Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Legion on December 30, 2011, 08:16:16 PM
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Available Saturday evening.
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Very impressed with the last 3 performances and lots of effort and quality, we seem better balanced and cuellar has impressed me again with his improved distribution , warnock also had a good game and i cannot fault anyone , well done to alex and his staff, the players and fans , maybe 2012 will not be so bad after all!
Happy new year to all!
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Happy New Year.
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Fantastic result. Happy New Year Villans.
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Mcleish Out ?.....Hahahahahahahahahaah.................. .Happy New Year everybody !
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Best game of the season so far performance and result wise! Great to see Ireland put in a shift it's been long overdue!
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What a performance. What a club!
Heroes!!!
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Am I dreaming or have we just beat Chelsea away?! :D
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absolutely stunning result, sounds like we were under quite a bit of pressure when we got the second, so well done to the lads for digging deep and then taking their chances.
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Heroes, one and all.
As I mentioned in the match thread, definitely more than enough in that performance to see Ireland still having a future here. Shouldn't be written off just yet. Now to push on from that, ya daft mentalist!
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Brilliant well done boys. Bent showed what he's about when he came on. Ireland was absolutely fantastic and great to see Gardner get on.
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What a way to celebrate my Birthday! Great performance from all. Right, now, where's the beer........
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We've looked so much better since McCleish took the shackles off and stopped being so defensive. And is Ireland actually going to finally come good? God I hope so because a player of his type on top form is exactly what our team needs.
Back in the top half of the table too. Happy new year everyone!
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Wow what a performance I didnt think they had it in them Fantastic Up the Villa
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I'm not fooled - McLeish out!!
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Forgot Petrov, he was great.
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great result justice done for cheating john terry hahahahahah
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Fabulous stuff...
Well played you Villa boys, proud again !
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Well done boys, a great result.
Lets keep pushing on.
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Wow.
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Well done Villa......undefeated in 2012....well they are in Penang ....and a lot glum Chelskis out here!!!!
Happy New Year to all those back home
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There you go. That's how we play football from now on. Every single one of them can be proud. Fantastic.
Happy new year.
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Am I dreaming or have we just beat Chelsea away?! :D
I'm putting it down to hallucinations caused by altitude sickness and fatigue. No way is this reality
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After a couple of encouraging performances, this win was probably due, though I admit I didn't expect it.
Things are suddenly looking a lot better. The big difference for me is that we now longer look as disjointed as we did for almost four first months of this season. I suspect that the inclusion of Clark in midfield is a big part of the explanation.
It has taken him a long time, but maybe McLeish is finally starting to realize what his team should look like.
Happy new year!
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Fcuk you Halsey..
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Superb result, Happy New Year fellow H&V contributers
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Brilliant. They proved me wrong, and I love it when that happens. Happy new year, all.
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GULP.... I was wrong.... I wanted him out three games ago. But he has managed to totally change the way we have been playing, and it has totally transformed us, we now keep the ball so much better.
The key for me is Cirian Clark, because he is positionally so disciplined, and so good at using the ball. I really think he could be world class in that position, and shows we don't need a Frimpong or McShitran or whoever else.
Well done Alex McLeish, keep them playing in this style and you will win a lot of friends over the next few months, excellent today.
Final mention - Stephen Ireland, you little bugger, play there, like that, every week and you could be a legend after such a chequered start. You have the ability, and today were the difference between us and a top 4 side at their ground!
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McLeish out!
Just joshing.
Fair play to all concerned.
Ireland, Warnock and the Zog (first half) for looking like the players we know they can be.
But in particular to McLeish for NOT taking the soft option and sending on subs to hold onto the point (or doing nowt and hoping we'd see it through). Bent and Gardner at that stage showed he wanted to win the game.
Not that I'm hugely bothered, but I wonder what Mourinho, Grant and Ancellotti make of the latitude AVB has been given.
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Christmas has come early brilliant!!! Great performance by Ireland and Ill give some credit too Warnock as he always gets some stick. happy with the deffence on set pieces
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Fcuk you Halsey..
What did he do today?
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Well done Alex McLeish. Very well done. He's taken a lot of shit from a lot of people since he came. He has had to change his philosophy and he last few games has seen us transform to a team that actually wants to play. We have the players that Blues never had to do good things. I hope he now believes even more that tis is the way forward. A fantastic result.
Happy New Year everyone!!!!!!!
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GULP.... I was wrong.... I wanted him out three games ago. But he has managed to totally change the way we have been playing, and it has totally transformed us, we now keep the ball so much better.
The key for me is Cirian Clark, because he is positionally so disciplined, and so good at using the ball. I really think he could be world class in that position, and shows we don't need a Frimpong or McShitran or whoever else.
Well done Alex McLeish, keep them playing in this style and you will win a lot of friends over the next few months, excellent today.
Final mention - Stephen Ireland, you little bugger, play there, like that, every week and you could be a legend after such a chequered start. You have the ability, and today were the difference between us and a top 4 side at their ground!
Couldnt have said it better myself
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Brilliant. They proved me wrong, and I love it when that happens. Happy new year, all.
Many Happy returns!
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OMG Just got in and seen the score. Well done the lads. Even AM.
Happy New to all. Hope to see some of you at Bristol game.
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Absolutely brilliant performance, looked a threat every time we had the ball, passed it very well and we had real cutting edge.
We defended really well, especially in the second half.
Dunne, Warnock, Clark, Cuellar, Petrov and N'zogbia all stand out terrific.
Special mention for Stephen Ireland, who I thought was absolutely outstanding. His touch, vision, passing, movement and workrate (yes workrate) were a joy to behold. If he can perform consistently half as well as that then we have one hell of a player on our hands.
Suddenly every looks infinitely more positive. Big credit to the manager for picking a team to take the game to Chelsea. Long may it continue.
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Absolutely made up. Playing Chelsea is my biggest two games of the season as I work with so many of their gloryhunting, johnny come lately fans and also know a shedload (no pun intended) socially. I have been mouthing off all season to them how they have joined the ranks of the also rans and this is going to give me so much ammunition to back that up!
Sky + all set for MOTD as I am to a friend's house for the night....and who does he support do you think?
Wahooooooooooooooooo
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Happy New Year all!!
Let's hope 2012 continues with us all feeling this way
UTV - Great afternoon
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"England striker comes off the bench to get Villa's third at Chelsea." Sounds good, that, doesn't it?
Ireland, Petrov and Zog (before he tired) especially ran rings around their midfield at times, especially first half. Rode our luck at times in the 2nd - esp when they brought Lampard on - but we deserved that. Brad made some good saves and we could have had more (two penalties denied and a Gabby one-on-one).
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Am I dreaming or have we just beat Chelsea away?! :D
I'm putting it down to hallucinations caused by altitude sickness and fatigue. No way is this reality
I think someone spiked my coffee with acid. Am I trippin?
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After a couple of encouraging performances, this win was probably due, though I admit I didn't expect it.
Things are suddenly looking a lot better. The big difference for me is that we now longer look as disjointed as we did for almost four first months of this season. I suspect that the inclusion of Clark in midfield is a big part of the explanation.
It has taken him a long time, but maybe McLeish is finally starting to realize what his team should look like.
Happy new year!
Pretty much how I feel. Actually, I feel like a fucking king.
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Heskey gets my man of the match vote for being injured and not playing. Really does make a massive difference when he isn't in the team. First against Arsenal where we were unlucky and now today.
Ireland played the best I've seen him play in a Villa shirt. Mainly because he covered every blade of grass. The ability has always been there he just needs to keep up the effort!
Happy New Year all!
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Fcuk you Halsey..
What did he do today?
Nothing for us, wouldn't book their players, handball on the line ignored and refused two pen appeals later on.
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Fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!!! :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)
(http://www.oleole.com/media/main/images/wallpapers/59040/astonvillabadge_168436.png)
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Absolutely chuffed with that performance and result.
Ireland had the stand out performance for me.
Well done on the sub decisions Alex. Keep that up and we will all be behind you.
Havn't enjoyed a game so much in ages.
We beat 12 man Chelski on their turf. Fantastic stuff. ;D
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I think now we are playing that way we can create chances for Benty and he'd be happy to stay. This change of philosophy has transformed us.
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Yes Yes and Yes Again. Love it love it - first time I looked at the team sheet this season and thought - that is the most appropriate team to pick based on availability and recent performances.
Did you hear the sound of the nail going into the wall - for the hanging up of 'Gentleman' John Terry and Totally Fwank's boots.
And Yes as a result of the last 3 performances which showed effort, endeavour and a little enterprise I have purchased a ticket for Monday's game in the Sir Witton Lane stand.
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Steve Kean and Alex McLeish deserve a beer tonight-they both had the balls to turn things around. Far more like it Villa-optimistic for the future as the spirit is evident. Ireland, Nzogbia & Clark All playing well have really made a difference. Petrov has been fantastic this year
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Agree with most / all of the above. Special mention for Gary Gardner's first appearance in the Premiership: announced by the commentator as Craig's brother, I predict that by the close of 2012 Craig will be welcomed by commentators as "Gary's brother".
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I was pleased but resigned to a draw at 2-1 then couldn't help myself as Ireland ran through and fed Bent and went running round the house - this is what the Villa do to you - the utterly wonderful bastards!!!!!
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"England striker comes off the bench to get Villa's third at Chelsea." Sounds good, that, doesn't it?
Ireland, Petrov and Zog (before he tired) especially ran rings around their midfield at times, especially first half. Rode our luck at times in the 2nd - esp when they brought Lampard on - but we deserved that. Brad made some good saves and we could have had more (two penalties denied and a Gabby one-on-one).
As did 'Villa storm the Bridge' on the R5 sports report headlines
I must remember to be all nonchalent about this when I see my Chelsea following friends the next few days. I may even pretend I didn't know we won...
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Ireland was class today
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Who would have thought it, me for a start.
Great performance with the difference between the sides being Ireland, who had an excellent 1st half. He drifted out of the game in the 2nd half as we dropped deeper. Whether his effort dropped or the other players stopped finding him as in the 1st half, I do not know but he came back strongly at the end.
The shape of things to come (selection), hopefully. Although at home we need the extra striker as we will not be able to counter against sides sitting deeper.
MOM - Ireland for showing that star quality when it mattered
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Credit where it's due, that is a brilliant result. Great to see Ireland finally do well.
I can't help but think McLeish has stumbled onto a winning formula by accident with the injuries forcing him to bring in the likes of Ireland and Clark, but nonetheless he deserves praise for at least setting the team up to attack more in the last three games. Big game against Swansea now, we have to build on this.
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Fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!!! :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)
(http://www.oleole.com/media/main/images/wallpapers/59040/astonvillabadge_168436.png)
I love it!
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Still buzzing what a great way to end the year.
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Gabby bullying Terry - love it...
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Great effort and how refreshing to see us play football on the deck. Delighted for all those that made the effort to go down there today.
Where ever you are, have a great night and a happy new year to y'all.
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I'm a bit happy, to say the least.
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"England striker comes off the bench to get Villa's third at Chelsea." Sounds good, that, doesn't it?
Ireland, Petrov and Zog (before he tired) especially ran rings around their midfield at times, especially first half. Rode our luck at times in the 2nd - esp when they brought Lampard on - but we deserved that. Brad made some good saves and we could have had more (two penalties denied and a Gabby one-on-one).
As did 'Villa storm the Bridge' on the R5 sports report headlines
I must remember to be all nonchalent about this when I see my Chelsea following friends the next few days. I may even pretend I didn't know we won...
I recall a headline many, many years back when I think we won 3-0 down there. Platty got on the scoresheet. The headline was "Blue murder at the bridge"
Love it
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6am here in new zealand. supposed to be going to bed, but i'm buzzing.
happy new year everybody!
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Fcuk you Halsey..
What did he do today?
Nothing for us, wouldn't book their players, handball on the line ignored and refused two pen appeals later on.
For the handball I think someone mentioned in a thread last year that if a goal comes from playing on then he can't go back and send player off for handball, (although that depends on whether he was going to do him for it anyway if we hadn't scored).
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Who was predicting 7-0 drubbing the other day? I must admit I did not foresee 3-1 to us..but wonderful and made up for everything!!
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Well, that was all rather splendid.
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Fantastic - a very Happy New Year from Walmley Villa and Aston Villa FC.
They all deserve the plaudits including the manager. Ireland was tremendous and like a new star signing. Good to see Benty patting the badge after his goal. I can't believe some fans want us to sell him! He isn't going anywhere.
A massive UP THE VILLA!
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I dunno I have been away six months and all I see is how bad we are, I come back and we play well the last few games without the points we deserve and then we turn Chelsea over at the Bridge with the help of manager's substitutions in the last 15 minutes which help seal up the win.......By Eck Happy New Year to ya all
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It's all about attitude. Be it the whole team or just the likes of Ireland it doesn't matter, have the correct attitude and the belief will come and so will the results.
Whatever happened between the Liverpool and Arsenal games it has transformed the season.
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Must admit, i'm a little bit happy at the moment.
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Can we make sure that all of the players have a regular hookah pipe & cocktail with their shirts off?
See you on Monday v Swansea and a very happy new year to all.
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Proper football again. That's the blueprint for the rest of the season.
Well done the team and the manager... and a special mention to all our fans down there today, great effort!
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I was worried about 20 mins into the second half when we were looking tired, somehow they found more energy and the substitutions worked a treat. They gave thier all and got what they deserved -still buzzing
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Gabby bullying Terry - love it...
He always gives Terry fits. Terry must hate playing against him.
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Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way!
Oh what fun it is to see the Villa win away, hey!
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Fantastic result; great performance by the whole team but well done in particular to Ireland for playing so well, Stan for a superb winning goal, and Gabby for bossing Terry who should have been sent off. Can't recall a time when we have consistently kept the ball on the deck for so long - hopefully a sign of things to come in 2012.
Absolutely gutted I missed it - first game I've not been to since Blues away back in January; 38 consecutive competitive games - but when both my lads decided they wanted to do other things for New Years Eve that made my mind up.
Happy New Year to all on here!
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It's all about attitude. Be it the whole team or just the likes of Ireland it doesn't matter, have the correct attitude and the belief will come and so will the results.
Whatever happened between the Liverpool and Arsenal games it has transformed the season.
Clark came into midfield is what happened between liverpool and arsenal.
All the plaudits will go to other people but he has been first class since he came back into the side and has made us look much more balanced in there.
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Very nice, very nice indeed. Well done lads.
I get more enjoyment out of winning down there than any other Premier League club, mainly because you're unlikely to find a scummier set of individuals, on or off the pitch.
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Brilliant. Absolutely bloody brilliant. Walked up fulham road with a silly smile on my face. Still can't get rid of it. I'll certainly be celebrating that tonight.
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Ja!!!!!! Was für ein Spiel! Absolut genial.
Beste Grüsse an alle Villans und ein gutes neues Jahr aus Deutschland. ;)
UP THE VILLA!!
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Sir Witton Lane stand. Like it.
Well played lads, lets hope the Arsenal game was the turning point and we get the belief back.
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Love this from the Grauniad
Villa had been magnificent, potent on the break, slick in the pass and completely worthy of an eye-catching win. Chelsea could only pine for such qualities
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Credit where it's due, that is a brilliant result. Great to see Ireland finally do well.
I can't help but think McLeish has stumbled onto a winning formula by accident with the injuries forcing him to bring in the likes of Ireland and Clark, but nonetheless he deserves praise for at least setting the team up to attack more in the last three games. Big game against Swansea now, we have to build on this.
Maybe - though that is what happened with Sir Graham 20 odd years ago. Sticks on the wing, 3 centre halves and a converted midfielder at left wing back.
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Driving along the expressway at 10 to 5 and the phone rings with my Chelsea supporting daughter's name flashing up on the screen. I braced myself for the worst.
I can't believe it. I thought we'd get a draw because of the improvement we've shown in the last 2 but to win 3 - 1 there, in our current state is just magnificent, up there with our win a few years ago at Man U.
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So chuffed - happy New Year everyone.
The standards have now been set!!
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Ja!!!!!! Was für ein Spiel! Absolut genial.
Beste Grüsse an alle Villans und ein gutes neues Jahr aus Deutschland. ;)
UP THE VILLA!!
Happy New Year to you too!
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Very nice, very nice indeed. Well done lads.
I get more enjoyment out of winning down there than any other Premier League club, mainly because you're unlikely to find a scummier set of individuals, on or off the pitch.
Too right. I remember having a right set to with two of them (father and son no less, all gelled up in their Fat Fwank shirts) on the tube back from Wembley. I hope they are thinking of me today as I am of them...
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Oh, forgot to mention earlier.
Happy New Year to all you Villa fans, wherever you may be (we are the boys of the Holte army .......).
Enjoy it for the moment.
John Terry, you were crap. You were bullied all 1st half by Gabby and one day you are going to get it, you cheating b******.
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And unfortunately I didn't see the match but knew it was 1-1 from the radio when driving back from my mums. Got in, started supper, logged on to see if we managed to hold out, saw from the first couple of posts we had won, checked the BBC expecting to see 2-1 and was even more surprised.
AM deserves credit as he has decided to heed the fans and get the team playing attacking football. If we had played like that against Manure and Redscouse we could be a couple of points better off at least. But he has also managed to get the players back on his side as well. It can't be coincidence that Cueller has played in the last four games when we have had improved performances. So has Marc and Ciaran. He has also moved Chuck to the left which allows him to come inside more which he was so effective at for Wigan.
Now we have to look at what happens over the next month. Some of the players that have led to the improvement are essentially in the shop window and could be gone.
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Love this from the Grauniad
Villa had been magnificent, potent on the break, slick in the pass and completely worthy of an eye-catching win. Chelsea could only pine for such qualities
Just whacked that up as my FB status!
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Brilliant. Absolutely bloody brilliant. Walked up fulham road with a silly smile on my face. Still can't get rid of it. I'll certainly be celebrating that tonight.
Enjoy Pauline, I only wish I was there. Mind you, I'd be mouthing off at Chelsea fans right, left and centre and would probably get my head kicked in...
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Ireland and McLeish deserve to feel very pleased with themselves tonight.
Special mention to Clark and Petrov, who should be the deep pairing from now on.
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The whole game is on sky at 815 tonite.
Come on you beauties!
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delighted with today's performance. well done lads. here's to a positive 2012
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Time to start thinking of a push for the top 4?
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Fantastic result wasn't expecting that I just hope we stick to how we have played in the last few games.
My missus isn't going to be very happy tonight.
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the futures bright, the futures claret and blue.
Pleased with the whole team, special mention for Ireland, great game
Very special mention for GG first game, what a pass.
Very very special mention to gabby. I think he was the reason chelsea kept there fullbacks in check a lot. He had Terry and Luis scared. Probably my MOM
Happy New Year to all of you
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Time to start thinking of a push for the top 4?
Definitely. And if Man City stumble like the other lot have today, then the skies the limit.
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It's all about attitude. Be it the whole team or just the likes of Ireland it doesn't matter, have the correct attitude and the belief will come and so will the results.
Whatever happened between the Liverpool and Arsenal games it has transformed the season.
Absolutely spot on. I get the feeling that the players had little faith in the manager though that changed with or just before the Arsenal game.
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I said it after the Stoke game and I'll say it again. Something significant has changed and the squad appears to be reaping the benefits of that change. Maybe its a more settled system, maybe its professional pride, maybe McGinge has altered his training. Whatever it is we are unrecognisable from the side we were in mid-November. Credit to them all and Happy New Year!
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wasnt it good to have Bannan, Clark and Gardner all on at the same time
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Ja!!!!!! Was für ein Spiel! Absolut genial.
Beste Grüsse an alle Villans und ein gutes neues Jahr aus Deutschland. ;)
UP THE VILLA!!
Danke. nun lasst uns trinken
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Ja!!!!!! Was für ein Spiel! Absolut genial.
Beste Grüsse an alle Villans und ein gutes neues Jahr aus Deutschland. ;)
UP THE VILLA!!
Wir wünschen dir auch nen guten Rutsch.
Great performance, huge three points and can't really fault any of the players (apart from a dodgy minute for our centre halves).
I'm sure the media will make a big deal about Chelsea underperforming but that was a huge step forward for us, and hopefully it'll kick start us going into the New Year. Have a good un all!
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Ja!!!!!! Was für ein Spiel! Absolut genial.
Beste Grüsse an alle Villans und ein gutes neues Jahr aus Deutschland. ;)
UP THE VILLA!!
All the best, Chris! Aber I know you sprechen Englisch!
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McCleish has got the right idea, our last couple of managers have started off like a train and then run out of steam by the new year. Hopefully we can finish the season with a good run up to end.
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I said it after the Stoke game and I'll say it again. Something significant has changed and the squad appears to be reaping the benefits of that change. Maybe its a more settled system, maybe its professional pride, maybe McGinge has altered his training. Whatever it is we are unrecognisable from the side we were in mid-November. Credit to them all and Happy New Year!
Fully agree, something significant has happened.
Lets hope we can build on this, offload some more of the hangers on in January, and then add some quality when we are able.
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Ozzjim described exactly how I feel.
Last 3 performances have been quality.
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The whole game is on sky at 815 tonite.
Come on you beauties!
Thanks for the heads up on that.
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Ireland, Petrov, Gabby and last but not least Clark... hats off to you.
Not said this often, but well done mcleish for having the balls to put Ireland in ahead of a semi-fit Bent. It certainly paid off. Question is, do we stick with the same starting 11 for Swansea or do we drop someone (unfairly) to put Bent back in.
Happy new year all, let the drinking commence.
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massive, massive game now against Swansea. They're not very good on the road, and Villa Park should be buzzing after today. We must take advantage of the new momentum and good feeling. People left Villa Park generally happy and encouraged after Arsenal despite the result. Time to send Villa fans home with an even bigger smile now to start 2012 off right with a good win.
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Buzzing.
Warnocks best game in a Villa shirt. Ditto for Ireland.
Given might find it hard to get his place back.
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massive, massive game now against Swansea. They're not very good on the road, and Villa Park should be buzzing after today. We must take advantage of the new momentum and good feeling. People left Villa Park generally happy and encouraged after Arsenal despite the result. Time to send Villa fans home with an even bigger smile now to start 2012 off right with a good win.
re the Arsenal match, I can't really remember the last time I left Villa Park having picked up zero points feeling so utterly elated.
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Well that's just a superb team performance superbly rounded off with a couple of outstanding individual turns from Clark and, especially, Ireland.
To be honest, I can't quite believe the improvement in how we have played over the last three games, it's remarkable. There genuinely seems to have been a complete change in philosophy, and we look so much better for it. I'm not suggesting we're like Barcelona or anything, but we ARE playing some good stuff and getting the best out of the players we have. The difference in Collins and Dunne's distribution has been very significant in particular, and fair play to them both for 'giving it a whirl'.
And McLeish really deserves a lot of credit for all of the above. He seems to have opened his eyes to the type of football our players can produce, that we fans like to see, and has grabbed his balls and gone for it. Early days, but I reckon it's paying off! Some brave decisions today (dropping Hutton, starting with Ireland) suggest that he's not a soft touch, while his substitutions today were spot on. He also seems to have instilled a bit of belief into the players too; I really thought we'd turn to 'panic mode' today, but we kept on playing our game and got the goals on the counter. Very impressive.
I've no idea if we can keep it up, or how it will all turn out, but the last few games have shown that he does seem to have a sense of direction, and that the players are responding to it. Onwards and upwards into 2012, then!
Happy New Year, everyone!
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Firstly a good day for 2 decent blokes, McL and Steve Kean.Both come across as decent blokes who over the last few weeks have shown great dignity.Good Luck to them.
Well the Stephen Ireland Show finally turned up.A well balanced team who all played the part, with Ireland pulling the strings.All the players deserved at least 9 out of 10.We kept the ball, we tried to play football, tried to create chances, worked hard, worked hard off the ball, good management, good use of substitutions.
If thats the way McL wants to play, then great.Compare and contrast Sturridge and N'Zog today, one worked his bollocks off, one played like a prima donna.
The best thing about that is we deserved that today.
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Buzzing.
U
Warnocks best game in a Villa shirt. Ditto for Ireland.
Given might find it hard to get his place back.
Agree with this aswell. Guzan comes off his line which relieves so much pressure on the defence.
This has made my new year now!
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I'm glad people on here are finally giving McLeish some credit, even if it is seen as a response to criticism. He's won silverware most places before and I'm sure he will here. Shame on the people who said Ireland was a "waste of space", shame on the people who said Petrov could no longer be "carried", shame on those who contemplated selling Bent, shame on those for not backing McLeish. Believe in Aston Villa. Always.
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massive, massive game now against Swansea. They're not very good on the road, and Villa Park should be buzzing after today. We must take advantage of the new momentum and good feeling. People left Villa Park generally happy and encouraged after Arsenal despite the result. Time to send Villa fans home with an even bigger smile now to start 2012 off right with a good win.
re the Arsenal match, I can't really remember the last time I left Villa Park having picked up zero points feeling so utterly elated.
obviously watched it on TV and it was a bizarre feeling at the end. It was like "hmmm... I shouldn't feel this way after losing but that was refreshing." McLeish has taken some stick, much of it justified, but maybe, just maybe he was right, and the players just needed a bit of confidence to play this way. Not sure you can put a value on what it will do for the players' confidence after today, but it should give them the belief that they belong in the upper echelons of the table.
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Brilliant. Absolutely bloody brilliant. Walked up fulham road with a silly smile on my face. Still can't get rid of it. I'll certainly be celebrating that tonight.
Enjoy Pauline, I only wish I was there. Mind you, I'd be mouthing off at Chelsea fans right, left and centre and would probably get my head kicked in...
Thanks Richard. You'd have been ok. The Chelsea fans were subdued, obviously from shock.
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I didn't even bother watching the inevitable 10 man behind the ball, and defending the 5-0 loss approach, but I'm sure we had about 0 shots on target and spent the whole game barely stringing two passes together.
...Hang on, what the fuck did I miss?
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I'm glad people on here are finally giving McLeish some credit, even if it is seen as a response to criticism. He's won silverware most places before and I'm sure he will here. Shame on the people who said Ireland was a "waste of space", shame on the people who said Petrov could no longer be "carried", shame on those who contemplated selling Bent, shame on those for not backing McLeish. Believe in Aston Villa. Always.
I've generally supported Ireland since he joined, but the stick people have given him, and even the stick that was given to him this week has been mostly self inflicted. That said, he deserves all the credit in the world after today. What's more, McLeish could have just stuck him on the bench today as a lesson which could have been counter-productive. Fair play to him also for playing Ireland today.
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I didn't even bother watching the inevitable 10 man behind the ball, and defending the 5-0 loss approach, but I'm sure we had about 0 shots on target and spent the whole game barely stringing two passes together.
...Hang on, what the fuck did I miss?
you missed the new Aston Villa... that's all
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(http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/409624_297812316922153_100000801626582_777633_1165368017_n.jpg)
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Fantastic performance, and really, really encouraging. Well done McLeish. The difference between our performances against LFC, MUFC and THFC is stunning. We had our luck, but deserved it.
I think this shape really suits us. It does create a problem for how to incorporate Bent. Gabby terrorised their centre backs.
Guzan - 7. Little bit dodgy, but came well for crosses and came out to close down their fwds.
Cuellar - 7. Much improved posession of late. Got caught out defensively a couple of times.
Collins 8. Have to say I thought he was excellent.
Dunne 7. Would have got a 9 were it not for a stupid tackle.
Warnock 8. I thought he looked really good today.
Petrov 8. Fantastic performance again. We'd be crazy to sell him.
Clark 7. Completely agree that he offers us so much more than Herd or Delph at the moment. Protected the back 4, calm on the ball, crisp pass to Petrov.
Albrighton 6. Some really good crosses in first half, and some typical determination in 2nd half.
Ireland 9. Wow. Wow, wow, wow. Exactly the player we hoped we were getting. Classy on the ball. Always picked the right option. Involved in all 3 goals. Worked like a trojan. His best performance for us by an absolute mile.
N'Zogbia 7. Very good first half, much quieter second. Skinned Ferreira a few times. Looks much better on the left for now.
Gabby 8. Worked tirelessly, gave Terry a nightmare. Should have buried his chance.
Bent 6. Worked hard, bit lucky with the goal.
Bannan 5. Minimal impact.
Gardner 6. Positionaly sound.
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Brilliant. Absolutely bloody brilliant. Walked up fulham road with a silly smile on my face. Still can't get rid of it. I'll certainly be celebrating that tonight.
Enjoy Pauline, I only wish I was there. Mind you, I'd be mouthing off at Chelsea fans right, left and centre and would probably get my head kicked in...
Thanks Richard. You'd have been ok. The Chelsea fans were subdued, obviously from shock.
Tremendous support - came roaring over the airwaves on R5Live - we were so carried away me and the lad were joining in - Happy New Year Pauline
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I'm glad people on here are finally giving McLeish some credit, even if it is seen as a response to criticism. He's won silverware most places before and I'm sure he will here. Shame on the people who said Ireland was a "waste of space", shame on the people who said Petrov could no longer be "carried", shame on those who contemplated selling Bent, shame on those for not backing McLeish. Believe in Aston Villa. Always.
I've generally supported Ireland since he joined, but the stick people have given him, and even the stick that was given to him this week has been mostly self inflicted. That said, he deserves all the credit in the world after today. What's more, McLeish could have just stuck him on the bench today as a lesson which could have been counter-productive. Fair play to him also for playing Ireland today.
Spot on, both deserve credit today. The team AM picked, the formation and even the subs. Ireland for bouncing back after a terrible 12 months. Well done to them.
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I'm glad people on here are finally giving McLeish some credit, even if it is seen as a response to criticism. He's won silverware most places before and I'm sure he will here. Shame on the people who said Ireland was a "waste of space", shame on the people who said Petrov could no longer be "carried", shame on those who contemplated selling Bent, shame on those for not backing McLeish. Believe in Aston Villa. Always.
i was waiting for the first negative post, Happy New Year and UTV
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A great way to end what has been a very forgettable calendar year AVFC-wise.
Here's to a more successful, harmonious 2012
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massive, massive game now against Swansea. They're not very good on the road, and Villa Park should be buzzing after today. We must take advantage of the new momentum and good feeling. People left Villa Park generally happy and encouraged after Arsenal despite the result. Time to send Villa fans home with an even bigger smile now to start 2012 off right with a good win.
I agree. I think it may be a mistake to revert to 442 as well. Ireland has made that very difficult anyway. I'd play the same xi if we can, perhaps with Hutton for Collins?
If Petrov is injured, I think I'd probably play Gardner rather than Ireland deeper? Anyway, not one for decision now.
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(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelIRE.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelPetr.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelBent.jpg)
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massive, massive game now against Swansea. They're not very good on the road, and Villa Park should be buzzing after today. We must take advantage of the new momentum and good feeling. People left Villa Park generally happy and encouraged after Arsenal despite the result. Time to send Villa fans home with an even bigger smile now to start 2012 off right with a good win.
I agree. I think it may be a mistake to revert to 442 as well. Ireland has made that very difficult anyway. I'd play the same xi if we can, perhaps with Hutton for Collins?
If Petrov is injured, I think I'd probably play Gardner rather than Ireland deeper? Anyway, not one for decision now.
thing is Matt, if the team have confidence playing this way, we can play in a number of different systems. Horses for courses and all that, and it will mean different players being able to adapt to different situations. The key is, keep the ball on the deck, knock it about and play the ball to the players that can do the damage. We did that today.
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Mad, bad Stevie Superman Ireland can puff away on that water/crack(craic?) pipe, half-naked in snakeskin pyjamas as much as he likes if he comes up with a performance like that every week.
Delighted for him, he's taken some pelters here over the past year and a bit, deservedly so at times, but he's probably the most gifted player we have so it was important we tried everything in coaxing the best out of him. Chuffed to see it finally working today.
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(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelIRE.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelPetr.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelBent.jpg)
joy
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You cannot take anything away from players, staff and manage for such an impressive result.
I honestly think that McLeish has taken a long hard look at his tactics, realised we aren't Small Heath, have players who can pass if encouraged to and undergone a Damascusian conversion to attacking football as a result.
No need to revert to type Alex. It will have dawned by now that if you try and score goals you have a chance to win the game.
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Mad, bad Stevie Superman Ireland can puff away on that water/crack(craic?) pipe, half-naked in snakeskin pyjamas as much as he likes if he comes up with a performance like that every week.
Delighted for him, he's taken some pelters here over the past year and a bit, deservedly so at times, but he's probably the most gifted player we have so it was important we tried everything in coaxing the best out of him. Chuffed to see it finally working today.
x2!
UTV.
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Happy New Year everyone what a result the way we've played in the last three games showed we have turned the corner long may it continue.
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massive, massive game now against Swansea. They're not very good on the road, and Villa Park should be buzzing after today. We must take advantage of the new momentum and good feeling. People left Villa Park generally happy and encouraged after Arsenal despite the result. Time to send Villa fans home with an even bigger smile now to start 2012 off right with a good win.
I agree. I think it may be a mistake to revert to 442 as well. Ireland has made that very difficult anyway. I'd play the same xi if we can, perhaps with Hutton for Collins?
If Petrov is injured, I think I'd probably play Gardner rather than Ireland deeper? Anyway, not one for decision now.
thing is Matt, if the team have confidence playing this way, we can play in a number of different systems. Horses for courses and all that, and it will mean different players being able to adapt to different situations. The key is, keep the ball on the deck, knock it about and play the ball to the players that can do the damage. We did that today.
True, but Ireland's movement was so good. He gave our midfielders an option that Bent doesn't give us. If we're going to retain Petrov and Clark as deeper holding midfielders, then I think we risk losing creativity in the middle of the park if we just stick BEnt and Gabby playing right up top.
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(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelIRE.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelPetr.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelBent.jpg)
Deep Deep Joy
With Chelsea having such a crap season I just wish Obramovich would get fed up with football and go off to buy an F1 team or something.
That day will come and then Chelsea will be back where they belong!
joy
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The whole game is on sky at 815 tonite.
Come on you beauties!
To be precise. 8.25 on Sky Sports 2. A prize to anyone who tells me successfully how I can persuade my wife to let me watch that on NYE party nite...?!
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Links to goals (http://www.101greatgoals.com/aston-villa-stun-chelsea-with-3-1-victory-at-the-bridge/128406/)
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I thought we were gonna get stuffed, well done to all. Totally deserved let's keep it going
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Wow Wow Wow !!! Petrov excellent - Ireland best game yet, Gabby great power and commitment, Clarke looks composed and ready to take over that position. Gardner will be our master stroke in 2012. Tonight i am gonna party like its 1999 !!!!! :-)))))
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Bent beating the badge after his goal. He's going nowhere.
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Bent beating the badge after his goal. He's going nowhere.
yeah I noticed that. Good innit
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Thank you Alex. Thank you boys. Tonight the party is on over on the west side of London for Claret and Blues
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I recall a headline many, many years back when I think we won 3-0 down there. Platty got on the scoresheet. The headline was "Blue murder at the bridge"
Love it
You mean 3-0 on new years day 1990? I recall another headline being "Villa's Chelsea power show"!.
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Hey, fatty came on and for once didn't bloody score....fat bastard, ha ha!
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massive, massive game now against Swansea. They're not very good on the road, and Villa Park should be buzzing after today. We must take advantage of the new momentum and good feeling. People left Villa Park generally happy and encouraged after Arsenal despite the result. Time to send Villa fans home with an even bigger smile now to start 2012 off right with a good win.
I agree. I think it may be a mistake to revert to 442 as well. Ireland has made that very difficult anyway. I'd play the same xi if we can, perhaps with Hutton for Collins?
If Petrov is injured, I think I'd probably play Gardner rather than Ireland deeper? Anyway, not one for decision now.
thing is Matt, if the team have confidence playing this way, we can play in a number of different systems. Horses for courses and all that, and it will mean different players being able to adapt to different situations. The key is, keep the ball on the deck, knock it about and play the ball to the players that can do the damage. We did that today.
True, but Ireland's movement was so good. He gave our midfielders an option that Bent doesn't give us. If we're going to retain Petrov and Clark as deeper holding midfielders, then I think we risk losing creativity in the middle of the park if we just stick BEnt and Gabby playing right up top.
No problem, Bent up front, Gabby wide for home games with NZog/Marc on the other flank. Ireland Petrov and Clark to always start with Delph Gardner Bannan as cover - Herd to cover full back.
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Ireland was class today and also worked tremendously hard. He has finally showed us what he can do and deserves a run in the team.
In my opinion that starting team should remain in place for the swansea game, great stuff.
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Useless shower of cnuts. I had them down for a draw and if they had I'd have been £1,016 better off!
Am I bovvered? ;D
Keep it up lads.
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AM must be given credit for revisiting his tactics and approach and deciding to go for it a bit more in the last few games. Perhaps the leopard is capable of changing his spots after all. It shows that you can achieve something while playing a bit of decent football along the way. He will win over many doubters if he continues in that vein. Also credit for having the balls to introduce Gardner for his PL debut when the game was still in the balance. It was almost a Fergusonesque type move.
Ireland, for me, is the most technically gifted player we have. In the first half against Arsenal and today, he showed that if he marries his obvious ability to a little application, he is one hell of a player, and a fantastic creative fulcrum. Bannan can learn a lot from him. Long may he rehabilitation continue.
And for once we didn't concede from a set piece. Happy New Year everyone.
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I recall a headline many, many years back when I think we won 3-0 down there. Platty got on the scoresheet. The headline was "Blue murder at the bridge"
Love it
You mean 3-0 on new years day 1990? I recall another headline being "Villa's Chelsea power show"!.
Is it that long ago? I was at that game, on the big old open terrace.
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No problem, Bent up front, Gabby wide for home games with NZog/Marc on the other flank. Ireland Petrov and Clark to always start with Delph Gardner Bannan as cover - Herd to cover full back.
I tend to agree. But with Bent as a lone front man, we sometimes struggle to make the ball stick, probably more so away than at home. That's why we've actually sometimes looked better with heskey in the side.
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Ireland was class today and always looking for the ball and the players had the confidence to play the ball to him. The midfield two did really well again, have been really impressed with Clark being so composed on the ball. Not a great fan of Warnock or Collins, but fair play to them and the other two defenders, stayed strong
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I'm absolutely delighted with the result and performance today.
Today and the preceding performances against Stoke and Arsenal show to me that McLeish has finally managed to turn things around from earlier in the season. I don't know whether it's his message getting through to the players or whether he is changing his own ideas but he deserves immense credit for the much better standard of play and performance we've seen lately.
It's really encouraging to see us play like we did today with decent passing and movement. We've now came out of our shell much more against Arsenal and Chelsea than we did with Man Utd and Tottemham. Finally, it was good to see that we used the kids a bit more today as well. Hopefully, this is the first of many appearances from young Gary Gardner.
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(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelIRE.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelPetr.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/ChelBent.jpg)
That makes me very happy well done you Villa boys. :) :) :)
Happy new year to all my Villa brothers and sisters.
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Someone on the match thread said Lampards on now, he'll make the winner. Dead right, fantastic pass to Ireland
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You know what's better than 3 points? The return of hope. Luckily we have both this evening.
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I recall a headline many, many years back when I think we won 3-0 down there. Platty got on the scoresheet. The headline was "Blue murder at the bridge"
Love it
You mean 3-0 on new years day 1990? I recall another headline being "Villa's Chelsea power show"!.
Is it that long ago? I was at that game, on the big old open terrace.
So was I with a stonking hangover, probably only cost about a fiver to stand on that open sewer!
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Just got home and saw the score and read the reports. I really hope and think the Arsenal game was a eureka moment for McCleish,no more round pegs and square holes. It seems no coincedence that since Clark has been playing weve improved,and its only taken 18 months but Ireland has finally shown what he's capable of,he needs to do the same on monday.
A great end to a pretty shit year for the Villa, a Happy and Peaceful New Year to all the fellow H and V users. UTV
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No problem, Bent up front, Gabby wide for home games with NZog/Marc on the other flank. Ireland Petrov and Clark to always start with Delph Gardner Bannan as cover - Herd to cover full back.
I tend to agree. But with Bent as a lone front man, we sometimes struggle to make the ball stick, probably more so away than at home. That's why we've actually sometimes looked better with heskey in the side.
That sticking problem might not be so bad with Ireland playing. With on up top the hardest thing is to stop the striker getting isolated. With Ireland play he loves to burst beyond the midfield so he should give Bent an easy pass.
Ireland did that loads today although he may have been filling the gap created by gabby drifting left.
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According to the Beeb.
Attempts on target
Chelsea 5 Aston Villa 9
Who would have thought that a couple of weeks ago?
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Superb. A victory to top some improved performances. The defence looks much better with Carlos back in.
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Keep on supplying Ireland with sheesha. seems to have done him good
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Put that in your pipe and smoke it...!!
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Excellent result today. Well done to manager and players.
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I'm absolutely delighted with the result and performance today.
Today and the preceding performances against Stoke and Arsenal show to me that McLeish has finally managed to turn things around from earlier in the season. I don't know whether it's his message getting through to the players or whether he is changing his own ideas but he deserves immense credit for the much better standard of play and performance we've seen lately.
It's really encouraging to see us play like we did today with decent passing and movement. We've now came out of our shell much more against Arsenal and Chelsea than we did with Man Utd and Tottemham. Finally, it was good to see that we used the kids a bit more today as well. Hopefully, this is the first of many appearances from young Gary Gardner.
Totally agree, something has happened the last couple of weeks, a definite improvement in quality.
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No problem, Bent up front, Gabby wide for home games with NZog/Marc on the other flank. Ireland Petrov and Clark to always start with Delph Gardner Bannan as cover - Herd to cover full back.
I tend to agree. But with Bent as a lone front man, we sometimes struggle to make the ball stick, probably more so away than at home. That's why we've actually sometimes looked better with heskey in the side.
If we play it on the deck like we did today we don't need a big man to hold it up, as gabby demonstrated today.
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I recall a headline many, many years back when I think we won 3-0 down
there. Platty got on the scoresheet. The headline was "Blue murder at the bridge"
Love it
You mean 3-0 on new years day 1990? I recall another headline being "Villa's Chelsea
power show"!.
Is it that long ago? I was at that game, on the big old open terrace.
So was I with a stonking hangover, probably only cost about a fiver to stand on that open sewer!
I did a pavement pizza outside Paddington Station that morning feeling as rough as could be.
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We're Aston Villa.
We've been down, but we certainly haven't been out.
UTV. It's amazing what a result can do.
Did anyone have a cheeky punt on us winning?
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No problem, Bent up front, Gabby wide for home games with NZog/Marc on the other flank. Ireland Petrov and Clark to always start with Delph Gardner Bannan as cover - Herd to cover full back.
I tend to agree. But with Bent as a lone front man, we sometimes struggle to make the ball stick, probably more so away than at home. That's why we've actually sometimes looked better with heskey in the side.
That sticking problem might not be so bad with Ireland playing. With on up top the hardest thing is to stop the striker getting isolated. With Ireland play he loves to burst beyond the midfield so he should give Bent an easy pass.
Ireland did that loads today although he may have been filling the gap created by gabby drifting left.
I would be tempted to play Bent up front and give Gabby a well earned rest, at least for the first hour against Swansea.
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I'm absolutely delighted with the result and performance today.
Today and the preceding performances against Stoke and Arsenal show to me that McLeish has finally managed to turn things around from earlier in the season. I don't know whether it's his message getting through to the players or whether he is changing his own ideas but he deserves immense credit for the much better standard of play and performance we've seen lately.
It's really encouraging to see us play like we did today with decent passing and movement. We've now came out of our shell much more against Arsenal and Chelsea than we did with Man Utd and Tottemham. Finally, it was good to see that we used the kids a bit more today as well. Hopefully, this is the first of many appearances from young Gary Gardner.
Totally agree, something has happened the last couple of weeks, a definite improvement in quality.
Well the poor fella was in charge of a shower of shit before us. He needs a bit of time to evaluate the situation here. He has not had long really. Also he is in a whole different situation to our last two managers as regards the finances at present.
I said he had balls to come here, and he had balls today with the changes on the pitch with 15 minutes to go while drawing 1-1. Fair play to AM.
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Well, I've been pretty disparaging about Ireland - the person - and am not his bigggest fan. However, watching the game today I'll happily concede that he's a very effective player when on song. The trick for McMinge will be to keep him in that mental state to deliver games like that consistently. That means playing him behind one or two front runners.
I'd like to apologise to anyone I've poked fun at on H&V about Ireland: I still think he's an ijiit but his footballing capabilities are potentially very explosive.
Petrov was awesome today and really well-supported by Clark.
It really does feel like a massive draught of enthusiasm and optimism has blown through here: we played really well against the Arse, did pretty well against Stoke and this result today was fully deserved.
The next game - as someone above said - is now critical to building on all of the good work.
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I think Bolton was the turning point, there was a confidence about them that day that we had rarely seen this season. There was a blip against Livepool but since then we're looking like a side transformed.
I feel a little vindicated for all the stick I was taking when arguing that 13 games was too little to judge the manager. Now we've got to keep it up and look forward to a more enjoyable 2012
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I will tell you what has happened. William McGregor looked down from Football Heaven and was so pleased with what he saw in the graveyard of St Mary's he arranged for a miracle that all the demons of negativity and nick-a-goal-and hope-it-is-enough be cast out of his countryman. And I don't mean Barry Bannan.
My ex plumber who ripped me off for a new five grand boiler and left us without heat last Christmas is a Chelsea fan. I do hope he was watching that.
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We're Aston Villa.
We've been down, but we certainly haven't been out.
UTV. It's amazing what a result can do.
Did anyone have a cheeky punt on us winning?
I did. My only regret is not putting more than £2.50 on at 11/1
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Really pleased for Ireland today. Hope this kick starts his Villa career and he gets back to being the player he was four years ago when he looked world class. Whatever he stuck in that bong seems to have worked anyway!
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I was going to say we were 11/1 I'm just happy, happy new year to my Aston Villa brothers and sisters
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Chris Herd is going to struggle to get back in that side.
Haha. Never thought I'd be saying that!
Still buzzing.
Chuffed for Ireland & McLeish
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I would like to apply to be a supporter of Aston Villa Football Club.
Am I in the right place?
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I would like to apply to be a supporter of Aston Villa Football Club.
Am I in the right place?
Are you Tim Lovejoy?
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I would like to apply to be a supporter of Aston Villa Football Club.
Am I in the right place?
You most certainly are.
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Oh, thanks Lampard for setting Ireland off for the final goal.
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Superb today. It's easy McLeish, get the team playing like that on a regular basis and you won't get all this abuse.
Chelsea might not be the force of old but they're still a top 4/5 team so it really frustrates me when we play garbage for most of this season and yet go to Chelsea and play some nice controlled football.
Credit to McLeish aswell, he showed a good tactical mind today, infact that's the formation I want to see for the foreseeable future. Ireland infront of two defensive midfielders, that's the way it has to be to getting him playing properly. Get Bent back upfront, push Gabby a little wider and alternate between N'zogiba/Albrighton. Some games we'll need N'zog's direct running, other games we'll need Albrighton's better crossing ability.
Oh and don't drop Cuellar either. The defence looks so much calmer and composed with him in there, so much so it's ridiculous he's been out of the team so much over the last 18 months.
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I really need to stop drinking on top of all these painkillers. I am sitting here in a Villa hat watching 'Footloose'
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Absolute fantastic result and a perfect start to the day, I don't even care that my hotel for the nite is over looking St Andrews.
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Special shout outs for:
Ireland - MOTM
Warnock - was excellent today.
Gabby - so much hard work.
Petrov - a lot of unseen work and was clearly carrying a knock even before he scored.
Cuellar - for not hoofing every time.
Dunne / Collins - solid, one calamity aside.
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Watching the goals, I think you have to credit Bent with his running off the ball creating the space for Petrov to score. As much as Gabby works hard, the movement and final 3rd nouse of Bent is top drawer, and something we would be mad to let go, especially if Ireland, NZogbia and Albrighton are playing well. Give Clark a few more games in there and I reckon we will be seeing the odd top through ball with the right movement in front of him too.
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I really need to stop drinking on top of all these painkillers. I am sitting here in a Villa hat watching 'Footloose'
Ah, an enduring image if ever there was one. I'm sat in my PJ's watching the Steps reunion documentary and I'm happy - anything can happen after a good away win can't it.... literally anything.
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Not read the thread yet, but can I just say that anyone who has written the phrase 'papering over the cracks' is a ******. Thanks.
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Absolutely made up. Playing Chelsea is my biggest two games of the season as I work with so many of their gloryhunting, johnny come lately fans and also know a shedload (no pun intended) socially. I have been mouthing off all season to them how they have joined the ranks of the also rans and this is going to give me so much ammunition to back that up!
Sky + all set for MOTD as I am to a friend's house for the night....and who does he support do you think?
Wahooooooooooooooooo
Our record against them in the last 5/6 seasons has been so much better than against the top 4 teams put together so I'm amazed you still whine on the rare occasions they actually beat us!
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I really need to stop drinking on top of all these painkillers. I am sitting here in a Villa hat watching 'Footloose'
That must be post of the day... Pure quality.
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Villa's boss outwits Villas Boas.
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Watching the goals, I think you have to credit Bent with his running off the ball creating the space for Petrov to score. As much as Gabby works hard, the movement and final 3rd nouse of Bent is top drawer, and something we would be mad to let go, especially if Ireland, NZogbia and Albrighton are playing well. Give Clark a few more games in there and I reckon we will be seeing the odd top through ball with the right movement in front of him too.
His through ball for Petrov's goal was excellent
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AVB after-match reaction (http://www.101greatgoals.com/gvideos/andre-villas-boas-post-aston-villa-defeat/)
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AM's view (http://www.101greatgoals.com/gvideos/alex-mcleish-post-chelsea-win/)
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I'm glad people on here are finally giving McLeish some credit, even if it is seen as a response to criticism. He's won silverware most places before and I'm sure he will here. Shame on the people who said Ireland was a "waste of space", shame on the people who said Petrov could no longer be "carried", shame on those who contemplated selling Bent, shame on those for not backing McLeish. Believe in Aston Villa. Always.
Amen brother, amen.
The last three games have been a fantastic tonic. And bring on 2012, the year the FA Cup returns home.
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AVB after-match reaction (http://www.101greatgoals.com/gvideos/andre-villas-boas-post-aston-villa-defeat/)
Twat.
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Great performance. Thought the front six were fantastic and we were good value.
Collins and Dunne improved in the second half, but they're both such liabilities. Guzan looks a solid alternative to Given.
Very pleased.
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Not AVB more like UTV ..
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So drunk and can't remember if I've posted already but I've not felt this this happy in years. we left the ground and ended up at the eight bells in Fulham, fair play to the Chelsea fans inn there who gave us credit where it was due but god did we deserve it, Well done to Ireland who played out of his skin and the who;e team who battled throughout and the Kingston Lions who had a great day.
Happy New Year!
We beat you away
We beat you Aawaaaay
How shit must you be
we beat you away.
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Not read the thread yet, but can I just say that anyone who has written the phrase 'papering over the cracks' is a c***. Thanks.
What's the point in not reading the thread, and then go on papering over the cracks with a post like that?
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I would be tempted to play Bent up front and give Gabby a well earned rest, at least for the first hour against Swansea.
Agreed. Poor Gabby got kicked all over today and to ask him to do it again on Monday is a bit much, even by his Superman standards.
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I came in about an hour ago after fighting my way around Asda and the last I'd heard was 1-1. As I staggered into the kitchen with some of the bags, I realised I'd left the radio on (anti-burglar tactic). There was a villa fan droning on to Stan C on Talksport about Villa really having to consider selling Bent, which would raise millions, giving us more midfield options. This sounds bad, I thought. It's all gone downhill from 1-1.
I was unpacking various things from a major shopping expedition (sales) and was upstairs when I heard Stan reference 'the 3-1 Chelsea - Villa result'. Oh no, but not entirely unexpected, I thought. Made myself a restorative cup of tea.
Then about 20 minutes later, there was a match report. Well, wow, whoopee and Well-in - up the villa!! I threw the rest of the tea away and opened a rather nice NZ Sauvignon Blanc!
Then I fired up the old laptop and started reading this thread. Can I just say, a huge well done to Alex McLeish and all the players. Suddenly, it's a Happy New Year! Very very good news about Ireland, Bent and Gardner minor from this game, as well.
There's a Chelsea fan next door but one. At midnight on NYE we all come out of our houses and toast each other - it's traditional. I'm so looking forward to midnight this year.
And a very happy new year to all H&Vers and Villa fans everywhere...this is the dawning of a new era!
(Yes, HNY even to the miserable so-and-so phoning TSport who has major expectation issues if he can watch the Villa beat Chelsea 3-1 and then complain about Bent coming off the bench to score any of those goals. What else is DB supposed to do? Iron Gabby's kit?)
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Chris Herd is going to struggle to get back in that side.
Haha. Never thought I'd be saying that!
Same for Delph. And Given & Bent. ;o)
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for your pleasure.....
http://www.101greatgoals.com/gvideos/chelsea-1-aston-villa-3-2/
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for your pleasure.....
http://www.101greatgoals.com/gvideos/chelsea-1-aston-villa-3-2/
Best relaxation therapy out...........Ahhhhh!
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Fergie blamed their defeat at home to bottom of the league Blackburn on a heavy pitch - their home pitch - and said that Blackburn's penalty for Berbatov yanking Yakubu's shirt off in the box was not one. I hate that man. Better the ups and downs of being a Villan.
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Fergie blamed their defeat at home to bottom of the league Blackburn on a heavy pitch - their home pitch - and said that Blackburn's penalty for Berbatov yanking Yakubu's shirt off in the box was not one. I hate that man. Better the ups and downs of being a Villan.
I still don't see why being a 'winner' means you have to be an ungracious twat.
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Halsey was abysmal today. We had 2 good penalty shouts just before Stan scored. The drop ball, the free kick and booking of Carlos for a perfectly good tackle, biased twat.
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On Sky 402 now.
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for your pleasure.....
http://www.101greatgoals.com/gvideos/chelsea-1-aston-villa-3-2/
Best relaxation therapy out...........Ahhhhh!
Brilliant absolutely brilliant. :-)
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At 1-1 with about 10 minutes to go I started typing on the match thread that " they were murdering us and If we planned on defending that deep for the last 10 I wasn't sure if my heart would see it out until full time".
Well done to the boys for withstanding the barrage and for the two fine breakaway goals.
Happy New Year indeed.
Brilliant.
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I would like to apply to be a supporter of Aston Villa Football Club.
Am I in the right place?
f in glory hunters...tut tut
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I've just seen the post match interview with the Chelsea boss.
I may allow a little smile to play across my lips when the inevitable happens.
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On Sky 402 now.
Just watching now!
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??? Just woke up with hangover - clearly still dreaming - better get back off to bed and i'll get the real result later.
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She's fit!
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I think Bolton was the turning point, there was a confidence about them that day that we had rarely seen this season. There was a blip against Livepool but since then we're looking like a side transformed.
I feel a little vindicated for all the stick I was taking when arguing that 13 games was too little to judge the manager. Now we've got to keep it up and look forward to a more enjoyable 2012
First to accept I told you so, if, and it's a big if they keep it up. But you must admit, something or someone has got in the manager's ear about the style of play, because all of a sudden they look a threat going forward.
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Whatever and whoever it is, Thank you.
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I would like to apply to be a supporter of Aston Villa Football Club.
Am I in the right place?
f in glory hunters...tut tut
welcome home, Damon
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Whatever and whoever it is, Thank you.
Subtle
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In the morning we shall probably wake up to hear that all the excitement has killed Deadly Doug. Heaven forfend.
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At 1-1 with about 10 minutes to go I started typing on the match thread that " they were murdering us and If we planned on defending that deep for the last 10 I wasn't sure if my heart would see it out until full time".
Brilliant.
At half time I was thinking how disappointed I'd be if we didn't get anything from the game.
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Whatever and whoever it is, Thank you.
Sorry, :-(
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Great performance. Watched the whole game this morning and stupid penalty apart, everyone played brilliantly.
Please, please, please hope that we finally have the real Stephen Ireland back, he was magnificent today and exactly the type of player we've been missing.
What a great start to the New Year.
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Watched the whole game on Sky tonight and loved Dave Bassett's quote: 'You could have driven a bus through the gap and Petrov was that bus!'
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Didn't realise how close Bent was to having his shot saved. I'm sure Ireland could have scored if he had taken it one on one.
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Watched the whole game on Sky tonight and loved Dave Bassett's quote: 'You could have driven a bus through the gap and Petrov was that bus!'
Can you imagine their defence when they have both Cahill and David Luis playing together? They'll get dragged everywhere.
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Delighted that the real Ireland has been released, and the imposter taken away and shot.
That was much better, Chelsea were poor, but you can only beat who is in front of you. ;D
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Useless shower of cnuts. I had them down for a draw and if they had I'd have been £1,016 better off!
Am I bovvered? ;D
Keep it up lads.
Yes they have let me down as well!! Had a 4 draws runner on this, Norwich/Fulham. Swansea/Spurs and West Brom/Everton. But happy to lose
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The coverage on MOTD made it look like a one sided contest with Chelsea having chance after chance.
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Ireland's control and precision for the first goal was magnificent however he needs a word about the pass to Darren for the third. Rubbish decision when I think it was easier for him to go on and score however we scored.
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""We knew Chelsea would tire after 75-80 minutes and that if we kept passing the ball, spaces would appear and chances would come"
(http://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/379/EMP-5987746.jpg)
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I've had a few tonight, but recalling recent memory we always seem to have a good go at Chelsea, if you're willing to overlook the 7 - 0 battering, we always seem to get them away during the christmas/new year time and it's always a goal fest, some times a high score draw like the 4 all 3 seasons back or the 3 - 2 win last year, the 2 nil win that helped Mourinho out of the door (that was an october(?) fixture though I think), we're definitely one of their bogey teams, so the 7 odd chelsea fans I work with say.
Cracking performance, happy days.
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Ireland's control and precision for the first goal was magnificent however he needs a word about the pass to Darren for the third. Rubbish decision when I think it was easier for him to go on and score however we scored.
A combination of selflessness and confidence. Had Bent not been there it would have been interesting to see how he would finished that off. It worked out, so no harm done.
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Decided against getting up early to watch the game live as I was Sky Plussing it. Got up to find that, possibly for the first time in history, Sky NZ showed three live Prem games at once and the Villa game was the one that the box opted to miss. Only just got to see the extended highlights and it was made to look like a real smash and grab for us which goes against the three match reports I've read and pretty much all the opinions on here.
N'zogbia looked a lot closer to the pace of the game than he has so far this season and his pace for our first goal took me by surprise.
The dissenting voices on here about Ireland passing for the third instead of scoring himself are a little disappointing. Bent needs goals and I'm hoping that Ireland may have helped Bent's confidence hugely by giving him that chance.
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""We knew Chelsea would tire after 75-80 minutes and that if we kept passing the ball, spaces would appear and chances would come"
(http://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/379/EMP-5987746.jpg)
Nicely done.
Suck it Terry, you ugly wanker.
And a big fuck you going out to the guy who edited the footage on MOTD.
We had 9 attempts on target but apparently not. It was basically a West London version of Rorke's Drift.
Happy new year Villans. And let's hope it is for this club too. There is quite a decent team in there it seems.
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I've had a few tonight, but recalling recent memory we always seem to have a good go at Chelsea, if you're willing to overlook the 7 - 0 battering, we always seem to get them away during the christmas/new year time and it's always a goal fest, some times a high score draw like the 4 all 3 seasons back or the 3 - 2 win last year, the 2 nil win that helped Mourinho out of the door (that was an october(?) fixture though I think), we're definitely one of their bogey teams, so the 7 odd chelsea fans I work with say.
Cracking performance, happy days.
Pretty sure we drew there last season.
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Didn't Clark get a 90th minute winner or was that at VP?
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Didn't Clark get a 90th minute winner or was that at VP?
Equaliser.
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Given aside, that might be our best team.
N'Zogbia, Ireland and Marc will be an absolutely fantastic three just off the striker if we get them playing like that every week. Especially Ireland and N'Zog linking up like that. And Gabby is a far better loan forward than Bent, IMO.
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As mentioned previously the other improvement is the lack of Hoof. Most times now we are trying to actually pick out the long pass rather then just hoofing and hoping. Cueller, Dunne and Collins all played some lovely balls from the back to Ireland or Gabby that they could control and win. Or we played it short and through the midfield who were willing to show for the ball.
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I'm not so concerned about a specific XI more the renewed confidence and espirit de corps. The likes of Bent, Given, Herd, Delph, Lichaj, Gardner, Bannan and so on will compliment that starting XI and we can be flexible with formations and have horses for courses.
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I'm not quite sure where his Damascus Moment came from, but well done to McLeish for changing the way we play. We thoroughly deserved the handsome win we got today.
I hope that when the inevitable bad day or two comes along, he sticks with trying to play football.
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Decided against getting up early to watch the game live as I was Sky Plussing it. Got up to find that, possibly for the first time in history, Sky NZ showed three live Prem games at once and the Villa game was the one that the box opted to miss. Only just got to see the extended highlights and it was made to look like a real smash and grab for us which goes against the three match reports I've read and pretty much all the opinions on here.
N'zogbia looked a lot closer to the pace of the game than he has so far this season and his pace for our first goal took me by surprise.
The dissenting voices on here about Ireland passing for the third instead of scoring himself are a little disappointing. Bent needs goals and I'm hoping that Ireland may have helped Bent's confidence hugely by giving him that chance.
It was live on Sky Sports at 3:45 this morning. I recorded it and watched the whole game this morning when I got up. I was very happy with the performance and woke everyone up when Petrov scored.
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I'm not so concerned about a specific XI more the renewed confidence and espirit de corps. The likes of Bent, Given, Herd, Delph, Lichaj, Gardner, Bannan and so on will compliment that starting XI and we can be flexible with formations and have horses for courses.
Don't forget Emile...
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I'm not so concerned about a specific XI more the renewed confidence and espirit de corps. The likes of Bent, Given, Herd, Delph, Lichaj, Gardner, Bannan and so on will compliment that starting XI and we can be flexible with formations and have horses for courses.
Don't forget Emile...
.. an esprit de corpse if ever there were one
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:) :) Good response Steve.
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Absolutely fantastic. So proud of each and every single one of them. Two 'noses' with us who have now each come to 2 away games, and they've both seen us win twice away. Think they're half turning!!
I have always backed Stephen Ireland but today was even better than I thought he could be. To turn up at a New Years Party and have everyone come up to me saying how well he played... even that doesn't do it justice.
What a fantastic player we have on our hands there, him behind Gabz or Bent can only mean good things for Aston Villa. Can quite safely say that is one of the most amazing performances (especially considering his tackling limitations) I have seen from a Villa player. Ran the show.
Made my new year!! Alex McLeish's Claret and Blue Army!!!!!
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Decided against getting up early to watch the game live as I was Sky Plussing it. Got up to find that, possibly for the first time in history, Sky NZ showed three live Prem games at once and the Villa game was the one that the box opted to miss. Only just got to see the extended highlights and it was made to look like a real smash and grab for us which goes against the three match reports I've read and pretty much all the opinions on here.
N'zogbia looked a lot closer to the pace of the game than he has so far this season and his pace for our first goal took me by surprise.
The dissenting voices on here about Ireland passing for the third instead of scoring himself are a little disappointing. Bent needs goals and I'm hoping that Ireland may have helped Bent's confidence hugely by giving him that chance.
It was live on Sky Sports at 3:45 this morning. I recorded it and watched the whole game this morning when I got up. I was very happy with the performance and woke everyone up when Petrov scored.
Yeah, I've got the Prem games series linked but it'll only record two programmes at a time. Furious that the only time it fails me is when we produce a showing like that!
Whereabouts are you in NZ, Mate?
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Decided against getting up early to watch the game live as I was Sky Plussing it. Got up to find that, possibly for the first time in history, Sky NZ showed three live Prem games at once and the Villa game was the one that the box opted to miss. Only just got to see the extended highlights and it was made to look like a real smash and grab for us which goes against the three match reports I've read and pretty much all the opinions on here.
N'zogbia looked a lot closer to the pace of the game than he has so far this season and his pace for our first goal took me by surprise.
The dissenting voices on here about Ireland passing for the third instead of scoring himself are a little disappointing. Bent needs goals and I'm hoping that Ireland may have helped Bent's confidence hugely by giving him that chance.
It was live on Sky Sports at 3:45 this morning. I recorded it and watched the whole game this morning when I got up. I was very happy with the performance and woke everyone up when Petrov scored.
Yeah, I've got the Prem games series linked but it'll only record two programmes at a time. Furious that the only time it fails me is when we produce a showing like that!
Whereabouts are you in NZ, Mate?
I'm down in Shakeytown (or Christchurch as it used to be called). Been here 19 years after moving from the UK.
How long you been in New Plymouth?
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Decided against getting up early to watch the game live as I was Sky Plussing it. Got up to find that, possibly for the first time in history, Sky NZ showed three live Prem games at once and the Villa game was the one that the box opted to miss. Only just got to see the extended highlights and it was made to look like a real smash and grab for us which goes against the three match reports I've read and pretty much all the opinions on here.
N'zogbia looked a lot closer to the pace of the game than he has so far this season and his pace for our first goal took me by surprise.
The dissenting voices on here about Ireland passing for the third instead of scoring himself are a little disappointing. Bent needs goals and I'm hoping that Ireland may have helped Bent's confidence hugely by giving him that chance.
It was live on Sky Sports at 3:45 this morning. I recorded it and watched the whole game this morning when I got up. I was very happy with the performance and woke everyone up when Petrov scored.
Yeah, I've got the Prem games series linked but it'll only record two programmes at a time. Furious that the only time it fails me is when we produce a showing like that!
Whereabouts are you in NZ, Mate?
I'm down in Shakeytown (or Christchurch as it used to be called). Been here 19 years after moving from the UK.
How long you been in New Plymouth?
You had another 4.8 the other day, didn't you?! Bloody hell.
I PM'd you, JD.
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John Terry's game has completely gone. I look forward to watching him play for Yeading, or Kingstonians
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John Terry's game has completely gone. I look forward to watching him play for Yeading, or Kingstonians
But not for England at the euros. Ditto Ashley cole.
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His next club should be Wormwood Scrubs.
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Reports this morning that Terry is wanted in China, not quite sure whether in the footie sense or the usual JT wanted sense. Plays like a lamp-post whichever. As far as the game is concerned, it was good to see enthusiasm and a will to attack, and even pass well, still not an Eck fan but that was better. [def better than the Mon drubbing!!!].
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If we play it on the deck like we did today we don't need a big man to hold it up, as gabby demonstrated today.
No. We do however need a forward with good movement, touch and ability to bring others into the game. Bent doesn't always do that very well.
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John Terry's game has completely gone. I look forward to watching him play for Yeading, or Kingstonians
I've been saying this for some time.
I look forward to Chelsea shoring it up by buying Gary Cahill.
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Fantastic performance and result that will hopefully work wonders on our confidence and willingness to play attacking and aesthetically pleasing football. Delighted for AM, and thought Ireland, Warnock and Petrov were outstanding. More promise in the performance of CNZ as well, which bodes well for the future. It would be great if the likes of Clark, Herd, Gardner, Bannan, Delph can come in and out of a side where the senior players are playing good and winning football until they are fully-fledged Premiership players. This austerity approach may yet work for us.
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Fantastic result and a top performance. Fair play to McCleish for not putting Hutton straight back in. Also throwing Bent and Gardner on at 1-1 was very brave so i'm pleased for him that it paid off. Another mention for Ireland who was great and for the usually dreadful Warnock, who's been very good in the past few games.
Our main problem all along this season so far has been lack of goals and in some games not even creating much. If we can put that right, we'll be fine.
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Yes Ireland was great yesterday but the question that needs to be asked is;
Why the change from being a total waste of space to becoming a match winner and MOM?
This wasn't just someone having a better game it was like a totally different player.
Has he got a twin?
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If we play it on the deck like we did today we don't need a big man to hold it up, as gabby demonstrated today.
No. We do however need a forward with good movement, touch and ability to bring others into the game. Bent doesn't always do that very well.
His movement is top drawer, and while he may not hold it brilliantly, I think he is better than given credit for at it. If we play like yesterday, in 20 minutes he showed why he is vital to us, finishing off a chance, should have been given a penalty and drew Terry from Petrov to leave space. Gabby is wonderful, and works like a dog, but his effectiveness in the final 3rd is not close to Bent.
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If we play like yesterday, in 20 minutes he showed why he is vital to us, finishing off a chance, should have been given a penalty and drew Terry from Petrov to leave space. Gabby is wonderful, and works like a dog, but his effectiveness in the final 3rd is not close to Bent.
This is exactly what I was thinking. That twenty minutes was a real snapshot of why Bent is such a valuable player, and why selling him would be madness.
I think it also shows why an on-song Ireland is exactly the type of player to play in the number 10 spot; he has the eye, and the skill, to make the passes that Bent's movement deserves.
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John Terry's game has completely gone. I look forward to watching him play for Yeading, or Kingstonians
I've been saying this for some time.
I look forward to Chelsea shoring it up by buying Gary Cahill.
If anything shows up the paucity of talent available to teams like Chelsea even though they may have limitless funds, then this is it. It also shows us all how quickly things can change in football and that the status quo never ever remains just that...
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His movement is excellent in terms of losing his man and creating the opportunity for through balls. Perhaps I should have said that Gabby's hold up play and ability to run the channels is much better.
I'm not turning against Bent and it's probably good if he looks at the team yday and thinks he's at risk of not playing if he doesn't put a shift in and score some goals.
Gabby can do a great job wide left, but N'Zogbia has been looking threatening there. Nice to have these problems though
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After say, the Spurs game, who'd have thought we'd have a selection headache because so many of our attacking players were in such good form?
I also think, Petrov is probably having his best season for us. He has the freedom now to go forward and get into goal scoring positions. I don't think he was comfortable as the main defensive midfielder back in the old days.
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I have always backed Stephen Ireland but today was even better than I thought he could be. To turn up at a New Years Party and have everyone come up to me saying how well he played... even that doesn't do it justice.
What a fantastic player we have on our hands there, him behind Gabz or Bent can only mean good things for Aston Villa. Can quite safely say that is one of the most amazing performances (especially considering his tackling limitations) I have seen from a Villa player. Ran the show.
Another aspect of his play, one that the TV highlights didn't show, was how much work he did off the ball, including covering at right back on one occasion.
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Great win. Well done to all. Our best result probably since Anfield away a couple of years back?
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Saw the extended highlights this morning. Ireland was fantastic. We really do need him on form and we hve such a different set up as a team.
I know this day in age i shouldn't read too much into things but when bent scored and went up to the villa crowd he was banging his chest and the villa badge in a reassuring manner. So hopefully all the speculation is just that and Mr Bent is going nowhere.
Great performance yesterday and lets hope it continues through 2012!!
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Gastric band my lord!
Gastric band!
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Gastric band my lord!
Gastric band!
I thought it was a bloke until I saw HER jumping around.
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Yes Ireland was great yesterday but the question that needs to be asked is;
Why the change from being a total waste of space to becoming a match winner and MOM?
This wasn't just someone having a better game it was like a totally different player.
Has he got a twin?
Probably something to do the man management skills and day to day work at Bodymoor Heath of the ginger haired bluenose we appointed.
Apply the same reasoning for the improved performance levels this season of Dunne, Petrov, Gabby etc.
The assured and steady improvements being achieved by Mcleish are scandalous, he really needs to be removed before he starts achieving real success. ;)
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Gastric band my lord!
Gastric band!
Funniest villa chant in years. I was struggling to sing it I was laughing so much.
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I've had a few tonight, but recalling recent memory we always seem to have a good go at Chelsea, if you're willing to overlook the 7 - 0 battering, we always seem to get them away during the christmas/new year time and it's always a goal fest, some times a high score draw like the 4 all 3 seasons back or the 3 - 2 win last year, the 2 nil win that helped Mourinho out of the door (that was an october(?) fixture though I think), we're definitely one of their bogey teams, so the 7 odd chelsea fans I work with say.
Cracking performance, happy days.
3 defeats in last 12 league games against them, couple of those seasons they've won the league aswell.
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Haven't they only won something like 1 in the last 12 at VP as well?
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Yes one win at VP since 1999.
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Life is so much better when we get a great win like this. I have brought a sunday paper for the first time in months and have gone the pub for a couple. With my Villa mates to gloat. Bent has got to stay. He is what we have wanted for years. Ireland`s performance could be the start of a whole new supply line for Bent along with Nzogbia .........
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Gastric band my lord!
Gastric band!
She seemed to take it in good spirit although it was well into the second half when she reappeared.
I thought it was a bloke until I saw HER jumping around.
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Can someone enlighten us re the gastric band thing.
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Can someone enlighten us re the gastric band thing.
There was a rather rotund woman sitting in the front row of the chelsea end, right behind the goal.
Our supporters were merciless in their recognition. I doubt they would have been like that if she hadn't encouraged them.
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We probably are their bogey team.
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Great win. Well done to all. Our best result probably since Anfield away a couple of years back?
Old Trafford later the same season?
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Great performance from all yesterday. We now have a playmaker and a striker we have been crying out for. Now we know we can play, lets see if we can be consistent.
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Great win. Well done to all. Our best result probably since Anfield away a couple of years back?
Old Trafford later the same season?
From what I remember (and I'm willing to be proved wrong) Old Trafford was a bit of an 89 minute siege an they had a few players out, while we were better than Liverpool when we beat them. I'd say it was the best since the win at the Emirates in 2008.
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Great win. Well done to all. Our best result probably since Anfield away a couple of years back?
Old Trafford later the same season?
From what I remember (and I'm willing to be proved wrong) Old Trafford was a bit of an 89 minute siege an they had a few players out, while we were better than Liverpool when we beat them. I'd say it was the best since the win at the Emirates in 2008.
Maybe. That rings a bell. All those games, including also the win at the Emirates last season, are great memories and great results. If only we could have been more consistent against the so called 'lesser' sides in that same period we'd have made the CL.
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Great win. Well done to all. Our best result probably since Anfield away a couple of years back?
Old Trafford later the same season?
From what I remember (and I'm willing to be proved wrong) Old Trafford was a bit of an 89 minute siege an they had a few players out, while we were better than Liverpool when we beat them. I'd say it was the best since the win at the Emirates in 2008.
I would concur both of those points although having a few players out shouldn't be taken fully into account. We did have some chances at manure in dec 2009, especially in the first half, but most of the match was them. We actually performed better the year before but lost 3-2.
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Great win. Well done to all. Our best result probably since Anfield away a couple of years back?
Old Trafford later the same season?
From what I remember (and I'm willing to be proved wrong) Old Trafford was a bit of an 89 minute siege an they had a few players out, while we were better than Liverpool when we beat them. I'd say it was the best since the win at the Emirates in 2008.
Maybe. That rings a bell. All those games, including also the win at the Emirates last season, are great memories and great results. If only we could have been more consistent against the so called 'lesser' sides in that same period we'd have made the CL.
Indeed. Last season against Arsenal was one of those freak results that often happen at the end of the season. Yesterday was against a side who should be looking towards winning the league.
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Great win. Well done to all. Our best result probably since Anfield away a couple of years back?
Old Trafford later the same season?
From what I remember (and I'm willing to be proved wrong) Old Trafford was a bit of an 89 minute siege an they had a few players out, while we were better than Liverpool when we beat them. I'd say it was the best since the win at the Emirates in 2008.
Agreed. Gabby scored quite early on against Man U and it was desperate defending after that. At Anfield we were relatively comfortable (as we were in 2001, when we also won 3-1)
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Chelsea forum match thread (http://www.chelseafcforums.com/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=9429&start=120)
Page 13 onwards ;D
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Chelsea forum match thread (http://www.chelseafcforums.com/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=9429&start=120)
Page 13 onwards ;D
I don't think many of them have ever heard of Doug Rougvie.
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Chelsea forum match thread (http://www.chelseafcforums.com/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=9429&start=120)
Page 13 onwards ;D
I don't think many of them have ever heard of Doug Rougvie.
Most of therm probably have no idea who John Bumstead is.
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Chelsea forum match thread (http://www.chelseafcforums.com/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=9429&start=120)
Page 13 onwards ;D
I don't think many of them have ever heard of Doug Rougvie.
Most of therm probably have no idea who John Bumstead is.
I love the one who says Chelsea fans have more patience than anyone else, in the middle of demands to sack a manager after 19 games.
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"For me honestly Sturridge should be a backup to Torres. He should come in after 60-70 mins for Torres."
"Agreed. he had a good spell at Bolton but scoring goals isn't everything. Especially when they don't come when they are actually needed. "
So a bloke with 9 in 15 this season should be backup to a bloke with 3 in 28 since he signed?
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Still on a massive high after yesterday, results like that are so special, being on the phone for an hour sfter the game talking to my two Villa mad sons plus other family and friends, giddy with excitement, its been a very difficult season but maybe, just maybe we have turned the corner, well done to the players and especially Alex Mcleish, god I love our wonderful club.
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That Chelsea forum just reeks of know-nothing keyboard warriors the other side of the world.
One of them has "Chelsea fan since 2003" as his signature, as if that's some amazing record of support.
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Having seen that Chelsea forum, Mods please don't ever permit photos in sigs.
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""We knew Chelsea would tire after 75-80 minutes and that if we kept passing the ball, spaces would appear and chances would come"
(http://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/379/EMP-5987746.jpg)
Class
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...
From what I remember (and I'm willing to be proved wrong) Old Trafford was a bit of an 89 minute siege an they had a few players out, while we were better than Liverpool when we beat them. I'd say it was the best since the win at the Emirates in 2008.
That's as I remember it too. We'd actually played much better the previous season and came away with nothing.
The Emirates was O'Neil's finest moment. We stood toe to toe with a 'top' team and outplayed them. Yesterday felt like that too.
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well what can I say
I got in about 5.30 a.m after doing a great New Years gig , not knowing the score . Having drank most of a bottle of Sambucca , I had to watch the game before I went to bed and my oh my , BRILLIANT .
I have just watched the game again because I wasn't sure If that sambucca had been playing tricking with my mind and I am so proud of the team .
We knew Ireland was a great player , play him in the right position , keep his head right and he will be a massive asset for us , felt like a new signing . Great to see Clark getting regular starts , he looks the business , shame its took so long and that includes Cuellar . Big improvement from Warnock , I thought he was excellent yesterday and great to know we have a few young kids starting to get games .
Roll on Monday , AMC keep Heskey away , you are starting to get people on your side .
My hangover feels great .
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""We knew Chelsea would tire after 75-80 minutes and that if we kept passing the ball, spaces would appear and chances would come"
(http://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/379/EMP-5987746.jpg)
Still my favourite post of the weekend
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I have seen the game live on TV with one of our members that lives in my same region and has come to meet me in order to celebrate the end of a hard year for the Villa.
It's quite funny to relive the match through his facial expressions.
Errorichard Dunne again! How long will it take to us to get rid of this awful player that earns about 65.000 K a week? (sorry mate, his contract expires in 2013)
(http://img94.imageshack.us/img94/3967/p1020024g.jpg)
Stylian Petrov!
(http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/5674/p1020025h.jpg)
(http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/9236/p1020026z.jpg)
And then there were three.
(http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/108/p1020027n.jpg)
Cheerio Chelskji. . .
(http://img860.imageshack.us/img860/7748/p1020029.jpg)
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Someone on there called Semia-7
posted
Mourinho's Record Against Man United with Chelsea
P 10, W 5, L 1, D 2
Ermmmm.....