Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: Legion on March 26, 2012, 06:09:34 PM

Title: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on March 26, 2012, 06:09:34 PM
Quote
Burton Albion will host Aston Villa at the Pirelli Stadium in the first pre-season friendly of the 2012/13 campaign.

The match will be the first meeting between the two sides since the Darren Stride Testimonial at Eton Park in March 2003.

Albion commercial director Fleur Robinson said: "We are delighted to be able to announce this match as a great way to kick off our pre-season.

"We look forward to hosting Aston Villa and we are sure that this game will prove a popular attraction for Burton Albion supporters."

The game will be played on Saturday, July 14 and kick-off is at 3.00pm.

Full Schedule:

Burton Albion [a] - Saturday July 14
Philadelphia Union [a] - Wednesday July 18
Chicago Fire [a] - Saturday July 21
Portland Timbers [a] - Tuesday July 24
Peterborough [a] - Wednesday August 1
Nottingham Forest [a] - Saturday August 4
Werder Bremen [a] - Saturday August 11
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on March 26, 2012, 06:11:04 PM
Easy to get to and some great pubs.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on March 26, 2012, 06:12:21 PM
Nice one. New ground and, indeed, some very good pubs. 
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on March 26, 2012, 06:15:33 PM
Will we not be making the annual trip to Walsall? Went to it this season and had a great time.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on March 26, 2012, 06:17:30 PM
Will we not be making the annual trip to Walsall? Went to it this season and had a great time.

I don't think they have to announce that one. We just turn up.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on March 26, 2012, 06:21:34 PM
Might go up for the pubs, but might give yet another visit to The Rubberdome a miss.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Clampy on March 26, 2012, 06:26:16 PM
I'm a bit bored of Walsall pre-season now. Burton though is nice start.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithe on March 26, 2012, 06:29:52 PM
From memory isn't it a fair old hike from the town centre?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on March 26, 2012, 07:09:48 PM
About 20 minutes walking.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: darren woolley on March 26, 2012, 07:19:05 PM
Be nice to go to a ground I haven't seen before.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on March 26, 2012, 08:30:48 PM
About 20 minutes walking.

Or about four hours with refreshment stops.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Top Cat on March 26, 2012, 09:14:20 PM
Will we not be making the annual trip to Walsall? Went to it this season and had a great time.

I don't think they have to announce that one. We just turn up.

I love the pre-season friendly at Walsall.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: MonsXI on March 26, 2012, 09:17:16 PM
Do they have standing?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: lennythekad on March 26, 2012, 10:12:17 PM
Do they have standing?

Yes, both ends and one of the sides are standing.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Clark Five on March 26, 2012, 10:44:15 PM
Should get about 1800 tickets.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: TaxDodger on March 26, 2012, 10:58:24 PM
I went in the away end at Burton with my Bradford City supporting friend last season. Lee Hendrie played. Their programmes are tiny.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on March 26, 2012, 11:12:16 PM
Good to see a nice local away match played on a Saturday, unlike all last year's friendlies which seemed to be chosen to inconvenience me personally. I'll probably go.

I'm sure the rest of the Barton's Mafia will be happy to join me in Burton, the spiritual home of British beer.



*runs for cover*
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Bottom Right 89 on March 27, 2012, 12:10:17 AM
As a former resident of Burton this is the friendly I've been waiting for. For league 2 the Pirelli punches well above its weight, the away end houses about 1500 standing although when I watch Albion I stand on the side then swap ends h/t depending on which end we're (supposed to be) attacking. Brewers fans are a friendly bunch so will be no aggro mixing unless Tamworth is your other team. The main stand is seated so you can opt out if you like but as as a Holte veteran the disco option is too tempting.

Pub wise if you're parking by the ground cross over from the Pirelli head towards Burton then a short walk up on the left is the Great Northern, a cracking pub for a pre match pint, they'll probably go wild and crack out the nibbles for a special and you can comfortably leave here at 5 to 3 and make kick off without getting stitch.

If you're going by train, the station to the Pirelli is a couple of miles walk along Derby road so either grab a taxi or if you have a few hours to kick off turn right out the station and head down the hill to the Devonshire Arms - its a blue and white building but don't let that put you off, for real ale fans it's like an all you can drink buffet.

Drink responsibly Villa fans.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Stu on March 27, 2012, 12:12:28 AM
Photos and info here (http://www.footballgroundguide.com/burton_albion/).
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cheltenhamlion on March 27, 2012, 08:45:56 AM
I'm with you Coops. Seen Cheltenham play there a few times (including the day we got promoted to the conference) so will go to Burton but just go on the piss all day.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Simon Ward on March 27, 2012, 09:45:29 AM
Appeals for a ticket already! Thanks.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on March 27, 2012, 10:18:01 AM
I'm with you Coops. Seen Cheltenham play there a few times (including the day we got promoted to the conference) so will go to Burton but just go on the piss all day.

Surely when 'Nam got promoted to the Conference Burton were still at their old ground?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on March 27, 2012, 10:22:01 AM
Brewers fans are a friendly bunch so will be no aggro mixing unless Tamworth is your other team.

Are the Marmite Miners still insisting that Tamworth are some sort of rivals? Burton were never our rivals, we've got Nuneaton Borough/United/Town (whatever they call themselves these days), Burton were just the nearest team in their Conference days (which will be coming back soon enough!)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cheltenhamlion on March 27, 2012, 10:32:19 AM
For the promotion game then yes. In league football, no.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: DeKuip on March 27, 2012, 10:48:57 AM
A pre-season tour of Staffordshire eh? Very nice in July. Hopefully we can go and drop some pennies in Port Vale's collecting tin as well, I'm sure they'd be grateful. Last time I went there Robbie Williams scored against us!

Then off to Holland, Germany, Scotland or Ireland for me please Mr Fixture Planner.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on March 27, 2012, 10:50:32 AM
For the promotion game then yes. In league football, no.

Got you.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Bottom Right 89 on March 27, 2012, 01:03:01 PM
Brewers fans are a friendly bunch so will be no aggro mixing unless Tamworth is your other team.

Are the Marmite Miners still insisting that Tamworth are some sort of rivals? Burton were never our rivals, we've got Nuneaton Borough/United/Town (whatever they call themselves these days), Burton were just the nearest team in their Conference days (which will be coming back soon enough!)
Of course they are, it's still El-classico to the Burton masses.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on March 27, 2012, 01:53:21 PM
Blimey. We stopped caring about them as soon as they got promoted!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: The Laughing Policeman on March 27, 2012, 01:54:57 PM
I too would like us to play Port Vale pre season.(If they're still in business by then) I have happy memories of the Seventies when we seemed to play them every pre season.
However a day out in Beer Town sounds good to me.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: big 1st serve on March 27, 2012, 08:55:42 PM
 Was down in Torquay for the weekend & went to the  Torquay v Port Vale game , stood with the Vale fans @ 400 of them ,

  A good few stayed over on the lash.

 Last went to see us play at Vale , @ the time BFR was signing Guy Whittingham.

 Torquay away would also get my vote for a friendly, their new main stand should be ready by then.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Clampy on May 10, 2012, 01:34:48 PM
We've got Forest away on August 4th.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave P on May 10, 2012, 03:04:53 PM
We can finally arrange games like this now as I was dreading this being a league game next season !
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Bad English on May 10, 2012, 03:19:24 PM
Looking forward to the team selection not being a 6-4-0 formation.

Swallow and gulp emoticon.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: villajk on May 16, 2012, 11:08:20 AM
Wolves v villa. Saturday August 11, 3 pm ko.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Lambert and Payne on May 16, 2012, 11:12:15 AM
All 3 friendlies this side of the pond looking brilliant! Wanky and Forest are deffo's!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: wozwebs on May 16, 2012, 11:27:27 AM
Mick's first game back at the Custard Bowl then? ;)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: itbrvilla on May 16, 2012, 12:07:26 PM
When is the Celtic game?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on May 16, 2012, 12:15:57 PM
Any idea when friendly tickets normally go on sale?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 16, 2012, 12:20:24 PM
Any idea when friendly tickets normally go on sale?

You really think you'll need a ticket?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on May 16, 2012, 12:24:01 PM
For Burton I was thinking I might, can't imagine it holds too many.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Lambert and Payne on May 16, 2012, 12:57:36 PM
Can get about 1800 tickets at Burton CD, 1400 terrace and 400 seats if required according to football ground guide

http://www.footballgroundguide.com/burton_albion/#Visiting-Pirelli-Stadium-Burton
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on May 16, 2012, 01:43:49 PM
Ahhhhh! This is why we've contacted Mick McCarthy ie Do you think Wolves would be offended if we asked for a pre season friendly? ;)

From the OS

Villa will play a friendly against neighbours Wolves as preparations for the 2012-13 campaign continue.

Fresh from announcing a clash with Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, Villa have added a trip to Molineux to the calendar.

The match will be played on Saturday August 11, with a 3pm kick-off.

It will represent one of the first games in charge for Ståle Solbakken, who took over in the Wolves managerial hotseat this week.

The last game played against the old gold and black saw a 3-2 victory for Villa, on-loan Robbie Keane bagging the crucial goals against his former club.

As well as the match with Nottingham Forest on Saturday August 4 [3pm], Villa also play Burton Albion on Saturday July 14 [3pm].

There's also a tour of the USA for the claret and blue troops.

Villa take on Philadelphia Union on Wednesday July 18, Chicago Fire on Saturday July 21 and Portland Timbers on Thursday July 24.


Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 16, 2012, 01:47:00 PM
Mick's first game back at the Custard Bowl then? ;)

can we stop joking please it is not funny  :-\
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on May 16, 2012, 05:26:49 PM
Forest away looks like a good one; haven't been to the City ground for years.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on May 16, 2012, 09:04:01 PM
When is the Celtic game?

Looking at our pre season schedule. If it was going to happen, our  only available would be Sat/Sun 28/29 July.
Celtic could already have friendlies booked then ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on May 16, 2012, 09:15:21 PM

From the OS

Villa take on Philadelphia Union on Wednesday July 18, Chicago Fire on Saturday July 21 and Portland Timbers on Thursday July 24.

Tuesday. The OS is always littered with errors.
 
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on May 16, 2012, 09:15:56 PM
Never!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on May 16, 2012, 09:23:47 PM
Can get about 1800 tickets at Burton CD, 1400 terrace and 400 seats if required according to football ground guide

http://www.footballgroundguide.com/burton_albion/#Visiting-Pirelli-Stadium-Burton

We took over 4,000 to Derby pre season, so on that basis those will sell out quick.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on June 02, 2012, 04:23:58 PM
July 14th - Burton Albion (a)
July 18th - Philadelphia Union (a)
July 21st - Chicago Fire (a)
July 24th - Portland Timbers (a)
August 4th - Nottingham Forest (a)
August 11th - Wolves (a)
August 18th - new season starts.

Any more I don't know about? I assume Walsall will be played on the midweek after Forest or Wolves or are we not playing them this season?

Looking forward to going to Burton for Mr Tickle's first game.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on June 02, 2012, 04:29:40 PM
Can't wait for Burton away :)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: TaxDodger on June 02, 2012, 04:35:30 PM
I've been waiting for us to play in Nottingham for the four years I've been at University. Now we're playing here a week after I leave. Cool.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on June 02, 2012, 04:40:30 PM
Portland Timbers! The best fans in North America. That'll be great.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on June 02, 2012, 04:48:30 PM
I keep saying it.

Any chance of Celtic v Villa on the w/end 28th/29th July ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on June 02, 2012, 05:00:12 PM
Thread stickied. Will try and get to the Burton Albion and Forest matches.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 02, 2012, 11:22:13 PM
No home friendlies?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on June 02, 2012, 11:22:14 PM
Phiily& Chicago in mid July will be hot and sticky. Burton, not so much
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on June 02, 2012, 11:33:49 PM
No home friendlies?

We rarely do.
Should be a few local 'Villa XI' (i.e. reserves) games announced soon as well.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Brian Taylor on June 03, 2012, 11:42:55 AM
My cousins, John Paul and Patrick H, and family will attend. JP is in the Fire dept where the team started. The fire dept are predominantly Irish origin.
Chicago Fire as a team are no pushover. The represent the pride of Chicago! It'll be a big day
I see a strategy in all this..not only spreading our name, which will be well promoted, but viewing top US talent at the same time. Well done Randy. might even go visit the rellies.
http://www.chicago-fire.com/news/2012/06/fires-friedrich-klinsmann-changed-culture-germany
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arne_Friedrich
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Clampy on June 03, 2012, 11:49:15 AM
Anyone going to the USA games off this site are in for a treat. I went to L.A Galaxy v Columbus Crew a couple of years ago and really enjoyed it. Being able to take your pint back to your seat was marvellous as well. I envy all those going over.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cheltenhamlion on June 03, 2012, 04:45:03 PM
Will be in Burton. Unfortunately, the Yankee tour clashes with both my wifes birthday and Sonny Jims second one. Oh, and Forest is my wedding anniversary.

By the way, season must start 25th then, as The Dogheads will start a week before us.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: darren woolley on June 03, 2012, 08:27:28 PM
What no Walsall friendly this season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spaf on June 04, 2012, 12:57:50 AM
Shiver me timbers.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on June 04, 2012, 01:08:12 AM
I'll start a thread nearer the game vs Philadelphia. Give a place for fellow H&V travellers to meet up and have a pint.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on June 04, 2012, 03:42:07 PM
My cousins, John Paul and Patrick H, and family will attend. JP is in the Fire dept where the team started. The fire dept are predominantly Irish origin.
Chicago Fire as a team are no pushover. The represent the pride of Chicago! It'll be a big day[/quote

I went to a Seattle @ Chicago game a few years back. Great evening's entertainment.

The ground is easy to get as well by public transport. Just take the Orange Line to Midway and then hop on the free shuttle bus (hopefully it'll be running for Villa's visit).
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: gervilla on June 04, 2012, 08:19:31 PM
No sign of a game v Shamrock Rovers then ?
I thought we owe them one as a part of the Enda Stephens transfer deal.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on June 04, 2012, 09:19:41 PM
Does anybody know when tickets will be sale? ...or have a full list of all our friendlies?

Can't find anything on the OS about them.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: AvFc4eVeR on June 04, 2012, 09:26:40 PM
Heres a list, not sure on tickets.

http://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=47190.0 (http://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=47190.0)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on June 04, 2012, 09:35:22 PM
Just realised there was already a friendlies thread before I started this one. And I've posted in it... D'oh!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: OCD on June 04, 2012, 11:08:30 PM
No sign of a game v Shamrock Rovers then ?
I thought we owe them one as a part of the Enda Stephens transfer deal.

If that's true, it could be a 'Villa XI' that play them.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on June 05, 2012, 12:45:45 AM
We could play that most cup weekends.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on June 05, 2012, 09:31:14 AM
When will the tickets for these go on sale?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Clampy on June 05, 2012, 10:48:56 AM
No sign of a game v Shamrock Rovers then ?
I thought we owe them one as a part of the Enda Stephens transfer deal.

I asked the question a while back and the club told me they were finding it impossible to agree a date (probably due to Shamrock's Champions League involvement) so it'll most likely be next pre-season now, although the 28th July is still a free weekend so you never know.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: timeoutbigbar on June 05, 2012, 04:01:06 PM
Whats happened to the 'glamour' friendly we tend to have had the last few seasons (Valencia, Braga, Fiorentina, Benfica)?  I assume that's Forest away this year then?  Suppose it's quite apt considering last season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Rob92 on June 06, 2012, 08:03:50 PM
I'll aim to go to Forest and maybe Wolves. Shame there's no game at VP.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: rjp on June 11, 2012, 04:14:26 PM
Details for Burton tickets are now on pravda link (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2808166,00.html)

Burton Albion v Villa
Saturday July 14 - 3pm
Pirelli Stadium
Ticket Allocation: 1,430 (1,200 standing, 230 seated)

Prices
Seated: £12 for adults, £8 for O65s and full-time students, £6 for U17s
Standing: £10 for adults, £7 for O65s and full-time students, £5 for U17s
Wheelchair Tickets: Call Burton Albion direct on 01283 565 938 and ask for Iyaz Talib.

Sale Dates
Wednesday June 20: On sale to 2012-13 season card holders who attended at least three Premier League away fixtures in the 2011-2012 season*
Thursday June 21: On sale to 2012-13 season card holders who attended at least two Premier League away fixtures in the 2011-2012 season*
Monday June 25: On sale to 2012-13 season card holders who attended at least one Premier League away fixture in the 2011-2012 season*
Wednesday June 27: On sale to season card holders for the 2012-2013 season*
Friday June 29: On sale to supporters who attended at least three Premier League away fixtures in the 2011-2012 season*
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on June 11, 2012, 07:40:26 PM
Thanks for the info.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Simon Ward on June 12, 2012, 11:11:28 AM
Looking for two tickets at least for the Burton game please. Can anyone oblige?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VinnieChase84 on June 12, 2012, 11:32:11 PM
Details for Burton tickets are now on pravda link (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2808166,00.html)

Burton Albion v Villa
Saturday July 14 - 3pm
Pirelli Stadium
Ticket Allocation: 1,430 (1,200 standing, 230 seated)

Prices
Seated: £12 for adults, £8 for O65s and full-time students, £6 for U17s
Standing: £10 for adults, £7 for O65s and full-time students, £5 for U17s
Wheelchair Tickets: Call Burton Albion direct on 01283 565 938 and ask for Iyaz Talib.

Sale Dates
Wednesday June 20: On sale to 2012-13 season card holders who attended at least three Premier League away fixtures in the 2011-2012 season*
Thursday June 21: On sale to 2012-13 season card holders who attended at least two Premier League away fixtures in the 2011-2012 season*
Monday June 25: On sale to 2012-13 season card holders who attended at least one Premier League away fixture in the 2011-2012 season*
Wednesday June 27: On sale to season card holders for the 2012-2013 season*
Friday June 29: On sale to supporters who attended at least three Premier League away fixtures in the 2011-2012 season*

No geneal sale!? Strange
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on June 13, 2012, 07:41:48 PM
They are probably pretty certain that all 1430 tickets will be sold well before that would be needed.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Stu on June 15, 2012, 04:01:55 PM
Is there a H&V meet up for this one? It looks like I can actually get down the game on a Saturday for a change.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on June 15, 2012, 06:00:27 PM
Is there a H&V meet up for this one? It looks like I can actually get down the game on a Saturday for a change.

We're far too elitist to let on where we're meeting.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on June 15, 2012, 06:09:59 PM
The canal backs onto the ground,how about hiring a boat?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: placeforparks on June 20, 2012, 02:25:21 PM
Peterborough United will face Premier League side Aston Villa in a pre-season friendly at London Road on Wednesday 1st August (7.45pm).

Paul Lambert was appointed as Villa boss during the summer and they are expected to bring in fresh faces ahead of the Premier League campaign with several players linked in recent weeks.

Ticket prices for this game will be announced soon.

It is the second pre-season friendly that has been confirmed at London Road with Norwich City visiting on Saturday 28th July.

http://www.theposh.com/page/NewsDetail/0,,10427~2817270,00.html
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Simon Ward on June 20, 2012, 02:50:27 PM
Another friendly? We are going to be knackered by the time the season starts!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Stu on June 21, 2012, 07:12:11 PM
Is there a H&V meet up for this one? It looks like I can actually get down the game on a Saturday for a change.

We're far too elitist to let on where we're meeting.

There's a clique on this site and if you're not in it, then blah blah blah, etc.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mike Jeffries on June 21, 2012, 07:17:58 PM
Is there a H&V meet up for this one? It looks like I can actually get down the game on a Saturday for a change.

We're far too elitist to let on where we're meeting.

There's a clique on this site and if you're not in it, then blah blah blah, etc.

There's a clique on our phone line at home sometimes, but I think that's just Special Branch or the FBI or maybe Mossad?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on June 22, 2012, 11:41:25 AM
Another friendly? We are going to be knackered by the time the season starts!

MON isn't in charge anymore Simon.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Surrey Villain on June 23, 2012, 04:51:36 PM
Is there a H&V meet up for this one? It looks like I can actually get down the game on a Saturday for a change.

We're far too elitist to let on where we're meeting.

There's a clique on this site and if you're not in it, then blah blah blah, etc.

There's a clique on our phone line at home sometimes, but I think that's just Special Branch or the FBI or maybe Mossad?

Rebecca Brookes?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Rob92 on June 23, 2012, 05:10:01 PM
I'm booked for a weekend in Nottingham. Should be fun :)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on June 24, 2012, 12:44:25 PM
Details for Burton tickets are now on pravda link (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2808166,00.html)

Burton Albion v Villa
Saturday July 14 - 3pm
Pirelli Stadium
Ticket Allocation: 1,430 (1,200 standing, 230 seated)

Prices
Seated: £12 for adults, £8 for O65s and full-time students, £6 for U17s
Standing: £10 for adults, £7 for O65s and full-time students, £5 for U17s
Wheelchair Tickets: Call Burton Albion direct on 01283 565 938 and ask for Iyaz Talib.

Sale Dates
Wednesday June 20: On sale to 2012-13 season card holders who attended at least three Premier League away fixtures in the 2011-2012 season*
Thursday June 21: On sale to 2012-13 season card holders who attended at least two Premier League away fixtures in the 2011-2012 season*
Monday June 25: On sale to 2012-13 season card holders who attended at least one Premier League away fixture in the 2011-2012 season*
Wednesday June 27: On sale to season card holders for the 2012-2013 season*
Friday June 29: On sale to supporters who attended at least three Premier League away fixtures in the 2011-2012 season*


It does not seem possible to buy one on-line.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on June 25, 2012, 07:32:27 PM
It should never have been.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on June 26, 2012, 04:47:10 PM
Nottingham Forest Vs Aston Villa in a friendly on 4th August - looks like £10 for adults
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Rob92 on June 28, 2012, 03:39:40 PM
Word on the street is that the Wolves v Aldershot League Cup tie will be played on Sat 11th August. So it looks like the friendly at Molineux could be off.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: lennythekad on July 01, 2012, 07:21:09 PM
http://www.wolves.co.uk/page/News/0,,10307~2827255,00.html.

Looks like you're right mate. "Latest Articles" page on 29th June says Solbaekken wants the game on 11th Aug.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spangley1812 on July 01, 2012, 07:25:57 PM
Word on the street is that the Wolves v Aldershot League Cup tie will be played on Sat 11th August. So it looks like the friendly at Molineux could be off.

Well I was wondering why I couldnt find the game on the list of pre-season games on the O/S
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 01, 2012, 07:42:17 PM
They're probably sick of us winning there.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Lambert and Payne on July 02, 2012, 11:18:23 AM
Gutted Wolves is off, may have a game on the 4th August so don't think I can make out, and Burtons sold out. So annoyed!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 03, 2012, 12:30:19 PM
Gutted Wolves is off, may have a game on the 4th August so don't think I can make out, and Burtons sold out. So annoyed!
Replaced by Werder Bremen at their place

http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2830470,00.html

They've released another 480 odd tickets for Burton



Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Lambert and Payne on July 03, 2012, 12:55:35 PM
How much are passports and how long does it take for them to arrive? Lol
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: john2710 on July 03, 2012, 09:07:21 PM
Would love to go, but will be in Spain.

Can't they arrange one in Malaga?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: TaxDodger on July 03, 2012, 10:48:56 PM
Got my ticket for Burton. Looking forward to a piss up with my Uni mates who are from there. Standing away ends beind the goal are a beautiful thing.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 04, 2012, 07:20:26 PM
Villa XI playing Chester City 28th July.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 05, 2012, 09:27:01 PM
Another friendly? We are going to be knackered by the time the season starts!
If you think we have too many look at Werder Bremen's schedule. May be Lambert's going German! No mention of out game though.
Tests in Zillertal and Winterthur
30.06.2012, 10:47:29 Uhr
 
Reunion with Cottbus: Werder against Energie Cottbus in Zittertal.
 
The Green-Whites will take on a Tyrol selection on Tuesday 17 July 2012. The exact time of kick-off will be announced later. Three days later, on Friday 20 July 2012, Werder will be testing against the second division side Energie Cottbus.
That means Werder's new acquisition Nils Petersen will take on his former club. Both matches will be played at Park Stadium in Zell am Ziller, where Werder will be holding their training camp at that time.
A test match for the training camp in Donaueschingen was also set as head coach Thomas Schaaf's team will face Swiss second division team Winterthur on Wednesday 8 August 2012 with kick-off at 7 p.m.
 
 Energie Cottbus and Paderborn: Two test match opponents for Werder. Summer schedule 2012 in overview:

Thurs: 05 July 2012: Start of training

Sat. 07 July 2012: Travel to training camp on Norderney

Wed. 11 July 2012: 7 p.m. Test match against East Friesland selection, Sportplatz an der Mühle on Norderney

Fri. 13 July 2012: Return from training camp on Norderney

Sun. 15 July 2012: Travel to training camp in Zell am Ziller

Tues. 17 July 2012: Test match Tyrol Selection-Werder Bremen, Park Stadium, Zell am Ziller
Fri. 20 July 2012: 4:30 p.m. Test match Energie Cottbus - Werder Bremen, Park Stadium, Zell am Ziller
Sat., 21 July 2012: Return from training camp in Zell am Ziller

Wed. 25 July 2012: Test match against FC Aberdeen, Marschweg Stadium, Oldenburg

Sun. 29 July 2012: Test match at SC Paderborn, Energieteam Arena, Paderborn

Sat. 04 August 2012 and Sun. 05 August 2012: LIGA total! Cup in at Hamburg Imtech Arena

Mon.06 August 2012: Travel to training camp in Donaueschingen

Mi, 08.08.2012, 7 p.m.: Testspiel FC Winterthur - Werder Bremen, Stadion Schützenwiese, Winterthur
Sat., 11 August 2012: Return from training camp in Donaueschingen

Sun. 12 August 2012: Day of the Fans 2012

17-20 August 2012: 1st Round German DFB Cup: Preussen Münster v Werder Bremen

24-26 August 2012: 1st Bundesliga game day: Borussia Dortmund v Werder Bremen
Status: 29 June 2012
The summer schedule will continuously be updated.
 

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: darren woolley on July 08, 2012, 02:31:03 PM
Looking forward to the Burton game.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hookeysmith on July 09, 2012, 10:12:10 AM
Definately fancy the Peterborough game as i work in Northampton and easy to get to

Lets hope we have another couple of new faces to look at
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 10, 2012, 07:11:54 PM
Reserves and Youth pre-season schedule (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2837971,00.html)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on July 10, 2012, 09:49:29 PM
Hmm, fancy the Chester game, new ground and everything.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 10, 2012, 09:51:54 PM
Hmm, fancy the Chester game, new ground and everything.

So did I until I saw the train fare. Worcester will be good, though.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: exiled on the wirral! on July 10, 2012, 10:02:36 PM
Im definetly going to the Chester game, the shortest trip of the season for me and it will be my 4 year old daughter's first villa game..she is very excited!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on July 10, 2012, 10:10:11 PM
Hmm, fancy the Chester game, new ground and everything.

So did I until I saw the train fare. Worcester will be good, though.

Working for the Wusster match.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: TaxDodger on July 11, 2012, 04:28:42 PM
For Burton Saturday - You'll be able to pay on the day in the home end right? Can't find anything about paying on the day on their website.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: placeforparks on July 11, 2012, 05:00:03 PM
any chance of updating the first post with the fixtures please?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on July 11, 2012, 05:12:43 PM
Easy to get to and some great pubs.

Which pubs are the best for Burton Albion?  Cheers
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 11, 2012, 05:15:03 PM
For Burton Saturday - You'll be able to pay on the day in the home end right? Can't find anything about paying on the day on their website.
WMP have said you won't be able to pay on the day The Club has just released another 300 odd tickets today
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 11, 2012, 05:19:41 PM
For Burton Saturday - You'll be able to pay on the day in the home end right? Can't find anything about paying on the day on their website.
WMP have said you won't be able to pay on the day The Club has just released another 300 odd tickets today
That makes it over 2,000.Well done everybody.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: silhillvilla on July 11, 2012, 10:14:10 PM
Hopefully the Burton game will pass off without any trouble in or around the ground or pubs
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 11, 2012, 11:39:42 PM
Hopefully the Burton game will pass off without any trouble in or around the ground or pubs

Why should it be anything else?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on July 11, 2012, 11:52:38 PM
Easy to get to and some great pubs.

Which pubs are the best for Burton Albion?  Cheers
The Beech and The Great Western - both sell Burton Bridge beers - yummy!
Or the club is good, I'm told by a local, and there is a separate bar for away fans.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on July 12, 2012, 12:50:19 AM
Hopefully the Burton game will pass off without any trouble in or around the ground or pubs

Lets hope so yes.

What a strange post!

Almost Darren Wooleyesque.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on July 12, 2012, 07:58:26 AM
I'm off to Burton & Forest see you all there, I may even buy the new away shirt before I go
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 12, 2012, 08:04:53 AM
Good luck with your journey. Two days to get to a match must be one Hell of a trek.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on July 12, 2012, 08:37:52 AM
Hey Leeg, are you going to Burton ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 12, 2012, 08:58:38 AM
Hey Leeg, are you going to Burton ?
Why is it an earthquake zone?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 12, 2012, 10:09:19 AM
Hey Leeg, are you going to Burton ?

Yes. Beware...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on July 12, 2012, 10:36:44 AM
Easy to get to and some great pubs.

Which pubs are the best for Burton Albion?  Cheers
The Beech and The Great Western - both sell Burton Bridge beers - yummy!
Or the club is good, I'm told by a local, and there is a separate bar for away fans.

Nice one!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on July 12, 2012, 11:33:41 AM
Hey Leeg, are you going to Burton ?

Yes. Beware...

OK, I'll text you on Saturday
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on July 12, 2012, 03:31:48 PM
For anyone planning to park at the Burton ground, the official car park opens at 12:30
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 12, 2012, 06:16:07 PM
Hey Leeg, are you going to Burton ?

Yes. Beware...

OK, I'll text you on Saturday

I'll bring those videos.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: silhillvilla on July 12, 2012, 07:16:58 PM
Hopefully the Burton game will pass off without any trouble in or around the ground or pubs

Why should it be anything else?
Sorry just meant in the sense it's our first game for a while its summer, beers will no doubt be flowing and some of the more boisterous / raucous followers may get a bit carried away with all the events over the past year or so
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 12, 2012, 07:19:21 PM
It's a pre-season FRIENDLY.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 12, 2012, 09:26:13 PM
A couple of us heading up from the Caribbean for the Chicago game. Any Villans planning to meet before or after the game? I haven't seen much discussion since just after the US friendlies were announced,.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Tucson Villain on July 12, 2012, 09:29:13 PM
A couple of us heading up from the Caribbean for the Chicago game. Any Villans planning to meet before or after the game? I haven't seen much discussion since just after the US friendlies were announced,.

Halsted harp bar, before and after.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 13, 2012, 01:11:48 AM
Halsted harp bar, before and after.

Cheers for that, sounds good. Will probably get there circa 4pm. Do we need to do anything in advance wrt booking the bus from there to Toyota Park? We have match tickets already but is it really US$40 for round-trip on the bus and 2 hours open bar in an Irish bar of all places? Sounds like a good deal!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Tucson Villain on July 13, 2012, 02:14:52 AM
I think that the buses have sold out. Details for the game and other info here : http://www.facebook.com/events/359316637445257/ (http://www.facebook.com/events/359316637445257/)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on July 13, 2012, 11:03:06 AM
Will we be able to pay on the door tomorrow?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: supertommykN'iba on July 13, 2012, 11:04:37 AM
Will we be able to pay on the door tomorrow?

Not for the Villa end. There may be tickets available in the home end, but you should probably call them and book before hand just in case that changes.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: DeKuip on July 13, 2012, 11:52:31 AM
Will we be able to pay on the door tomorrow?

Not for the Villa end. There may be tickets available in the home end, but you should probably call them and book before hand just in case that changes.
It's pay at the turnstile in the home end and side for a normal league game so it's not going to be any different tomorrow when there'll be far fewer home fans than for a  league game.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 13, 2012, 11:55:41 AM
Will we be able to pay on the door tomorrow?

Not for the Villa end. There may be tickets available in the home end, but you should probably call them and book before hand just in case that changes.
It's pay at the turnstile in the home end and side for a normal league game so it's not going to be any different tomorrow when there'll be far fewer home fans than for a  league game.
I would definitely check that out first as WMP said there would be not tickets available to buy on the day.Whether that was just referring to the Away fans I don't know.Probably best to ring Burton and check
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Stu on July 13, 2012, 12:01:31 PM
Will we be able to pay on the door tomorrow?

Not for the Villa end. There may be tickets available in the home end, but you should probably call them and book before hand just in case that changes.
It's pay at the turnstile in the home end and side for a normal league game so it's not going to be any different tomorrow when there'll be far fewer home fans than for a  league game.
I would definitely check that out first as WMP said there would be not tickets available to buy on the day.Whether that was just referring to the Away fans I don't know.Probably best to ring Burton and check

Lenny in Tickets and Travel has said we will be able to pay on the gate in the home end, as Burton are expecting Villa fans to turn up without tickets.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: DeKuip on July 13, 2012, 12:10:35 PM
There are plenty of Villa fans who live in and around Burton, particularly Swadlincote. With Lichfield and Tamworth just on the doorstep the home areas will be mixed.
Burton aren't going to turn away extra cash.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Stu on July 13, 2012, 12:48:14 PM
Handful of tickets left in the Villa end apparently.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: supertommykN'iba on July 13, 2012, 04:36:32 PM
Burton Sold Out.

Evesham United v Villa XI Thursday 9th August.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 13, 2012, 04:50:27 PM
wonder who's in net tomorrow?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: silhillvilla on July 13, 2012, 05:39:22 PM
Is it likely to be a strong team or fringe players / reserves / youth ??
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 13, 2012, 07:24:02 PM
A reminder for those not attending, this game and all the North American tour games are live on AVTV, which is free if you're a season ticket holder.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: JJ-AV on July 13, 2012, 07:30:43 PM
Just realised we're playing Forest away.

For three and a half years I've had residence in Nottingham, and for longer than that I've been hoping they'd get promoted just for that one fixture.

Sods law it happens 3 days after my tenancy agreement finishes. Might not go out of spite, that'll learn 'em.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 13, 2012, 07:34:26 PM
Might be a decent crowd that, seeing as they've just won the lottery.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: TaxDodger on July 13, 2012, 09:26:57 PM
Just realised we're playing Forest away.

For three and a half years I've had residence in Nottingham, and for longer than that I've been hoping they'd get promoted just for that one fixture.

Sods law it happens 3 days after my tenancy agreement finishes. Might not go out of spite, that'll learn 'em.

Exactly the same situation here. My tenancy finishes the week before. Still going to go though, I like the City Ground. I do remember we drew Notts County away during my four years in Nottingham.. The only problem being the 'or Manchester City' part.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 13, 2012, 09:37:25 PM
Man City got a very late equaliser to take that to a replay if I remember correctly. Then Villa chose to withdraw.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 13, 2012, 11:02:00 PM
I think that the buses have sold out. Details for the game and other info here : http://www.facebook.com/events/359316637445257/ (http://www.facebook.com/events/359316637445257/)

It would appear so. There's 2 of us with possibly another 2 flying in from Toronto so we can always cab it. Cheers for the FB link, I sent CV a message.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Lambert and Payne on July 13, 2012, 11:54:25 PM
Re Villa XI v Evesham friendly, any on here be going to a nice new non league ground? Ill happily give any info to anyone on here. Going to it a week tomorrow for a friendly, meant to have a really nice bar
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on July 14, 2012, 05:29:00 AM
Re Villa XI v Evesham friendly, any on here be going to a nice new non league ground? Ill happily give any info to anyone on here. Going to it a week tomorrow for a friendly, meant to have a really nice bar

Thinking about it. Bit of a trek from the station mind.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Lambert and Payne on July 14, 2012, 10:09:32 AM
Yeah to be honest Coops, its well out of the way of all the pubs, fiver taxi I think it is though, but I'm not sure trains will be running back that late. Its in a nightmare position. They had a friendly with manure old stars last saturday and it was 9 quid to get in I think so its quite steep. Ill try find out more and let you know
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 14, 2012, 02:45:03 PM
Any streams available for the Burton Albion game?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 14, 2012, 02:47:54 PM
A reminder for those not attending, this game and all the North American tour games are live on AVTV, which is free if you're a season ticket holder.
Thanks CD. I had almost forgotten!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: martyn ellis on July 14, 2012, 02:52:54 PM
Any ST holders having difficulty getting the pictures? No sign of anything yet.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: martyn ellis on July 14, 2012, 02:56:40 PM
Got it!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: timeoutbigbar on July 14, 2012, 03:12:50 PM
1-0 down.  Lambert out!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: eastie on July 14, 2012, 03:17:05 PM
What is the starting formation?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on July 14, 2012, 03:24:34 PM
What about the team?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: KRS on July 14, 2012, 03:25:16 PM
Any coverage anywhere for this?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: timeoutbigbar on July 14, 2012, 03:25:29 PM
Villa line-up v Burton: Marshall, Hutton, Clark, Lowton, Stephens, Carruthers, Johnson, El Ahmadi, N'Zogbia, Weimann, Bent [c].
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on July 14, 2012, 03:26:35 PM
Cheers timeout.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 14, 2012, 03:43:58 PM
1-1 Lambert in
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 14, 2012, 03:44:29 PM
Enda Stevens looks quite tidy today and Karim does everything it says on the can. Deservedly 1-1
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on July 14, 2012, 03:45:15 PM
Enda Stevens looks quite tidy today and Karim does everything it says on the can. Deservedly 1-1

Exactly what I was thinkin! Stevens looks alot better than I thought he would and getting alot of the ball.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on July 14, 2012, 03:47:50 PM
HT
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hampshire Villa on July 14, 2012, 03:49:00 PM
I can't get on AVTV, paid early for my ST and they don't seem able to send me the access code.
 Jokers!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 14, 2012, 03:50:53 PM
I can't get on AVTV, paid early for my ST and they don't seem able to send me the access code.
 Jokers!
The ticket office gave me my access code over the phone
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hampshire Villa on July 14, 2012, 03:51:57 PM
thanks I'll try that, I've been backwards and forwards on  emails to the AVTV people



 cheers
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 04:03:28 PM
I haven't been following, and don't have AVTV, could someone give me a quick summary of everything so far? Who's playing well etc
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 14, 2012, 04:05:22 PM
It's raining.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 04:06:21 PM
Men?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 04:08:13 PM
Hallelujah
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 04:12:26 PM
It's raining men.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 14, 2012, 04:18:44 PM
Man .... It's raining but wants the score?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 04:20:12 PM
Man .... It's raining but wants the score?

1-1
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 14, 2012, 04:22:01 PM
Some of our supporters are expressing a desire to "go fucking mental".
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 04:26:52 PM
Who scored? Was it that Darren fella?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 14, 2012, 04:29:12 PM
Who scored? Was it that Darren fella?
it was an own goal
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 14, 2012, 04:30:49 PM
Completely lost AVTV now
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 04:31:47 PM
Who scored? Was it that Darren fella?
it was an own goal

Cheers.

Completely lost AVTV now

Lambert out.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 04:32:05 PM
AVTV working ok for me
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 04:34:27 PM
Who scored? Was it that Darren fella?
it was an own goal

Cheers.

Completely lost AVTV now

Lambert out.

Agreed. Another Scottish loser just like the ginger tosser last season and that tennis player the other week.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: eastie on July 14, 2012, 04:35:24 PM
Some of our supporters are expressing a desire to "go fucking mental".
t

In a celebratory way or a nasty way?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 04:38:09 PM
Some of our supporters are expressing a desire to "go fucking mental".
t

In a celebratory way or a nasty way?

Probably be both by the end of the evening. They are in the middle of a brewery.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 04:40:09 PM
Attendance 4,165.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 04:42:07 PM
2-1 to Villa. Holman.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 04:43:06 PM
Fans singing "We're going to win the league".
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 04:46:25 PM
Followed by "Paul Lamberts Claret & Blue army" and "Lambert, Lambert, give us a wave".
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 04:47:59 PM
2-1 to Villa. Holman.

Nice!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 04:49:24 PM
Full Time.

2-1 win to Villa.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hampshire Villa on July 14, 2012, 04:49:28 PM
avtv working for me now. Thanks for the tip about the ticket office. Why couldn't the idiot who was sending me mails from AVTV tell me that. Anyway it's working now , thanks for your help

we're not looking too bad - Lambert in!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hampshire Villa on July 14, 2012, 04:50:06 PM
Only 2-1  against Burton..... Lambert out :-)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 14, 2012, 04:52:44 PM
Great win that. We are surely going for Europe this season. Holman and Own Goal scored. I think we should sign up Own now!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: villa `cross the mersey on July 14, 2012, 04:53:36 PM
Gabby and Nathan looked really sharp................not !!

Only saw the second half - and it was only Burton - good to see us passing the ball around - Holman was busy and took his chance well.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 04:53:53 PM
Full Time.

2-1 win to Villa.

Thanks for the updates, sounds like a good start to the Lambert era!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 04:54:43 PM
Only 2-1  against Burton..... Lambert out :-)

Agreed. Burton are in the 4th division and we should be stuffing them a minimum 6-0.
They might have 4th division teams where he comes from who get 50,000 every home game, but not down here.
F**kin Norwich W**ker.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 14, 2012, 04:55:54 PM
avtv working for me now. Thanks for the tip about the ticket office. Why couldn't the idiot who was sending me mails from AVTV tell me that. Anyway it's working now , thanks for your help

we're not looking too bad - Lambert in!

Glad you got it sorted
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: mr-villa on July 14, 2012, 04:56:14 PM
The mosy refreshing thing to see across the ninety minutes was the amount of time the ball spent on the deck when being moved between Villa's players.  The only player that I noticed hoofing the ball was Collins in the second half, even he only did it a few times and a couple of those were long diagonals looking for Gabby or Holman in the channel.  All in all a good workout I thought with Al Ahmadi the pick of those on show today.  He was composed assured and in control of the football throughout the first half, looks a very good signing on that first sighting today.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Karl Bridges on July 14, 2012, 04:56:49 PM
All the new boys looked good, KAE ran the game in the first half, Bannan did exactly the same in the second. Holman took his goal well and never stopped running. They looked like they were trying to play it out from the back and both KAE & BB were always dropping deep to get off the CB's.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 14, 2012, 04:57:52 PM
Effective workout. Tried to play football the right way but that is a project that will take some time and better players to come to together properly. Given, Makoun and Dunne to come back and this will have given Lambert a first impression. Liked Enda Stevens and El Ahmadi, and Holman looked busy and tidy. The kids will be asked to play a bigger role this year also so looking forward to seeing how they come on.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 14, 2012, 05:03:24 PM
Burton Albion match report up first.

http://www.burtonalbionfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10950~2849389,00.html#continue
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Singapore Villa on July 14, 2012, 05:07:44 PM
Where was Ireland?  Is he injured?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: damon loves JT on July 14, 2012, 05:10:50 PM
I love football, but seeing reports of pre-season friendlies on Sky Sports makes me feel a little bit sick.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 05:13:09 PM
I love football, but seeing reports of pre-season friendlies on Sky Sports makes me feel a little bit sick.

Why? It's the only thing fending off my withdrawal symptoms.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: SoccerHQ on July 14, 2012, 05:13:56 PM
How did N'zogbia play?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: damon loves JT on July 14, 2012, 05:19:00 PM
I love football, but seeing reports of pre-season friendlies on Sky Sports makes me feel a little bit sick.

Why? It's the only thing fending off my withdrawal symptoms.

It's the middle of July. Kids haven't broken up from school. John Terry not in prison
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 05:25:26 PM
I love football, but seeing reports of pre-season friendlies on Sky Sports makes me feel a little bit sick.

Why? It's the only thing fending off my withdrawal symptoms.

It's the middle of July. Kids haven't broken up from school. John Terry not in prison

Blues never went bust :(
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: placeforparks on July 14, 2012, 05:31:12 PM
I love football, but seeing reports of pre-season friendlies on Sky Sports makes me feel a little bit sick.

Why? It's the only thing fending off my withdrawal symptoms.

It's the middle of July. Kids haven't broken up from school. John Terry not in prison

I was in WH Smith a couple of weeks ago, they've got the Back to School stuff out already!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 14, 2012, 05:44:04 PM
Match Report

Match report: Burton Albion 1-2 Villa
14 Jul 2012 17:21



By Dan Harrison at The Pirelli Stadium

A classy debut strike from Brett Holman ensured a winning start for new manager Paul Lambert.

Although Villa fell behind early on to Robbie Weir's spectacular long-range effort, their football at times was as glowing the new lime green away kit.

An own goal from Marcus Holness restored parity in a first-half which saw another new signing Karim El Ahmadi sparkle in midfield.

Holman's then bagged the winner late in the second period to cap a bright display from Lambert's Lions.

It was a fitting way to usher in Villa's bright new era.

The 2,300 travelling supporters didn't hold back in showing their appreciation for new boss Lambert.

Chants of "Lambert, give us a wave" were duly acknowledged by the Scotsman as he patrolled the technical area during his first match at the helm.

As well as the excitement for the new man on the touchline, there was plenty of intrigue surrounding fresh faces on the pitch.

Lambert named summer arrivals El Ahmadi and Matthew Lowton in the starting XI, while Enda Stevens, Daniel Johnson, Samir Carruthers and goalkeeper Andrew Marshall all made their first starts for the club.

Weir did his best to spoil the party atmosphere among the Villa fans when his stunning 30-yard shot nestled in the corner of the net on nine minutes.

Nevertheless, it did little to stop the travelling contingent enjoying Villa's high-tempo, incisive football.

El Ahmadi linked play with elegance and intelligence in the central ground.

The former Feyenoord man glided through the middle of the park and forced keeper Ross Atkins into a low save on 11 minutes.

Returning striker Darren Bent arrived a fraction too late to meet a cross from Stevens after the first of several driving runs from Charles N'Zogbia.

Speculative ong-range attempts from Carruthers and Johnson veered just off target, while Bent's instinctive first-time effort rolled inches wide after he beat the offside trap to connect with Johnson's chipped ball.

The equaliser arrived three minutes before the break following another swift, vibrant attack down the left hand side.

Irish full-back Stevens capped a bright individual first-half display by racing on to Carruthers' intricate pass.

He served a perfect low cross on a plate for Weimann, whose effort went in off defender Holness.

Holman took centre stage in the second-half as Lambert opted to change his entire outfield personnel.

The Australian international and midfielder Barry Bannan were the standout performers in a revamped Villa line-up.

The pair almost combined when Bannan's cross to the back post was just out of reach for his outstreched team-mate.

Another second-half sub Stephen Warnock motored on to a perfectly-weighted cross-field ball from Bannan but Burton's replacement keeper Dean Lyness intercepted the cross before Nathan Delfouneso could get there.

Bannan went for goal himself on two occasions - firstly rifling a long-range effort just over before forcing Lyness to get down and tip his free-kick around the post.

But Holman, who shone with his high work-rate and impressive support play, had the final say.

Seven minutes from time, the ex-AZ Alkmaar attacker worked his way into the box from the left hand side and guided a classy finish in to the far corner to give Lambert a winning start.

BURTON: Atkins, O'Connor, McCrory, Stanton, Holness, Corbett, Weir, Downing, Maghoma, Zola, Yussuf. Subs: Lyness, Webster, Diamond, Taylor, Richards, Palmer, Green, Phillips, Martin, Dyer, Allen, Bell.

VILLA [First-half]: Marshall, Hutton, Clark, Lowton, Stevens, Carruthers, Johnson, El Ahmadi, N'Zogbia, Weimann, Bent .

VILLA [Second-half]: Marshall, Lichaj, Collins, Baker, Warnock, Gardner, Herd, Bannan, Holman, Delfouneso, Agbonlahor.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: shipscat on July 14, 2012, 05:49:47 PM
Alledgedly  albrightons broke his foot in training,definitely heavily strapped up at the game today
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 05:50:51 PM
Alledgedly  albrightons broke his foot in training,definitely heavily strapped up at the game today

Where'd you hear that? Terrible news if true  :-\
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 05:52:20 PM
I love football, but seeing reports of pre-season friendlies on Sky Sports makes me feel a little bit sick.

Why? It's the only thing fending off my withdrawal symptoms.

It's the middle of July. Kids haven't broken up from school. John Terry not in prison

I was in WH Smith a couple of weeks ago, they've got the Back to School stuff out already!

I work at a Clark's shoes store and we've pretty much got all the back to school sales on now.

*sigh*
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Karl Bridges on July 14, 2012, 05:55:39 PM
Where was Ireland?  Is he injured?

Him Albrighton & Delph all had knocks.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Karl Bridges on July 14, 2012, 05:56:02 PM
How did N'zogbia play?

Not great. Tried to do too much and ran into blind alleys. A lot like last season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Steve R on July 14, 2012, 05:59:11 PM
Good to see Johnson getting a few mentions in the match report. He really should have had opportunity last year.

Pirelli tyres are crap.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 14, 2012, 05:59:52 PM
"Nevertheless, it did little to stop the travelling contingent enjoying Villa's high-tempo, incisive football."

This makes me happy.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 14, 2012, 06:05:40 PM
Alledgedly  albrightons broke his foot in training,definitely heavily strapped up at the game today
Being operated on tomorrow and out for 10 weeks apparently
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: mr-villa on July 14, 2012, 06:39:38 PM
Good to see Johnson getting a few mentions in the match report. He really should have had opportunity last year.

Pirelli tyres are crap.

Oh really, so crap that they managed to persuade Ecclestone and his F1 mob to sign a huge lucrative contract to use them this season.  If that's an example of crap then maybe George Osborne could do with learning a bit of that to get the country's economy back in shape!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: SoccerHQ on July 14, 2012, 06:49:08 PM
How did N'zogbia play?

Not great. Tried to do too much and ran into blind alleys. A lot like last season.

Cheers. That's one of the things I'll be judging Lambert on this season. Can he get some good football out of an enigma like Charles N'zogba? Hopefully this passing and keeping the ball on the ground lark should help our creative players.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PaulWinch again on July 14, 2012, 06:54:02 PM
Good to hear about El-Ahmadi, exactly what we need.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on July 14, 2012, 06:57:30 PM
Was it 442 both halves? Any other tactical insights? Who played on which flanks? Why didn't Barry take the penalty?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on July 14, 2012, 07:02:02 PM
I went to the game.  A game of two halves.  That report flatters us in the 1st half in particular.  I thought they were generally poor and lethargic until the 2nd half and change of team!  Karim was quality in midfield, I thought Lowton struggled - I do hope he isnt a permanent fixture at centre half (surely not).  Hutton did ok, apart from that not much to write home about.  Nzogbia needs to be sold.  2nd half much, much sharper, passing crisp, Holman looked very good, I really like Nathan Baker and Bannan finally looked as if he could have a decent season for us.  Overall good workout and enough in the 2nd half to suggest that it will be a better season!

Finally, how pleasant it was to have a friendly atmosphere, nice pint in the ground and to stand on a terrace in the home end without feeling the slightest bit of intimidation. Loved our chants of 'we're Aston Villa and we glow in the dark.'
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Nastylee on July 14, 2012, 07:08:12 PM
NZogbia should be sold? What, on the basis of 45 mins in a preseason friendly one week after returning to training? Sighs......
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on July 14, 2012, 07:23:07 PM
NZogbia should be sold? What, on the basis of 45 mins in a preseason friendly one week after returning to training? Sighs......

No on the basis that he has been an entire let down for a whole season and looks generall disinterested and, in any event appears incapable of playing as a conventional winger - the position he was bought for.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Des Little on July 14, 2012, 07:29:53 PM
I thought N'Zog didn't look too bad today - he actually seemed interested in getting the ball and taking on his man for a change. 
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Nastylee on July 14, 2012, 07:32:29 PM
I'm not prepared to judge any player on last season, particularly an attacking one given the tactics that were employed. If he doesn't improve this year then fair enough but until then talk of selling him is nonsense.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 14, 2012, 07:34:27 PM
Burton Albion match report up first.

http://www.burtonalbionfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10950~2849389,00.html#continue
Love the way they finish the report at 1-0 just after their goal!
Anyway not a bad result against a team with Zola and Downing on the pitch.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on July 14, 2012, 07:58:27 PM
I thought Bannan was the pick of the team, El Ahmadi was excellent in the first half as was Holman in the second. Zog was poor.
Johnson, Gardner, Carruthers, Weimann, Fonz, Clarke and Stevens all did well enough to warrant further experience.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: gervilla on July 14, 2012, 08:16:43 PM
I just saw the goals on SSN.
Good cross from Enda for the first and a nice finish from Holman for the second.
That lime green shirt is going to take a while to grow on me I think..
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: DeKuip on July 14, 2012, 09:20:45 PM
I just saw the goals on SSN.
Good cross from Enda for the first and a nice finish from Holman for the second.
That lime green shirt is going to take a while to grow on me I think..
It needs to grow on some of the people I saw wearing it today too!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Steve R on July 14, 2012, 10:40:37 PM
Good to see Johnson getting a few mentions in the match report. He really should have had opportunity last year.

Pirelli tyres are crap.

Oh really, so crap that they managed to persuade Ecclestone and his F1 mob to sign a huge lucrative contract to use them this season.  If that's an example of crap then maybe George Osborne could do with learning a bit of that to get the country's economy back in shape!

The compound they use is far too soft. If Ecclestone wants cars to finish the race on their rims that's his problem.

Pirelli tyres are the lime green shirts of motoroing.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chris Jameson on July 14, 2012, 11:22:45 PM
Just seen the away kit for the first time, it's bloody horrendous, but at least it's incorporated our traditional lime green colours.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: mr-villa on July 14, 2012, 11:30:12 PM
Good to see Johnson getting a few mentions in the match report. He really should have had opportunity last year.

Pirelli tyres are crap.

Oh really, so crap that they managed to persuade Ecclestone and his F1 mob to sign a huge lucrative contract to use them this season.  If that's an example of crap then maybe George Osborne could do with learning a bit of that to get the country's economy back in shape!

The compound they use is far too soft. If Ecclestone wants cars to finish the race on their rims that's his problem.

Pirelli tyres are the lime green shirts of motoroing.

I'll bow to your superior knowledge of all things rubber and ask no further questions!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 14, 2012, 11:55:12 PM
I'm not prepared to judge any player on last season, particularly an attacking one given the tactics that were employed.

Same here. I'm keeping a particular eye and Bannan, and to a lesser extent Albrighton - who both disappointed last season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 15, 2012, 12:03:12 AM
I hope Burton are the new Walsall for pre season.Very good day all round.Great to see a home end 50/50 with fans.The police done a very good as well,coming on the pubs and having a chat.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on July 15, 2012, 12:22:57 AM
Karmim Really impressed me today. Likewise Holman in the second half.

A good cross from Enda for the og, but he's got no pace
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: paul_e on July 15, 2012, 12:24:57 AM
I'm not prepared to judge any player on last season, particularly an attacking one given the tactics that were employed.

Same here. I'm keeping a particular eye and Bannan, and to a lesser extent Albrighton - who both disappointed last season.

Agreed, Bannan is the one I'm keeping an eye on for the new season, from what we're seeing so far the midfield play will suit him this year, if so he needs to step up and start controlling games.  Hopefully the long hollywood passes were down to the system and we'll see a lot more pass and move from him this year.  He's a great prospect and has shown flashes of brilliance so far but never looked like making those the norm rather than the highlights, I really hope he makes the step up.

The other one I'm really keen to see get a good run is Clark, From what I've seen I think he has everything he needs to be a top class central defender, he just needs to take his chance (which I'm convinced he'll get early this year) and start being a leader at the back for us.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Steve R on July 15, 2012, 01:31:44 AM
......
I'll bow to your superior knowledge of all things rubber and ask no further questions!

I've had some bad experiences with soft compounds.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on July 15, 2012, 08:31:57 AM
I don't think Holman likes bein on the left kept drifting. Did ok I thought as did Stevens. Overall a good run out, ended up in the home end as the terraces behind the goal were full
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: claret and blue blood on July 15, 2012, 08:42:32 AM
Liked the lime green shirts! Lets hope our opposition get sick off the sight of them !
Liked Holman's industry, reminded me a bit of Frank Carrodus ( yes I know I'm an old git) Only saw the second half but we did seem to be trying to pass and move, let's hope that continues.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Archie on July 15, 2012, 08:46:16 AM
Just seen the away kit for the first time, it's bloody horrendous, but at least it's incorporated our traditional lime green colours.

Nice touch, mate! :-)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 15, 2012, 11:43:18 AM
That lime-green nonsense makes me wonder what that 9 minute macron video was all about. Relying on history, pictures of shirts, a bow back to winning shirts, and then that. Still, I'm sure the kids will love it. Plus, name me one side who wears lime-green that have ever been relegated?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 15, 2012, 01:08:06 PM
I think the respecting history is about the home shirt. I don't really care about the away colours... the more it sells the better, and loads of fans seemed to be wearing them yesterday.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PaulTheVillan on July 15, 2012, 01:32:43 PM
No Ireland?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 15, 2012, 01:34:05 PM
Injured.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 15, 2012, 01:52:54 PM
Injured.

Glad to hear his Grandmother is OK.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 15, 2012, 02:27:45 PM
Injured.

Glad to hear his Grandmother is OK.

Which one? I think he's got seven left.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 15, 2012, 02:47:37 PM
Irish grandmothers have nine lives, like cats.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Billy Walker on July 15, 2012, 02:54:50 PM
I'm not prepared to judge any player on last season, particularly an attacking one given the tactics that were employed.

Same here. I'm keeping a particular eye and Bannan, and to a lesser extent Albrighton - who both disappointed last season.

Agreed, Bannan is the one I'm keeping an eye on for the new season, from what we're seeing so far the midfield play will suit him this year, if so he needs to step up and start controlling games.  Hopefully the long hollywood passes were down to the system and we'll see a lot more pass and move from him this year.  He's a great prospect and has shown flashes of brilliance so far but never looked like making those the norm rather than the highlights, I really hope he makes the step up.

The other one I'm really keen to see get a good run is Clark, From what I've seen I think he has everything he needs to be a top class central defender, he just needs to take his chance (which I'm convinced he'll get early this year) and start being a leader at the back for us.

Bannan looked hungry, wanting the ball at every opportunity.   I think he realizes this is a big year for him and I would be absolutely delighted if he really came of age this term.  There's so much potential there.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 15, 2012, 02:59:12 PM
Irish grandmothers have nine lives, like cats.
I had 11 grandma's funerals to attend when I was t school. It's a common thing on the sub-continent handed down so I was well within my right to take time off!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on July 16, 2012, 10:32:20 AM
Is there a squad list available for the USA trip ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Tom_Mc9? on July 16, 2012, 12:09:01 PM
Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan, Andy Marshall, Shay Given.

Defenders: Nathan Baker, Ciaran Clark, James Collins, Richard Dunne, Eric Lichaj, Matt Lowton, Enda Stevens, Stephen Warnock.

Midfielders: B Bannan, S Carruthers, F Delph, K E Ahmadi, G Gardner, C Herd, B Holman, S Ireland, D Johnson, C N’Zogbia. ‪#AVFC‬

Forwards: Gabby Agbonlahor, Darren Bent, Nathan Delfouneso, Andi Weimann. AVFC

Notable inclusion: Brad Guzan
Notable absentee: Alan Hutton.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on July 16, 2012, 12:32:21 PM
Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan, Andy Marshall, Shay Given.

Defenders: Nathan Baker, Ciaran Clark, James Collins, Richard Dunne, Eric Lichaj, Matt Lowton, Enda Stevens, Stephen Warnock.

Midfielders: B Bannan, S Carruthers, F Delph, K E Ahmadi, G Gardner, C Herd, B Holman, S Ireland, D Johnson, C N’Zogbia. ‪#AVFC‬

Forwards: Gabby Agbonlahor, Darren Bent, Nathan Delfouneso, Andi Weimann. AVFC

Notable inclusion: Brad Guzan
Notable absentee: Alan Hutton.
The 'notable' omission and inclusion is excellent to see.

Good to see Ciaran listed formally as a defender. Great to see such a good blend of youth and (in the main) credible experienced players.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on July 16, 2012, 12:34:22 PM
Goalkeepers: Brad Guzan, Andy Marshall, Shay Given.

Defenders: Nathan Baker, Ciaran Clark, James Collins, Richard Dunne, Eric Lichaj, Matt Lowton, Enda Stevens, Stephen Warnock.

Midfielders: B Bannan, S Carruthers, F Delph, K E Ahmadi, G Gardner, C Herd, B Holman, S Ireland, D Johnson, C N’Zogbia. ‪#AVFC‬

Forwards: Gabby Agbonlahor, Darren Bent, Nathan Delfouneso, Andi Weimann. AVFC

Notable inclusion: Brad Guzan
Notable absentee: Alan Hutton.
The 'notable' omission and inclusion is excellent to see.

Good to see Ciaran listed formally as a defender. Great to see such a good blend of youth and (in the main) credible experienced players.

It's all looking pretty great.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Concrete John on July 16, 2012, 12:36:47 PM
Is there any official word on why Albrighton and Hutton aren't going?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Brend'Watkins on July 16, 2012, 12:38:58 PM
Notable inclusion: Brad Guzan
Notable absentee: Alan Hutton.

I wonder why that is? 

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chris Jameson on July 16, 2012, 12:44:19 PM
Notable inclusion: Brad Guzan
Notable absentee: Alan Hutton.

I wonder why that is? 



As part of Rangers punishment they have been forced to take him back.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on July 16, 2012, 12:46:59 PM
Is there any official word on why Albrighton and Hutton aren't going?

Albrighton is injured, his leg in a cast apparently.

Makoun having some work permit issues.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Concrete John on July 16, 2012, 12:48:28 PM
But nothing on Hutton? 

Unless there's an official excuse/reason, it says to me a move is close for him!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Brend'Watkins on July 16, 2012, 12:51:38 PM
But nothing on Hutton? 

Unless there's an official excuse/reason, it says to me a move is close for him!

Oh come off it John.  Do you honestly think another club could be in for him, I mean, part with money thinking he will improve their team, seriously?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on July 16, 2012, 12:53:05 PM
But nothing on Hutton? 

Unless there's an official excuse/reason, it says to me a move is close for him!

Oh come off it John.  Do you honestly think another club could be in for him, I mean, part with money thinking he will improve their team, seriously?

Newco Rangers ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hookeysmith on July 16, 2012, 12:53:09 PM
Has TSM actually got a job anywhere yet?

Chances are his first signing will be Heskey / Hutton  **finger crossed thingy**
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on July 16, 2012, 01:10:06 PM
I wonder if Hutton requested a number change from "2" to "28" or whether it was enforced ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Concrete John on July 16, 2012, 01:12:25 PM
Given that he's only a year into his contract I think someone will have a stump up some money for him.  Anyone know how big his wages are? 
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on July 16, 2012, 01:15:05 PM
Pretty impressed with the Tour Guide on Pravda

http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2826645,00.html

I can highly recommend "The National Constitution Center" close to the Liberty Bell.

Don't bother with the US Mint.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Damo70 on July 16, 2012, 04:31:45 PM
Does anyone know when the US tour games kick off British time?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 16, 2012, 04:41:16 PM
Philadelphia Union v Villa
Date: July 18, 7.30pm US time, 12.30am UK time

Chicago Fire v Villa
Date: July 21, 7.30pm US time, 1.30am UK time

Portland Timbers v Villa
Date: July 24, 8pm UK time, 4am UK time
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 16, 2012, 05:49:26 PM
is anyone from H&V going to the Philly game? I'll be there. Would be good to meet up at some point.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 16, 2012, 09:25:40 PM
Philadelphia Union v Villa
Date: July 18, 7.30pm US time, 12.30am UK time

Chicago Fire v Villa
Date: July 21, 7.30pm US time, 1.30am UK time

Portland Timbers v Villa
Date: July 24, 8pm UK time, 4am UK time

Will these be on AVTV ? We can have some great match threads here. At those times it will be weirdos, drunks, and other interesting nutters about passing comment. Anybody who has ever listened to radio phone ins during the early hours knows this to be so.
The Chicago game in particular, being 1.30am Sunday, should be fun. Already pissed up H & V ers getting back home, getting online for the game and carrying on drinking and commenting here until dawn.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 16, 2012, 09:26:33 PM
Audio only I'm afraid.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 16, 2012, 09:29:53 PM
Audio only I'm afraid.

Oh god it's not going to be Woodward commentating is it?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 16, 2012, 09:31:32 PM
Audio only I'm afraid.

Oh god it's not going to be Woodward commentating is it?
Yep,good innit.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: timeoutbigbar on July 16, 2012, 09:35:45 PM
Philadelphia Union v Villa
Date: July 18, 7.30pm US time, 12.30am UK time

Chicago Fire v Villa
Date: July 21, 7.30pm US time, 1.30am UK time

Portland Timbers v Villa
Date: July 24, 8pm UK time, 4am UK time

Will these be on AVTV ? We can have some great match threads here. At those times it will be weirdos, drunks, and other interesting nutters about passing comment. Anybody who has ever listened to radio phone ins during the early hours knows this to be so.

Will Tommy from Glasgow be on here?  The mental Scotsman who thought he was Irish and spent every night ringing up to abuse to the presenter.  He was always good value.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 16, 2012, 09:38:37 PM
Audio only I'm afraid.

Oh god it's not going to be Woodward commentating is it?
Yep,good innit.

Ace! Fab!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 16, 2012, 09:43:37 PM
Games will be shown in full but it doesn't say when.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 16, 2012, 09:55:07 PM
Audio only I'm afraid.

Oh god it's not going to be Woodward commentating is it?
Yep,good innit.

Ace! Fab!

(http://c0596402.cdn.cloudfiles.rackspacecloud.com/11_Jack_Woodward_-_AVTV.jpg)(http://www.laligablog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/partridge.jpg)

That was Liquid Football !

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 16, 2012, 10:00:25 PM
Okay, well done - that gave me a good chuckle :)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on July 16, 2012, 10:37:28 PM
Games will be shown in full but it doesn't say when.

On by the time we get up the following morning, according to Pravda!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on July 16, 2012, 10:43:39 PM
Philadelphia Union v Villa
Date: July 18, 7.30pm US time, 12.30am UK time

Chicago Fire v Villa
Date: July 21, 7.30pm US time, 1.30am UK time

Portland Timbers v Villa
Date: July 24, 8pm UK time, 4am UK time

Will these be on AVTV ? We can have some great match threads here. At those times it will be weirdos, drunks, and other interesting nutters about passing comment. Anybody who has ever listened to radio phone ins during the early hours knows this to be so.
Thats most of us covered then!

Will Tommy from Glasgow be on here?  The mental Scotsman who thought he was Irish and spent every night ringing up to abuse to the presenter.  He was always good value.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on July 17, 2012, 09:38:13 AM
I am going to be controversial and say that I thought Hutton looked ok on Saturday - albeit against Burton Albion.  He was getting forward a lot more than I seen him last season.  I would like to see him being given a chance under a more attack minded manager. 
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: villajk on July 17, 2012, 10:22:13 AM




Today's latest news from the ticket office [17.07.12]
Change in sales criteria for Peterborough friendly.17th Jul 2012





Peterborough United v Villa
Pre-Season Friendly
Wednesday August 1 - 7.45pm
London Road Stadium
Ticket Allocation: 591
Prices: £15 [adults], £5 [U16s]. Disabled Tickets: Available by calling the Consumer Sales Department on 0800 612 0970
On sale to supporters who attended at least one Premier League fixture in the 2011-2012 season*
*Strictly one ticket per client reference - remember to supply one client reference per seat to build up booking history
Buy Info: hotline 0800 6120970, in person Villa Village or New Street or online click here
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on July 17, 2012, 10:30:42 AM
Fifteen quid for a friendly?
No ta.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 17, 2012, 10:56:30 AM
Fifteen quid for a friendly?
No ta.

That's definitely taking the piss.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: DeKuip on July 17, 2012, 11:16:31 AM
Fifteen quid for a friendly?
No ta.

That's definitely taking the piss.

Maybe they're giving Dave Farrell a bit of a bonus...


Peterborough United entertain Aston Villa in a pre-season friendly at London Road on Wednesday 1st August (7.45pm) and the club are delighted to announce that this fixture will act as a celebration of over 11-years service for David Farrell.

Farrell made over 350 appearances for Posh in a nine-season stay with the football club and has been back at London Road as Community Manager for over 24 months.

'Faz' started his career as a player with Aston Villa and has supported the club for many years, so the football club thought it would be the perfect opportunity to give the supporters a chance to celebrate his career.

Darren Ferguson has confirmed that Farrell will play some part in the friendly and the football club will ensure that the former winger has a night to remember.

Farrell said: 'We were talking about how I missed out on a testimonial because I left before the 10 years had been completed and word got around the staff as obviously I have been working in the Community department for two years now.

'It is not a testimonial game, but it is a great opportunity for me to say thank you to the fans who supported me as a player and it is fantastic that it comes against Aston Villa, my boyhood club. It is going to be very surreal playing a part against Villa and I can't wait. It will be a great night,' Farrell said.

A club spokeman said: 'We hope that the Posh faithful turn out in force to thank Farrell for his tremendous service to this football club.'
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hookeysmith on July 17, 2012, 03:54:59 PM
Dont normally go to friendlies but as i now work down this way was tempted by the Peterborough game
Can you pay on the door?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 17, 2012, 03:57:36 PM
I like the sound of this...

@MatKendrick: Villa coaches putting the players through their paces in sweltering conditions. A light run followed by passing, passing, passing drills
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 17, 2012, 07:11:06 PM
Only been to Peterborough once, for a 1995 league cup game. Sitting in the car park before kick off, we were listening to the OJ Simpson verdict on the radio.
The game was a non descript 1-1 draw - so just the one shock result that day.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on July 18, 2012, 06:32:31 AM
Wouldn't be surprised to see the sweltering heat and lack of march practice take their toll on this tour. Can see us losing tonight. I hope people don't start panicking if we do
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on July 18, 2012, 08:10:56 AM
Since Pravda-TV has the Stateside games on delay, does this mean that they're available live elsewhere ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 18, 2012, 08:36:44 AM
Since Pravda-TV has the Stateside games on delay, does this mean that they're available live elsewhere ?
Not found anything yet I will keep looking.
I have found a couple I will post link when I have finished work.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Damo70 on July 18, 2012, 11:00:06 AM
Since Pravda-TV has the Stateside games on delay, does this mean that they're available live elsewhere ?
Not found anything yet I will keep looking.
I have found a couple I will post link when I have finished work.

What time are they showing it? I didn't realise there was a delay, I was gearing up to watch at 1230am.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 18, 2012, 11:00:59 AM
I'm here in Philadelphia. Playing golf later this morning and then the game later. It is murderous heat, almost 40 with the humidity. There is a chance of a storm tonight around game time which may be a relief. Expect all of the players to play and have limited run outs. It won't be much more fun for the Philadelphia players either but they will be fitter. Great to hear that Lambert is putting the players through passing drills. They'll want the ball to do a lot of work tonight and go chasing after it too often.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: atomicjam on July 18, 2012, 06:53:11 PM
Saturdays game is being streamed live...

http://www.chicago-fire.com/news/2012/07/chicago-fire-vs-aston-villa-match-be-available-live-stream-across-world

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 18, 2012, 06:58:11 PM
Reserves are playing at Boldmere tonight.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 18, 2012, 07:39:42 PM
Philadelphia Union v Aston Villa live stream (http://tinyurl.com/bmprr2f)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: supertommykN'iba on July 18, 2012, 09:00:05 PM
Villa 6 1 up against Boldmere as it stands. Drennan Hattrick, Grealish and Burke, not sure who's got the 6th.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 18, 2012, 09:31:20 PM
Villa 6 1 up against Boldmere as it stands. Drennan Hattrick, Grealish and Burke, not sure who's got the 6th.

No clean sheet ? Against only the 3rd biggest team round Sutton ? Lambert out !
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: robbo1874 on July 18, 2012, 10:15:06 PM
Good to see Johnson getting a few mentions in the match report. He really should have had opportunity last year.

Pirelli tyres are crap.

Pedant alert... I think it's actually cables Pirelli make in the area rather than tyres, but I could be wrong!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 18, 2012, 10:52:00 PM
Apparently we have a new player on the bench for the game tonight. M. Thatcher has been brought into the squad as they have a track record beating the Union.


*i'll get me coat!*
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 18, 2012, 10:55:25 PM
Personally I don't think£15 is too bad. That's cheap to watch Villa nowadays.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 18, 2012, 11:28:19 PM
So, who is staying up in the hope of finding a feed to watch the game?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Karl Bridges on July 18, 2012, 11:30:53 PM
Villa 6 1 up against Boldmere as it stands. Drennan Hattrick, Grealish and Burke, not sure who's got the 6th.

Burke got two.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 18, 2012, 11:37:18 PM
So, who is staying up in the hope of finding a feed to watch the game?
Me :-/
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Rob92 on July 18, 2012, 11:37:34 PM
Bet365 have us at 6/4 to win tonight. I don't usually back Villa, but that's too good to turn down...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 18, 2012, 11:42:22 PM
Here we go

http://www.atdhe24.net/live/livestream23-vs/watch-livestream23.html
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: midian on July 18, 2012, 11:59:04 PM
got an actual link to ground anyone yet?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 19, 2012, 12:01:34 AM
Team: Guzan, Lowton, Collins, Clark, Warnock, KEA, Holman, Bannan, Ireland, Fonz, Bent
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on July 19, 2012, 12:03:43 AM
What time (BST) is kick-off?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 19, 2012, 12:04:12 AM
Half an hour Perce.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 19, 2012, 12:05:20 AM
I may stay up for the  first-half if I can get a stream to work. Shall we have a match thread?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on July 19, 2012, 12:05:39 AM
Nice one, thanks PWS.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 19, 2012, 12:10:22 AM
Started a match thread. So if you could all finish your drinks and make your way to it please gentleman. And make sure you don't leave any valuables behind.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 19, 2012, 12:22:59 AM
*comes out of the toilets*

Shit, where's everyone gone?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on July 19, 2012, 08:39:25 AM
Gordon Cowans, talking after the 6 - 2 win last night.

"We had a go at a new system that we haven't had long working on over the past couple of days.
"If you saw the Burton Albion game the other day, it mirrors what the first team do, pressing high up the pitch.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on July 19, 2012, 08:52:32 AM
Who watched last night? Was it any good?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on July 19, 2012, 10:12:16 AM
Personally I don't think£15 is too bad. That's cheap to watch Villa nowadays.

It's a pre-season knockabout.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: The Left Side on July 19, 2012, 05:01:06 PM
I typed in the fixture on youtube and found this...



Not sure how to do links but the kit looks great.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: The Man With A Stick on July 19, 2012, 05:06:31 PM
Looks nice in action, though I've always been a fan of a collar on a kit.  Socks look good too.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pmarachi on July 19, 2012, 05:11:27 PM
I was at the Philadelphia game last night.  First time ever seeing the Villa in person.

I had a great time.  The guys looked good.  A few errors in the front, and a few missed opportunities, but if they had been a little more on top of some of the balls in front of the goal it could have easily been 3-0 instead of 1-0 (however, if it weren't for a pretty solid save by Guzan it could have also been 1-1).  But Villa had no problem possessing the ball for most of the game.

Overall the ball was moved well, and the only issues were failure to take advantage of some opportunities in front of the goal (which is a problem, but it can be remedied).

Good crowd too.  I would say PPL was about 80% full and it was easily 40% villa, which was cool.  In the supporter section it was probably about 30 or so Villa fans having a good time.  I think the crowd would have been better, but the whole region had massive thunderstorms, tornado warnings, and the threat of rain hung over the whole day, probably discouraging a lot of people from attending (it never actually rained though).

The philly fans (despite being some of the least attractive individuals I have ever met) were pretty cool too and there weren't any of the issues usually associated with Philadelphia sports fans (I am an Eagles fan myself, so I know how it usually is)

Good time though, and I hope to see Villa again in the future.

When I get around to it (probably tonight) I will put the pics up on FB
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: The Left Side on July 19, 2012, 05:41:23 PM
I was at the Philadelphia game last night.  First time ever seeing the Villa in person.

I had a great time.  The guys looked good.  A few errors in the front, and a few missed opportunities, but if they had been a little more on top of some of the balls in front of the goal it could have easily been 3-0 instead of 1-0 (however, if it weren't for a pretty solid save by Guzan it could have also been 1-1).  But Villa had no problem possessing the ball for most of the game.

Overall the ball was moved well, and the only issues were failure to take advantage of some opportunities in front of the goal (which is a problem, but it can be remedied).

Good crowd too.  I would say PPL was about 80% full and it was easily 40% villa, which was cool.  In the supporter section it was probably about 30 or so Villa fans having a good time.  I think the crowd would have been better, but the whole region had massive thunderstorms, tornado warnings, and the threat of rain hung over the whole day, probably discouraging a lot of people from attending (it never actually rained though).

The philly fans (despite being some of the least attractive individuals I have ever met) were pretty cool too and there weren't any of the issues usually associated with Philadelphia sports fans (I am an Eagles fan myself, so I know how it usually is)

Good time though, and I hope to see Villa again in the future.

When I get around to it (probably tonight) I will put the pics up on FB

Nice to hear, looking forward to the pics.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 19, 2012, 06:45:25 PM
Personally I don't think£15 is too bad. That's cheap to watch Villa nowadays.

It's a pre-season knockabout.

True... but Peterborough probably want to make a few quid out of it. I'd moan if it was £20+, but £15 seems about par.

It's less than I paid to get in to The Lamb...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: silhillvilla on July 19, 2012, 08:31:53 PM
£15 is steep
Forest is only £10
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 19, 2012, 08:44:46 PM
Personally I don't think£15 is too bad. That's cheap to watch Villa nowadays.

It's a pre-season knockabout.

And a chance to watch Villa play a game for £15.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Larry Duff on July 19, 2012, 09:05:56 PM
I went to Boldmere last night.  It was a really good performance from the Villa youngsters.
Daniel Devine looked very good at centre half after missing last season with a crusciate ligament injury.

I was very impressed with Charlie Ward in midfield.  Very confident in his own ability. Played some lovely passes, always wanted the ball and scored a very well taken goal.  He is not unknown to followers of youth football as he was an England Schools international.
With Grealish, Burke, Drennen and Melvyn in the side we had a bit too much for Boldmere.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 19, 2012, 09:46:44 PM
Personally I don't think£15 is too bad. That's cheap to watch Villa nowadays.

It's a pre-season knockabout.

And a chance to watch Villa play a game for £15.

Play a friendly.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 19, 2012, 10:36:43 PM
A few years ago I went to see Stirling play Dumbarton and it cost £12 to get in. To see Villa line up in a game, friendly or no, for  a price that nowadays is decent to see the Villa is, for me, worth it.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 19, 2012, 11:09:35 PM
Surprised at that. Clyde are freezing prices at a tenner... including the visit of Youknowwho.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 19, 2012, 11:30:31 PM
So was I. 12 friggin' quid.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 19, 2012, 11:31:58 PM
That would be twelve pounds Stirling?

Sorry...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on July 20, 2012, 09:53:20 AM
Personally I don't think£15 is too bad. That's cheap to watch Villa nowadays.

It's a pre-season knockabout.

And a chance to watch Villa play a game for £15.

If you think that £15 for a pre-season strollabout at Peterborough is good value then that's great, but it shows how we have become numbed into forking out stupid money for football in this country.
 And of course it rolls down to the lower divisions, which is why clubs like Alfreton are charging £18 for league games this season.

 As alluded to in the Bremen thread, when you can pay less to watch a Bundesliga game than you can to watch a friendly at Peterbrough then something is badly wrong.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 20, 2012, 09:59:21 AM
Spot on.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Brian Taylor on July 20, 2012, 10:34:01 AM
Any pictures of fans/player in Chicago appreciated.
I didn't make it.
I emailed AVFC official organiser with a few questions, regarding travel, but got no answer..thanks a lot.

I believed you could just get a ticket and a visa arrangement was in place, just turn up at the airport etc. Now you have to get the ticket first and then apply for an ESTA, security thing, a minium of 72hrs beforehand.
The ticket co said I had to get an Esta first before they'd issue the ticket. What a load of old shite..??
I was looking forward to getting away from the Olympics. I am def getting out of Hackeny for the ensuing period. Now it looks like Sidmouth and the Villa fans appreciation society down The Radway during Sidmouth folk week; and beer festival week at The Swan.
Any pix appreciated. I'll post the cousin's stuff, if he sends them.
They are all well up for it as he works for the Fire dept! The family will be wearing Villa colours for the day!
Looks like it's building up into a great occasion
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Rob92 on July 20, 2012, 11:20:52 AM
Those Bremen prices are mental. £7.50 to stand... Farnborough v Aldershot last week was £10 to stand!

In other news, is Forest likely to ever go on general sale? I'm taking two non-Villa supporting mates, who obviously don't have any sort of booking history...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 20, 2012, 04:41:25 PM
Nice write up on the Fire OS.
http://www.chicago-fire.com/news/2012/07/overview-saturdays-opponents-aston-villa-fc
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 20, 2012, 06:28:48 PM
Personally I don't think£15 is too bad. That's cheap to watch Villa nowadays.

It's a pre-season knockabout.

And a chance to watch Villa play a game for £15.

If you think that £15 for a pre-season strollabout at Peterborough is good value then that's great, but it shows how we have become numbed into forking out stupid money for football in this country.
 And of course it rolls down to the lower divisions, which is why clubs like Alfreton are charging £18 for league games this season.

 As alluded to in the Bremen thread, when you can pay less to watch a Bundesliga game than you can to watch a friendly at Peterbrough then something is badly wrong.

but this is an old argument. the prices in Germany are lower across the board - they also have more expensive top end prices don't they? - we can argue the toss about pricing season in season out and we do but the market sadly dictates the prices. So, with that in mind, £15 to watch the Villa - pre-season or not- is worth it.

Pre-season games are better supported than they used to be and do have a league-game 'lite' feel to them. So, people like to go and clubs will make money out of that. from paying 30, nearly 40 quid for a home game to £15 quid at Peterborough sounds fair enough. Especially if that nigh on 40 quid was to watch us last season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Billy Walker on July 20, 2012, 09:20:46 PM
A little Chicago Fire video to whet the appetite for tomorrow's match:




...and this from the Portland Timbers side of things:

&feature=player_embedded#!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 20, 2012, 10:25:43 PM

Pre-season games are better supported than they used to be and do have a league-game 'lite' feel to them.

No they aren't and no they don't. Burton got 4,165 against us - take away our supporters and that's much less than their average last season. You can also show me a league game where we've ever made ten substitutions at half-time.

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 20, 2012, 10:33:16 PM

Pre-season games are better supported than they used to be and do have a league-game 'lite' feel to them.

No they aren't and no they don't. Burton got 4,165 against us - take away our supporters and that's much less than their average last season. You can also show me a league game where we've ever made ten substitutions at half-time.



friendlies a good few years ago were nothing more than fitness sessions and taken slightly more seriously than testimonials. In terms of attendances I'm thinking exactly what you said about Burton - the amount of fans willing to travel away make it feel like its more than a warm-up session. With more now on a finishing league position in the Prem there is a different feel around playing friendlies.

The biggest thing is that you can mix the above with the optimism of having Paul Lambert in charge and having our Villa back. Maybe that's more to the point. People want to go and see their resurgent Villa again and £15 to do it will see us flock down to Peterborough.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 20, 2012, 10:38:07 PM

Pre-season games are better supported than they used to be and do have a league-game 'lite' feel to them.

No they aren't and no they don't. Burton got 4,165 against us - take away our supporters and that's much less than their average last season. You can also show me a league game where we've ever made ten substitutions at half-time.



friendlies a good few years ago were nothing more than fitness sessions and taken slightly more seriously than testimonials. In terms of attendances I'm thinking exactly what you said about Burton - the amount of fans willing to travel away make it feel like its more than a warm-up session. With more now on a finishing league position in the Prem there is a different feel around playing friendlies.

The biggest thing is that you can mix the above with the optimism of having Paul Lambert in charge and having our Villa back. Maybe that's more to the point. People want to go and see their resurgent Villa again and £15 to do it will see us flock down to Peterborough.

When was the last time you went to a friendly? As I said, ten substitutions at half-time - there is no way you can call that serious.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 20, 2012, 10:45:26 PM
I would guess Burton being the brewing capital of the world helped.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Louzie0 on July 20, 2012, 10:51:14 PM
You can also show me a league game where we've ever made ten substitutions at half-time.



Maybe that was the 'lite' bit!


Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Vancouver on July 21, 2012, 05:31:43 AM
Any folks going to Portland? About 14 of us heading down from Canada as its only about a 6 hours drive (relatively short distance in North America road trip terms).
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on July 21, 2012, 09:00:13 AM

The biggest thing is that you can mix the above with the optimism of having Paul Lambert in charge and having our Villa back. Maybe that's more to the point. People want to go and see their resurgent Villa again and £15 to do it will see us flock down to Peterborough.

No doubt there's the renewed optimism, and for many fans friendlies are the only away trips they will do all season due to a combination of cost and availability of tickets (friendlies being the only games where the home fans are likely not to care that much if Villa fans invade the home areas), but it remains that £15 for a pre-season knockabout is extortionate.
 The very fact that they can get away with it shows how football fans in this country have become immune to paying stupid money for very poor fare. I can understand why fans pay a fortune to watch their teams in competitive games, it's what fans do, the clubs know it and have raised prices accordingly knowing loyalty means fans will pay up regardless.
 Peterborough are taking the piss out of both our fans and theirs.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 21, 2012, 09:25:27 AM

You can also show me a league game where we've ever made ten substitutions at half-time.

I will ... Just after I have shown you a video of penguins being eaten by polar bears.



Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 21, 2012, 09:27:43 AM
Any folks going to Portland? About 14 of us heading down from Canada as its only about a 6 hours drive (relatively short distance in North America road trip terms).
Good luck and by the way do you chaps/chapesses have to fill in those delightful US entry forms as well?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on July 21, 2012, 01:06:41 PM
What time's kick off GMT time?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on July 21, 2012, 01:13:49 PM
And for good measure I'll say the word time again.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: atomicjam on July 21, 2012, 01:17:15 PM
Villa V Chicago
KO 1.30am
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: boboonthecorner on July 21, 2012, 02:16:20 PM
Again we don't exist to Sky. They don't even have the game listed on their fixtures........
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 21, 2012, 02:58:54 PM
Again we don't exist to Sky. They don't even have the game listed on their fixtures........

Good. Let's just go about our business. We have done things the right way this summer and have a manager who has been highly professional in his conduct since arriving. We'll be fine. They'll take notice when we are worth taking notice of. That's the way it works.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: The Laughing Policeman on July 21, 2012, 03:02:53 PM
Anybody know if there will be streams for tonight's match? Apart from Pravda TV.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 21, 2012, 03:30:31 PM
What time's kick off GMT time?

Chicago (6 hours behind us CDT) is 1.30am GMT. Portland (8 hours behind us PDT) will be 3.30am GMT.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 21, 2012, 03:34:15 PM
Anybody know if there will be streams for tonight's match? Apart from Pravda TV.

http://www.csnchicago.com/live_fire

http://www.csnchicago.com/pages/v11_videolightbox?PID=6cLLTB-9Ha2eBg9v3F2GNNS0GhQWkFwxExXnC45
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spk on July 21, 2012, 03:52:06 PM
Just bought my tickets for Forest,chap in the ticket office said they had sold 900 so far,and forest would release more than the present 1000 if demand was high enough,that game between two champions of europe used to be the midlands classic.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 21, 2012, 03:59:16 PM

You can also show me a league game where we've ever made ten substitutions at half-time.

I will ... Just after I have shown you a video of penguins being eaten by polar bears.





http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTItfrZ9LMuV5JZ2YlnLtImhKVCMvxIXkTClGePRPM0sg8RH7Yv
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: gervilla on July 21, 2012, 07:19:57 PM
ESPN are showing a good few pre-season friendlies from The States, Spurs, Liverpool,Chelsea but not ours.
Fcukers.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Rob92 on July 21, 2012, 07:54:10 PM
If Forest isn't going to general sale, does anyone have two references I can use? Cheers.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 21, 2012, 09:06:17 PM
If anyone remembers Chicago Villa (Simon) there's a write about him in the Mail. He's a really good bloke Simon. Enjoy tonight mate.

Chicago Villa (http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/aston-villa-fc/aston-villa-news/2012/07/21/aston-villa-chicago-fan-simon-leach-talks-to-mat-kendrick-about-being-a-far-flung-villa-fan-97319-31445458/?)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Vancouver on July 21, 2012, 10:15:52 PM
Any folks going to Portland? About 14 of us heading down from Canada as its only about a 6 hours drive (relatively short distance in North America road trip terms).
Good luck and by the way do you chaps/chapesses have to fill in those delightful US entry forms as well?

Ofcourse, not a Canadian...yet. Setting off at 6am to get through the border with the customary visit into the Visa office, then through Seattle.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: OCD on July 21, 2012, 11:11:57 PM
ESPN are showing a good few pre-season friendlies from The States, Spurs, Liverpool,Chelsea but not ours.
Fcukers.

Doesn't the match clash with UFC149? Putting bias aside I can see why they wouldn't cover tonight's game - they've had a long running contract with the UFC and they'll get much better viewing figures.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: KRS on July 21, 2012, 11:30:07 PM
Anybody know if there will be streams for tonight's match? Apart from Pravda TV.

http://www.csnchicago.com/live_fire

http://www.csnchicago.com/pages/v11_videolightbox?PID=6cLLTB-9Ha2eBg9v3F2GNNS0GhQWkFwxExXnC45
Is that in a couple of hours...Sunday 1:30am GMT?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: BedsVillain on July 22, 2012, 12:00:31 AM
Anybody know if there will be streams for tonight's match? Apart from Pravda TV.

http://www.csnchicago.com/live_fire

http://www.csnchicago.com/pages/v11_videolightbox?PID=6cLLTB-9Ha2eBg9v3F2GNNS0GhQWkFwxExXnC45

Any idea if these are viewable in the UK, or are they USA only?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 22, 2012, 01:06:48 AM
Isnt this meant to be on AVTV?

It only says live audio and text commentary.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Billy Walker on July 22, 2012, 01:11:05 AM
Isnt this meant to be on AVTV?

It only says live audio and text commentary.

AVTV are only showing the highlights tomorrow morning. 
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 22, 2012, 01:25:24 AM
Isnt this meant to be on AVTV?

It only says live audio and text commentary.

Paulie, I started a thread in the match threads &player ratings area. There might be something there
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 22, 2012, 01:30:36 AM
Here.
http://www.csnchicago.com/live_fire
Just in time for the Star spangled banner.God bless the USA.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 22, 2012, 01:32:19 AM
These presenters are ace.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 22, 2012, 01:34:26 AM
I love how they pronounce Milan.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on July 22, 2012, 01:35:51 AM
Agboluahour.Who is that?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 22, 2012, 01:36:03 AM
Hearing him trying to say Agbonlahor was even more entertaining.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: KRS on July 22, 2012, 01:44:53 AM
Does streaming work on iPad or do I need to be on pc?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 22, 2012, 01:46:28 AM
Does streaming work on iPad or do I need to be on pc?

PC only I'm afraid.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 22, 2012, 01:49:38 AM
Great play by Gabby, excellent cross and Ireland might have done better with the shot. Should really be 1-0. Gabby skinned the full back there
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on July 22, 2012, 02:03:54 AM
Ive seen more pass and move in pre season so far than I did all last season. Encouraging.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on July 22, 2012, 02:06:33 AM
Nice goal. Great cross.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on July 22, 2012, 02:10:17 AM
Maz, can I dirct you to here (http://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=47465.msg2098390;topicseen#new)
Unless you are being deliberately belligerent of course!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 22, 2012, 02:11:06 AM
Who to and who scored?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 22, 2012, 02:12:32 AM
Please use the match thread folks. 1-0 Villa, Gabby.

Match thread is here (http://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=47465.msg2098390;topicseen#new)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 22, 2012, 03:31:46 AM
Good display again and we tried to play the game properly throughout. Lads ran out of gas in the second half and their extra fitness started to tell. Lots of positives again and the defence looks so much more organised than at any time last year. Let's all hope Gabby coming off isn't serious and he'll be back training soon.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 22, 2012, 02:44:41 PM

You can also show me a league game where we've ever made ten substitutions at half-time.

I will ... Just after I have shown you a video of penguins being eaten by polar bears.





http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTItfrZ9LMuV5JZ2YlnLtImhKVCMvxIXkTClGePRPM0sg8RH7Yv
Shocking! Is there nothing sacred anymore?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on July 22, 2012, 03:25:05 PM
Marvellous! A geographically incorrect cake.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on July 22, 2012, 11:49:43 PM
It's possible in a poorly secured Zoo I suppose.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 23, 2012, 12:49:31 AM
Watching PSG vs Chelsea. 1-0 to PSG right now after they walked through the Chelsea defence.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 23, 2012, 04:25:51 PM
Portland Timbers and the Villa connection.

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 23, 2012, 09:59:26 PM
Great stuff I'm now a Portland Timbers fan.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: DeKuip on July 23, 2012, 10:58:39 PM
Me too now.

Good to see Willie Anderson again – in the six-yard too, he rarely came that far in from the wing when he played!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 23, 2012, 11:06:07 PM
I had no idea there was such a connection. I too shall make them my MLS team of interest.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on July 24, 2012, 12:19:00 AM
Another Timbers fan here!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on July 24, 2012, 12:33:38 AM
Wow what a great connection. Add me To the log roll for Timber fans.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hookeysmith on July 24, 2012, 08:08:09 AM
When they get transported to VP and the sprinklers are on at night - the muppet in orange by the tunnel

Its me   :-[
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 24, 2012, 08:13:23 AM
Superb. A new team to follow.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: supertom on July 24, 2012, 08:27:52 AM
One more Timbers fan right here! Wouldn't it be great if they signed up JPA?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Brend'Watkins on July 24, 2012, 09:21:40 AM
Willie Anderson eh.  One of my first heroes.  Could never understand why a lot of the crowd gave him stick.

His goal against Preston away where we won 1 - 0 first match of the season after winning the 3rd division the previous is embedded in my memory.  It was my first ever away game.  It seemed like we took over the whole ground.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 24, 2012, 01:10:31 PM
Count me in for sure. I started following Toronto FC for obvious reasons when they were formed a few years back but as ever with Toronto teams they are utterly gash. However, there's a solid historical reason to follow the Timbers and they have arguably the best and most vocal fan base in the league. As a Villa fan there is no reason to have an interest in any other MLS team.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: astonvillan on July 24, 2012, 01:54:22 PM
VT, regarding Forest away:

Quote
just rang the ticket office to get tickets for this.

talked to a lovely lady who said there were only 60 tickets remaining for the game out of the allocation we've currently got. i then asked her to confirm what our allocation was for the game and how many we'd sold. she told me we could have anything up to 5000, and that so far we'd sold 2730 tickets.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Meanwood Villa on July 24, 2012, 02:56:40 PM
VT, regarding Forest away:

Quote
just rang the ticket office to get tickets for this.

talked to a lovely lady who said there were only 60 tickets remaining for the game out of the allocation we've currently got. i then asked her to confirm what our allocation was for the game and how many we'd sold. she told me we could have anything up to 5000, and that so far we'd sold 2730 tickets.

Like the sound of that! Booked mine yesterday, looking forward to it. Never been to Nottingham before.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: DeKuip on July 24, 2012, 03:02:34 PM
A few other Villa-related articles on the Portland Timbers website including this one...

With tomorrow's international friendly against Aston Villa (7:30pm PT, webstream at PortlandTimbers.com, 750 AM The Game / La Pantera 940), we asked Joseph Gallivan, a writer and native of Birmingham, England, to give us some insight into the culture of growing up Villa. Gallivan has contributed to The London Independent, The New York Post, The Portland Tribune, and PortlandTimbers.com.

http://www.portlandtimbers.com/news/2012/07/englishman-portland-aston-villa-fan-remembers (http://www.portlandtimbers.com/news/2012/07/englishman-portland-aston-villa-fan-remembers)

and this (although by my maths it 40 years, not 30)

http://www.portlandtimbers.com/news/2012/07/shared-history-portlands-ties-aston-villa-go-back-thirty-years (http://www.portlandtimbers.com/news/2012/07/shared-history-portlands-ties-aston-villa-go-back-thirty-years)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Eugene Fraxby on July 24, 2012, 03:47:43 PM
Hi guys, new here.

Cycled past Worcester City earlier and noticed they're playing an Aston Villa XI. Obviously the 1st team are in US but can anyone give me any idea of what sort of team to expect if (when!) I go?

Cheers



Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: The Left Side on July 24, 2012, 03:56:27 PM
Hi guys, new here.

Cycled past Worcester City earlier and noticed they're playing an Aston Villa XI. Obviously the 1st team are in US but can anyone give me any idea of what sort of team to expect if (when!) I go?

Cheers





I think there is something on the Villa website about it
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Eugene Fraxby on July 24, 2012, 04:03:30 PM
Hi guys, new here.

Cycled past Worcester City earlier and noticed they're playing an Aston Villa XI. Obviously the 1st team are in US but can anyone give me any idea of what sort of team to expect if (when!) I go?

Cheers





I think there is something on the Villa website about it

So there is. Thanks
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on July 24, 2012, 04:18:52 PM
Squad against Worcester City:

Barrett, Watkins, Devine, Donacien, Watkins-Clark, Kinsella, Lewis, Stevenson, Grealish, Cameron, Melvin, Ward, Barton, Nelson, Drennan, Burke, Eminoglu, Williams.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 04:42:54 PM
I'm heading down there so I'll keep y'all posted.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Damo70 on July 24, 2012, 05:59:00 PM
Squad against Worcester City:

Barrett, Watkins, Devine, Donacien, Watkins-Clark, Kinsella, Lewis, Stevenson, Grealish, Cameron, Melvin, Ward, Barton, Nelson, Drennan, Burke, Eminoglu, Williams.

Kinsella, Nelson, Burke and Williams. Sounds like a mix of youngsters and old stars. Or more accurately a mix of youngsters, old stars and Mark Burke.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 07:13:23 PM
Police at Worcester station. Pwopa nawty.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 24, 2012, 07:32:31 PM
Fuck 'em up, Dave.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 07:34:57 PM
Team: Barlett, Barton, Cameron, Ward, Devine, Donacien, Melvin, Grealish, Drennan, Burke, Watkins-Clark.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 07:45:23 PM
Nirvana and the Upsetters on the PA.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 07:46:44 PM
Teams coming out to Time is Tight. So far so perfect.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 07:52:53 PM
1 0 Drennan (pen) 4 mins
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dazvillain on July 24, 2012, 07:54:21 PM
Teams coming out to Time is Tight. So far so perfect.
A classic Booker T & the MG's track, cant believe they still play that. It was played in the 70's when i had a ST there before my Villa days
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 08:04:01 PM
15 mins still 1 0 but under pressure.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 08:12:55 PM
24mins 1 1.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 08:26:12 PM
37mins 2 1 Melvin.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 08:35:43 PM
HT 2 1. Under pressure until the second goal but on top after.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 08:50:40 PM
Att:907.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 08:55:47 PM
Kinsella and Stevenson on for Barton and Cameron.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 09:03:11 PM
52 mins. 2 2. Conceded from a free kick for a change.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 24, 2012, 09:05:34 PM
who's in charge of the team?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt C on July 24, 2012, 09:05:57 PM
It'll be a goal from a corner next.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 09:08:12 PM
56 mins Lewis on for Donacien.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Ron Manager on July 24, 2012, 09:09:39 PM
Peter McParland our greatest player played for them at the end of his magnificent career.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: MalcolmP on July 24, 2012, 09:12:27 PM
who's in charge of the team?

Sid Cowans
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 09:18:26 PM
67 mins Eminoglu for Watkins-Clark.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 09:25:28 PM
72 mins. Seems the ref won't let us bring our substituted players back on.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: BC54 VFC on July 24, 2012, 09:29:30 PM
VT, regarding Forest away:

Quote
just rang the ticket office to get tickets for this.

talked to a lovely lady who said there were only 60 tickets remaining for the game out of the allocation we've currently got. i then asked her to confirm what our allocation was for the game and how many we'd sold. she told me we could have anything up to 5000, and that so far we'd sold 2730 tickets.

That's one of my lads who posted that; traitor!!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 09:29:43 PM
78 mins. Williams and Nelson on for Grealish and Drennan.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 09:32:15 PM
80 mins Watkins for Bartlett.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 09:38:20 PM
86 mins. 2 3.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 09:45:07 PM
Full time 2 3.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: hilts_coolerking on July 24, 2012, 10:35:43 PM
67 mins Eminoglu for Watkins-Clark.
She was great in Home & Away.  Massive bristols.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Risso on July 24, 2012, 10:54:29 PM
I had no idea there was such a connection. I too shall make them my MLS team of interest.

I like their home kit:

http://shop.portlandtimbers.com/gdtim11381011.html
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 24, 2012, 11:09:21 PM
67 mins Eminoglu for Watkins-Clark.
She was great in Home & Away.  Massive bristols.

Christ, she didn't half.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 24, 2012, 11:10:35 PM
I had no idea there was such a connection. I too shall make them my MLS team of interest.

I like their home kit:

http://shop.portlandtimbers.com/gdtim11381011.html

Yes, quite cool.

I'm most turned on by their inherent shitness, and Villa connection going back decades, mind.

Does the MLS even get shown on any satellite channels over here? How would one go about forging an ultimately casual attachment to an American side?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: The Left Side on July 24, 2012, 11:15:26 PM
67 mins Eminoglu for Watkins-Clark.
She was great in Home & Away.  Massive bristols.

Christ, she didn't half.

I just google imaged her to remind myself, blimey that brought back happy memories.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 24, 2012, 11:22:30 PM
Grealish and Drennan looked okay, the team as a whole were fine when they passed the ball but they lumped it forward a bit too often. Don't know how strong the Worcester team were or how advanced their pre-season is but they deserved the win.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on July 24, 2012, 11:56:08 PM
Okay Dave. But what about Rebecca Elmaloglou's tits?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 25, 2012, 12:55:08 AM
Has Donacien got a visa sorted now?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on July 25, 2012, 08:46:44 AM
Yes (well a Mastercard) and he's used it to do lines of coke off Sophie Simpsons jubblies.

God I loved that girl. In a wholesome sexual predator kind of way.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Nev on July 25, 2012, 04:54:29 PM
Yes (well a Mastercard) and he's used it to do lines of coke off Sophie Simpsons jubblies.

God I loved that girl. In a wholesome sexual predator kind of way.

I just can't get excited about pre-season freindlies but the mention of Sophie and Ian Taylors recently tweeted picture of Sabbath bass player Geezer Butler at yesterdays game have suddenly grabbed my attention.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cheltenhamlion on July 28, 2012, 12:56:09 PM
Just googled Rebecca. I remember perving at her as a youngster. Marvellous.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on July 28, 2012, 01:31:43 PM

Does the MLS even get shown on any satellite channels over here? How would one go about forging an ultimately casual attachment to an American side?

I know that the question is a couple of days old, but the answer is ESPNAmerica (426 on your Sky dial)

http://tv.espn.co.uk/gb/espl/sports-on-espn/football/major-league-soccer-mls?addata=mls_football
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on July 28, 2012, 01:36:25 PM
God I loved that girl. In a wholesome sexual predator kind of way.

Is there any other kind of love?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 28, 2012, 04:01:08 PM
0-1 at Chester (Drennan) [HT]
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 28, 2012, 04:16:03 PM
1-1 now.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 28, 2012, 04:49:28 PM
1-2
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 28, 2012, 05:21:15 PM
That should have been 2-1. Lost.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on July 29, 2012, 05:53:46 PM
I was wondering why I hadn't seen Ben Siegrist in any of the Villa pre-season games. He's on the bench for Switzerland in the Olympics

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Steve R on July 30, 2012, 10:18:36 AM
I quite fancied taking the family to the Forest game. It would have been only my second game since giving up my season ticket a year before O'Neill did a runner.

Just called the ticket office to buy 4 tickets. I can only have one ticket per client reference number because the tickets are not on general sale. Assuming my own and my son's reference numbers are still good, I asked how I could get the other two in the family a reference number. I was told 'only by buying a ticket' - presumably not for this game.

All I wanted to do was to go watch a pre-season friendly. Fuck that. 
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Rob92 on July 30, 2012, 11:09:52 AM
I had a similar problem getting extra tickets, thankfully I got a couple of references off here. It seems like a lot of hassle to get tickets for a slow selling pre-season friendly!

Maybe it'll be pay on the day?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: supertommykN'iba on July 30, 2012, 11:14:37 AM
I had a similar problem getting extra tickets, thankfully I got a couple of references off here. It seems like a lot of hassle to get tickets for a slow selling pre-season friendly!

Maybe it'll be pay on the day?

Not as slow selling as the website suggests. We have apparently sold 3,000, with 500 left. Pay on the Day possibility as we can have the whole end if demand is there. As I said elsewhere though, this is just what I have heard.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Rob92 on July 30, 2012, 11:28:15 AM
That's excellent if true, but the website were pretty quick at updating the ticket situation for the Burton game? Ah well, I'm looking forward to it regardless!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: supertommykN'iba on July 30, 2012, 02:01:20 PM
I thought so too, but the reports I've heard suggest that's the case. Have seen various peoples tickets spreading across Blocks X1, Y1 and Z1 too, which covers a fair amount of the end. I'd expect there to be some on the day.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 30, 2012, 07:43:21 PM
I had a similar problem getting extra tickets, thankfully I got a couple of references off here. It seems like a lot of hassle to get tickets for a slow selling pre-season friendly!

Maybe it'll be pay on the day?

It most probably will be.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Legion on July 30, 2012, 07:43:54 PM
I quite fancied taking the family to the Forest game. It would have been only my second game since giving up my season ticket a year before O'Neill did a runner.

Just called the ticket office to buy 4 tickets. I can only have one ticket per client reference number because the tickets are not on general sale. Assuming my own and my son's reference numbers are still good, I asked how I could get the other two in the family a reference number. I was told 'only by buying a ticket' - presumably not for this game.

All I wanted to do was to go watch a pre-season friendly. Fuck that. 

PM me and I'll let you have my ST details if it helps.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Steve R on July 31, 2012, 01:56:47 AM
That's very good of you Legion. Thanks, I appreciate the offer.

We've made other arrangements for Saturday, but thanks anyway.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hookeysmith on July 31, 2012, 08:07:04 AM
Peterborough tomorrow night

Anyone know if you can pay on the door?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 31, 2012, 11:17:23 AM
Forest game sold out
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hookeysmith on July 31, 2012, 12:31:14 PM
Forest game sold out

bloody hell that is impressive  - any update on Boro tomorrow?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Rob92 on July 31, 2012, 03:21:57 PM
By "sold out" do they mean the initial allocation? I find it hard to believe we've taken the full 5k. Would be great if we have mind!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: supertommykN'iba on July 31, 2012, 03:32:11 PM
By "sold out" do they mean the initial allocation? I find it hard to believe we've taken the full 5k. Would be great if we have mind!

Going by pictures I've seen on Twitter and Facebook of peoples tickets, we have come very very close to filling the whole lower... I have seen seats in Z1, Y1, X1 and W2. Doubt it will be the full 5k, but we've taken a lot.

(http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/5627/97477485.png)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: VillaAlways on July 31, 2012, 05:54:23 PM
@infromthetrent: Aston Villa have sold out their allocation for Forest friendly. (Approx 3,500) #NFFC #AVFC
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: villa baz on July 31, 2012, 06:23:21 PM
I phoned up forest this afternoon,there gonna decide on thursday if there will be a cash turnstile,if not i,m going in the home end.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on July 31, 2012, 07:24:51 PM
By "sold out" do they mean the initial allocation? I find it hard to believe we've taken the full 5k. Would be great if we have mind!

Going by pictures I've seen on Twitter and Facebook of peoples tickets, we have come very very close to filling the whole lower... I have seen seats in Z1, Y1, X1 and W2. Doubt it will be the full 5k, but we've taken a lot.

(http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/5627/97477485.png)


We took well over 4K for a friendly at Derby last season, and that was a night game with TSM in charge.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: astonvillan on July 31, 2012, 07:46:36 PM
By "sold out" do they mean the initial allocation? I find it hard to believe we've taken the full 5k. Would be great if we have mind!

why's it hard to believe? as ALITA says, we took over 4000 to derby last pre-season on a wednesday night, nearly 6000 to walsall on a thursday evening, and probably had almost 3000 in the ground at burton the other week. i was shocked to see you call it slow selling, never trust what the avfc ticket page tells you. it was clear we'd take thousands to this, just a shame it isn't the full 5000 lower tier. as we'd have sold it...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: rawly66 on July 31, 2012, 09:51:59 PM
When will forest confirm if they will open top tier for cash on the day?
Ive just returned form hols and messed up,, bought my west ham ticket but never thought to buy forest ticket ,,,,,
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: astonvillan on August 01, 2012, 01:16:22 AM
When will forest confirm if they will open top tier for cash on the day?
Ive just returned form hols and messed up,, bought my west ham ticket but never thought to buy forest ticket ,,,,,

they won't open the upper tier. it's home fans up there. 3500 sold in the lower tier, which holds 5000. someone on VT was told that forest would decide thursday if any would be availabe on the day of the game in the form of a cash turnstyle for the 1500 empty seats to the left and right of the villa fans (blocks W1 & Z2).
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: rawly66 on August 01, 2012, 08:42:29 AM
cant believe i didnt book tickets ,, will call forest tommorow
thanks for info
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 01, 2012, 09:08:39 AM
Ridiculous situation with Forest. Lots of people want to pay money and go to a sporting event but its made difficult for them to get tickets. When it happens, there will be loads of empty seats. Sound familiar?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dave Cooper please on August 01, 2012, 01:12:41 PM
Slightly different in that Villa will ask for an initial allocation (and 3500 for a friendly is a fair enough guess), and if they want more they will have to take a whole block and will lose money on any they can't sell.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: astonvillan on August 01, 2012, 04:47:31 PM
Slightly different in that Villa will ask for an initial allocation (and 3500 for a friendly is a fair enough guess), and if they want more they will have to take a whole block and will lose money on any they can't sell.


1,010 was the initial allocation.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Steve R on August 01, 2012, 05:39:51 PM
Slightly different in that Villa will ask for an initial allocation (and 3500 for a friendly is a fair enough guess), and if they want more they will have to take a whole block and will lose money on any they can't sell.

I can see the logic of it all. I just can't see the sense.

The ground will not be full, paying customers have been turned away. When I called, the issue was not allocation or availability. I was not qualified for whatever reason to purchase 4 tickets.

Oddly enough, this afternoon I had a call from the 'outreach team'. I wasn't here to take it, but it was apparently to make me aware of upcoming offers.

It's a very good idea and full marks to the club for doing it, but does seem odd that the club is putting work into reaching out to supporters whilst at the same time getting sniffy about those who have half a mind to reach in.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on August 01, 2012, 06:22:46 PM
Slightly different in that Villa will ask for an initial allocation (and 3500 for a friendly is a fair enough guess), and if they want more they will have to take a whole block and will lose money on any they can't sell.

I can see the logic of it all. I just can't see the sense.

The ground will not be full, paying customers have been turned away. When I called, the issue was not allocation or availability. I was not qualified for whatever reason to purchase 4 tickets.

Oddly enough, this afternoon I had a call from the 'outreach team'. I wasn't here to take it, but it was apparently to make me aware of upcoming offers.

It's a very good idea and full marks to the club for doing it, but does seem odd that the club is putting work into reaching out to supporters whilst at the same time getting sniffy about those who have half a mind to reach in.

There's a big difference between 3,500 and 5k; 1,500 is a lot to shift in four days, particularly when your best customers have already been catered for. Hopefully common sense will prevail and we can pay on the day.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 01, 2012, 07:05:25 PM
VILLA v Peterborough: Given, Baker, Ireland, N'Zogbia, Herd, Delph, Carruthers, Weimann, Johnson, Stevens, Lichaj. Subs: Guzan, Marshall, Lowton, Warnock, El Ahmadi, Holman, Burke.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Nev on August 01, 2012, 07:09:35 PM
Tim Abraham has tweeted that Gabby and Dunne will miss the start of the season. Gabby is injured, Dunne has only just completed course 248 of a 500 course meal.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 01, 2012, 07:10:08 PM
From that it looks like it might be:

Given

Herd Lichaj Baker Stevens

Ireland Delph Johnson

N'Zogbia Weimann Carruthers
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PaulWinch again on August 01, 2012, 07:10:38 PM
Yep 4-5 weeks for Gabby and 2 months for Dunne.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 01, 2012, 07:19:02 PM
Any news on Albrighton? I remember the broken foot rumour being touted about but I haven't read anything official. Where's Bent as well? Bannan?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on August 01, 2012, 07:44:19 PM
Now we really need a striker.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt C on August 01, 2012, 07:45:49 PM
Bannan & Clark are on the bench but not on that original teamsheet apparently.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: DrGonzo on August 01, 2012, 07:52:32 PM
Can anyone keep us in touch with what's going on?  Unless somebody has a link ;)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hoppo on August 01, 2012, 07:56:24 PM
Off topic but Damon fantastic sarcasm with the Boris report today. Loved it.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on August 01, 2012, 07:57:32 PM
Can anyone keep us in touch with what's going on?  Unless somebody has a link ;)

Text/audio commentary on pravda.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cheltenhamlion on August 01, 2012, 08:05:22 PM
Oi, Green, what have you been up to? I took your advice and door stepped someone in Newry the other week. They threatened to shoot me. With a real gun and everything.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on August 01, 2012, 08:09:32 PM
No match thread?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt C on August 01, 2012, 08:28:09 PM
1-0 Villa, Johnson.

Delph captain.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: curiousorange on August 01, 2012, 08:30:03 PM
Lambert's liking Delph, isn't he?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spangley1812 on August 01, 2012, 08:31:26 PM
Lambert's liking Delph, isn't he?

There is a good player in there somewhere but we havnt seen the best of him yet
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 01, 2012, 08:33:01 PM
I was just thinking the same, very interesting being as he's barely been given a chance in the last few years.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 01, 2012, 08:33:13 PM
No match thread?

http://www.atdhe24.net/live/livestream62-vs/watch-livestream62.html

All I could find was this, but it all looks bollox to me.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Axl Rose on August 01, 2012, 08:36:55 PM
http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/TV/LiveEventsDetail/0,,10265~2866302,00.html

the best way to watch it..haha....it's the best I could find
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spangley1812 on August 01, 2012, 08:39:31 PM
I was just thinking the same, very interesting being as he's barely been given a chance in the last few years.

He has been injured a lot and when he has played he has hardly covered himself in glory 
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: waynejames on August 01, 2012, 08:41:38 PM
With regards to the Forest game, i have had the following email from the Nottingham Forest Ticket Office.

Thank you for your email enquiry.

I can confirm that supporters can purchase on the day of the game from the Brian Clough stand away ticket office.
There will be plenty of tickets made available and the office will be open from 1pm.

Kind Regards

Ticket Office.

Hope this helps everybody that wants to travel on saturday.
I felt the need to contact forest directly, it seems so difficult these days to make plans to go to something as straight forward as a friendly football match on a saturday afternoon!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 01, 2012, 08:45:27 PM
http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/TV/LiveEventsDetail/0,,10265~2866302,00.html

the best way to watch it..haha....it's the best I could find

I cant get the commentary , just dickheads writing stuff in text. I bet if I could get commentary, it would feel like Jack Aha Woodward phoning you at home.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: waynejames on August 01, 2012, 08:50:25 PM
With regards to the Forest game, i have had the following email from the Nottingham Forest Ticket Office.

Thank you for your email enquiry.

I can confirm that supporters can purchase on the day of the game from the Brian Clough stand away ticket office.
There will be plenty of tickets made available and the office will be open from 1pm.

Kind Regards

Ticket Office.

Hope this helps everybody that wants to travel on saturday.
I felt the need to contact forest directly, it seems so difficult these days to make plans to go to something as straight forward as a friendly football match on a saturday afternoon!

Could this post be put onto tickets and travel, im not typing it out again!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: gervilla on August 01, 2012, 08:55:15 PM
Chris Herd gone off  injured.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 01, 2012, 08:59:51 PM
With regards to the Forest game, i have had the following email from the Nottingham Forest Ticket Office.

Thank you for your email enquiry.

I can confirm that supporters can purchase on the day of the game from the Brian Clough stand away ticket office.
There will be plenty of tickets made available and the office will be open from 1pm.

Kind Regards

Ticket Office.

Hope this helps everybody that wants to travel on saturday.
I felt the need to contact forest directly, it seems so difficult these days to make plans to go to something as straight forward as a friendly football match on a saturday afternoon!

Could this post be put onto tickets and travel, im not typing it out again!

I put it there for you.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on August 01, 2012, 09:11:11 PM
Still 1-0?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Lizz on August 01, 2012, 09:19:12 PM
Yes, according to a text I've just received.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 01, 2012, 09:21:26 PM
Chris Herd gone off  injured.

How bad did it look?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on August 01, 2012, 09:24:55 PM
2 - 0 Holman
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: gervilla on August 01, 2012, 09:27:26 PM
Chris Herd gone off  injured.

How bad did it look?

I didn't see it, it was reported on SSN.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 01, 2012, 09:31:25 PM
Chris Herd gone off  injured.

How bad did it look?

I didn't see it, it was reported on SSN.

Dropping like flies - much like last season, unfortunately.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 01, 2012, 09:35:00 PM
Full Time...Posh 0 Villa 2
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 01, 2012, 09:35:15 PM
2 - 0 Holman


I'll tell you what, Brett Holman does manage to get himself into some good positions. He could score a fair few this season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 01, 2012, 09:37:59 PM
2 - 0 Holman


I'll tell you what, Brett Holman does manage to get himself into some good positions. He could score a fair few this season.

Potential partner for Bent?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 01, 2012, 09:39:06 PM
2 - 0 Holman


I'll tell you what, Brett Holman does manage to get himself into some good positions. He could score a fair few this season.

Potential partner for Bent?

Maybe. I know he likes to play that inside left position just off the main striker so it really depends on how Lambert plays him. I still think we need another top forward because I'm not convinced by either Fonz or Weimann.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 01, 2012, 09:40:52 PM
2 - 0 Holman


I'll tell you what, Brett Holman does manage to get himself into some good positions. He could score a fair few this season.

Potential partner for Bent?

I think outside of the more conservative elements of the church, most people dont have a problem these days.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 01, 2012, 09:41:15 PM
2 - 0 Holman


I'll tell you what, Brett Holman does manage to get himself into some good positions. He could score a fair few this season.

Potential partner for Bent?

Maybe. I know he likes to play that inside left position just off the main striker so it really depends on how Lambert plays him. I still think we need another top forward because I'm not convinced by either Fonz or Weimann.

I'm fairly happy with Weimann, I'm probably more concerned about who's going to play out wide to give them service? With Albrighton out Zog seems to be our only senior conventional winger. Who played out wide tonight?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 01, 2012, 09:43:31 PM
2 - 0 Holman


I'll tell you what, Brett Holman does manage to get himself into some good positions. He could score a fair few this season.

Potential partner for Bent?

I think outside of the more conservative elements of the church, most people dont have a problem these days.

Very good, you got me ;)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: luke25 on August 01, 2012, 09:47:39 PM
What do we all reckon about Johnson then? Is he going to be our next kid to break through, I really hope so purely for him looking like Edgar Davids.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 01, 2012, 10:03:47 PM
Sitting in Charter's Bar which is a bar on a barge in Peterborough. Good performance in front of a small crowd. Villa kept the ball well and the second goal came at the end of a 20 to 30 pass move. Lots of substitutions in the second half again, but unlike in previous friendlies Villa didn't lose their rhythm.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 01, 2012, 10:09:07 PM
Assuming bent is fit, but barring any new signings, I think the front 6 will be bannan and karim holding; with Holman, CNZ and Ireland supporting bent. That 3 could play in any combination really, but I'd probably play CNZ up front, with the other two tucked in in midfield, against west ham. Might want more width in the next home game
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 01, 2012, 10:10:23 PM
Not3bad, who played well / didn't? Did we have much cutting edge?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 01, 2012, 10:12:15 PM
My impression from the US tour games is that we keep the ball to the point of wearing team down. We're not Barcelona by any stretch and we'll have to be a lot more clinical in the PL, but you can see what Lambert has asked them to do.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on August 01, 2012, 10:12:31 PM
2 - 0 Holman


I'll tell you what, Brett Holman does manage to get himself into some good positions. He could score a fair few this season.

Potential partner for Bent?

Maybe. I know he likes to play that inside left position just off the main striker so it really depends on how Lambert plays him. I still think we need another top forward because I'm not convinced by either Fonz or Weimann.

I'm fairly happy with Weimann, I'm probably more concerned about who's going to play out wide to give them service? With Albrighton out Zog seems to be our only senior conventional winger. Who played out wide tonight?

Listened to it on O/S, Nzog played most of the match up front and from the commentary , mostly from Ken McNaught I got the impression that he wanted too many touches and often made the wrong decisions. Running into cul-de-sacs and shooting when he should have passed. So All in all the same as his performances on the US Tour.

Get rid asap.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 01, 2012, 10:17:24 PM
N'Zog just hasn't figured it out at all, and for me by far the most disappointing player of the US tour. For someone that is meant to be a skill player his first touch is awful and his lack of awareness keeps getting him into trouble. I was all for him last year when he signed and he has shown he can do it, but I haven't seen it at all last season or this.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on August 01, 2012, 10:22:36 PM
Peterborough may be a far cry from Portland but Villa maintained the impressive form from their American tour with a comprehensive win at London Road.

Youngster Daniel Johnson opened the scoring six minutes before half-time, with Australian summer signing Brett Holman driving home the second nine minutes before the end.

In between times, Paul Lambert's men produced some neat, free-flowing football to offer hope of an improved Barclays Premier League campaign, although they will face tougher tests at Nottingham Forest on Saturday and Werder Bremen the following weekend.

Although Paul Taylor produced the first goal attempt with a fourth-minute shot beyond the far post, Villa generally created the better chances during the opening 25 minutes.

Johnson's left-foot effort was deflected for a corner before Charles N'Zogbia's low left foot shot from the edge of the penalty area was well held by former Villa youth keeper Bobby Olejnik.

Enda Stevens then linked up well with Stephen Ireland before drilling a low drive across the face of goal, while Nathan Baker just failed to connect with a cross from the right and N'Zogbia curled another shot wide following some fine approach work by Samir Carruthers and Stephen Ireland.

Even so, Shay Given needed to be alert to push away Taylor's fierce low 20-yard drive before Villa were forced into the first substitution on 27 minutes, Matt Lowton replacing Chris Herd, who had had taken a knock while climbing for an early header.

Villa were ahead on 39 minutes after a spell of pressure which culminated with Eric Lichaj crossing hard and low from the right.

The ball was too far ahead of Andreas Weimann, but Johnson controlled well beyond the far post before firing a low angled shot past Olejnik.

Weimann and Carruthers also sent long-range efforts off target before half-time and Villa maintained their momentum after the break, Lichaj sending a powerful 25-yarder not far wide before N'Zogbia's low shot was held by keeper Joe Day, who had replaced Olejnik at the interval.

As Peterborough began to come more into contention, Lowton and Lichaj both impressed with some smart defending before the visitors were close again when Weimann was inches away from making contact with a Stevens centre.

Stevens was again prominent in the second goal, superbly controlling Lichaj's deep cross from the right and cutting the ball back to Ireland.

The midfielder played it sideways to Holman, who left Day helpless with a well-struck left-foot drive from 15 yards.

Holman nearly grabbed a second in the closing minutes, unleashing a drive which was well saved by Day.

Peterborough: Olejnik (Day, HT); Little, Brisley, Zakuani, Knight-Percival; Swanson (Farrell, 69), Kearns, McCann, Newell (Ajose, 64); Barnett, Taylor.

Villa: Given; Lichaj, Herd, Baker (Clark, 81), Stevens (Warnock, 81); Delph (Bannan, 70); Carruthers (El Ahmadi, 70), Ireland (Burke, 81), Johnson (Holamnn, 70); Weimann, N'Zogbia (Delfouneso, 74).
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 01, 2012, 10:36:09 PM
Not3bad, who played well / didn't? Did we have much cutting edge?

Ireland played very well again, I think this may be his season. Zog was better than he has been but is still prone to bad decisions. Villa tried to walk it into the net a couple of times in the second half, which was both frustrating and good to see.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: villajk on August 01, 2012, 11:44:46 PM
Sitting in Charter's Bar which is a bar on a barge in Peterborough. Good performance in front of a small crowd. Villa kept the ball well and the second goal came at the end of a 20 to 30 pass move. Lots of substitutions in the second half again, but unlike in previous friendlies Villa didn't lose their rhythm.

We were in there before the game.  Came straight home after.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on August 02, 2012, 12:02:58 AM
What do we all reckon about Johnson then? Is he going to be our next kid to break through, I really hope so purely for him looking like Edgar Davids.

I've had a feeling he'll start breaking through this season. Very impressive player.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: villajk on August 02, 2012, 12:20:25 AM
What do we all reckon about Johnson then? Is he going to be our next kid to break through, I really hope so purely for him looking like Edgar Davids.

I've had a feeling he'll start breaking through this season. Very impressive player.

I have the same feeling.  Fingers crossed for his future as a Villa player.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on August 02, 2012, 12:25:57 AM
2 - 0 Holman


I'll tell you what, Brett Holman does manage to get himself into some good positions. He could score a fair few this season.

Potential partner for Bent?

Maybe. I know he likes to play that inside left position just off the main striker so it really depends on how Lambert plays him. I still think we need another top forward because I'm not convinced by either Fonz or Weimann.

I'm fairly happy with Weimann, I'm probably more concerned about who's going to play out wide to give them service? With Albrighton out Zog seems to be our only senior conventional winger. Who played out wide tonight?

I havent seen the match but if the US tour is anything to go by, its the full backs who play out wide. We didnt play with traditional wingers at all. The 4-2-2-2 ish formation means the mids tend to move as a unit with wide options coming from the backs or occasionally one of the two forwards.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 02, 2012, 05:32:56 AM
I generally think DJ looks better than Gardner. I assume the club don't agree as he only has a one year contract I think? He's certainly got much quicker feet and a more nimble style. Seems to get a few goals too
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: luke25 on August 02, 2012, 06:13:50 AM
Good to see that the few on here that reguarly see the reserve and youth play have high hopes for Johnson.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on August 02, 2012, 08:37:36 AM
Different types of player. Gardner is more like a Glen Hoddle and Johnson more like a... Scholes. They can play in the same team, they have done and worked well together.
With Carruthers. Delph and Bannan we have a group of young midfielders who are very tidy and smart with the ball. Lambert will love them.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Le Lapin on August 02, 2012, 08:47:07 AM
By the sounds of things Stephens had a good enough game. Can anyone verify of this  was the case?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Merv on August 02, 2012, 09:21:27 AM
I went to the game last night. Le Lapin - Stevens was steady, nothing to get excited about but looked sound enough. Lichaj was good on the other side of defence.

The stand-out player for me was Daniel Johnson. The goal was a simple finish, albeit from a tight angle, but I was impressed by him. Very quick feet, very fluid player, extremely comfortable on the ball, and I like the way he was switching from right midfield to centre to left. He looked happy playing anywhere in that midfield.

Ireland was decent, some good breaks forget. Carruthers neat and tidy on the ball, though I was surprised he was almost playing in a deepish central role.

Herd played CB alongside Baker but took a knock after climbing for a header from a corner, played on for about 15 mins more and came off before HT. Lowton replaced him and played CB.

Holman took his goal very well - left foot, top corner from 15 yards - and Delfouneso was very positive when he came on; showed more pace than I've seen from him in a while. CNZ was a bit hit and miss.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Concrete John on August 02, 2012, 09:27:10 AM
I'm getting the distinct feeling that Bertie isn't a CNZ fan.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 02, 2012, 09:59:22 AM
Well it seems he's giving him every opportunity to win him over. He's played in nearly all our games so far hasn't he?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Merv on August 02, 2012, 10:03:42 AM
CNZ played 65-70 mins last night. He wasn't poor - he just didn't have that end product, but got himself into some good positions and was unlucky with a couple of efforts. It'll be interesting to see where he fits in; given our striking options I can see him playing off a centre-forward. But I also wonder whether it'll come down to him or Holman in the starting X1.

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Brend'Watkins on August 02, 2012, 10:29:52 AM
Just watched the highlights on the Villa site.  From what I've seen it looks as though Ireland is more involved and that may be down to the fact we can now keep the ball for longer periods.  The Premier will be a sterner test but it does bode well.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: fredm on August 02, 2012, 10:31:55 AM
CNZ played 65-70 mins last night. He wasn't poor - he just didn't have that end product, but got himself into some good positions and was unlucky with a couple of efforts. It'll be interesting to see where he fits in; given our striking options I can see him playing off a centre-forward. But I also wonder whether it'll come down to him or Holman in the starting X1.



Looks as if he is continuing from last season.  He just seems to run into positions where there is no end product or if a couple of defenders get near him instead of moving the ball seems to want to take them on and thus loses it.  As said, it looks as if PL believes there is a decent player in there as he is giving him plenty of opportunities but there seems to be very little end product.  Will have to see if he makes the starting line up at West Ham.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Concrete John on August 02, 2012, 10:35:05 AM
Has he been playing wide or more central?  His most effective game for Wigan seemed to be when he had a free role and was mainly behind the main striker.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: fredm on August 02, 2012, 10:42:59 AM
Just watched the highlights on the Villa site.  From what I've seen it looks as though Ireland is more involved and that may be down to the fact we can now keep the ball for longer periods.  The Premier will be a sterner test but it does bode well.

Watching those highlights, I can see that a few who sit near me are going to go mental this year - "get it in the bl**dy box!!" is all I hear.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 02, 2012, 11:35:27 AM
Has he been playing wide or more central?  His most effective game for Wigan seemed to be when he had a free role and was mainly behind the main striker.

It seemed to me he was playing more centrally last night.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Hookeysmith on August 02, 2012, 12:41:46 PM
anyone have a link to the highlights?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Malandro on August 02, 2012, 12:48:01 PM
I went last night:

Ireland: Ok, not sure where people get man of the match, great performance:
Nzogbia: Very poor, 10 million pound player! Crikey his final pass was dreadful
lichaj: My man of match, up and down all evening, did his job very well
Delph: was he playing?
Enda Steevns: Had a good game, Shay was giving him plenty of encouragement
Baker was pretty solid.

We looked much better with the later subs, thought Karim looked great again. A real find by the looks of it.

If we start the season with that starting line-up, we will be lower than mid table.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 02, 2012, 01:27:08 PM
Ireland: Ok, not sure where people get man of the match, great performance

To me he deserved that accolade because everything came through him and he barely put a foot wrong, apart from one sloppy moment in the second half that the person sitting behind me made a meal of.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on August 02, 2012, 02:13:18 PM
I went last night:

Ireland: Ok, not sure where people get man of the match, great performance:
Nzogbia: Very poor, 10 million pound player! Crikey his final pass was dreadful
lichaj: My man of match, up and down all evening, did his job very well
Delph: was he playing?
Enda Steevns: Had a good game, Shay was giving him plenty of encouragement
Baker was pretty solid.

We looked much better with the later subs, thought Karim looked great again. A real find by the looks of it.

If we start the season with that starting line-up, we will be lower than mid table.

There's zero chance we'll start with that team.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: JUAN PABLO on August 02, 2012, 02:45:56 PM
I went last night:

Ireland: Ok, not sure where people get man of the match, great performance:
Nzogbia: Very poor, 10 million pound player! Crikey his final pass was dreadful
lichaj: My man of match, up and down all evening, did his job very well
Delph: was he playing?
Enda Steevns: Had a good game, Shay was giving him plenty of encouragement
Baker was pretty solid.

We looked much better with the later subs, thought Karim looked great again. A real find by the looks of it.

If we start the season with that starting line-up, we will be lower than mid table.

Opinions ...  I heard people last night saying Delph was MOM. 
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: paul_e on August 02, 2012, 03:16:23 PM
yeah I've seen good reports of Delph as well, 1 from a guy who's been fairly harsh on him in the past.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 02, 2012, 03:49:43 PM
Just watched the highlights on the Villa site.  From what I've seen it looks as though Ireland is more involved and that may be down to the fact we can now keep the ball for longer periods.  The Premier will be a sterner test but it does bode well.

Watching those highlights, I can see that a few who sit near me are going to go mental this year - "get it in the bl**dy box!!" is all I hear.



I heard a few murmurs of that last night but the move that ended with Holman's goal was just the kind of football we've been wishing for, IMO.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 02, 2012, 03:54:08 PM
really lovely finish from Holman wasn't it?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 02, 2012, 04:46:24 PM
Cool as you like!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: The Left Side on August 02, 2012, 04:47:27 PM
any links to the goals?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 02, 2012, 04:50:44 PM
Just watched the highlights on the Villa site.  From what I've seen it looks as though Ireland is more involved and that may be down to the fact we can now keep the ball for longer periods.  The Premier will be a sterner test but it does bode well.

Watching those highlights, I can see that a few who sit near me are going to go mental this year - "get it in the bl**dy box!!" is all I hear.



I heard a few murmurs of that last night but the move that ended with Holman's goal was just the kind of football we've been wishing for, IMO.


It was - about 25 passes. Would love to see us play like that again - not since BFR's days I think

But the pace of that attack was pretty measured. Not sure whether the EPL will let you play that slowly and still find a way through. Swansea perhaps showed that you can, but when watching that goal on AVTV, there was a moment when we went from the edge of the box back to near the half way line.

I can hear the groans of the Holte End - and even more the Trinity - already!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 02, 2012, 05:01:53 PM
You and fred are right Matt. For all the purist talk on here the Villa crowd are a nightmare. They shout 'get it in the bloody box' and then still groan when it breaks down. And if someone gets it in space 30/40 yards from goal it's 'SHOOT!' I've got my head in my hands at this point going 'NO! DON'T SHOOT'!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: timeoutbigbar on August 02, 2012, 08:53:42 PM
You and fred are right Matt. For all the purist talk on here the Villa crowd are a nightmare. They shout 'get it in the bloody box' and then still groan when it breaks down. And if someone gets it in space 30/40 yards from goal it's 'SHOOT!' I've got my head in my hands at this point going 'NO! DON'T SHOOT'!

Typical British football approach...we don't want to see any of this tippy tappy foreign nonsense, when did that ever work?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 03, 2012, 07:04:33 AM
Just watching the Peterborough highlights on AVTV. So far, Ireland is head and shoulders above everyone else on the pitch. I think he was the point of a diamond initially, but they've now reverted to 4222.

N'Zogbia has done a couple of frustrating things, running down blind allies or not looking when he passed the ball, but again I think the comments above are over the top. He's also looked more dangerous than most. Weimann has again barely had a kick.

Delph is playing well. DJ and Carruthers clearly have promise, but both have been guilty of giving the ball away cheaply. Carruthers has played a couple of nice slipped in passes.

Can't comment on any of the defenders from a defensive point of view.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 03, 2012, 08:00:59 AM
With a couple of pre season games to go, I wonder if we will start to see something like PL's first choice side against Forest?

I would have thought that would be something like:

Given* - Lowton* Vlaar Clark Warnock - El Ahmadi Delph* - Ireland Holman - CNZ Bent*


* I think Guzan might be pushing Given. I think Lowton looks a good player but a little weak defensively / physically, so Lichaj might get the nod.

I would have thought Bannan would start, but as part of a midfield 2 it might be seen to be a bit lightweight. Delph has looked pretty steady and is firmer in the tackle. El Ahmadi  is excellent on the ball and I can imagine him getting further forward than I thought when we signed him

If Bent isn't fit, I think we've got a bit of a problem. But I imagine Fonz has impressed a fair bit more than Weimann in pre-season to date. But perhaps we might have a new player to start in this position?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 03, 2012, 08:32:28 AM
Well, having watched the Peterborough game and seen a couple of the US games, I think PL's starting midfield is going to be a 2+2 of BB and KEA in fromt of the back four and Ireland / Holman in front of them. Delph (who interestingly was skipper for the Peterborough game), Johnson and Carruthers will be on the bench for options.
I suspect Lichaj and Warnock willl be his starting FB, although he sees Lowton and Herd as good cover on the right side of defence (either at FB or CB), and Stevens seems to have played well on the left. CB will be CRon and CC, although Baker is clearly pushing to start on the left of central defence.
Upfront I suspect he will start with DB and N'Zog but have Delfouneso and Weimann available to bring on.

I think there's great variety and a good blend of youth and experience ... and he may still have targets to bring in as well.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 03, 2012, 08:43:26 AM
I'd love to think Bannan could succeed in the middle of midfield for us. But I do think it's potentially just not strong enough to have him and KEA, even if our wide players tuck in. Delph doesn't have Bannan's quality on the ball, but he can still manipulate it well. He's got the potential to be stronger defensively, as long as he can stop himself diving in.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Merv on August 03, 2012, 09:07:35 AM
The P'boro friendly showed up Bannan's failings - still. Delph didn't do anything spectacular, but he barely gave the ball away, if it all. Bannan, when he came on, almost instantly fizzed a low raking pass too far away of Lichaj on the overlap and into touch. Now, at that stage (25 mins to go) Villa were pushing hard for more goals so it was a different sort of game, but Bannan was always looking for that big pass, rather than just keeping it.

If we're playing two deeper midfielders, I can't see one being Bannan. It'll be KEA plus Delph, Herd or maybe even Carruthers, who used the ball nicely. I think Bannan's competing with Ireland for a role further forward.

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 03, 2012, 09:52:11 AM
I agree bannan looked back to his frustratin self v peterborough. Consistently looking for the wrong pass and out muscled under pressure. KEA seems absolutely excellent at keeping the ball ticking over. A really good DCM wouldn't go amiss. I don't really rate herd. Delph, or perhaps Gardner seems the best bet, but I wouldn't mind a new signing. Could do worse than frimpong on loan
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Merv on August 03, 2012, 10:47:32 AM
Yep, it does feel to me as if that is the kind of player we're missing still. I think Herd's future is as a defender, myself, and I'm sure we'll see Clark settling into a CB role now and therefore not being an option in midfield. If we're going with two deeper central midfielders, there's a space for someone, I feel: at present, Delph alongside Karim looks our soundest best. For me, Ireland, Bannan, Johnson, Gardner, Carruthers and Holman mean we're fairly well covered in the more attacking midfield roles.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 03, 2012, 10:50:54 AM
Charles N'Zogbia "has a big part to play" according to Paul Lambert...

http://www.setanta.com/ie/Articles/2012/08/03/Duo-have-part-to-play---Lambert/gnid-149653/
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on August 03, 2012, 11:50:11 AM
He certainly does. He owes us some performances and could be great for us.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Brend'Watkins on August 03, 2012, 01:56:47 PM
We all know he's got it in him, he knows it too.  Last season I put it down to a lack of confidence/settling in/rubbish McLeish tactics.  He flickered in a few games but not enough to warrant his price tag.

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 03, 2012, 02:23:17 PM
been really disappointed with N'Zog so far. He's either trying way too hard or isn't good enough. I'll give him the benefit of the doubt until Lambert kicks him into touch. Pretty much every player in the squad gets a second chance this season. That is unless your name is Alan Hutton and Stephen Warnock. Thankfully I don't have to add James Collins to the list.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: OCD on August 03, 2012, 05:09:47 PM
Sounds like a bit of man-management there - like he's trying to lift his confidence.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on August 03, 2012, 09:32:25 PM
Zog played a little better against the Posh. He really needs to get his head right though, when he made a pass to a player who mistimed his run he threw his arms up in the air in frustration. He should have just shut up , accepted the players apology (Enda I think) and tried again later. Instead he sulked a bit and tried some potshots instead of passing.



Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spk on August 03, 2012, 10:03:28 PM
Moving swiftly on,is anyone having a prematch pint at the old jerusalem in nottingham tomorrow? be nice to meet with some Villa fans before the game<
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on August 03, 2012, 10:53:29 PM
Old Angel
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 03, 2012, 10:57:32 PM
Are AVTV showing the game tommorow?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on August 03, 2012, 10:58:32 PM
Quick reminder that it's been confirmed you can pay on the day.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Axl Rose on August 03, 2012, 11:19:44 PM
Does anybody know which area of the City Ground the Villa fans are sitting in?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spk on August 03, 2012, 11:24:28 PM
bridgeford end mate
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Axl Rose on August 03, 2012, 11:33:58 PM
bridgeford end mate


Cheers mate, appreciated.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on August 04, 2012, 12:14:26 AM
Looking forward to taking the boy tomorrow for his first away day after seeing GB ladies tonight at Coventry...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Axl Rose on August 04, 2012, 12:16:18 AM
Quick reminder that it's been confirmed you can pay on the day.

Are there away tickets still available? Am thinking to take my dad
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on August 04, 2012, 12:32:44 AM
Quick reminder that it's been confirmed you can pay on the day.

Are there away tickets still available? Am thinking to take my dad

You can pay on the day.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 04, 2012, 02:13:14 PM
Stream here have not used before so don't know about quality.
http://www.usagoals.com/live/162693-nottingham-forest-vs-aston-villa/watch/stream/online/free/feed/p2p/en/vivo/tv/gratis/
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 02:27:00 PM
Looks like AVTV is just doing audio/text coverage. Hope that link above works.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 02:33:44 PM
Stream here have not used before so don't know about quality.
http://www.usagoals.com/live/162693-nottingham-forest-vs-aston-villa/watch/stream/online/free/feed/p2p/en/vivo/tv/gratis/
I watched a Euro game on this link and it wasn't to bad at all. Hope todays is as good.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 04, 2012, 02:36:47 PM
Looks like...

Brad

Warnock
Concrete Ron
Ciaran
Lowton

Zog
Wee Baz
Karim
Ireland

Holman
Fonz
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: eamonn on August 04, 2012, 02:38:31 PM
What's the team?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 04, 2012, 02:41:36 PM
What's the team?

See above

Formation tbc
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 04, 2012, 02:44:01 PM
Subs

shay
GG
Weimann
Samir
DJ
Fab
Baker
Eric
Ends
Bent
Marshall
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 04, 2012, 02:48:53 PM
No sign of Hutton

Kick off delayed by 15 to allow queuing fans to get in
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 02:50:32 PM
Are you at the game Mr Sox?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 04, 2012, 02:53:46 PM
Reporting live from the City Ground.

Row G, right behind the Bridgford goal
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 02:55:05 PM
Give me a call and let me have live commentary  ;D

And i'm guessing the delay is for our lot getting in?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on August 04, 2012, 02:57:00 PM
Kick off delayed 15 mins.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: eamonn on August 04, 2012, 02:58:43 PM
When was the last time we played here? 2-2 Nov'98 with a Joachim brace?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 02:59:22 PM
Kick off delayed 15 mins.
Excellent, ive just cut the lawn so I can put the mower back in my garden shed.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 02:59:47 PM
No need for a live stream, Mr Sox is going to spend £700 on his mobile to give us a kick by kick account of the game. Top bloke.
Do you want us all to chip in for the bill Mr Sox ?
I have a fiver ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 03:05:52 PM
I doubt there will be a stream for a friendly at Forest. Hope i'm wrong but I can't see it.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 03:11:08 PM
I doubt there will be a stream for a friendly at Forest. Hope i'm wrong but I can't see it.
If you click on it it says there is mate.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 03:14:48 PM
Im getting commentary from Alan Partridge on the O/S, cant find any visual stream though.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 04, 2012, 03:18:51 PM
Sorry guys been looking for an hour.
Delayed on the OS.Why dont they just show it live.What is the point of AVTV?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 03:24:04 PM
Sorry guys been looking for an hour.
Delayed on the OS.Why dont they just show it live.What is the point of AVTV?

Interviews with Tom Hanks ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: villasjf on August 04, 2012, 03:32:04 PM
Clark goal disallowed Radio WM 95.6 covering the midlands matches including the Villa
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 03:34:06 PM
not on live stream either. Brighton v Chelski is on, but no thanks.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 04, 2012, 03:40:19 PM
1-0 to Forest - Gary Birtles.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 04, 2012, 03:42:25 PM
When was the last time we played here? 2-2 Nov'98 with a Joachim brace?

Who remembers the infamous illegal locking us in at Nottingham Station for over an hour without access to water etc on a boiling hot day in August - GT's era.  1st game of the season.  Scandalous behaviour from the police.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 03:43:23 PM
1-0 to Forest - Gary Birtles.

No...I think Kenny Burns got a final touch on it.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Singapore Villa on August 04, 2012, 03:43:52 PM
Nice one Kippax!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 04, 2012, 03:44:26 PM
Have they fucking scored or not?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 03:45:02 PM
1-1 Gordan Cowans
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 03:45:44 PM
Have they fucking scored or not?
Not sure - Clive Thomas may have disallowed it.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Singapore Villa on August 04, 2012, 03:47:07 PM
No goals yet.  Villa looking lively though.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 04, 2012, 03:47:26 PM
Have they fucking scored or not?

Bounced in off Steve Hodge.  Deliberate own goal apparently.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 04, 2012, 03:49:17 PM


Stream here.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 04, 2012, 03:50:48 PM
Don't give up your day job. Any non-unfunny prats prepared to post the score?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 03:51:22 PM
Let's keep it to real updates on todays game please.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 04, 2012, 03:52:03 PM
Ta singapore villain and PWS.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 04, 2012, 03:52:33 PM
Don't give up your day job. Any non-unfunny prats prepared to post the score?

I can't find it, I have been trying for ages.....can't you take a joke it is after all only a friendly.....It's 0-0 if you must know.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Singapore Villa on August 04, 2012, 03:54:17 PM
No goals yet.  Villa looking composed going fwd and have created a few half chances.  Looks promising.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 03:56:38 PM
Commenatary here if you can get AVTV

 http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/TV/LiveEventsDetail/0,,10265~2869577,00.html
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 03:57:01 PM
For future games ladies and gents- Usagoals.com is showing live Bundesliga at the moment. If they put the Prem games on there we are in for a treat, very good stream,check it out.
Just go to the site,click on football(obviously)wait about 15 seconds until the adverts have gone choose your game and hey presto,very good quality.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 03:59:07 PM
And commentary here if you dont  have AVTV or dont want Alan Partridge.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio/player/bbc_wm
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 04:02:02 PM
half time...0-0
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 04:03:00 PM
Can't get that over here,keeps on blocking. Fuck it !
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 04:04:12 PM
small heath winning 2-0 at Plymouth, Redmond with both.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 04:06:24 PM
Can't get that over here,keeps on blocking. Fuck it !

AVTV or WM, or both? and where are you?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 04:19:35 PM
Bent on for Fonz at the start of 2nd half.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 04:20:13 PM
Attendance given as just over 12K with 3,839 Villa.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 04, 2012, 04:20:24 PM
3,839 away fans.Very good.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 04:21:54 PM
Rags 4 up. Christ Plymouth must be shit.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 04, 2012, 04:31:54 PM
Bent on for Fonz at the start of 2nd half.

Fingers crossed he doesn't aggravate his injury.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 04:34:36 PM
420 dogheads watching them lost at Southampton.

Not much happening in our game by the sounds of it.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 04, 2012, 04:40:13 PM
Fucking shitbion on WM. Losing 1-0 if anyone cares.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 04, 2012, 04:40:25 PM
Nearly 4,000 away fans during a home olympic games and in the middle of the main holiday fortnight is nothing short of fantastic.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: JJ-AV on August 04, 2012, 04:44:42 PM
McGugan 1-0
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 04:45:04 PM
Losing 1-0. Lambert out!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 04:45:38 PM
Bannan equalises. Lambert in!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: JJ-AV on August 04, 2012, 04:45:53 PM
Barry!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Smoke on August 04, 2012, 04:46:05 PM
BANNANANANAA MAN!!!!!!   1-1
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 04:46:49 PM
Brighton 3 Chelski 1. Di Matteo out !
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 04:48:28 PM
Lambert out...Lambert in.....in out in out shake it all about.

Team AV ! Team AV!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: JJ-AV on August 04, 2012, 04:51:00 PM
MFH>MFT

2-1

Marcus 'fucking' Tudgay
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 04:52:01 PM
Losing 2-1. Lambert back out.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 04:57:09 PM
Is that a final score ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 04:57:35 PM
3-1 down. Oh dear.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: boboonthecorner on August 04, 2012, 04:57:36 PM
3-1...Oh dear ;)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 04:57:43 PM
3-1 to Forest
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 04:58:48 PM
Lambert out. Get in a winner - a cyclist or a rower.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 04:59:17 PM
Fucking wind up merchants ? Surely not ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 05:00:28 PM
Oh well, at least WM stopping their commentary before the games ends saves any more bad news.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: timeoutbigbar on August 04, 2012, 05:02:37 PM
This would never have happened under McLeish.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 04, 2012, 05:03:39 PM
This would never have happened under McLeish.

Bring back Big 'eck!!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 05:04:19 PM
Time to start the "it's not the result that matters in pre-season" line to folks methinks. Especially my mate who is a Forest fan.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 05:04:38 PM
2 minutes to go.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 05:06:09 PM
Full Time, Forest 3 Villa 1.

Get the bed sheets and paint brushes out!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 05:06:20 PM
Full time apparently. Forest 3 - 1. Pfffft.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 05:07:35 PM
Och the shitty noo.
McLeish in.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: BedsVillain on August 04, 2012, 05:07:45 PM
Full Time, Forest 3 Villa 1.

Get the bed sheets and paint brushes out!

Are the bedsheets for all the people who are going to piss their knickers over this result?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 05:09:14 PM
We need Mr Sox to disect this game for us when he is ready.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 04, 2012, 05:10:48 PM
This would never have happened under McLeish.

Agreed, we never would have got that goal ;)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on August 04, 2012, 05:12:21 PM
Clearly my view on this will be looking for the positives s0...you have to remember Forest start their season next week and so will be playing their better prepared players just 7 days for the real business to begin. We're still chopping and changing to see what works and what doesn't. I guess Lambert will know a lot of what doesn't work from today.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 05:13:24 PM
Forget Team AV...Im going back to Olympics. Gold medals, world records....how many gold medals have Villa ever won ?
Team GB! Team GB!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 05:14:41 PM
Fair comment.
Honduras 1 up against Brazil. Olympics thread, i know.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 04, 2012, 05:16:10 PM
Anybody know what Bannan's goal was like?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 04, 2012, 05:17:02 PM
Anybody know what Bannan's goal was like?

Involved a ball in a net.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 05:18:24 PM
Direct from a free-kick I think.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: danlanza on August 04, 2012, 05:18:46 PM
Anybody know what Bannan's goal was like?

Involved a ball in a net.
nah ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 04, 2012, 05:22:41 PM
Chelsea lost 3-1 as well.Relegation fodder.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Irish villain on August 04, 2012, 05:25:58 PM
Oh dear...well, food for thought.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 04, 2012, 05:26:44 PM
Direct from a free-kick I think.

Cheers. Good news though, we've needed someone who could take a good set piece since Cashley Young left and I've been waiting for Bannan to start scoring them.

Anybody know what Bannan's goal was like?

Involved a ball in a net.

Cheeky sod.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 04, 2012, 05:45:24 PM
Bannan has been the best and most-improved performer of pre-season for me. Very early days, and pre-season form means nothing unless you carry it into the competitive season, but he has a manager who seems to play his type of football, seems to rate him and, most importantly, seems to be encouraging him and believing in him, which is what he's missed in his career more than anything.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 04, 2012, 05:48:36 PM
Shouldn't read too much into this. Two goals in the last 15 against a side who are presumably ahead of us in fitness terms. But disappointing nonetheless.

Sounds like Warnock was ropey again. Really need a new left back.

And I'm hoping that our new patient passing style doesn't see us too flat and lacking urgency.

Sounds like we could have had a few goals though? Would be interested in anyone who went's views
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 05:50:30 PM
My Forest mate says they shouldn't be that much ahead of us as they haven't played much yet. Apparently their US tour was cancelled as far as I can tell this was their first friendly.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 04, 2012, 05:59:53 PM
Kind of glad we lost in a way.  Going into the first league game with a 100% pre-season record would have been a bad omen.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on August 04, 2012, 06:00:29 PM
They made loads of subs, we didn't. I assume The Ticklemeister wanted to get 90 minutes out of players, which is fair enough. We bossed it for the first 60 minutes. They won it late on against tired legs. We played fairly well over all. Nothing to worry about.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 04, 2012, 06:00:59 PM
My Forest mate says they shouldn't be that much ahead of us as they haven't played much yet. Apparently their US tour was cancelled as far as I can tell this was their first friendly.

I thought their season started before ours, but it seems not
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 04, 2012, 06:02:03 PM
The pre- season has gone well irrespective of this result. Lambert will have seen a lot of good things and things to work on. During the US tour I had pointed out that we are not clinical enough and I still believe that to be the case. We clearly need a new LB and Warnock did his best to add to that argument today. Vlaar looked very useful and the midfield is coming together. The desire is ther to play good football all the time. We do need a new forward and I remain unconvinced by N'Zog whatever position he starts in. Certainly food for the thought for the manager.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 04, 2012, 06:02:57 PM
My Forest mate says they shouldn't be that much ahead of us as they haven't played much yet. Apparently their US tour was cancelled as far as I can tell this was their first friendly.

I thought their season started before ours, but it seems not

It does. They KO a week Monday in the LC. But as far as I can see their only friendlies are today, midweek vs County and they play Albion next Saturday.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on August 04, 2012, 06:05:23 PM
Forgot to mention, I have no idea why Ciaran's goal in the first half was disallowed.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 04, 2012, 06:45:30 PM
Useless performance. I counted 3 attempts on goal all game. No width, no penetration, nothing. Looked the same as last season to me.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: tepavilla on August 04, 2012, 07:08:00 PM
Considering that style-wise we've pretty much made a 180 degree turn it doesn't surprise to see us struggling going forward. I mean who actually thought we'd be playing like Arsenal straight away. Would not surprise me to see us really struggling this year, especially at the first half of the season. But personally I don't give a **** how high/low we finish this season. As long as we adjust to our new style and gradually get better at it as the season goes on, I'm more than happy.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 04, 2012, 07:19:17 PM
Useless performance. I counted 3 attempts on goal all game. No width, no penetration, nothing. Looked the same as last season to me.

I didn't see the game, but I got the impression that we had two goals disallowed, Bannan scored, Bent had two efforts, Holman at least two and KEA had a long ranger? I'll check it out on AVTV, but a) it was a friendly, and b) we're going to have to go through some games this season where it doesn't work at all and we really pass it and pass it without going anywhere. I'll be disappointed if not that surprised if the fans start moaning about 2 games into the season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 04, 2012, 07:33:21 PM
Can anybody give me a quick run-down on how Vlaar did today?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spangley1812 on August 04, 2012, 07:35:59 PM
Can anybody give me a quick run-down on how Vlaar did today?

I was there and he did ok.......very solid, dangerous from set-pieces. He will need to work on the partnership with Clark and he is very big
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 04, 2012, 07:44:26 PM
Can anybody give me a quick run-down on how Vlaar did today?

I was there and he did ok.......very solid, dangerous from set-pieces. He will need to work on the partnership with Clark and he is very big

I'm sure they're partnership will blossom in time, thanks for the info.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Malandro on August 04, 2012, 07:49:22 PM
I was on the halfway line on Warnock's side in the first half - he should be playing for Atherstone not Aston Villa.

Quite a good performance for a 3-1 loss. Enjoyed it, we played some nice football.

Just pleased that Lambert was almost in the same position as me, surely he must want rid of Warnock.

One pleasing thing for me, I overheard a Forest fan say he thinks our no 8 looks some player. I think so too
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Malandro on August 04, 2012, 07:51:39 PM
Our support was superb as well
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 04, 2012, 07:56:05 PM
One pleasing thing for me, I overheard a Forest fan say he thinks our no 8 looks some player. I think so too

I've heard nothing but praise for El Ahmadi, I'm very excited to see how he does in the Premier League.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spangley1812 on August 04, 2012, 07:58:17 PM
One pleasing thing for me, I overheard a Forest fan say he thinks our no 8 looks some player. I think so too

I've heard nothing but praise for El Ahmadi, I'm very excited to see how he does in the Premier League.

He played well but he will have to work on his tackling but that will come with experience and when he gets up to the speed of the premiership............
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: paul_e on August 04, 2012, 07:58:31 PM
Bannan has been the best and most-improved performer of pre-season for me. Very early days, and pre-season form means nothing unless you carry it into the competitive season, but he has a manager who seems to play his type of football, seems to rate him and, most importantly, seems to be encouraging him and believing in him, which is what he's missed in his career more than anything.

I think the key here is for the first time he has a manager focusing on what he has got (talent) rather than focusing on what he hasn't got (height).  Mon and McLeish were both terrified of letting him play centrally because of his size.  Lambert doesn't appear to care about it, which is very important to why we've seen such a good pre-season from him, in my opinion.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dante Lavelli on August 04, 2012, 08:48:00 PM
What are the odds on Gregnash re-appearing tonight?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 04, 2012, 08:55:10 PM
Apologies for the lack of in-game updates. As soon as the game started I lost my data connection.

Can't really comment on the defending for the Forest goals because I was very low down right behind the other net.

Did however have a great view of Bannan's goal. I caught it on video and will try to upload tomorrow. Baz also went close just before as well.

Concrete Ron looked solid from what I could see.

Not sure about the midfield formation though. Its ok being fluid, but they seemed all over the place at times and got in each others way on several occasions.

As mentioned by earlier posters, Warnock appears just as bad as last season. At one point it looked like he tried to tackle Zog in the Forest box.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 04, 2012, 09:11:34 PM
Some great runs from Zog but he looks very reluctant to shoot
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: frank on August 05, 2012, 12:58:10 AM
Can anybody give me a quick run-down on how Vlaar did today?
As has been said, he'll be dangerous in the opposing box and had one or two efforts on goal today. He's determined, strong in the tackle, a ball-winner, but also moves the ball out of defence well. He's a crowd favourite already - the fans have taken to him immediately, much as they did John Carew.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on August 05, 2012, 01:27:27 AM
I went to the game, I thought as daft as it sounds we were the better team in between the penalty areas, they hit the net when it mattered as we quite frankly, didn't.

I worry a little about Lowton, who looked decent going forward on the whole, but defensively was not as assured. Clark and Vlaar looked pretty solid, but Warnock on the whole was somewhere between wank and fucking useless. I will be amazed if no new left back comes in. In midfield Holmann and Ireland were quiet overall El Ahmadi excellent and N'Zogbia was incredibly frustrating. At times, with the ball at his feet he looked World Class, particularly when running with the ball, his reluctance to hold onto it too long and not have a pop at goal could make him a potential scapegoat.
Upfront, Delfouneso was shit, I really don't think he can cut it at the required level and his ability to read the game isn't good enough. I would love to see Robbie Keane at Villa to replace him.

i think Bent for Delfouneso and Given for Guzan might see that team as the starting XI in the premier league. Much work for Lambert to do still
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithe on August 05, 2012, 08:10:58 AM
I thought it a promising performance, we looked pretty sound defensively until the last 15 mins when we started losing our shape. The patient possession game through the middle was good to watch although the lack of width was a concern, also I'm not sure it suits Bent, many times his body language seemed to scream frustration as he moved on to the shoulder of the last man but the through ball wasn't attempted.

Good performances from Lawton, Bannan and El Hamidi.I'd echo what's been said about Charlie, he could be world class he he could learn to get his head up and play as part of the team. He didn't though.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on August 05, 2012, 08:11:09 AM
I went to the game, I thought as daft as it sounds we were the better team in between the penalty areas, they hit the net when it mattered as we quite frankly, didn't.

I worry a little about Lowton, who looked decent going forward on the whole, but defensively was not as assured. Clark and Vlaar looked pretty solid, but Warnock on the whole was somewhere between wank and fucking useless. I will be amazed if no new left back comes in. In midfield Holmann and Ireland were quiet overall El Ahmadi excellent and N'Zogbia was incredibly frustrating. At times, with the ball at his feet he looked World Class, particularly when running with the ball, his reluctance to hold onto it too long and not have a pop at goal could make him a potential scapegoat.
Upfront, Delfouneso was shit, I really don't think he can cut it at the required level and his ability to read the game isn't good enough. I would love to see Robbie Keane at Villa to replace him.

i think Bent for Delfouneso and Given for Guzan might see that teer tto do!am as the starting XI in the premier league. Much work for Lamb

Did somebody burst a balloon while you were writing "team"?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 05, 2012, 08:19:16 AM
Thanks cd, I was having a job trying to fathom that.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 05, 2012, 09:29:02 AM
I watched the highlights and the first 30 mins in whole. I felt reasonably reassured afterwards, and generally my feelings are pretty similar to how they've been for the whole preseason.

We passed the ball very well at times. Composed throughout the game and some nice link up play around the box.

I worry that we're not nasty or strong enough. Bannan and KEA look great on the ball but I really think we at least need a proper DCM option - tho perhaps Lambeth disagrees, I think Norwich didn't really have one for much of last year. Mind you they did get tonked from time to time! Clark's defending for the second goal was symptomatic of concerns that he isn't aggressive enough too. And I'm not sure Lowton is great defensively either.

Conversely I found some of the warnock comments over the top again. A couple of stupid fuck ups apart I actually thought he looked ok.

I thought CNZ and Holman looked dangerous but Ireland was much Quieter than of late. I thought CNZ's choice of options was much better than when I've seen him recently. I would 100% play him off the striker v west ham

Fonz did ok but if he's up front v west ham we could really struggle to score. I think he's an alternative in the second striker role.

So overall, I think we'll play some reall good football this year. But it remains to be seen if we can handle it when teams like west Ham pile the ball into the box and turn us. And while we created a decent amount of chances from what I saw, there's definitely a concern that we look a little toothless. Bent and gabby are big misses. And if we can start being dangerous from set pieces again it would make the world of difference. We probably used to get 15 a season and for the last two years it's been almost zero.

Warnock complete went
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 05, 2012, 11:11:59 AM
I really hope Bannan isn't in the team come the start of the season. I think he's incredibly overrated by a lot of fans for some reason. He's too lightweight and his passing is mostly poor. We'll get over run with him in the team. Lerner needs to splash a bit of cash.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 05, 2012, 11:13:59 AM
I really hope Bannan isn't in the team come the start of the season. I think he's incredibly overrated by a lot of fans for some reason. He's too lightweight and his passing is mostly poor. We'll get over run with him in the team. Lerner needs to splash a bit of cash.

Absolute nonsense. The stuff about being 'lightweight' doesn't matter anywhere near as much as some seem to think, this isn't boxing - in football hard work and intelligent team pressing can win you the ball perhaps even better than power. He's possibly been our best player in pre-season and I don't see how you can say his passing is poor.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on August 05, 2012, 11:31:53 AM
SH just likes to moan about everything. Don't worry.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 05, 2012, 11:37:55 AM
I really hope Bannan isn't in the team come the start of the season. I think he's incredibly overrated by a lot of fans for some reason. He's too lightweight and his passing is mostly poor. We'll get over run with him in the team. Lerner needs to splash a bit of cash.

Absolute nonsense. The stuff about being 'lightweight' doesn't matter anywhere near as much as some seem to think, this isn't boxing - in football hard work and intelligent team pressing can win you the ball perhaps even better than power. He's possibly been our best player in pre-season and I don't see how you can say his passing is poor.

Just how many of his Hollywood passes actually come off? He's lightweight, sloppy, easily pushed off the ball and basically average. If he hadn't come through the ranks he wouldn't get a tenth of the support he receives from fans. He isn't good enough to be a Villa first teamer. If we continue to pick players like him then we'll continue to struggle in the league.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 05, 2012, 11:39:17 AM
SH just likes to moan about everything. Don't worry.

Well there's been a lot to moan about these last 2-3 years. You must have had your head buried in the sand if you hadn't realised that.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 05, 2012, 11:40:39 AM
I really hope Bannan isn't in the team come the start of the season. I think he's incredibly overrated by a lot of fans for some reason. He's too lightweight and his passing is mostly poor. We'll get over run with him in the team. Lerner needs to splash a bit of cash.

Absolute nonsense. The stuff about being 'lightweight' doesn't matter anywhere near as much as some seem to think, this isn't boxing - in football hard work and intelligent team pressing can win you the ball perhaps even better than power. He's possibly been our best player in pre-season and I don't see how you can say his passing is poor.

Just how many of his Hollywood passes actually come off? He's lightweight, sloppy, easily pushed off the ball and basically average. If he hadn't come through the ranks he wouldn't get a tenth of the support he receives from fans. He isn't good enough to be a Villa first teamer. If we continue to pick players like him then we'll continue to struggle in the league.

Hilarious.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 05, 2012, 11:51:02 AM
As promised, here's Bannan's free kick from yesterday

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 05, 2012, 11:53:32 AM
As promised, here's Bannan's free kick from yesterday



Rubbish. Too lightweight to score a free-kick.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 05, 2012, 11:56:11 AM
Unless the action is within 20 yards of the one goal, this is a shit place to watch a game from. How anyone could sit/stand behind the goals out of choice is beyond me.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 05, 2012, 11:56:27 AM
Shit goalkeeping more like.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 05, 2012, 11:58:17 AM
Shit goalkeeping more like.

World class whinging.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Pete3206 on August 05, 2012, 11:58:31 AM
I really hope Bannan isn't in the team come the start of the season. I think he's incredibly overrated by a lot of fans for some reason. He's too lightweight and his passing is mostly poor. We'll get over run with him in the team. Lerner needs to splash a bit of cash.

I think his passing game is OK, but that's about it. Overrated? Yes, I'd agree with that.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on August 05, 2012, 12:01:46 PM
Shit goalkeeping more like.

Yawn.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 05, 2012, 12:02:54 PM
Shit goalkeeping more like.

Is there a reason you are being so critical and miserable? I don't think Bannan is Xavi or Iniesta but he's not crap. The lightweight argument is completely bogus considering he's a PL footballer. You don't make to this level if you are being pushed off the ball as much as you are suggesting. His game is as much about his movement and positioning as his passing. During this pre season he hasn't tried the "hollywood" passes and instead much more measured. However he has the talent to do it and is a lethal weapon if used wisely. His attitude will determine his progression to being a better player more than his physical attributes.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: cdbearsfan on August 05, 2012, 12:05:48 PM
SH just likes to moan about everything. Don't worry.

Well there's been a lot to moan about these last 2-3 years. You must have had your head buried in the sand if you hadn't realised that.

There's been nothing whatsoever to moan about in these last 2-3 months, but you somehow manage.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: eastie on August 05, 2012, 12:25:29 PM
Ive not been convinced with bannan so far, but this pre season he has looked a much better player, if he continues this form then he fully deserves to start the new season in the team- it is up to him to take his chance and he seems to be grasping the nettle.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 05, 2012, 12:30:24 PM
Shit goalkeeping more like.

Is there a reason you are being so critical and miserable? I don't think Bannan is Xavi or Iniesta but he's not crap. The lightweight argument is completely bogus considering he's a PL footballer. You don't make to this level if you are being pushed off the ball as much as you are suggesting. His game is as much about his movement and positioning as his passing. During this pre season he hasn't tried the "hollywood" passes and instead much more measured. However he has the talent to do it and is a lethal weapon if used wisely. His attitude will determine his progression to being a better player more than his physical attributes.

The last 2-3 seasons is the reason I'm so miserable. Bannan in my opinion is an average player who is incredibly overrated by some Villa fans, and we have a history of overrating players who come through our youth system. Nothing I saw yesterday convinced me we won't be much better than last season. We passed the ball nicely in our own half but as soon as we crossed the halfway line there was nothing. There was especially no width in the team, and why would there be when we sold our best wingers and replaced them with N'Zogbia who likes to cut inside more or less straight away and the lose the ball. I think we'll definitely be better than last season, but we'll not significantly improve until Lerner opens his wallet. You get what you pay for in life. Signing players from the lower leagues isn't the answer.
I stand by what I say about Bannan. I don't rate him and I think he's incredibly average. If he's a regular next season I think our midfield will again be a weakness.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 05, 2012, 01:52:04 PM
'Incredibly average' is a funny phrase. Sounds a bit like Ed Byrne's 'fierce mild'.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 05, 2012, 02:10:45 PM
'Incredibly average' is a funny phrase. Sounds a bit like Ed Byrne's 'fierce mild'.

Like one of your retorts.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: brian green on August 05, 2012, 02:11:24 PM
If you think you have reason to be miserable over the last two or three seasons its because we hoped we had reached the promised land and we had not.   God knows what you would have made of the 40s the 50s the 60s and the 70s.

As for BB being too small I clearly recall the massed miseryarses of the Holte saying Danny Blanchflower was too weak and Sid was too skinny.

As for we only rate BB because he came through our ranks, there is every reason to give extra support to home grown players because they have cost us nothing but their board and lodging.   A good squad player developed for peanuts frees up money for "better" players.   When I see BB fluff an imaginative pass I think okay so he is not Des Bremner but he came for nothing.   When I see Zog playing like a man in a blindfold I think that has cost the club a very big fee and massive wages which could have been spent more sensibly.

I would sooner have a Jack Russell that kills rats and occasionally bites me than a big soft Labrador that hides under the table when somebody knocks on the door.   It's all about value.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 05, 2012, 02:19:07 PM
If you think you have reason to be miserable over the last two or three seasons its because we hoped we had reached the promised land and we had not.   God knows what you would have made of the 40s the 50s the 60s and the 70s.

As for BB being too small I clearly recall the massed miseryarses of the Holte saying Danny Blanchflower was too weak and Sid was too skinny.

As for we only rate BB because he came through our ranks, there is every reason to give extra support to home grown players because they have cost us nothing but their board and lodging.   A good squad player developed for peanuts frees up money for "better" players.   When I see BB fluff an imaginative pass I think okay so he is not Des Bremner but he came for nothing.   When I see Zog playing like a man in a blindfold I think that has cost the club a very big fee and massive wages which could have been spent more sensibly.

I would sooner have a Jack Russell that kills rats and occasionally bites me than a big soft Labrador that hides under the table when somebody knocks on the door.   It's all about value.

Oh stop with the history lesson, I've been watching Villa since the 1970s, and I've seen plenty of poor teams over the years including mid 80s. Bannan has never shown the promise Cowans did at the same age so the comparison doesn't wash. I don't rate Bannan and I think we need more investment in the squad than what we're getting at the moment. That's hardly me giving up on all things Aston Villa! I thought that's what this forum was all about, having an opinion on the Villa?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 05, 2012, 02:23:24 PM
'Incredibly average' is a funny phrase. Sounds a bit like Ed Byrne's 'fierce mild'.

Like one of your retorts.

Please, if I were to give you a proper retort I'd first have to take you seriously.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 05, 2012, 02:28:24 PM
'Incredibly average' is a funny phrase. Sounds a bit like Ed Byrne's 'fierce mild'.

Like one of your retorts.

Please, if I were to give you a proper retort I'd first have to take you seriously.

Now now, don't be like that.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: paul_e on August 05, 2012, 02:31:29 PM
The problem is SH, why hadn't you posted any of this before 5pm yesterday?

it's hard to take it seriously when you've waited until after a defeat (in pre-season) to start slagging players and telling everyone we're still going to struggle next year.  It's as if you've been biding your time waiting to throw mud at the people who are optimistic that Lambert is doing the right things, rather than enjoying the positive feeling that's been missing for the last couple of years.  Are you really suprised people are arguing with you when you seem so determined to see the worst in everything we're doing.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 05, 2012, 02:38:32 PM

I would sooner have a Jack Russell that kills rats and occasionally bites me than a big soft Labrador that hides under the table when somebody knocks on the door.   It's all about value.

A Wicket-Keeper that kills rats ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 05, 2012, 02:39:58 PM
The problem is SH, why hadn't you posted any of this before 5pm yesterday?

it's hard to take it seriously when you've waited until after a defeat (in pre-season) to start slagging players and telling everyone we're still going to struggle next year.  It's as if you've been biding your time waiting to throw mud at the people who are optimistic that Lambert is doing the right things, rather than enjoying the positive feeling that's been missing for the last couple of years.  Are you really suprised people are arguing with you when you seem so determined to see the worst in everything we're doing.

Well I thought I'd leave my opinion until I saw Villa play, which I did yesterday. I wasn't impressed. We need investment, not just a new manager. Only Vlaar looked good yesterday, none of the other signings looked like anything special. There was next to no creativity at Forest, so need Lerner to loosed the purse strings. I still get the impression he's trying to do things on the cheap though. I want to be proven wrong.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: paul_e on August 05, 2012, 02:48:30 PM
So the fact that most reports have praised el ahmadi and holman is wrong then I take it?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 05, 2012, 02:53:26 PM
So the fact that most reports have praised el ahmadi and holman is wrong then I take it?

El Hamadi started off alright but faded after 30 mins and then just mainly gave the ball away. I thought Holman wasn't up to much either.  I hope they come good but they didn't look good to me yesterday.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: eastie on August 05, 2012, 03:15:11 PM
Pre season friendlies in the main are about getting fitness- im not too worried about yesterdays result, there were things to address but im sure we will be ready when it comes to west ham.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: garyshawsknee on August 05, 2012, 03:21:36 PM
You learn more in defeat than you do in victory,so im sure PL learned quite a bit yesterday,and will use it to our benefit.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on August 05, 2012, 03:22:04 PM
Pre season games are only useful if other than fitness they help you to find error states. Therefore a loss is a good  thing and we rather find out short comings now than at West Ham or v Everton.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: 1_Pablo_Angel on August 05, 2012, 03:25:39 PM
I find it mad how people can watch Bannan and not see the ability there. Touch, passing, close control, awareness. A cracking left foot. Maybe I just notice the good things and ignore the bad because after seeing him look brilliant for the youth and reserves I'm desperate for him to carry that on at the top level.

....nah. He's definitely the Scottish Iniesta  8)
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spangley1812 on August 05, 2012, 03:41:26 PM
I find it mad how people can watch Bannan and not see the ability there. Touch, passing, close control, awareness. A cracking left foot. Maybe I just notice the good things and ignore the bad because after seeing him look brilliant for the youth and reserves I'm desperate for him to carry that on at the top level.

....nah. He's definitely the Scottish Iniesta  8)

I saw him yesterday and he did play well.......I am not his biggest fan but for him and several other players @ VP this is a make or break season (and some of them may not get that long) He has talent and he has to be given a chance to show this and by making him captain and by playing him in the middle it looks like Lambert will give him that chance as with only 1 game left of the pre-season that the team that started the second half with Given in goal would start v West Ham ...............Good Luck to him and its up to him to show if he is good enough to play/flourish in the PL
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 05, 2012, 03:47:00 PM
Now that we've had our first proper moan/doom and gloom post I'm expecting a Greg Nash sighting at any time.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dante Lavelli on August 05, 2012, 04:02:13 PM
I like the fact that Lambert has had the balls to play Bannan quite deep.  I think that is where he skill set is best suited.  Picking the ball up from the defence and then keeping possession.  Playing face on to the play will also mean his size is less exposed.  By positioning himself between the attackers and the defence he does not need to be making physical tackles as much as just being there will force the ball out wide and to less dangerous areas.

Whether he is good enough  - I’m not sure anyone is expecting Sid good - will only become apparent after he is given a decent chance.  I’m delighted that we have a manager brave enough to take the risk.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 05, 2012, 04:11:48 PM
Agree with everything you say there Dante. I also love that he's been made captain for a couple of games - he's lacked someone to really believe in him. That combined with the stylistic and tactical issues makes it look like everything's going in his favour. Of course, that also means he has no excuses now if he doesn't come good. Hopefully he won't need any.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: tomd2103 on August 05, 2012, 08:10:06 PM
I like the fact that Lambert has had the balls to play Bannan quite deep.  I think that is where he skill set is best suited.  Picking the ball up from the defence and then keeping possession.  Playing face on to the play will also mean his size is less exposed.  By positioning himself between the attackers and the defence he does not need to be making physical tackles as much as just being there will force the ball out wide and to less dangerous areas.

Whether he is good enough  - I’m not sure anyone is expecting Sid good - will only become apparent after he is given a decent chance.  I’m delighted that we have a manager brave enough to take the risk.

I can see where you are coming from Dante, but having seen the game yesterday, I would personally prefer to see him a bit further up the field.  I still think we we could do with a real leader and a bit of physical presence in there who can get the ball to Bannan in positions where he can really hurt teams.  We did look a little too lightweight in midfield at times. 

On the whole, I didn't think yesterday was too bad.  I don't want to be harsh on the lad, but Warnock was poor again yesterday and highlighted that we really need a new LB.  The rest were OK though and Forest only really began getting on top when they began bringing on fresh players.   

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: curiousorange on August 05, 2012, 08:29:42 PM
Technically, we were pretty good yesterday. Physically, we faded second half. As long as we can play like the first half and keep it going for the whole of the second, I think we can be optimistic.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: tomd2103 on August 05, 2012, 08:56:32 PM
Technically, we were pretty good yesterday. Physically, we faded second half. As long as we can play like the first half and keep it going for the whole of the second, I think we can be optimistic.

Agree Curious, though I felt we did overplay in the final third at times. 
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: curiousorange on August 05, 2012, 09:21:51 PM
Somebody behind me said 'Welcome to Aston Villa, Charles N'Zogbia' and he  was right - it was the best shift he'd yet put in. However, he needs to learn he can't walk the ball into the net. Three or four times he could have smacked it and it would have flown in past Camp.

My own opinion is that we can do with a snappy, combative player whose only job is to break up play. If we're going to go for the nice little passes, we need a Plan B for when the passes aren't accurate. One of the reasons for our tiredness was because we spent too long chasing for the ball back, our front players included. Give somebody the job of regaining it in midfield or watch as the shortcomings of the defence are exposed as they constantly were under McLeish.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: tomd2103 on August 05, 2012, 11:11:13 PM
Somebody behind me said 'Welcome to Aston Villa, Charles N'Zogbia' and he  was right - it was the best shift he'd yet put in. However, he needs to learn he can't walk the ball into the net. Three or four times he could have smacked it and it would have flown in past Camp.

My own opinion is that we can do with a snappy, combative player whose only job is to break up play. If we're going to go for the nice little passes, we need a Plan B for when the passes aren't accurate. One of the reasons for our tiredness was because we spent too long chasing for the ball back, our front players included. Give somebody the job of regaining it in midfield or watch as the shortcomings of the defence are exposed as they constantly were under McLeish.

Again, agree on both points Curious.  I thought N'Zogbia showed glimpses of real quality yesterday, yet there was still the moments of frustration.  I thought we were on for a very early goal of the season candidate when he went on that run in the first half, but again instead of shooting he took too many touches.  Let's hope he can build on that performance yesterday, as he does possess undoubted quality.

I also agree that we are missing that ball winner in midfield.  Personally, I think we could do with someone just sitting in front of the defence who as you say, can win the ball back when we lose it.  I think the saga with Makoun has gone too far now, so maybe we could sell him and use the proceeds to bring in that type of player.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: villan from luton on August 05, 2012, 11:15:46 PM
We wont get too much for Makoun. Reckon he could have been an asset with Lambert in charge.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: luke25 on August 05, 2012, 11:23:47 PM
We wont get too much for Makoun. Reckon he could have been an asset with Lambert in charge.
I still think he's a really good player and hope we can sort his permit out.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: OCD on August 05, 2012, 11:24:37 PM
Technically, we were pretty good yesterday. Physically, we faded second half. As long as we can play like the first half and keep it going for the whole of the second, I think we can be optimistic.

Was that the first time in this pre-season that our players have played the whole game? I imagine the first half is a better gauge of where we're at. We've got another couple of weeks to get fitness levels up to the point that we can play like that for a whole game.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: peter w on August 05, 2012, 11:24:59 PM
After the shite we saw last season saunders to not see the green shoots this will always leave you open to ridicule. You know what you could be right, but its easy to pick the holes rather than want to find the positives. You have to ask yourself why you want to see negativity when the majority are looking for positives.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: villan from luton on August 05, 2012, 11:28:07 PM
Technically, we were pretty good yesterday. Physically, we faded second half. As long as we can play like the first half and keep it going for the whole of the second, I think we can be optimistic.

Was that the first time in this pre-season that our players have played the whole game? I imagine the first half is a better gauge of where we're at. We've got another couple of weeks to get fitness levels up to the point that we can play like that for a whole game.

Totally agree, it is all about getting physically right for opening game of the season. Read the Forest manager O'Driscoll saying the subs made the difference and that PL had decided to give the majority of his lads 90 mins to boost fitness levels.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: tomd2103 on August 05, 2012, 11:31:16 PM
We wont get too much for Makoun. Reckon he could have been an asset with Lambert in charge.
I still think he's a really good player and hope we can sort his permit out.

Agree with that Luke, but I think it has all gone too far and I think we need to move him on.  Would be interesting to hear what the player himself thinks and if he really wants to come back.  If we could get anywhere in the region of £3m for him, I'd be very tempted to sell.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 06, 2012, 12:37:12 AM
Somebody behind me said 'Welcome to Aston Villa, Charles N'Zogbia' and he  was right - it was the best shift he'd yet put in. However, he needs to learn he can't walk the ball into the net. Three or four times he could have smacked it and it would have flown in past Camp.

My own opinion is that we can do with a snappy, combative player whose only job is to break up play. If we're going to go for the nice little passes, we need a Plan B for when the passes aren't accurate. One of the reasons for our tiredness was because we spent too long chasing for the ball back, our front players included. Give somebody the job of regaining it in midfield or watch as the shortcomings of the defence are exposed as they constantly were under McLeish.

Again, agree on both points Curious.  I thought N'Zogbia showed glimpses of real quality yesterday, yet there was still the moments of frustration.  I thought we were on for a very early goal of the season candidate when he went on that run in the first half, but again instead of shooting he took too many touches.  Let's hope he can build on that performance yesterday, as he does possess undoubted quality.

I also agree that we are missing that ball winner in midfield.  Personally, I think we could do with someone just sitting in front of the defence who as you say, can win the ball back when we lose it.  I think the saga with Makoun has gone too far now, so maybe we could sell him and use the proceeds to bring in that type of player.

Completely agree from what I saw, on both counts.

Don't agree that CNZ was useless as some said. I thought he looked a real threat and played people in more intelligently than at times. Still needs to improve quite a bit there. If he can, he may be very well suited to they striker role
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: tomd2103 on August 06, 2012, 01:03:19 AM
Somebody behind me said 'Welcome to Aston Villa, Charles N'Zogbia' and he  was right - it was the best shift he'd yet put in. However, he needs to learn he can't walk the ball into the net. Three or four times he could have smacked it and it would have flown in past Camp.

My own opinion is that we can do with a snappy, combative player whose only job is to break up play. If we're going to go for the nice little passes, we need a Plan B for when the passes aren't accurate. One of the reasons for our tiredness was because we spent too long chasing for the ball back, our front players included. Give somebody the job of regaining it in midfield or watch as the shortcomings of the defence are exposed as they constantly were under McLeish.

Again, agree on both points Curious.  I thought N'Zogbia showed glimpses of real quality yesterday, yet there was still the moments of frustration.  I thought we were on for a very early goal of the season candidate when he went on that run in the first half, but again instead of shooting he took too many touches.  Let's hope he can build on that performance yesterday, as he does possess undoubted quality.

I also agree that we are missing that ball winner in midfield.  Personally, I think we could do with someone just sitting in front of the defence who as you say, can win the ball back when we lose it.  I think the saga with Makoun has gone too far now, so maybe we could sell him and use the proceeds to bring in that type of player.

Completely agree from what I saw, on both counts.

Don't agree that CNZ was useless as some said. I thought he looked a real threat and played people in more intelligently than at times. Still needs to improve quite a bit there. If he can, he may be very well suited to they striker role

Agree Matt and I also thought he provided us with width at times which was important as we were narrow in midfield.  He comes across as a confidence player and hopefully a run of decent games will help in that department.  Like you, I can see him being a threat in that position.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Steve R on August 06, 2012, 01:34:28 AM
I still think the issue with Makoun is whether or not he wants to be here, i.e. has he really settled, does he have a taste for PL football.

If so, he will either complement or compete with El Ahmadi. He is not the type of player to screen the back four.  We don't truly have one of those with the passing ability that PL's philosphy requires.

The one possible exception is Clark - but I suspect he is pencilled in for development as a centre back. Herd has the competitive edge, but nothing more than gut feeling tells me that PL doesn't rate him too highly.

I suspect Bannan is there as the best current compromise. Maybe this is the position, along with left back, that will see reinforcement before the end of August.

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 06, 2012, 07:09:52 PM
Somebody behind me said 'Welcome to Aston Villa, Charles N'Zogbia' and he  was right - it was the best shift he'd yet put in. However, he needs to learn he can't walk the ball into the net. Three or four times he could have smacked it and it would have flown in past Camp.

My own opinion is that we can do with a snappy, combative player whose only job is to break up play. If we're going to go for the nice little passes, we need a Plan B for when the passes aren't accurate. One of the reasons for our tiredness was because we spent too long chasing for the ball back, our front players included. Give somebody the job of regaining it in midfield or watch as the shortcomings of the defence are exposed as they constantly were under McLeish.

Again, agree on both points Curious.  I thought N'Zogbia showed glimpses of real quality yesterday, yet there was still the moments of frustration.  I thought we were on for a very early goal of the season candidate when he went on that run in the first half, but again instead of shooting he took too many touches.  Let's hope he can build on that performance yesterday, as he does possess undoubted quality.

I also agree that we are missing that ball winner in midfield.  Personally, I think we could do with someone just sitting in front of the defence who as you say, can win the ball back when we lose it.  I think the saga with Makoun has gone too far now, so maybe we could sell him and use the proceeds to bring in that type of player.
I'm yet to be convinced that Charles really has got the attitude - if he can show it, fantastic; he'll be an asset.
Re the sitting MF player - isn't that the role that Herd should be playing? I would like to see him and KEA playing alongside BB, with Holman and Ireland in front and one up top. That way, I think we can have the flair to attack buit the solidity to defend effectively.

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Richard on August 06, 2012, 08:08:07 PM
I am pretty sure PL will play a different line up depending on who and where we are playing. I agree with having an extra body like Herd for the tougher looking games but then switching to 3 men off the striker against the Wigans of the world, or an out and out two up front. I think he will also switch things around quickly in games where things are not going to plan.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: tomd2103 on August 06, 2012, 08:18:18 PM
Somebody behind me said 'Welcome to Aston Villa, Charles N'Zogbia' and he  was right - it was the best shift he'd yet put in. However, he needs to learn he can't walk the ball into the net. Three or four times he could have smacked it and it would have flown in past Camp.

My own opinion is that we can do with a snappy, combative player whose only job is to break up play. If we're going to go for the nice little passes, we need a Plan B for when the passes aren't accurate. One of the reasons for our tiredness was because we spent too long chasing for the ball back, our front players included. Give somebody the job of regaining it in midfield or watch as the shortcomings of the defence are exposed as they constantly were under McLeish.

Again, agree on both points Curious.  I thought N'Zogbia showed glimpses of real quality yesterday, yet there was still the moments of frustration.  I thought we were on for a very early goal of the season candidate when he went on that run in the first half, but again instead of shooting he took too many touches.  Let's hope he can build on that performance yesterday, as he does possess undoubted quality.

I also agree that we are missing that ball winner in midfield.  Personally, I think we could do with someone just sitting in front of the defence who as you say, can win the ball back when we lose it.  I think the saga with Makoun has gone too far now, so maybe we could sell him and use the proceeds to bring in that type of player.
I'm yet to be convinced that Charles really has got the attitude - if he can show it, fantastic; he'll be an asset.
Re the sitting MF player - isn't that the role that Herd should be playing? I would like to see him and KEA playing alongside BB, with Holman and Ireland in front and one up top. That way, I think we can have the flair to attack buit the solidity to defend effectively.

Having seen the way have played so far in pre-season, I'm not sure Herd has the quality on the ball to play the role that PL is expecting of the defensive midfielder.  On Saturday, Bannan was getting the ball off Guzan and the defenders and picking out passes.  I'm not sure that Herd is good enough on the ball to do that.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 06, 2012, 09:20:14 PM
I agree about Herd. Never been convinced he has the technical or tactical quality needed. Plus he looked awful in midfield in America which I don't imagine will have impressed lambert
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chris Jameson on August 07, 2012, 04:54:06 PM
Huddersfield Town are playing Barca B tomorrow evening which I was taking my son to. My brother has been doing some work with Huddersfield and has just called round to let my son know that Huddersfield have arranged with Barcelona for him to be Barca's mascot tomorrow evening! His face was a picture, he did say he was going to wear his Villa shirt but changed his mind!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: London Villan on August 07, 2012, 04:57:46 PM
With the amount of the ball fullbacks get these days I wonder of Banna
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: supertommykN'iba on August 08, 2012, 02:50:44 PM
Not sure if it's been mentioned anywhere but just a warning to anyone planning on going to Evesham tomorrow... Don't. Cancelled presumably due to this competition in Manchester the kids are in.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 08, 2012, 05:30:48 PM
With the amount of the ball fullbacks get these days I wonder of Banna
Did you fall alseep or something?!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: London Villan on August 08, 2012, 09:40:07 PM
It felt like it at times last season!

My musings were about using Bannan as a fullback, seeing how important they are on the ball these days... then the phone rang and I...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 08, 2012, 10:02:08 PM
Bannan as a full back. Back to the drawing board I reckon there mate!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: supertom on August 09, 2012, 08:55:56 AM
Bannan as a full back. Back to the drawing board I reckon there mate!
Shave his head and we've got the new Alan Wright.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 04:09:06 PM
Stephens at left back.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 04:12:46 PM
Team in full.
VILLA: Given, Lichaj, Vlaar, Clark, Stevens, Bannan, El Ahmadi, Holman, N’Zogbia, Weimann, Bent (c).
Correction! Fabian Delph starts, with Barry Bannan on the bench
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: KRS on August 11, 2012, 04:14:47 PM
442 with no Ireland?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spangley1812 on August 11, 2012, 04:17:20 PM
442 with no Ireland?

It will be more like 4 3 3/4 5 1.......the days of teams playing 4 4 2 with 2 wide men/wingers are in decline
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 04:21:15 PM
Subs: Guzan, Marshall, Ireland, Bannan, Baker, Gardner
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: DrGonzo on August 11, 2012, 04:28:12 PM
well we should be alright between the sticks...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spangley1812 on August 11, 2012, 04:29:48 PM
Any point in naming 2 goalies on the bench ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: DrGonzo on August 11, 2012, 04:35:44 PM
You'd have thought either Johnson or Carruthers would be a better bet than Marshall, have the reserves got a game coming up that kept them at home?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on August 11, 2012, 04:37:39 PM
Where's Lowton?
And I'm suprised that Johnson and Carruthers arent on the bench. Very strange.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 04:39:31 PM
Mat Kendrick ‏@MatKendrick
Matthew Lowton has travelled to Germany but has not made the bench, so I will try to find out why and get back to you
The fucker hasn't yet.
Ankle knock so left out.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on August 11, 2012, 04:39:36 PM
According to the world of twitter and Matt Kendrick, Lowton is not on the bench, unsure why.
Carruthers is with the Eire U21 squad.

Any streams anyone?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 11, 2012, 04:46:23 PM
For those with access to AVTV.

http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/TV/LiveEventsDetail/0,,10265~2877229,00.html

http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/TV/LiveEvents/0,,10265,00.html
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 11, 2012, 04:50:09 PM
This may work come kick off time, then again it may not.

http://www.usagoals.com/live/167884-werder-bremen-vs-aston-villa/watch/stream/online/free/feed/p2p/en/vivo/tv/gratis/
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 11, 2012, 04:53:39 PM
Has anyone got the villastreams link to work? I can't find anything to actually launch the stream?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on August 11, 2012, 04:54:03 PM
Is it just me that can't access the match. There doesn't seem to be an active link.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 04:55:18 PM
Is it just me that can't access the match. There doesn't seem to be an active link.
There's a bit of a delay in it started. Bear with us! Dan avfc.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 04:55:54 PM
It is a 17:00 BST KO, isn't it ?

What time in the AVTV stream meant to kick in?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 04:56:27 PM
It is a 17:00 BST KO, isn't it ?

What time in the AVTV stream meant to kick in?
10 minutes ago.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: charleeco7 on August 11, 2012, 04:57:02 PM
Lowton has a slight ankle injury so not involved.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 04:58:48 PM
Having a few technical problems - apologies about the delay.
by Dan AVFC 4:57 PM
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 11, 2012, 05:02:34 PM
The sound keeps on cutting out.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 05:02:53 PM
How do I watch it?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on August 11, 2012, 05:03:13 PM
No luck with the streams... anyone else having luck?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 05:04:10 PM
AVTV is the biggest load of shite.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on August 11, 2012, 05:04:54 PM
Right, so there is no way of watching it? Our website is awful.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 05:05:08 PM
I'm watching on avtv, great stream.

Is there a match thread?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 05:05:53 PM
Once again can't apologise enough aout the live feed - we're working to get it up and running.
by Dan AVFC 5:04 PM
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on August 11, 2012, 05:05:59 PM
How are you watching it? There doesn't seem to be a link on the website.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spangley1812 on August 11, 2012, 05:06:04 PM
I'm watching on avtv, great stream.

Is there a match thread?

This is the match thread as well.........
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: London Villan on August 11, 2012, 05:06:19 PM
How bad is our website!!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 05:06:25 PM
I'm watching on avtv, great stream.

Is there a match thread?
How?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 11, 2012, 05:06:38 PM
I'm watching on avtv, great stream.

It's terrible on my PC.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: OCD on August 11, 2012, 05:06:40 PM
AVTV is the biggest load of shite.

The website in general is a pile of shite.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:08:11 PM
How are you watching it? There doesn't seem to be a link on the website.

http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/TV/LiveEventsDetail/0,,10265~2877222,00.html

However, my stream is very jerky
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 05:08:48 PM
Jack Woodward really is so much like Alan Partridge.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: drisaac on August 11, 2012, 05:09:18 PM
mine is 'working' now but at about 3 frames per second.  what a load of rubbish.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 11, 2012, 05:10:04 PM
Picture settled OK now on AVTV.

Usual commentary though....Knowing me Jack Woodward, Knowing you poor listener....A ha.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 05:10:09 PM
How are you watching it? There doesn't seem to be a link on the website.

http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/TV/LiveEventsDetail/0,,10265~2877222,00.html

However, my stream is very jerky

Yeah, mine too.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: London Villan on August 11, 2012, 05:10:37 PM
I give up!!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 11, 2012, 05:12:34 PM
I'm picture perfect now.Try reloading
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:12:47 PM
Bremen should have scored there
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:13:21 PM
.....and now they do
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 05:13:37 PM
Bremen have just scored.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:13:56 PM
Villa concede from a corner, now there's a shock
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 05:14:04 PM
Nicely taken goal.

Goal music for about 5 minutes after the goal.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:15:01 PM
Fer fecks sake Jack, take a breath every now and again
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 11, 2012, 05:15:13 PM
1-0 Bremen.
Cross from the left and a free header from just outside the 6 yard box. All round poor marking there.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 05:15:52 PM
My stream on avtv is perfect.  I'm current abroad on a crap 2mb broadband connection too. I find avtv seems to work best on explorer.

Crap defending for the goal. Lambert out!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 05:16:00 PM
I'm picture perfect now.Try reloading
thats made it worse.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 05:17:59 PM
Benty
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:18:12 PM
Nice work by Andi there to set up Benty for the equalizer
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 05:18:29 PM
Bent equaliser - just seen it in slow-frame video ...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 05:19:47 PM
Explorer it works fine thanks for the tip Arsey.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 05:20:37 PM
Given looks a lot slimmer.
Holman looks very good - sees the simple passes very well.
Weimann could have done better there.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:20:44 PM
BY the look on his face, the Bremen manager does not currently "dig it"
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 05:20:49 PM
Unluck Weimann!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 11, 2012, 05:20:55 PM
1-1.

Virtually walked through the defence. Weimann though on the keeper and tapped it inside for Bent and an empty net.....even I could have scored that. In fact, even Heskey could have scored that.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 05:21:24 PM
I like the 1 touch passing simple but effective!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 05:21:53 PM
Close by Weimann, rounded last defender and keeper but angle was too tight to finish.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 05:22:54 PM
1-1.

Virtually walked through the defence. Weimann though on the keeper and tapped it inside for Bent and an empty net.....even I could have scored that. In fact, even Heskey could have scored that.

Could... But he would have tumbled over having air kicked it
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: berneboy on August 11, 2012, 05:23:31 PM
Ron looking concrete.
Who's captain today?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:24:54 PM
1-2 Clark
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 05:25:05 PM
We don't need a new striker! we have Clark!!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 05:25:19 PM
0-2 Clark

1-2 u mean...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 05:25:19 PM
Bent is captain. Villa looking good value.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:25:26 PM
Ron looking concrete.
Who's captain today?

Benty
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 05:25:27 PM
Very good finish.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chris_Jephcott on August 11, 2012, 05:25:35 PM
1 - 2 surely?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 05:25:46 PM
Gooooaall. Clark. Good finish, cross from N'Zog, Clark received it near the penalty spot, back to goal, spun and smacked it in.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:26:51 PM
1 - 2 surely?

Typo
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:27:50 PM
Switched over to IE for a while but I think that the stream's better on Chrome
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 05:29:05 PM
Team in full.
VILLA: Given, Lichaj, Vlaar, Clark, Stevens, Bannan, El Ahmadi, Holman, N’Zogbia, Weimann, Bent (c).
Correction! Fabian Delph starts, with Barry Bannan on the bench

Put in Lowton and I wouldn't be surprised if that is who starts next week. When in Dunne back?

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 05:30:15 PM
Nice free kick from them.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 05:30:50 PM
Delph looking okay alongside KEA.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:31:48 PM
Its very clear why Jack is commentating on a Villa internet feed and not on a major channel
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spangley1812 on August 11, 2012, 05:32:09 PM
Team in full.
VILLA: Given, Lichaj, Vlaar, Clark, Stevens, Bannan, El Ahmadi, Holman, N’Zogbia, Weimann, Bent (c).
Correction! Fabian Delph starts, with Barry Bannan on the bench

Put in Lowton and I wouldn't be surprised if that is who starts next week. When in Dunne back?



After seeing Lowton next week this maybe the team for next week with Warnock for Stephens and Dunne is out for 4/5 more weeks I think
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 05:33:27 PM
Its very clear why Jack is commentating on a Villa internet feed and not on a major channel
Sounds like he has been smoking crack.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:35:57 PM
Its very clear why Jack is commentating on a Villa internet feed and not on a major channel
Sounds like he has been smoking crack.

Jack talks more than Vin Scully, and I thought that was impossible.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 05:36:35 PM
Team in full.
VILLA: Given, Lichaj, Vlaar, Clark, Stevens, Bannan, El Ahmadi, Holman, N’Zogbia, Weimann, Bent (c).
Correction! Fabian Delph starts, with Barry Bannan on the bench

Put in Lowton and I wouldn't be surprised if that is who starts next week. When in Dunne back?



After seeing Lowton next week this maybe the team for next week with Warnock for Stephens and Dunne is out for 4/5 more weeks I think
Can't see Bent, Weimann and N'Zog starting next week; likely to have an extra midfielder in there.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:36:39 PM
Hello Jack............... [waves]
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 05:37:10 PM
With Woodward, it's not so much what he says, it's the bizarre intonation he adopts, which is totally Partridge.

Oh, and the fact he feels the need to talk constantly
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 05:39:30 PM
'that would of been a brilliant save by Given,he didn't move'
Yes Jack.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 05:44:03 PM
Team in full.
VILLA: Given, Lichaj, Vlaar, Clark, Stevens, Bannan, El Ahmadi, Holman, N’Zogbia, Weimann, Bent (c).
Correction! Fabian Delph starts, with Barry Bannan on the bench

Put in Lowton and I wouldn't be surprised if that is who starts next week. When in Dunne back?



After seeing Lowton next week this maybe the team for next week with Warnock for Stephens and Dunne is out for 4/5 more weeks I think
Can't see Bent, Weimann and N'Zog starting next week; likely to have an extra midfielder in there.

Maybe Ireland for N'Zog?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: UK Redsox on August 11, 2012, 05:44:57 PM
I have to go out now. Play nicely everybody
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on August 11, 2012, 05:47:20 PM
Report from
 Werder have had most of the possession but I do like the way we move the ball at speed. N'zogbia is still an enigma. Holman is looking good. Weimann had been our best player. Both fullbacks are struggling a little bit.
We have been fairly effective so far.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 11, 2012, 05:47:49 PM
Half time and 2-1 up.

45 minutes of liquid football.  Cheers Alan, sorry I mean Jack.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on August 11, 2012, 05:48:31 PM
Heard?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on August 11, 2012, 05:49:15 PM
Report from Weserstadion
 have had most of the possession but I do like the way we move the ball at speed. N'zogbia is still an enigma. Holman is looking good. Heard has been our best player. Both fullbacks are struggling a little bit.
We have been fairly effective so far.

How has Herd been our best player when he isn't even playing? That must be some performance!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 05:49:24 PM
Report from Weserstadion
 have had most of the possession but I do like the way we move the ball at speed. N'zogbia is still an enigma. Holman is looking good. Heard has been our best player. Both fullbacks are struggling a little bit.
We have been fairly effective so far.
Heard - who he?
Agree that Holman looks good (thanks, TSM; your legacy for us?).
Clark and Vlaar looking good.
Delph okay but prone to the odd gaff or two.
Haven't made my mind up about Stevens yet.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 05:50:01 PM
Well, that was entertaining fare. Some thoughts ...

KEA and Delph in the middle combine very well. I still worry about Delph's tendency to go in a bit over the top, but these two look a decent pairing.

Holman - pretty much anonymous.

Weimann and Bent - plenty of movement up front.

Clark - he really is a very good footballer, lovely swivel and shot for the goal.

Of Lichaj and Stevens, Stevens impresses me most, he looks more composed on the ball.

Vlaar looks solid, slightly tendency to wander up the pitch, mind.

N'Zogbia for me looked pretty poor. I thought he was a good signing, and he's proved at Wigan that he's a good player, but he's shown pretty much zero since joining us, and I haven't seen anything this pre-season to persuade me he's going to be any different this season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on August 11, 2012, 05:50:14 PM
N'Zogbia has looked much better. Delph and El Ahmadi looking very good together. I'm going to put a bet on Holman being our Player of the Season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 05:51:38 PM
My money would go on KEA for that. He looks a very competent player.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on August 11, 2012, 05:51:43 PM
Number 26 Weimann not Herd ... Too much sun today!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on August 11, 2012, 05:52:22 PM
Holman - pretty much anonymous.

I couldn't disagree with that more. I think he's been very good, all over the park. Agree with most of your other comments though. Except I think N'Zogbia has looked pretty useful.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 11, 2012, 05:52:33 PM
Heard has been our best player.

Eh?

Positives:

2 goals. decent possession and playing ourselves out of tricky situations at the back. Delph very composed. KEA good in patches. Holman generally. Centre backs reading of the game

Concerns:

Only really had 3 chances, compared to more for Bremen. But that's probably ok from an attacking pov
Defensively look very vulnerable I think, including from set pieces
CNZ running into blind alleys
Full backs look vulnerable

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: JJ-AV on August 11, 2012, 05:53:17 PM
Warnock must be off pretty soon. Hutton was frozen out without an immediate move, but we have other right backs. If he was here next Saturday he would be in the team (Warnock) so he must be gone. Hopefully his replacement is equally as close.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 05:54:12 PM
Holman's running off the ball is very good.years since we had someone do that.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on August 11, 2012, 05:54:27 PM
We have to remember that Vlaar and Clark have played 135 minutes together. I think they'll prove to be a very good partnership.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 05:54:32 PM
That Aaron Hunt for them looks like he can hit a free kick.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 05:54:41 PM
Oh, good half time music, too.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 05:55:03 PM
Scratch that, it's some horrid eurodisco version of what I thought it was.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 05:56:25 PM
Holman - pretty much anonymous.

I couldn't disagree with that more. I think he's been very good, all over the park.
You're right, Lonely.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 11, 2012, 05:56:35 PM
Bah humbug at not having a match stream to watch.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 05:57:00 PM
That Aaron Hunt for them looks like he can hit a free kick.
Yeah, looks like a good midfielder ...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spangley1812 on August 11, 2012, 05:58:48 PM
That Aaron Hunt for them looks like he can hit a free kick.
Yeah, looks like a good midfielder ...

Very good on Football Manager.......
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: usav on August 11, 2012, 05:59:23 PM
Scratch that, it's some horrid eurodisco version of what I thought it was.

It's in Germany, you should have known better.......
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 05:59:36 PM
One step beyond.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 05:59:40 PM
Big shout out from Woodward for Edvard of this parish there.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on August 11, 2012, 06:00:43 PM
I think Holman is a pretty similar player to Ji Sung Park, does all the simple things very well, good running off the ball and works extremely hard.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 06:01:26 PM
London calling.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on August 11, 2012, 06:01:29 PM
London Calling now. Music has improved a bit.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 11, 2012, 06:02:37 PM
Number 26 Weimann not Herd ... Too much sun today!

Too much sun my arse !

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7o8SdS3qwN4/S3-_wDTFenI/AAAAAAAAAgg/p9ltZ2COUiM/s400/women+drinking+german+beer.jpg)

PROST !

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 06:04:47 PM
Charles really is not very good; "blind alleys are us"
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 06:05:00 PM
Given looks like he should be on mario cart.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on August 11, 2012, 06:07:40 PM
Number 26 Weimann not Herd ... Too much sun today!

Too much sun my arse !

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_7o8SdS3qwN4/S3-_wDTFenI/AAAAAAAAAgg/p9ltZ2COUiM/s400/women+drinking+german+beer.jpg)

PROST !



Nice jugs
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 06:08:41 PM
I have never, ever heard a commentator who talks continually like Woodward before.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: spk on August 11, 2012, 06:09:00 PM
Who else is feeling really good vibes about the new signings and the new boss?Hope it isnt just me being overly optimistic....
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on August 11, 2012, 06:09:29 PM
2-2, bit sloppy.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 06:09:50 PM
Not sure what Given was doing there; not alot it seems.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 06:09:51 PM
That was pretty poor
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 06:09:55 PM
Given off now.... GUZAN!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Salsa Party Animal on August 11, 2012, 06:10:04 PM
any working stream outside official web site AVTV ?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 06:10:43 PM
Guzan will be no1 by the end of the season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 06:11:06 PM
Guzan will be no1 by the end of the season.

Deserves to be!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on August 11, 2012, 06:11:45 PM
Adjusting his headwear maybe.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 06:13:02 PM
Pretty poor goal to concede, that.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 11, 2012, 06:13:18 PM
Guzan will be no1 by the end of the season.

Deserves to be!

I think he'll be no1 by the start of the season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 06:16:35 PM
Only disappointment of the game is the amount of free-kicks around our box we've given away!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: JJ-AV on August 11, 2012, 06:17:15 PM
Did Vlaar just volley the ball back into the six yard box?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: TheEgo on August 11, 2012, 06:18:23 PM
Is it me or do we look a little bit shit at the back?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 06:18:42 PM
2nd half has been rather poor so far.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 06:21:21 PM
Penalty shout probably would be in PL
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 11, 2012, 06:22:16 PM
Oooooh, midfielder to full back MON flashback.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 06:22:32 PM
Delph moves to the position I suspect he'll end up at longer-term.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 06:24:23 PM
A team with no shape 2nd half.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 06:25:18 PM
Good period of play; 3-2
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 06:25:33 PM
Bent again! Glad he's scoring!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 06:25:43 PM
Benty!

Don't deserve to be back in the lead
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 11, 2012, 06:26:08 PM
We have scored from a corner !

Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: bertlambshank on August 11, 2012, 06:26:11 PM
Shows what I Know.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 06:28:00 PM
Can't keep a lead as usual.... 3-3
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 11, 2012, 06:28:17 PM
A team with no shape 2nd half.

Lambert out!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 11, 2012, 06:28:19 PM
3-3
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 06:28:20 PM
Poor defending there.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Breezeblock on August 11, 2012, 06:28:24 PM
what the fuck just happened? christ but this stream is crap
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 11, 2012, 06:28:35 PM
Shows what I Know.

Lambert in!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 11, 2012, 06:28:54 PM
Poor defending there.

Lambert out!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 11, 2012, 06:29:17 PM
God it's boring with no match stream. Can you tell?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 11, 2012, 06:30:23 PM
Well, it seems in no doubt that we'll be more fun to watch this season!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 11, 2012, 06:30:35 PM
God it's boring with no match stream. Can you tell?

Imagine how boring it is reading your posts and not having a stream?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 06:31:44 PM
Charles loses the ball too much, for me.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 11, 2012, 06:32:11 PM
Getting the feeling we may not have too many 0-0 scorelines this season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 06:32:36 PM
Ignore this
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: D.boy on August 11, 2012, 06:32:48 PM
Afternoon all, just got in from work so read this thread, not brilliant by the sounds of it but doing ok. At least we are creating and taking chances. We aren't going to turn into a brilliant team overnight but we do appear to be steadily heading in the right direction.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Chipsticks on August 11, 2012, 06:34:21 PM
What were Bent's goals like?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 11, 2012, 06:34:52 PM
Charles loses the ball too much, for me.

Agreed. If Lambert is to play a diamond, my ideal quartet would be KEA, Bannan, Ireland and Holman.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 06:34:56 PM
Bent & Weimman look fit still tracking down now.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PaulWinch again on August 11, 2012, 06:35:22 PM
Defence is a bit of a concern, we definitely need a left back at the very least.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Breezeblock on August 11, 2012, 06:36:05 PM
What were Bent's goals like?
first a tap-in from Weimann, Second buried from a corner
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 06:36:29 PM
"We're on the Villa Bandwagon" (J. Woodward; 11-08-12).
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Arsey on August 11, 2012, 06:40:21 PM
A couple of very decent saves from Given.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: johncvilla88 on August 11, 2012, 06:44:09 PM
Getting abit feisty for a friendly....
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 11, 2012, 06:47:12 PM
The second half has been quite revealing: I think it's shown the risk of not having more seasoned EPL players on the side.
We've looked a little panicky and naive at times.

But overall, some positives.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 11, 2012, 06:48:15 PM
"That ball is arrowing like....like...err...one of Steve Backley's javelin throws."

Woodward getting in the olympic spirit.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mazrim on August 11, 2012, 06:48:50 PM
Work to do but encouraging as well.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Olneythelonely on August 11, 2012, 06:50:43 PM
Some positive signs, but defensively we still look very, very poor.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: not3bad on August 11, 2012, 06:51:27 PM
Werder Bremen 3
Villa 3

AVTV stream: minus 1 billion
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 11, 2012, 06:52:42 PM
My main concern is the defence. Vlaar looks good. Clark looks good until someone throws the ball into the box, when he doesn't really look like a centre back. And with the general absence of height in the side, that's a big concern going into the season.

Big Sam would have been licking his lips looking at that performance, defensively. We could easily have shipped 5 or 6.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Ron Manager on August 11, 2012, 06:53:52 PM
The second half has been quite revealing: I think it's shown the risk of not having more seasoned EPL players on the side.
We've looked a little panicky and naive at times.

But overall, some positives.
Tim Henman was always taking the positives. No wonder he never won the Wimbledon title!

Is it true we had one corner(and scored) and they had ten! A worrying stastistic.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 11, 2012, 06:56:44 PM
It's a work in progress but it won't be dull this year. 3 goals scored would have taken 5 games last season under TSM.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PGW on August 11, 2012, 06:59:48 PM
I'm not so sure about Ron, defended low balls into box really well but like Clarke went missing when high balls were played in. I'm not gonna lose any sleep yet as they both have to settle into a partnership together. My biggest fear is the love affair between PL and Fabian Delph i do worry when he is on the ball especially in defensive situations but then probably played the ball of the game through to Benty!!! Roll on next week.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Pete3206 on August 11, 2012, 07:02:04 PM
Big Sam would have been licking his lips looking at that performance, defensively. We could easily have shipped 5 or 6.

Perhaps he might be thinking about how busy his own defenders might be next week.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: London Villan on August 11, 2012, 07:03:11 PM
"That ball is arrowing like....like...err...one of Steve Backley's javelin throws."

Woodward getting in the olympic spirit.

Just the 20 years too late...
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: PaulWinch again on August 11, 2012, 07:04:49 PM
Going forward looks good, at the back needs work. I personally think we need at the very least a left back, centre mid and a striker.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Monty on August 11, 2012, 07:07:41 PM
Yes the defence looks suspect, but compared to last season where all we did was try and artlessly block opposition attacks without mounting any of our own, I much prefer this style. We pass nicely and quickly, we go for it from the start, we press hard and high up the pitch, and we look like we're having a bit of fun out there. For now, I'll take risky, mad 3-3s over suicide-inducing 0-0s every day of the week.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Edvard Remberg on August 11, 2012, 07:08:47 PM
Big shout out from Woodward for Edvard of this parish there.
What was that? :) didn't hear anything. About the "Ahmadi" and not "ACCCHmadi"?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: olaftab on August 11, 2012, 07:10:20 PM
Well that was fun however defence still has big problem. Vlaar has the movement of an oil tanker and no proper fullback solution. Delph and KEA were better in the first half and we lost some control with Delph switching to LB.
After watching this I feel a little less confident about the coming season.
Now Bremen awaits!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on August 11, 2012, 07:12:03 PM
"That ball is arrowing like....like...err...one of Steve Backley's javelin throws."

Woodward getting in the olympic spirit.

Just the 20 years too late...

Yes Backleys long retired.  Cant wait for Gabby to be back, Jack will be comparing him to Jessie Owens. 
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Dante Lavelli on August 11, 2012, 07:25:55 PM
Going forward looks good, at the back needs work. I personally think we NEED at the very least a left back, centre mid and a striker.

What do you mean by “need”?  I do not think that the current squad will get relegated and buying those extra players will not get us into to europe (IMO).  I am interested to hear why people think we need these players as I think we might be better buying them once more players are off the wage bill and hopefully we’ll have improved so we can tempt better players.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Can Gana Be Bettered!?!? on August 11, 2012, 08:08:34 PM
Rather 3-3 and trying to win games than last season. So long as we try and win, then I'll be happy (well, providing we do get some results out of it!).
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 11, 2012, 09:37:26 PM
Another point I've noted is about the formation. It allows us to play 2 up front without getting outnumbered in midfield, because the wide midfielders tuck in. But our full backs are often left very exposed. And being as they're not that good, this seems to be a problem!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 11, 2012, 09:54:45 PM
Looking at today's other pre-season games, I feel a little more confident about our own weaknesses in that game:

- Man Utd had to come back from 3-1 down to beat Hannover
- Sunderland lost to Leicester
- Southampton got tonked 4-0 by Udinese
- Swansea from 2-0 down to draw with Stuttgart
- Fulham lost at home to Charlton
- Newcastle got spanked 4-1 by Cardiff
- Norwich lost against Borussia M

So no time to be complacent, but it looks like plenty of our competitors have been shipping goals and most of those games were at home.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: luke25 on August 11, 2012, 10:01:11 PM
Another point I've noted is about the formation. It allows us to play 2 up front without getting outnumbered in midfield, because the wide midfielders tuck in. But our full backs are often left very exposed. And being as they're not that good, this seems to be a problem!
We definately need our two full backs to be quick and more importantly have Milner-esque stamina.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: eric woolban woolban on August 11, 2012, 10:02:50 PM
Pre-season is all about getting ready for the start of the season.

Fitness, trying formations is all that matters.

I've seen us have good pre-seasons and then perform badly in the season.

I've seen us have bad pre-seasons and then perform well in the season.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: SoccerHQ on August 11, 2012, 10:24:53 PM
I think today shows how our season will go. Just look at how many high scoring games Norwich were involved in last season aswell.

Can't see us keeping that many clean sheets but after last season people will surely welcome all out attacking football?
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: eamonn on August 11, 2012, 10:32:46 PM
Yeah, a hybrid of Norwich/Aston Villa 92/93 is something I could dig. 20th anniversary an'all so it's fitting.

Norwich played Dortmund today? Presumably that was arranged while Lambo was still their manager. Strange coincidence otherwise.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Matt Collins on August 11, 2012, 10:44:03 PM
Yeah, a hybrid of Norwich/Aston Villa 92/93 is something I could dig. 20th anniversary an'all so it's fitting.

Norwich played Dortmund today? Presumably that was arranged while Lambo was still their manager. Strange coincidence otherwise.

No the M stands for Munchengladbach rather than Dortmund . .
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 11, 2012, 10:57:37 PM
I can see why you went with the initial.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: dave.woodhall on August 11, 2012, 10:58:26 PM
Give us a.....

I'll access me outer garment.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: eamonn on August 12, 2012, 03:23:02 AM
D'oh!
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Steve R on August 12, 2012, 03:52:39 AM
...
I've seen us have good pre-seasons and then perform badly in the season.

I've seen us have bad pre-seasons and then perform well in the season.

I've always worked on the principle that the better the pre-season, the worse we are likely to be when the real stuff starts.

Well,  at least since 1969.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: Mister E on August 12, 2012, 08:28:13 AM
Another point I've noted is about the formation. It allows us to play 2 up front without getting outnumbered in midfield, because the wide midfielders tuck in. But our full backs are often left very exposed. And being as they're not that good, this seems to be a problem!
We definately need our two full backs to be quick and more importantly have Milner-esque stamina.
Well, I think we had that yesterday with Lichaj, Stevens and Delph.
Used as wingbacks they played okay: when asked to defend deeper, they looked less sure and CC and Ron had to do some last-second covering for them; hence the number of corners conceded.
Title: Re: Pre-Season Friendlies 2012
Post by: fredm on August 12, 2012, 10:10:09 AM
I think the way we are apparently set up at the moment leaves a lot of space down the flanks for the opposition to attack through.  You therefore need good and experienced full backs who are able to master what is thrown at them when not having much assistance by way of cover in front of them.  At the moment I am not sure we have those players.
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