Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Legion on September 16, 2012, 09:15:50 PM
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0-2 away win
Bent 12
Benteke 88
Saturday 22.9.12 KO 3pm
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4-0
Holman. Bent (2), Concrete Ron
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I shall be in the home end for this so hopefully I'll be trying to conceal the joy of us battering them 5-0.
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I reckon this will be a 'back down to earth' type performance.
2-1 Southampton.
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will go 2-0, Ireland and bent
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They will go two up and we will come back to 2-2 in the last 15 mins. We will be singing 2-0 and you fecked it up.
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Southampton is a nice away trip. No idea about the score, buti think we'll play well.
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Confidence is high.
They look piss poor.
I'll go 3-1 to us.
Holman,Benteke and Bent for us.
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I'll go 1-3 too.
Benteke 2 Bent 1
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I really can't call this match. I fear a 'down to earth ' result but I think (hope) our work rate will get at least a draw.
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Think this will be tougher than some predict. Saints played very well in their last home game v manure. They were winning with 5 to go IIRC.
I can't see any reason to change the shape of the side. But I wonder if there might be a couple of personnel changes. Think we could see benteke start and I wonder if there's a chance it may be alongside gabby.
Also wonder if Westwood might replace Ireland or bannan.
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Tough game, I think Southampton are a bit like us before yesterday , people assume they are terrible by looking at results but they have played decently.
I hope the spanking they just got has hurt their self belief a bit.
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This is a 'must win' game for them, and they've already given the two best sides in the league a real scare.
I'll go for the 1-1 draw. Gabby for us, and Steven Davis for them - you just know he will.
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Think this will be tougher than some predict. Saints played very well in their last home game v manure. They were winning with 5 to go IIRC.
I can't see any reason to change the shape of the side. But I wonder if there might be a couple of personnel changes. Think we could see benteke start and I wonder if there's a chance it may be alongside gabby.
Also wonder if Westwood might replace Ireland or bannan.
If he is going to come in it probably would be for Ireland and Holman would move into "the hole". Bannan probably should stay in as he provides a left footed option, is capable of getting into wide areas and putting good balls in which is an important part of the way we are currently playing. I can't really see a case for making too many more changes though and the only remaining question would be whether Benteke starts.
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This will be tough, they need a win and look good at home. I reckon an entertaining score draw, 2-2
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Them 1 Us 2
Le Tissier 90+1
Bent 90+3
Clark 90+6
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A good performance will do, much like the Newcastle game where we played well and could've/should've won.
However, I will predict a win.
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Think this will be tougher than some predict. Saints played very well in their last home game v manure. They were winning with 5 to go IIRC.
I can't see any reason to change the shape of the side. But I wonder if there might be a couple of personnel changes. Think we could see benteke start and I wonder if there's a chance it may be alongside gabby.
Also wonder if Westwood might replace Ireland or bannan.
Christ, I'd even put Warnock in there in place of Ireland. I thought he was an embarrassment yesterday.
On yesterdays showing I'm afraid my fellow Corkman needs to be benched, maybe it's the kick up the arse he needs..but how many chances does the guy warrant?
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I think they will be viewing this as the real start of their season and as such I think they will be putting in a real shift.
I think it will be a tough game and a well fought draw, 2-2.
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Win.
It is nice looking at the fixture list and thinking "we can do them". This is one of them. They are getting bullied and out worked at the moment, and got severely Arsenaled this weekend. We will do our homework and get the result I reckon. 2-1 Bent x2.
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There will be another check to the momentum at some point but I don't think this will be it.
Another 2 = 0 win. Also, I haven't a clue what the exact starting XI will be, which is great.
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1-1
Ken Monkou/Nathaniel Clyne and Kevin Richardson/Brett Holman
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Every result is so difficult to call at the minute. But Southampton's defence looks very shaky, as Villa's defence looks like it's improving. Reason to be confident.
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Being a Villa fan, I naturally suspect something nasty is waiting around the corner to destroy the feelgood factor.
Saints 2 Villa 1
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Saints 1 - 2 Us
Before kickoff, ref awards a goal to Shearer.
Bent & Holman for us.
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As other posters have noted Southampton have played well against the 2 Manchester teams and they are due a result of some kind.
However their defence is poor and we will be flying after the win on Saturday.
3-1 to Villa, Bentenke and 2 from Bent methinks.
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Southampton are a poor side. They were abysmal againat Arsenal and concealed within plucky games against the Manchester clubs is a two nil home defeat to Wigan.
They may be looking at our game as winnable, but there is no reason why we cannot go there an get a result.
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Guzan
Lowton
Vlaar (c)
Clark
Bennett
Bannan
Holman
KEA
Ireland
Bent
Benteke
3-1 win.
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I would start with exactly the same starting X1 as Swansea and judge when to bring on the super subs
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I agree Hookey, and I also agree with the poster above who said 2-2.
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I would start with exactly the same starting X1 as Swansea and judge when to bring on the super subs
I agree. Also note that Wigan went to the south coast and won 2-0 not so long back, so I'd fancy our chances. If the same attitude and endeavour is shown as we witnessed this Saturday, then there is only one place those 3pts are going.
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1-1
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Home advantage (will fancy there chances against a poor Villa side, yeah right)
not as good as Swansea + power of Benteke + Villa work rate + growing confidence.
= Southampton 1 Villa 3.
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It would be good to get back to back league wins ( when was the last time that happened?) so I predict a solid 0-2 win with Holman and Ron scoring.
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villa win . I will take 1-0 . But reckon 1-3.
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After their game on MOTD Nigel Adkins said that having played and lost to the likes of Citeh, Manure and Arse (no mention of also losing at home to Wigan) the game against Villa will be the start of their season. In other words it's only Villa so they'll win. Lambert should play those comments to the team before the game as added motivation to shove those words down his throat. Think it will be an entertaining game - they put 2 past both Manchesters so they can definitely score - but I think we'll win it 3-1, especially if The Beast is on from the start.
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1-7
Ireland and Guzan hat-tricks, own goal by Le Tissier.
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After their game on MOTD Nigel Adkins said that having played and lost to the likes of Citeh, Manure and Arse (no mention of also losing at home to Wigan) the game against Villa will be the start of their season. In other words it's only Villa so they'll win. Lambert should play those comments to the team before the game as added motivation to shove those words down his throat. Think it will be an entertaining game - they put 2 past both Manchesters so they can definitely score - but I think we'll win it 3-1, especially if The Beast is on from the start.
I think that is the way Southampton have to look at it (that the Villa game is the start of their season) if they're going to have any chance of surviving. Not that Lambert shouldn't use those comments as you say.
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0-2. Bent and that big bloke who played on the right wing for the last 10 mins on Saturday. Who does he think he is? Ray Graydon?
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3-0 win for us. Weiman and Bentx2
Benteke will start mainly because their defence looks really nervy. I'd go him and Weimann as the front pair to start and then bring Bent on for Weimann in the 2nd half to finish things off
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1-1 draw Bent scoring for us.
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I'm worried about playing these after they were destroyed at Arsenal. I'll go for an entertaining draw. 2-2. With them equalising late on.
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I would happily take a dull 1-0 win , they are going to want to be compact and tight after leaking a few but I think if we take momentum into this one we can over come
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I hope we wear our away kit
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I'm worried about playing these after they were destroyed at Arsenal. I'll go for an entertaining draw. 2-2. With them equalising late on.
The important thing when playing a side who just taken a hammering is to put their defence under pressure, get in their faces and force them to rush decisions, a mistake or 2 early on will hurt their confidence, that's why I'd go with Weiman and Benteke(or Gabby) as we really want to get in their faces and force them to give the ball away, etc. If we get it right in the first hour Bent can come on late and reap the benefits.
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Isnt it great to be talking as positively as this again?
If we apply ourselves and work as hard as the last two games then i would fancy us to give any bugger a game - especially one who has just had a mauling
"Beware of the Lions"
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Villa win 0-2. Southampton have been scoring goals but then so had Swansea. Bent and Weimann.
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Well, this is my local derby, I shall be there and so hoping for a good result even if likely to be travelling home on the train to Chichester surrounded by Soton fans
The last time I went to St Mary's we coshed them, can't remember the exact score, and have a funny feeling it was a night game, but do recall George Boateng scoring a screamer. Think it was something like 4-1. Mixed memories of the Dell, particularly the two years (or was it more?) that Le Tissier got late winners against us...
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Fir the first time since I don't know when, I can't wait for our next game.
I wish I was going, but will settle for watching it online somewhere.
I think we'll keep this little run going and fancy 2-1 win before we slaughter the Tesco bags the week after.
Vive la revolution.
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Im feeling quite confident and going for a villa win! 1-3 Bent, Ireland, Gabby
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Can see us winning this one but if I had to choose between winning this or the Tesco Bag game I'd prefer to win the latter. Confident as I am, I'm just not sure if we can win three in a row!
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Darren Bent hat-trick. 4-1 win.
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I love all the optimism, it is very good to see! They will be no roll over though, this is a massive game for them. They have had a very difficult start (Man City, United and Arsenal) but they put in two very good displays against the Manc clubs. They will have been eyeing us up as the start of their season and this is without doubt their biggest game so far.
We have looked good in the last two games though and I expect a similar display at St Mary's.
1-2 win with the new Holte hero Benteke coming off the bench to score the winner.
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I've voted win but mainly because I'm still buzzing from the weekend. It's not going to be a walk in the park they've looked pretty decent in the last couple of weeks. That said if we can continue to improve as we have over the last couple of weeks then a win is very much on the cards. 3 points would be brilliant, but 1 wouldn't be the end of the world.
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I've voted for a draw, but if we score early, we might romp it. Ron to keep Lambert quiet.
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Apparently we've sold all 3K tickets.
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Their manager indicated that their season starts this Saturday - lets make sure it doesn`t - Lets go for the win lads - 2-0 to Villa (Bent and Concrete Ron - from a corner - remember those?).
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They will want to get a point, so my heart says Villa win but the head says 1-1 draw... Bent for us, Mick Channon for them.
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Their manager indicated that their season starts this Saturday - lets make sure it doesn`t - Lets go for the win lads - 2-0 to Villa (Bent and Concrete Ron - from a corner - remember those?).
I heard their manager say this on MOTD 2 last night. If I were Lambert I'd gather the whole team around and tell them that Soton clearly think we're pushovers/also rans. Let's go down there and give them and their fans the shock of their lives. Weimann and Bent (if they're picked!) will be key men.
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If Benteke starts surely our aerial power from corners will be massive (Concrete Ron, Bent, Clarke and Benteke) Gabby coming on when they are knackered 0-2 Benteke Gabby ...... Come on Villa
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2-0 Villa win.
I'd put Benteke in for Bent and Westwood in for Ireland, everyone else deserves and IMO should keep their place.
----------Guzan
Lowton-Vlaar-Clark-Lichaj
------Westwood-KEA
Bannan-Weimann-Holman
---------Benteke
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1-2 to Villa, Bent scoring both.
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Nigel Adkins is unfortunate that Harry Redknapp lives next door to St Mary's and he cannot be far from those 'two games till the sack' unfair reports. They have been unlucky with the fixture list: City, United, Arsenal...and a pasting from the mighty Villa! Bent to score, for sure.
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Nigel Adkins is unfortunate that Harry Redknapp lives next door to St Mary's and he cannot be far from those 'two games till the sack' unfair reports. They have been unlucky with the fixture list: City, United, Arsenal...and a pasting from the mighty Villa! Bent to score, for sure.
Its Nigel Atkins. Dead man walking but then again so was Steve Kean. If Arrys not the manager by Xmas I will be very surprised.
and yes Darren Bent to score.
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Think this is a tough game, they will be desperate for the points but think we will win. The first goal will be important. Weimann is due a goal for the effort put in so far this season and the good positions he keeps finding himself in. He was quietly impressive on Saturday.
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Nigel Adkins is unfortunate that Harry Redknapp lives next door to St Mary's and he cannot be far from those 'two games till the sack' unfair reports. They have been unlucky with the fixture list: City, United, Arsenal...and a pasting from the mighty Villa! Bent to score, for sure.
Its Nigel Atkins. Dead man walking but then again so was Steve Kean. If Arrys not the manager by Xmas I will be very surprised.
and yes Darren Bent to score.
Having taken them down and then leaving to take on Pompey to cup success I think Harry would be very unpopular indeed at the saints- more likely to end up at west ham I think .
1-3 and I'd start with an unchanged team, bent double and a Vlaar 30 yarder
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0-2 Bent and Holman
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We're on the up and their defence is a disorganised mess.
Would like Benteke to play from the off in this one.
2-0 to us.
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Difficult one to call. I'd take a point.
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Team for me should be:
--------------------Guzan--------------------
-----------Vlaar(c)--------Clark-------------
---Lowton--------------------------Lihaj----
-------Holman---Bannan---El Ahmedi----
-------------------Ireland--------------------
--------------Benteke----Bent--------------
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Nigel Adkins is unfortunate that Harry Redknapp lives next door to St Mary's and he cannot be far from those 'two games till the sack' unfair reports. They have been unlucky with the fixture list: City, United, Arsenal...and a pasting from the mighty Villa! Bent to score, for sure.
Its Nigel Atkins.
Errr .... you might want to check that.
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I would keep Benteke on the bench for another cameo role. Starting Gabby instead of Weiman is another option. Nice headache for the manager to have at last. 2-2 draw with Southampton already fighting for their lives.
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From a Southampton forum:
This game won't be as relentless as Man U, Man City or Arse and he'll (Lambert) probably be able to last 90 minutes if we want him to. We're a match for Villa and as such I don't think we need to get too bogged down with gameplans. Throw what we've got at them and manage the game as it unfolds.
This reminds of the first season under O'Neill. Remember how we all laughed at how under the radar we were and it wouldn't be long before people had to sit up and take note of us?
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1-2
Benteke, Vlaar
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Still got a great feeling after Saturdays game,played brilliantly,so I'm going for a 2-1 away win,Bent and Holman scoring
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Battling away draw to restore pride? Check.
Stylish and comfortable home win for the first time in ages? Check.
Good old fashioned shoeing of a poor team like Southampton? Please, 4-1.
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Battling away draw to restore pride? Check.
Stylish and comfortable home win for the first time in ages? Check.
Good old fashioned shoeing of a poor team like Southampton? Please, 4-1.
What you said.
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Swap Adkins for Redknapp? After the teams they have had to play in the first 4 games? Football has completely gone to f*ck if that happens and I'm not sure the Southampton owner wants his club bankrupted by the fella who can barely read either.
Anyway, back to the game, I repeat my 2-0 win prediction only this time I can add to the poll!
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Battling away draw to restore pride? Check.
Stylish and comfortable home win for the first time in ages? Check.
Poor team like Southampton
This is Villa.
We all know what really comes next, but we're too shy to admit it.
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Battling away draw to restore pride? Check.
Stylish and comfortable home win for the first time in ages? Check.
Poor team like Southampton
This is Villa.
We all know what really comes next, but we're too shy to admit it.
We are all basking in enjoying the club again, we can hit the ground with the inevitable bump at 5 on Sat!
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2-0 Villa win.
I'd put Benteke in for Bent and Westwood in for Ireland, everyone else deserves and IMO should keep their place.
----------Guzan
Lowton-Vlaar-Clark-Lichaj
------Westwood-KEA
Bannan-Weimann-Holman
---------Benteke
Wouldn't mess with too much and the only changes I would consider are Westwood for Ireland and Benteke for Weimann. Thought Lichaj did well enough to make Bennett wait for his debut. If both changes were made I think it would look something like:
Guzan
Lowton Vlaar Clark Lichaj
Westwood
El Ahmadi Bannan
Holman
Bent Benteke
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Let's blitz the fuckers. Not sure we can top the day of 1-4: an all-English team, 12 games unbeaten, 5 in his first 3 games for Dion and we're top...but now we've got Lowton at right-back and not Steve Watson, so at least that's one up on the class of '98.
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Lets not get carried away with a couple of decent results...that being said, it seems the squad is pretty well grounded and PL will no doubt know all the permutations of Southamptons run of results, have the backroom staff preparing game plans and have the lads fired up to put in another hard working performance.
Regardless of their opposition so far, Southampton are relegation candidates this season and these are the type of away games that we need to win and take 3pts back to Villa Park.
I'll take a 1-0 win...but could be quite an open game with more goals especially if we unsettle them with an early goal.
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Wigan beat them, don't see any reason why we can't either. 3-1 away win (Bent, Holman, Vlaar).
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Wigan beat them, don't see any reason why we can't either. 3-1 away win (Bent, Holman, Vlaar).
And that is the correct answer right there
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I've gone for a draw in the poll. If we maintain the level of performance from the 2nd hf v Swansea we have a great chance. Vital to get in ahead or on level terms at half time. I think with our second half subs we'll have more options and could finish stronger. Only thing is we always seem to fuck up down there, which is why I think there may be a gutting late equaliser.
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Tricky game, and if my decades of being a Villa fan has told me one thing, it's that when things start to look good we are generally brought down to earth with a bump. 1-1
Hopefully we can sneak a 1-2.
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Really can't decide of its a good time, or a bad time, to play them. On one hand, 0 points from 4 games suggests a team out of form. On the other hand, the law of averages suggests they can't keep on getting nothing, and surely very few teams lose their opening 5 games.
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The way I see it is that although we have some momentum playing the kind of football we expected from a Paul Lambert team, with new players adding to that and the promise of more to come with a bench full of players eager to prove themselves and though Southampton's goal seems to be seeing more trade than Katie Price's ladycave, we're still new enough into the project that we have to expect more hiccups sooner rather than later.
That said, you can't help but think we'll feel disappointed if we don't win this one.
We have plenty of weaponry of the kind that can hurt them and though they're (perhaps) better than their position would suggest and have had a horrendous schedule so far, I think if we play anything like how we have in the last three games we'll come away with points.
They'll see us as a difficult game but comparitive relief. It's important to get after them early on and shake their confidence even more. If we score first we could give them a bollocking.
I really long for that just to ruin LeTissier's day. The big nosed twat.
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Arsenal was very effective against Southampton with their quick players so I wouldn't be surprised if we see Gabby and maybe N'Zogbia starting.
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I think I'd bring in N'Zogbia for Ireland. Not because Ireland needs dropping, but we do need to see how all the players are going to fit into this system.
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That game at The Dell where Bignose won it at the end: we should have won that one too. They had a centre half called Richard Dryden who is still the fattest player I have seen at the top level.
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Cant Believe I'm going into a game with a bit of optimism for once, without getting too carried away I will go for a 3-1 away win. Bent to get off the mark would like to Holman's work rate rewarded and possibly KEA.
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4-1. Dublin hat-trick.
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4-1. Dublin hat-trick.
What a game...the scoreline belies the fact that they really gave us a game...Dion opened the scoring early and then Le Tissier scored as usual after half time waltzing through a couple of tackles along the edge of the box and curling one in the corner. They were pressing with us retaliating with dangerous looking counter attacks. Then they hit the bar only for us to go straight to the other end and Dion got another. Even when Merse added the third on another break they were still coming at us and it was only safe when Dion got his third with about 5 minutes left. Brilliant game.
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I think Southampton will come out the blocks strongly on Saturday as this will be "the start of their season" after their tough opening schedule, and they'll be in front of their own fans. With that in mind it may be about containing them early on and then imposing our game.
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Not getting carried away ...
I'll go for a 1-1 draw
Benteke
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All this start of the season business glosses over the fact Wigwam turned them over on their own patch.
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Let's not get carried away here
5-1 Villa
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Villa are back.
Villa are back.
Hello
Hello.
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Let's not get carried away here...
*Is carried away by monstrous bird*
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Confidence rising more and more, so Villa to win '2-0 but could have been double figures'. Bannan and Holman.
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Everyone in the squad knows if they dont give 100% there is someone looking over there shoulder. There are still 3 players. one who has only had a sniff bustng a gut to show what they can do. Guzan is playing out his skin. Jordan Bowery has been training for two weeks with Bennet and both must be dribbling at the mouth to play in this team. There will be no letting up in commitment and Benteke getting a full weeks training with the squad i feel its a great time for momentum. 1-3 Villa get in ........
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Southampton 0 Aston Villa 8
Concrete Ron, Benteke 2, Bent 2, Holman, Lowton, Weinmann.
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Don't like hearing those not won in so many matches stats as that usually comes to an end against us, kind of fancy us to continue Southamptons run of defeats this time though with a 1-2, Bent brace.
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So he's like whatever, and I'm like whatever so I sez that I'd cut and paste this from another saints website.
So I'm like whatever
I know a lot of Villas cos I'm living up Birmingham now. They're proper buzzing going on like against Newcastle and Swansea it was like watching the 1970 Brazil team or whatever. This ST holder I work with is genuinely saying this is the best Villa team since 1980something. Was they good then? Bit before my time.
Their tactics, apparently, is hunting the ball down in packs high up the field to win it back early. Don't like the sound of that. I don't reckon we like it when they do that. I prefer them to sit back in their half and let us have a go.
I said you ain't got a good right winger have you? He's like not particularly, why? I'm like no reason....
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My God, reading that gives me a migraine.
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PL must of upset The Fonz. He scored a brace tonight for Blackpool. On the bench for Southampton :-))
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So he's like whatever, and I'm like whatever so I sez that I'd cut and paste this from another saints website.
So I'm like whatever
I know a lot of Villas cos I'm living up Birmingham now. They're proper buzzing going on like against Newcastle and Swansea it was like watching the 1970 Brazil team or whatever. This ST holder I work with is genuinely saying this is the best Villa team since 1980something. Was they good then? Bit before my time.
Their tactics, apparently, is hunting the ball down in packs high up the field to win it back early. Don't like the sound of that. I don't reckon we like it when they do that. I prefer them to sit back in their half and let us have a go.
I said you ain't got a good right winger have you? He's like not particularly, why? I'm like no reason....
Whateva
Theyre worried tho! gd #nochanceinamillionyears
Oops, just remembered it's English only on H&V.
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Exciting 2-2 draw. There's goals in this Southampton team, but their defence is weak and we could pressurise them into mistakes like we did against Swansea.
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Looking critically at the game against Swansea at the weekend I would have to say that we miscued a lot of balls in midfield that we wouldn't usually in the first half. I don't see us being that sloppy against Southampton with the confidence rising.
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Is there a Saints supporters club in the San Fernando Valley? Whatever.
1-1 Bent
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The sort of game we need to be winning if we want to be top half of the table, as opposed to struggling again. I think we'll win. I think Benteke could score again. Don't think teams will quite know how to deal with him just yet.
0-2
Benteke
Bent
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PL wont admit it but he knows that these are the type of games the villa should win. I have full confidence in his decisions and his positive approach will mean a Southampton 1 Villa 3 result.
First time I have been optimistic for a few years.
8)
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It would be typical Villa to lose this. Build up our hopes and expectations, then knock us down.
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3-1 Villa.
Benteke
Bent
Holman
And as for them, i just don't give a damn.
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It would be typical Villa to lose this. Build up our hopes and expectations, then knock us down.
Maybe, just maybe, this time it will be different...
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Can anyone recommend a good car park close to the ground ?
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Quick look on their forum, they seem to think their left-back Fox if shite.
Should be Ramirez's home debut though.
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Quick look on their forum, they seem to think their left-back Fox if shite.
Should be Ramirez's home debut though.
If that's the case then we should put Warnock in a cardboard box and leave it outside the ground after the match. With any luck they won't post him back.
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67% think we will win, only 5% think we will lose
were not going down any more then because the squads threadbare and we havent got enough quality or experience ?
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67% think we will win, only 5% think we will lose
were not going down any more then because the squads threadbare and we havent got enough quality or experience ?
Save that for the post match thread.
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PL must of upset The Fonz. He scored a brace tonight for Blackpool. On the bench for Southampton :-))
'...must have...' not '..must of...'
Bad grammar.
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67% think we will win, only 5% think we will lose
were not going down any more then because the squads threadbare and we havent got enough quality or experience ?
Oh go on then you scamp, I'll play along; "David O'Leary was righ....." ;)
I have been thinking something similar myself to be honest, but after the Everton game money was spent and Lambert got the players he wanted. So now we have to be patient. Oh well.
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Quick look on their forum, they seem to think their left-back Fox if shite.
Should be Ramirez's home debut though.
If that's the case then we should put Warnock in a cardboard box and leave it outside the ground after the match. With any luck they won't post him back.
And Hutton, please.
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Dan Fox is shite, their back 5 is the major weak link really so we will get chances so I think Bent will get off the mark here.
I'm hearing that Adkins will be sacked if they lose this.
Saints have lost all their games but they've created chances in all of them so this will be a good gauge of how our defence is looking.
I think it will be 2-2 which I wouldn't be too unhappy with as I think we'll beat WBA at VP after this one.
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PL must of upset The Fonz. He scored a brace tonight for Blackpool. On the bench for Southampton :-))
'...must have...' not '..must of...'
Bad grammar.
I am fairly confident 99% of the people on here are interested in the comment rather than the grammar. But i will write it out a 100 times and have it on your desk for the morning Mr Bridge :-)
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Is that fat toilet James Beattie still playing for Southampton?
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He's "unattached" while his "representative" is "circulating" his name among "blue chip franchises". He's probably killing time with Nigel Reo Coker playing pool in some back-street boozer in Darwen.
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Last time his name was mentioned DOL was up in front of the beak for tapping up ;D
I think we are going to smash em
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Best villa side since the early 1980s? After two good performances?
Hmmm, I thought I had a tendency to exaggerate but that's a whole new level right there!
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67% think we will win, only 5% think we will lose
were not going down any more then because the squads threadbare and we havent got enough quality or experience ?
There's a difference between one match against a struggling newly promoted team, and a 38 game league season for which you need a decent squad.
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67% think we will win, only 5% think we will lose
were not going down any more then because the squads threadbare and we havent got enough quality or experience ?
There's a difference between one match against a struggling newly promoted team, and a 38 game league season for which you need a decent squad.
And besides, the squad we've got is easily good enough to not just avoid relegation but could and probably should finish top 10.
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Anybody else of the opinion that you could give Lambert any random group of 25 professional players and he'd make a decent team/squad out of them within a few months?
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or he could take the Turin shroud and bring it back to life......oops hope I haven't started a riot somewhere
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Anybody else of the opinion that you could give Lambert any random group of 25 professional players and he'd make a decent team/squad out of them within a few months?
Obviously it can't be done with every player as Warnock and Hutton will testify. But I take your point, if Lambert managed us last season he wouldn't have bought Hutton and would have got more points than McLeish managed.
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or he could take the Turin shroud and bring it back to life......oops hope I haven't started a riot somewhere
It's OK, I didn't see any cartoons.
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Soton have had a hard start (Citeh, ManUre & Arse) and may see this game as a chance to pick up points and kick-start their season - they will be up for it. Hopefully we will keep our heads and snatch this one 1-2.
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67% think we will win, only 5% think we will lose
were not going down any more then because the squads threadbare and we havent got enough quality or experience ?
That 5% will be the ones predicting such stuff, they were only ever a very small, but vocal, minority.
Most of us were willing to wait until Plumbutt got his own players in and started to get them to play to his style.
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I didn't know Claudio Ranieri was a Villa fan!
A little tinker here - a little tinker there.
As I'm not a Premiership class manager - I'd probably stick with a winning team.
And as for a result? I'll take a performance first and let the rest lie in the lap of the gods. Or DB's shin.
Viva la revolucion!
UTV
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Soton have had a hard start (Citeh, ManUre & Arse) and may see this game as a chance to pick up points and kick-start their season - they will be up for it. Hopefully we will keep our heads and snatch this one 1-2.
I repeat, why didn't thier season start against Wigan?
Could it be that they're piss poor at the back and will leak goals all season long?
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Talking to a Wigan fan this week, he said that we need to get NZogbia into the "hole" behind Bent and a centre forward and tell him to just roam about and cause trouble, without limiting him to a position. He was adamant that he is the best dribbler in Europe behind Messi and that given the right freedom he is a brilliant player. Maybe with Ireland looking pretty average last 2 games, swapping him for Charles might be worth a go.
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Soton have had a hard start (Citeh, ManUre & Arse) and may see this game as a chance to pick up points and kick-start their season - they will be up for it. Hopefully we will keep our heads and snatch this one 1-2.
I repeat, why didn't thier season start against Wigan?
Could it be that they're piss poor at the back and will leak goals all season long?
Yes it could be that, but also they have had a tough start. Only time will tell. It is possible for a team to improve after the first few games, like us.
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Lambert seems to me like the type of manager who will come up with a plan to win first and then fit the team around that. So if he thinks Bennett will have more joy against their right flank, he'll throw him in, even if Lichaj did no wrong.
Or if he thinks pace and power will win the day he'll throw Benteke and Gabby in and bench Bent. Not as likely, but you get the point.
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I like a manager who has a number of plans, we've seen over the years what a lack of Plan B can do...
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Talking to a Wigan fan this week, he said that we need to get NZogbia into the "hole" behind Bent and a centre forward and tell him to just roam about and cause trouble, without limiting him to a position. He was adamant that he is the best dribbler in Europe behind Messi and that given the right freedom he is a brilliant player. Maybe with Ireland looking pretty average last 2 games, swapping him for Charles might be worth a go.
I agree Ozz. We need to put N'Zogbia in a hole and fill it in with concrete.
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Bet Barcelona are kicking themselves that they didn't sign N'Zogbia,just imagine having the two best dribblers of a ball in the same side.
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Talking to a Wigan fan this week, he said that we need to get NZogbia into the "hole" behind Bent and a centre forward and tell him to just roam about and cause trouble, without limiting him to a position. He was adamant that he is the best dribbler in Europe behind Messi and that given the right freedom he is a brilliant player. Maybe with Ireland looking pretty average last 2 games, swapping him for Charles might be worth a go.
I agree Ozz. We need to put N'Zogbia in a hole and fill it in with concrete.
2 really good posts, though I'm sure Ozz meant 'last 2 seasons...'
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According to Wikipedia, James Beattie is currently without a club after being released by Sheffield United.
He did, however, endorse the Conservative Party at the 2010 general election over his concerns at the 50p top rate of tax.
Not so much a turkey voting for Christmas as a sausage roll voting for Boxing Day
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Talking to a Wigan fan this week, he said that we need to get NZogbia into the "hole" behind Bent and a centre forward and tell him to just roam about and cause trouble, without limiting him to a position. He was adamant that he is the best dribbler in Europe behind Messi and that given the right freedom he is a brilliant player. Maybe with Ireland looking pretty average last 2 games, swapping him for Charles might be worth a go.
I agree Ozz. We need to put N'Zogbia in a hole and fill it in with concrete.
2 really good posts, though I'm sure Ozz meant 'last 2 seasons...'
Ireland has also played in the midfield that has seen the upturn in the last 3 games and has worked hard for the side. I doubt he'll be dropped except through injury.
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Talking to a Wigan fan this week, he said that we need to get NZogbia into the "hole" behind Bent and a centre forward and tell him to just roam about and cause trouble, without limiting him to a position. He was adamant that he is the best dribbler in Europe behind Messi and that given the right freedom he is a brilliant player. Maybe with Ireland looking pretty average last 2 games, swapping him for Charles might be worth a go.
I agree Ozz. We need to put N'Zogbia in a hole and fill it in with concrete.
2 really good posts, though I'm sure Ozz meant 'last 2 seasons...'
Ireland has also played in the midfield that has seen the upturn in the last 3 games and has worked hard for the side. I doubt he'll be dropped except through injury.
Not sure about that. I can see him making way for Westwood this weekend.
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Talking to a Wigan fan this week... He was adamant that he is the best dribbler in Europe behind Messi
Was it Dave Whelan by any chance?
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Talking to a Wigan fan this week... He was adamant that he is the best dribbler in Europe behind Messi
Was it Dave Whelan by any chance?
Think he meant the mouth dribbling ......
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According to Wikipedia, James Beattie is currently without a club after being released by Sheffield United.
He did, however, endorse the Conservative Party at the 2010 general election over his concerns at the 50p top rate of tax.
Not so much a turkey voting for Christmas as a sausage roll voting for Boxing Day
That made me laugh
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So he's like whatever, and I'm like whatever so I sez that I'd cut and paste this from another saints website.
So I'm like whatever
I know a lot of Villas cos I'm living up Birmingham now. They're proper buzzing going on like against Newcastle and Swansea it was like watching the 1970 Brazil team or whatever. This ST holder I work with is genuinely saying this is the best Villa team since 1980something. Was they good then? Bit before my time.
Their tactics, apparently, is hunting the ball down in packs high up the field to win it back early. Don't like the sound of that. I don't reckon we like it when they do that. I prefer them to sit back in their half and let us have a go.
I said you ain't got a good right winger have you? He's like not particularly, why? I'm like no reason....
I read that in my head with a Vicky pollard accent. Properly made me laugh.
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Talking to a Wigan fan this week, he said that we need to get NZogbia into the "hole" behind Bent and a centre forward and tell him to just roam about and cause trouble, without limiting him to a position. He was adamant that he is the best dribbler in Europe behind Messi and that given the right freedom he is a brilliant player. Maybe with Ireland looking pretty average last 2 games, swapping him for Charles might be worth a go.
I agree Ozz. We need to put N'Zogbia in a hole and fill it in with concrete.
2 really good posts, though I'm sure Ozz meant 'last 2 seasons...'
Ireland has also played in the midfield that has seen the upturn in the last 3 games and has worked hard for the side. I doubt he'll be dropped except through injury.
Not sure about that. I can see him making way for Westwood this weekend.
I don't look at it now as players getting dropped or rested. I just think we're picking the best team available to start the game against whoever we're up against. The one notable exception I think is given being dropped for Guzan.
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Lawros prediction
Southampton got a battering from Arsenal last week and are bottom of the table without a point but, as with Stoke, you have to remember who they have played this season, and Saints have already faced both Manchester clubs this season.
The difference between the two clubs is that Stoke chairman Peter Coates has been around football for a long time and he knows that, win or lose, you don't get carried away. I am not sure you can say the same thing about Nicola Cortese, his counterpart at St Mary's.
Adkins led Saints to back-to-back promotions
Saints boss Nigel Adkins is a good manager and has not suddenly become a bad one but he seems to be under pressure and he really needs a win.
To get one on Saturday would be a massive result for Adkins and would stop the murmurings about his future.
We are hearing rumours about Rafa Benitez and Harry Redknapp being lined up to take over and the papers will not stop talking about Adkins being on his way out while Saints are struggling.
I have a feeling they might get a positive result against Villa, though. Paul Lambert has a lot of young players in his team and that means they will be up and down.
Lambert has had a difficult start as Villa boss but I think his side's fans know he has inherited a bit of a mess and he will not get any problems from them.
For Villa, going forward, the partnership up front between Darren Bent and Christian Benteke holds the key. It looks promising and if they hit it off then it will buy the young players in their team some time. That's what Villa need.
Prediction 2-1
But even though Liverpool are shit he's got them to draw 1-1 with Man Utd
Twunt
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Bollocks to Lawro, Mo Farrah says we'll win 1-0.
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Although having us down to lose, I thought it was a reasonable assessment.
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Although having us down to lose, I thought it was a reasonable assessment.
I agree Maidstone He just annoys me that I don't think he has ever predicted Liverpool to lose, no matter how shit they are
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Although having us down to lose, I thought it was a reasonable assessment.
I agree Maidstone He just annoys me that I don't think he has ever predicted Liverpool to lose, no matter how shit they are
who gives a shit if he thinks we are going to lose, lets hope everyone thinks we are going to lose everygame and keep the claret and blue steamroller going and crush them all!
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Rotation time! Man City Tuesday and they don't play until late Sunday.
My team:
Lichaj Clark Baker Bennet
Herd Westwood Holman N'Zogbia
Benteke Agbonlahor
Subs:
Given Burke Bowery Williams Ireland Wiemann Bannan
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Lawro is a spaz.
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To me that's quite a shit assessment by Lawro. No mention of the great performance last week where he had us down to lose. I bet he hasn't even seen us play in the last few weeks.
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I agree with the "up and down" bit and that Bent and Benteke could look promising but I find the bit where he says they need to work to "buy the youngsters time" a bit patronising. I am not expecting world beaters but they have been fantastic in the main so far. He also fails to mention how well we have played as a team in the last two matches. TWAT!
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Rotation time! Man City Tuesday and they don't play until late Sunday.
My team:
Lichaj Clark Baker Bennet
Herd Westwood Holman N'Zogbia
Benteke Agbonlahor
Subs:
Given Burke Bowery Williams Ireland Wiemann Bannan
That would more likely be the team for Man City wouldn't it?
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Rotation time! Man City Tuesday and they don't play until late Sunday.
My team:
Lichaj Clark Baker Bennet
Herd Westwood Holman N'Zogbia
Benteke Agbonlahor
Subs:
Given Burke Bowery Williams Ireland Wiemann Bannan
That would more likely be the team for Man City wouldn't it?
And it needs a keeper..
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Up and down would suggest we have one good game and one bad whereas the truth is we had two bad games followed by three good ones, which suggests "form".
It's also true that Lawro spends more time shopping at BHS for shirts than doing his research and what's more, is a bell end.
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I reckon even if we win well tomorrow Lawro will be predicting a defeat for us against the stipey filth for exactly the same reasons he's given here.
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Adkins says this is a "must win" game for Southampton:
http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/aston-villa-fc/aston-villa-news/2012/09/21/southampton-have-to-beat-aston-villa-nigel-adkins-97319-31877379/
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Lawro is a spaz.
What's worse is that he's made a living at it ...
Oh, and I wish he'd make up the mind on the colour of his grey hair !
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Up and down would suggest we have one good game and one bad whereas the truth is we had two bad games followed by three good ones, which suggests "form".
It's also true that Lawro spends more time shopping at BHS for shirts than doing his research and what's more, is a bell end.
West ham came too early for us, we hadn't got the balance of the side right by that point. Everton caught us cold, a goal that early against a team on such a poor run of results is always going to see hem struggle, to then start to get some confidence back only for the keeper to make a harsh of a simple save is utterly demoralising. Once we got some confidence and got playing our game the signs were there that we had the makings of a decent side.
Add the late signings and professional display in the cup and we looked in a decent place for the Newcastle game. Playing as well as we did there then worked as the dawning point where the club as a whole realised we can play football and get results.
Swansea was the sort of performance we needed to cement that and I think our self-belief is now enough that, despite all the 'must win' talk coming from Southampton we'll back ourselves to go there and over power them. I said a 3-1 win earlier and I'm sticking with that, if we can get a first early in game then we can do to them what Everton did to us, getting them on the back foot early is really important though.
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Lawro. Awful pundit and co-commentator - he thinks the sun shines out of his battered ar$e. Give him no attention.
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Adkins says this is a "must win" game for Southampton:
http://www.birminghammail.net/birmingham-sport/aston-villa-fc/aston-villa-news/2012/09/21/southampton-have-to-beat-aston-villa-nigel-adkins-97319-31877379/
More a "keep my job" game ;)
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Looking forward to going to this tomorrow even though I'm in the home end. I think we'll do well.
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Barry Bannan hopes the away fans are loud at Southampton on Saturday - with their songs and their shirts!
Bannan admits he's a massive fan of the new away kit and get a real buzz out of both wearing it and seeing the travelling army sporting it on matchdays.
The influential midfield maestro says it's great to both hear fans at away grounds - and see them with the new vibrant offering.
He said: "The away fans have been brilliant for so many years. They're incredible. It's been a big thing since I've been at Villa.
"They support us through thick and thin.
"I remember against Newcastle they were up in the gods. You look up at them before kick-off and think 'we won't be able to hear them today.' But we still did. They were magnificent.
"If you can't hear them, you can certainly see them with those lime green away kits!
"I hear they're flying off the shelves in the merchandising stores at the moment and no surprise, I think it's a great kit, very different from the away kits we're used to. I'm sur there will be quite a few in the crowd on Saturday.
"They're not hard to spot. I like the away kit because it's so different. It's a nice touch from the club."
Bannan now hopes the lime green shoots of recovery continue at St Mary's, with the team aiming to build on the superb performances in the last two games.
Bannan says confidence is "sky-high" ahead of the tough trip.
And he has called for the team to build on the feeling with a weekend win.
He continued: "After the good performance at Newcastle I think everyone saw the confidence flowing against Swansea. It's just about building on that now.
"We want to go on a run of results now. Confidence is sky-high, everyone wants the ball and everyone is chasing it down.
"We're all looking forward to the game immensely and hopefully we can get the three points."
Bannan insists one of the major factors behind Villa's upsurge is their "total commitment" out on the pitch.
Stats at the weekend suggested that Bannan ran the most of any player against Swansea.
Renowned for his craft, the playmaker says it shouldn't be a revelation because he's always been a player of true grit.
He added: "If you ask most people who know me, I'm a fit lad and in pre-season I'm usually one of the guys at the front when it comes to the running.
"I know it's difficult for the fans to see that because they think of me as a creative player.
"There's this stigma sometimes about creative players that people don't think they're hard workers but I've always been the same, I've always worked hard.
"People start to see it now more so because everyone is doing it - and they're looking out for it perhaps.
"But I have always been a grafter. If I wasn't a grafter I simply wouldn't be playing in this team because it's one of the biggest things the gaffer has instilled in us. You have no other option.
"That's all you can ask in football. If you're not performing well - you can have an off-day - but you can't fault anyone if they are totally committed.
"I think that sums us up - we're totally committed. We're giving it everything every single week for the fans, the club and the manager."
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Looking forward to going to this tomorrow even though I'm in the home end. I think we'll do well.
May see you Paul though I am in the away end...
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Looking forward to going to this tomorrow even though I'm in the home end. I think we'll do well.
May see you Paul though I am in the away end...
Well if you see someone getting a kicking it's probably me! I shall attempt to be discreet though.
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Steven Davis talking ahead of the game:
The Northern Ireland captain was given his break in football by the Midlands outfit and made over 100 appearances in the top flight for them, as well as winning the club’s Player of the Year prize in 2006.
Davis hit the winner in the last Barclays Premier League meeting between Saints and Villa which ended 3-2 to the visitors at St Mary’s. This weekend though, the midfielder is desperate for his first success as a Southampton player.
“I was 16 when I joined them and had some good times there,” he tells Saturday’s official matchday programme.
“But that’s all in the past. There’s no room for sentiment in football. I’m a Southampton man now and we need to beat Villa to get our season up and running.
“It’s a big game for us and I would just love to get on the scoresheet again, this time for Southampton.”
Davis is just finding his feet after a summer move from Glasgow Rangers and already he’s experienced joy and despair as his new club look to gain a foothold in the top flight.
The confidence that he himself helped to engender with a wondrous first touch goal in the 3-2 defeat away to defending champions Manchester City, has wavered on the back of defeats by Wigan, Manchester United and Arsenal.
But Davis insists: “We haven’t lost heart. We’ve proved we can compete with the best of them with our displays against Manchester City and Manchester United, and we believe that a win is just around the corner.”
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Nigel Adkins is unfortunate that Harry Redknapp lives next door to St Mary's and he cannot be far from those 'two games till the sack' unfair reports. They have been unlucky with the fixture list: City, United, Arsenal...and a pasting from the mighty Villa! Bent to score, for sure.
Its Nigel Atkins. Dead man walking but then again so was Steve Kean. If Arrys not the manager by Xmas I will be very surprised.
and yes Darren Bent to score.
It is not Atkins. It is Adkins. And what's more Its is It's. If you are going to correct anybody, get your own shit together first.
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I'd stick with Bent. People are quick to write him off but he's four games into a season after a lenghty lay off with injury. Add to that the fact that he's contributed quite well in the last two games. Yes, he needs a goal but he's not going to get one sat on the bench. I'd be more inclinded to stick with him since he'll come good.
As for Ireland, he was bloody good against Newcastle and although things didn't come off against Swansea we won the game. People want to write players off too quickly. I'd probably be looking at bringin Benteke in for AW, but that's about it.
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Lawro is a spaz.
What's worse is that he's made a living at it ...
Oh, and I wish he'd make up the mind on the colour of his grey hair !
Hansen is on 500k a year so I imagine Lawro , tosser is on similar unbelievable
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Looking forward to going to this tomorrow even though I'm in the home end. I think we'll do well.
May see you Paul though I am in the away end...
Well if you see someone getting a kicking it's probably me! I shall attempt to be discreet though.
You might be next to me. Sorry I wont be able to help. I've been instructed to keep a low profile.
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If you see him getting a shoeing, better join in to be on the safe side.
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Southampton got a battering from Arsenal last week and are bottom of the table without a point but, as with Stoke, you have to remember who they have played this season, and Saints have already faced both Manchester clubs this season.
The difference between the two clubs is that Stoke chairman Peter Coates has been around football for a long time and he knows that, win or lose, you don't get carried away. I am not sure you can say the same thing about Nicola Cortese, his counterpart at St Mary's.
Adkins led Saints to back-to-back promotions
Saints boss Nigel Adkins is a good manager and has not suddenly become a bad one but he seems to be under pressure and he really needs a win.
To get one on Saturday would be a massive result for Adkins and would stop the murmurings about his future.
We are hearing rumours about Rafa Benitez and Harry Redknapp being lined up to take over and the papers will not stop talking about Adkins being on his way out while Saints are struggling.
I have a feeling they might get a positive result against Villa, though. Paul Lambert has a lot of young players in his team and that means they will be up and down.
Lambert has had a difficult start as Villa boss but I think his side's fans know he has inherited a bit of a mess and he will not get any problems from them.
For Villa, going forward, the partnership up front between Darren Bent and Christian Benteke holds the key. It looks promising and if they hit it off then it will buy the young players in their team some time. That's what Villa need.
Prediction 2-1
So to sum up.....
"Southampton are poor and without a win and Villa are improving with a very promising forward line" equals the prediction 2-1 to Southampton.
And the prick gets paid to write this shit?
Well I hope the bookies take his word for it cuz I'm on a Villa win. Prob by one goal. 3-2 at a push.
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It's 3-1 to Villa.
End ov. Bent, Bentake 2.
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Everymember of this site have a great day in Southampton Tomorrow, you lucky feckers.
UTV, Cannock Villa, Kiddy Villa, Stourbridge Villa and all who make the trip.
UTV
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I'm looking forward to Lambert's team selection. Persisting with Lichaj at left back has a touch of the MON's about it so would like to see Bennett get a start and either Lichaj or Lowton for right back. Other than that Banna deserves to stay in the side and Ireland is a better player away from home and will be kept in the side too. Benteke for Weimann will be the only change I reckon.
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Not sure about that one mate. Lichaj has been excellent so there is no reason to bring Bennett in yet. And, to consider dropping Lowton to move Lichaj to accommodate Bennett is bordering on craziness. ;-)
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I think it'll be tough, they may have lost every game but they were unlucky against man ure and city, let's hope their hammering at Arsenal doesn't fire them up. Having said that I think we'll win
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I think it will depend on how much the [players are committed to the manager. They are plpaying for his job today.
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I would go same side..can't see any reason to change. Andi did well so can't see why we would drop him, and Benteke can come off the bench for either him or Darren Bent and keeping knocking on the door with a final third goal.
UTV
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I do think Saints will be really fired up for this. In both our away games so far, we've got out of the blocks well and kept the ball nicely. Dping so again will be important
Benteke for Weimann the only change for me. Though expect to see Gabby and Westwood at some point
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I'd keep the same side. Weimann would have had two last week had it not been for some decent goalkeeping.
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Looking forward to going to this tomorrow even though I'm in the home end. I think we'll do well.
May see you Paul though I am in the away end...
Well if you see someone getting a kicking it's probably me! I shall attempt to be discreet though.
You might be next to me. Sorry I wont be able to help. I've been instructed to keep a low profile.
Ha ha yes I'm choosing to keep a low profile, I'm with another Villa fan.
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And the prick gets paid to write this shit?
About forty grand every time he appears on MOTD.
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I'd keep the same side. Weimann would have had two last week had it not been for some decent goalkeeping.
Agree, Weimann has done well and been unlucky - the post against Everton, clearance off the line against Swansea and some good saves have denied him a few goals already this season. He could consider himself very unfortunate if dropped today, but I expect he will be.
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I'd keep the same side. Weimann would have had two last week had it not been for some decent goalkeeping.
Agree, Weimann has done well and been unlucky - the post against Everton, clearance off the line against Swansea and some good saves have denied him a few goals already this season. He could consider himself very unfortunate if dropped today, but I expect he will be.
I hope not, I think he's been superb in the last 2 games.
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And the prick gets paid to write this shit?
About forty grand every time he appears on MOTD.
40,000 divided by 145..50, thats very nearly 275 years worth of license fees !