If Bent is out Albrighton on left.

If Herd is out Ireland in midfield.

Fuck even at that its such a shit team.

No Delph, Collins and Heskey please.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 21, 2011, 08:53:31 AM
they do seem very lacking in character. It seems Gardner has that character. I wonder if he'll be tempted to bring him in soon. Cov seem to have confirmed he's coming back, but Mcleish didn't mention him so I expect him on the bench.

How do we know Gardner has that character?

Also, he might have had it in the reserves, but showing it in the PL is a different thing.

Don't get me wrong, I too am looking forward to see him getting a game soon, but I think we are in danger of bestowing upon him strengths and attributes that we don't actually know he has.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: London Villan on December 21, 2011, 09:00:17 AM
How would a lower league team have a go against Arsenal in a cup tie. As we are playing one of the giants of the game we should adopt these tactics...
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: orkneyvilla on December 21, 2011, 09:01:53 AM
Dunno if its been mentioned yet but from the OS - Herd, Bent, Heskey all out injured - with Collins (knee) probably needing a fitness test.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: manic-road on December 21, 2011, 09:10:56 AM
0-3 Can't see us getting much of the ball, and when we do we cant pass to fellow teamates anyway.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 21, 2011, 09:20:13 AM
I used to look forward to Villa games, now I just dread them. It's not just about results it's about performance. I wouldn't expect us to necessarily beat Man Utd, Liverpool, Arsenal etc, but I expect us to have a go.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 21, 2011, 09:20:54 AM
i agree on the risks of bestowing Gardner with some kind of cult status.

But I do think he's got character, based on what people say. For example, the way he insisted on taking the ball for the free kick he scored for the under 21s - taking it off £20m Jordan Henderson.


Not going over board, but I suspect he'd impose himself a little more than Delph. He may also get sent off I suppose!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 21, 2011, 09:28:38 AM
Not going over board, but I suspect he'd impose himself a little more than Delph. He may also get sent off I suppose!

He can't be more of a red card risk than Delph, who managed to go in two footed (and fortunately miss his man) twice in the first ten minutes or so on Sunday.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: pedro25 on December 21, 2011, 09:54:14 AM
2 nil Arsenal.  Would like to see

Guzan
Hutton Collins Dunne Warnock
Albrighton Petrov Delph N'Zogbia
Ireland
Gabby

Subs Marshall Stevens Clark Cuellar Gardner Bannan Weimann
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 21, 2011, 10:30:23 AM
Stevens is not eligible to play until 3rd January 2012.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Mister E on December 21, 2011, 10:31:50 AM
Shame Herd's out but Heskey and Collins being out is a positive; gives CC a chance to bag a back-four place.
I'm hoping that Petrov, BB and Delph can settle into a decent midfield 3 routine, with Gabby flanked by N'Zog and Albie.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: mrfuse on December 21, 2011, 10:44:07 AM
To be honest I dont care what the score will be all I want is a bit of commitment, yes were not the better team but lets not go into the game with that attitude that seems too stem from McLeish.

Lets have a go, warm the fans up and give us something to sing about okay Arsenal might beat us 4 or 5 nil but id rather that than the 2-0 appalling display of sunday
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paulcomben on December 21, 2011, 10:52:04 AM
Big Eck says 'stop Van Persie' on OS.  Yep, that should let in Walcott or Gervinho or Ramsey or Arteta to score.  How about 'keep the ball, pass and move, close down space' which gives Villa the only possible chance of a result.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on December 21, 2011, 10:54:55 AM
Worried about Gervinho & Walcott against our full backs.

:-(
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on December 21, 2011, 10:55:46 AM
They are shit at the back, so there might be a glimmer of hope we can get a consolation goal.  :-)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 21, 2011, 12:00:11 PM
Big Eck says 'stop Van Persie' on OS.  Yep, that should let in Walcott or Gervinho or Ramsey or Arteta to score.  How about 'keep the ball, pass and move, close down space' which gives Villa the only possible chance of a result.

Yes, ridiculous to try and stop them scoring.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on December 21, 2011, 12:13:17 PM
Not going over board, but I suspect he'd impose himself a little more than Delph. He may also get sent off I suppose!


He can't be more of a red card risk than Delph, who managed to go in two footed (and fortunately miss his man) twice in the first ten minutes or so on Sunday.

Those tackles were like the ones I used to do on computer football games before getting used to the controls or when playing as Blues against computer-controlled Villa and losing on purpose.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TaxDodger on December 21, 2011, 12:14:40 PM
This game isn't going to be worth traveling to from Aberystwyth, spending the night in Nottingham and traveling back to Aberystwyth tomorrow for is it?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on December 21, 2011, 12:16:30 PM
This game isn't going to be worth traveling to from Aberystwyth, spending the night in Nottingham and traveling back to Aberystwyth tomorrow for is it?

Anything to get out of Aber.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ads on December 21, 2011, 12:21:48 PM
This game isn't going to be worth traveling to from Aberystwyth, spending the night in Nottingham and traveling back to Aberystwyth tomorrow for is it?

It depends if you can somehow involve beer and breasts.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Marlon From Bearwood on December 21, 2011, 12:27:39 PM
This game isn't going to be worth traveling to from Aberystwyth, spending the night in Nottingham and traveling back to Aberystwyth tomorrow for is it?

It depends if you can somehow involve beer and breasts.


He could have a skinful, then watch 11 tits wonder around a football pitch.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: KevinGage on December 21, 2011, 12:30:54 PM
This game isn't going to be worth traveling to from Aberystwyth, spending the night in Nottingham and traveling back to Aberystwyth tomorrow for is it?

It depends if you can somehow involve beer and breasts.


Collins is out, but no new fitness concerns over Dunne.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: mal on December 21, 2011, 12:33:23 PM
I don't usually do this but...
Guzan
Hutton  Cuellar Dunne Warnock
Albrighton Petrov Bannan Clark D. Johnson
Gabby

Subs Marshall Stevens Delph Gardner Weimann Blake

Injured Collins Herd
Shopping (hopefullly for  a new club) Bent  N'Zogbia Ireland Heskey
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 21, 2011, 12:43:19 PM
Stevens is ineligible.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ads on December 21, 2011, 12:51:30 PM
Clacker is supposed to be starting in the middle of the park, which I think is good news. He bagged a brace against these last year. He reminds me a hell of a lot of Barry.

I'd see him with Stan, Bannan more advanced, with Charlie and Marc on the flanks and Gabby up top.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on December 21, 2011, 01:06:13 PM
Guzan

Hutton
Clark
Dunne
Warnock

Albrighton
Petrov
Bannan
N'Zogbia

Delfouneso
Agbonlahor
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on December 21, 2011, 01:07:54 PM
Clacker is supposed to be starting in the middle of the park, which I think is good news. He bagged a brace against these last year. He reminds me a hell of a lot of Barry.

I'd see him with Stan, Bannan more advanced, with Charlie and Marc on the flanks and Gabby up top.
Actually, that's pretty much the best we can hope for tonight. I really like Clark. Classy. Confident player. Will eb a real star. Expect a few bids to come in for him over the next couple of years.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Villafirst on December 21, 2011, 01:16:15 PM
Think we'll lose 1-2. Does Darren know that the Bull Ring is open tonight 'til 10pm for late-night shopping?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Goldie.7 on December 21, 2011, 02:12:49 PM
Think we'll lose 1-2. Does Darren know that the Bull Ring is open tonight 'til 10pm for late-night shopping?

Tweet him see if he reply's  ;)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: timeoutbigbar on December 21, 2011, 02:44:40 PM
Guzan

Hutton
Clark
Dunne
Warnock

Albrighton
Petrov
Bannan
N'Zogbia

Delfouneso
Agbonlahor

I'd be very concerned with the centre there.  Bannan and Petrov in a two man midfield isn't likely to provide any protection at all.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 21, 2011, 02:46:09 PM
I'd drop Fonz and go with Clark in CM myself. Gabby has proved in the past he can play the lone striker role, especially if the wingers support him.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 21, 2011, 02:49:19 PM
Guzan

Hutton
Clark
Dunne
Warnock

Albrighton
Petrov
Bannan
N'Zogbia

Delfouneso
Agbonlahor

Petrov and Bannan against Arteta, Ramsay and Frimpong? No thanks!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Concrete John on December 21, 2011, 02:53:48 PM
We got overrun in the centre on Sunday and Arsenal also play with three in there, so i'd be going with three aswell:-

Guzan

Hutton
Dunne
Collins (Cuellar if unfit)
Warnock 

Albrighton
Clark
Petrov
Bannan
N'Zogbia

Gabby
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: D.boy on December 21, 2011, 03:22:04 PM
I wonder what the odds would be for the 20,000th premier league goal to be scored against us?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brend'Watkins on December 21, 2011, 03:45:36 PM
We are 4/1 to win.  Big odds for us as the home team.

We might be playing poor but I'm having some of that.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Mister E on December 21, 2011, 03:53:04 PM
We got overrun in the centre on Sunday and Arsenal also play with three in there, so i'd be going with three aswell:-

Guzan

Hutton
Dunne
Collins (Cuellar if unfit)
Warnock 

Albrighton
Clark
Petrov
Bannan
N'Zogbia

Gabby
This - although I'd be happy with Delph in the middle and Clark at CB.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Newquay_AVFC on December 21, 2011, 03:56:55 PM
well i did predict a loss a couple of days ago, but i have just opened my first beer of the night and i am going to change my mind. I have a 100% record when i have ignored the result and waited for the extended highlights on sky which is what i am doing tonight. Villa 4 - 2 Arse. Gabby x2 Bannan and Dunne.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Villafirst on December 21, 2011, 04:25:54 PM
I've changed my mind - we'll be 2-0 down at half-time, then Santa will ''drop'' in at VP, then we'll proceed to batter them in the second half and come out 3-2 winners.....sound familar?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: kingus on December 21, 2011, 04:30:16 PM
Can't see us scoring.  Can't see us keeping a clean sheet.  It is very depressing.  For the first time in 25 years of going to Villa, I am seriously questioning if I can be arsed to go tonight.  And that's the most depressing thing of all.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Concrete John on December 21, 2011, 04:34:29 PM
Can't see us scoring.  Can't see us keeping a clean sheet.  It is very depressing.  For the first time in 25 years of going to Villa, I am seriously questioning if I can be arsed to go tonight.  And that's the most depressing thing of all.

I'll go, but need to wrap Christmas presents up first.  Not sure which i'll find more exciting.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Goldie.7 on December 21, 2011, 04:34:56 PM
We are 4/1 to win.  Big odds for us as the home team.

We might be playing poor but I'm having some of that.

We're 12-1 to win 1-0 basically means there's no chance of it happening!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on December 21, 2011, 04:38:23 PM
It's going to be tough with the players we have out tonight so we need the fans to get behind the team. I just hope the players respond by working the opposition keeper and by putting in the effort. Anything like Man Utd, Spurs or Liverpool and it could be a long night. It really is up to them.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: charlie on December 21, 2011, 04:46:17 PM
0-6, followed by 0-3 against Stoke, followed by the Eck apologists[why????] spouting more drivel as Villa sink towards Blackburn, and then when we drift aimlessly to the land of the noses, unless they pass us going up, Eck will have attained his immortality, 3 relegations 4?years., a CV to be truly proud of!!
Just had an email from Villa direct, 50% off many items, Heskey anyone?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on December 21, 2011, 05:24:49 PM
Anything could happen tonight.   The magic of christmas.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Tokyo Sexwhale on December 21, 2011, 05:26:12 PM
Anything could happen tonight.   The magic of christmas.

Like Santa parachuting in and transforming the game in our favour...
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on December 21, 2011, 05:27:39 PM
Anything could happen tonight.   The magic of christmas.

Like Santa parachuting in and transforming the game in our favour...

Clean sheet and a Gabby hat trick,  free pies and piss at half time.....
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: CJ on December 21, 2011, 05:35:23 PM
About to set off and can't remember feeling less enthusiastic about going to see us play (according to McLeish) one of the giants of the game. Maybe I'll break the boredom by laughing at some of their comedy hair cuts.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: kingus on December 21, 2011, 05:45:15 PM
About to set off as well.  More out of habit than anything else. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: NeilH on December 21, 2011, 05:49:07 PM
Well I'm about to set off to watch Ajax v AZ, so I can for once avoid the 90 minute torture that is us of late. I may even skip the score until I get home.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 21, 2011, 05:54:15 PM
The bastards are showing it live here on cable. Bugger!

2-1 Villa win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ozzjim on December 21, 2011, 05:56:57 PM
On the day my son was born in 2007 we beat boro 3-0 at their place. My daughter to be is currently being coaxed out, I hope she brings similar luck.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave Clark Five on December 21, 2011, 06:04:21 PM
Its more depressing reading this than watching the match.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on December 21, 2011, 06:11:36 PM
Chicken Goujon

Hutton (dressed as mutton)
(Over-)Dunne

Err...meat references wearing thin now...

Cuellar
Warnock


Albrighton
Petrov
Clark
Ireland
N'Zogbia

Agbonlahor

Subs: Marshall, Delph, Bannan, Fonzy, and whoever else is fit
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: villadelph on December 21, 2011, 06:25:46 PM
Chicken Goujon

Hutton (dressed as mutton)
(Over-)Dunne

Err...meat references wearing thin now...

Cuellar
Warnock


Albrighton
Petrov
Clark
Ireland
N'Zogbia

Agbonlahor

Subs: Marshall, Delph, Bannan, Fonzy, and whoever else is fit

I like that line up, but maybe switching Ireland for Bannan. That gives us a decent chance to get up the field quickly and with Gab running freely and frequently as a lone striker it could really stretch out their defense. I just hope we make an effort. If we look sub-par for only the first 10 minutes Arsenal will make us pay.

please, something.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 21, 2011, 06:33:35 PM
On the day my son was born in 2007 we beat boro 3-0 at their place. My daughter to be is currently being coaxed out, I hope she brings similar luck.

Pff!!! All mine were born a few months before a Villa Cup Final.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 21, 2011, 06:51:26 PM
VILLA: Guzan, Hutton, Dunne, Cuellar, Warnock; Petrov, Clark, Ireland; Albrighton, N’Zogbia, Agbonlahor.

Subs: Marshall, Delfouneso, Weimann, Bannan, Collins, Delph, Williams.

Presumably Collins injured, though on the bench, rather than dropped?

Interesting that Ireland starts ahead of Bannan. I thought Bannan was poor at the weekend.

About as good a side as we could pick I reckon, but still won't be good enough I suspect.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: markeeeebeeee2005 on December 21, 2011, 06:53:59 PM
That team looks better good to see Cuellar starting and the biggest oaf in our defence dropped.

Now let's see if there is any sort of attacking intent for a change.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: markeeeebeeee2005 on December 21, 2011, 06:55:54 PM
Also like to see Gabby up top on his own against these guys he tore them apart at the Emirates a few seasons ago.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 21, 2011, 06:57:53 PM
We do seem to chop and change our midfield a lot don't we. It must be hard to get into any sort of rhythm, which can't help.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 21, 2011, 07:01:47 PM
Blimey, that's a young bench. Based on what's available that's a decent line up though. We have to go at them and Gabby has proven himself very capable up top on his own. They need to believe. We need to believe.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eastie on December 21, 2011, 07:04:17 PM
No complaints about that team selection -lets have a go and if we do get beat at least show some pride rather than lie down and let them walk over us-bring it on!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: supertom on December 21, 2011, 07:05:50 PM
Who's Williams? I did think Sam Williams at first but surely he left ages ago.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Macho Man Randy Savage on December 21, 2011, 07:07:18 PM
That's certainly quite an attacking team we are putting out.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 21, 2011, 07:07:54 PM
Derrick, apparently. I think he's a centre back. Not sure what's happened to Baker?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 21, 2011, 07:08:43 PM
That's certainly quite an attacking team we are putting out.

Is it? 433, with Clark in midfield. Less attacking than the weekend, where we played 4 attacking players surely?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: supertom on December 21, 2011, 07:08:58 PM
It might be a forced hand but that's a positive line up. Good choices. Clark and Cueller deserve game time, and if we're ever gonna see the best of Ireland, then surely we need to give him a few games. I don't think his work ethic has been a problem this season or no doubt, we'd have heard from him, and he'd certainly have a moan himself. It seems like he's getting on with things so lets give him some game time.

Gabby up top on his own is a good move. With how poor we've been I don't think we can carry Bent at the moment. If we're not gonna get him the service he needs, there's no point.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on December 21, 2011, 07:10:34 PM
Apart from Ireland in and Bannan out - a good side.   Carlos and Clacker should put a bit of resolve in the team.  AM has been reading this forum.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: brian green on December 21, 2011, 07:11:16 PM
On the basis that Liverpool should have beaten us 6-0 I will take anything less than a 5-0 defeat as an improvement.

Biggest Villa talking point will be what McLeish says after the game.   If he uses the word "giant" again he can expect the undercurrent of resentment towards him to become a torrent.

The one thing he had been getting right and it was the only thing was his ability to avoid fan inflaming gaffes.   He even bolloxed that up last Sunday.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Matt Collins on December 21, 2011, 07:13:26 PM
What's all this fuss about the 'giant' comment? Seems like a storm in a tea cup to me.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on December 21, 2011, 07:18:51 PM
Interesting team to be honest .  Great to see Cuellar and Clark in there . Big game for Ireland and the pace of Nz , Albrighton and Gabby .   with Heskey out it looks 10 times better
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VancouverLion on December 21, 2011, 07:22:38 PM
Great opportunity for Ireland to cement a place in the team a good performance & he'll get a run in the side, usual no show & he's out the door in Jan.

Come on you Villa boys!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: hipkiss92 on December 21, 2011, 07:27:52 PM
It might be a forced hand but that's a positive line up. Good choices. Clark and Cueller deserve game time, and if we're ever gonna see the best of Ireland, then surely we need to give him a few games. I don't think his work ethic has been a problem this season or no doubt, we'd have heard from him, and he'd certainly have a moan himself. It seems like he's getting on with things so lets give him some game time.

Gabby up top on his own is a good move. With how poor we've been I don't think we can carry Bent at the moment. If we're not gonna get him the service he needs, there's no point.

Maybe Ireland's such a lazy twat he can't even be bothered to moan to the papers
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Simba on December 21, 2011, 07:33:40 PM
Amc seems to be listening. He has put out some attacking LOOKING teams lately but we still sit so deep. Watching replay of Arsenal v Man City atm and boy it is quick and positive in comparison with us. Two hours behind most of you and am waiting for the live game here ( South Africa). Personally want AMc out for obvious but God I hope we do not embarrass ourselves. Love to see Gardner for a cameo at least.

Just go and FIGHT Villa. Give us something to shout about FGS. Pass and run. Respect to those going and supporting the team. Must be bloody cold for you blokes.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Macho Man Randy Savage on December 21, 2011, 07:35:33 PM
That's certainly quite an attacking team we are putting out.

Is it? 433, with Clark in midfield. Less attacking than the weekend, where we played 4 attacking players surely?

I would say so. Granted Clark in for Delph is quite defensive, but if you are going to play Ireland, Albrighton and N'Zogbia in the same team then you could do this without it necessarily being cynical.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Macho Man Randy Savage on December 21, 2011, 07:40:31 PM
Amc seems to be listening. He has put out some attacking LOOKING teams lately but we still sit so deep.

That's my worry as well. We are putting a lot of attacking players out there tonight so I'd expect us to give it a go, but it wouldn't surprise me to see all the players behind the ball the whole game.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Grande Pablo on December 21, 2011, 11:01:44 PM
Derrick, apparently. I think he's a centre back. Not sure what's happened to Baker?

Baker & Lowry are at Millwall on loan.  I'd imagine either could be called back if required.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v Arsenal Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on December 21, 2011, 11:41:03 PM
Us: nil
Them: a lot

Sighs.


Really pleased to be proved wrong.
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