Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Legion on August 05, 2013, 07:50:26 PM
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Saturday 10.8.13 KO 3pm
4-0
Benteke 4
Weimann 16
Agbonlahor 33
Helenius 89
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A solid 2-0 win, Benteke and Gabby
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Is hyperstupendous a word?
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Probably not.
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Is hyperstupendous a word?
It's about as real as omnishambles.
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They're not a bad side so I expect we'll win, but narrowly. 1-0.
The power of H&V can get hyperstupendous into the dictionary.
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Amazeballs!
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3-0 win for me, Benteke, Vlaar and Tonev.
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Think this will a be a bit tougher than Crewe and Walsall.
Low scoring draw or narrow win.
Whatever happens it will be hyperstupendous, as the kids say these days!!! ;-)
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In all seriousness, for this season we will start trialling one thread for each match instead of pre-, actual and post- so any suggestions for titles or comments/advice to the contrary or otherwise (preferably via PM after 16th August) would be very much appreciated.
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I'd take a 1-1 draw with these guys.
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1-0. 8-0 if Leeg doesn't go.
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1-0. 8-0 if Leeg doesn't go.
I can guarantee my non-attendance.
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Now 14-0.
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No Leeg!?
Massive win!
Benteke will get 7 hat-tricks and Lowton will score the greatest goal ever seen at VP from the North Stand car park.
PF will be giving everyone a tenner as they go through the turnstile and beer will be free!
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Is hyperstupendous a word?
Leeg has made a travishamockery of the standard thread titling procedures.
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First one I have seen pre season so looking forward to it.
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Messi to be introduced before kick-off as our surprise signing.
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1-1
Back to predicting a draw for me
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2-1 win for me. Benteke with both goals
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As we are now the masters of the clean sheet I will go for a 2-0 win.
Benteke & Gabby.
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We'll take this lot to the cleaners. Full dress rehearsal for the big kick-off, strongest 11 and no mass substitutions until we're 4-0 up.
I have bought tickets for this match, my first at Villa Park since we relegated Newcastle. Thoroughly looking forward to it.
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1-1
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In all seriousness, for this season we will start trialling one thread for each match instead of pre-, actual and post- so any suggestions for titles or comments/advice to the contrary or otherwise (preferably via PM after 16th August) would be very much appreciated.
Oh, really? More tidy I guess. As long as people know to hit the "New" icon to bring them to the point of the thread where they stopped reading previously. Otherwise there'll be lots of moaning about wading through countless pages of predictions and "For fuck sake Bennett you muppet, what was that?'' posts to get to the post-match comments.
As for Malaga, these lads nearly knocked-out Dortmund in the Chumps League quarter finals. I know they've lost a few players and the coach Pellegrini of course but they still have the mighty Roque Santa Cruz.
1-4 and everyone to feel a bit like after the Everton home game last season.
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Thought about going but there are groundhopping opportunities at Penkridge or Bilbrook to be considered.
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2-1 to us with Vlaar, a grass cutter and Tonev cross cum shot scoring.
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How much are the cheapest tickets?
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How much are the cheapest tickets?
£10 in the North stand, £15 everywhere else. Plus £2 for the privilege of buying one.
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Biggest test in pre-season by a long shot, so it should be good. That said we look so good going forward at the minute that we could give any team nightmares. Gabby's been brilliant as has Andy. Helenius looks quality and there's a bit of Ibrahimavic about him for sure, as he's not just about getting goals but brings others into play. We've looked so much better since Bentekes been back too. He's got a good understanding with his fellow attackers but also allows more space for them because he becomes the key focus of the opposition.
3-1 Villa.
Benteke
Wiemann
Helenius Maximus.
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How much are the cheapest tickets?
£10 in the North stand, £15 everywhere else. Plus £2 for the privilege of buying one.
Thanks CJ. I didn't get where I am today by paying booking fees.
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No Leeg!?
Massive win!
Benteke will get 7 hat-tricks and Lowton will score the greatest goal ever seen at VP from the North Stand car park.
PF will be giving everyone a tenner as they go through the turnstile and beer will be free!
9 nil and the beer will be out of date !!
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2-1 win for us Gabby and Benteke scoring.
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Victory shall be ours.
And no dirty sheets.
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3-1 Villa. Good practice for the beating of Arsenal the week after.
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Sod it, 4-1 Villa and the same score against Arsenal. Anybody got the odds on that ?
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3-1 Villa. Good practice for the beating of Arsenal the week after.
Agree, Benteke will batter the Arse's crap defence! In fact, CB, Andi and Gabby will cause havoc!
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Messi to be introduced before kick-off as our surprise signing.
You mean our Barry will be offered a new contract?
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I wish this match was away so that I can keep my record of being at at least one European ground per season every season for the last few years.
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I wish this match was away so that I can keep my record of being at at least one European ground per season every season for the last few years.
I was hoping for that to. Could have got there for 68 Euros return, same day fly back. Being at VP it would cost me a fortune and no same day fly back.
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Swansea is in Europe. So is Cardiff.
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I wish this match was away so that I can keep my record of being at at least one European ground per season every season for the last few years.
The new players need a chance to sample the VP atmosphere before any Premier League matches. We should play at least one friendly at home!
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Swansea is in Europe. So is Cardiff.
However I have heard that the island they are located on is attached to the USA!
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Me and some of the usual suspects will be in The Bartons from 12.
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Right, looks like I won't make this game, thanks to a woman who confuses her mornings and her afternoons. BOLLOCKS!!! I bought the fucking ticket now and everything.
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Me and some of the usual suspects will be in The Bartons from 12.
Pisshead. ;) ;)
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That accusation can only be levelled if I stay there until 9pm afterwards.
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As McLeish has gone. Can we organise some anti Spanish protests before the game over the Gibralter issue ?
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I have wriggled out of other commitments and bought a ticket. Successfully argued that no season can officially begin without a 3pm KO on an August Saturday in shirtsleeves, trying to imagine how you will be there in 5 months wearing gloves, scarf, hat and puffa jacket.
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That accusation can only be levelled if I stay there until 9pm afterwards.
Please identify yourself with easily recognisable paraphernalia!
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How are ticket sales going? Planning on taking my nephew to his first villa game and getting tickets on the day.
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I have wriggled out of other commitments and bought a ticket. Successfully argued that no season can officially begin without a 3pm KO on an August Saturday in shirtsleeves, trying to imagine how you will be there in two weeks wearing gloves, scarf, hat and puffa jacket.
Fixed.
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As McLeish has gone. Can we organise some anti Spanish protests before the game over the Gibralter issue ?
It's only a reef for fucksake. A false reef, that also stops Spanish fishing vessels invade the Gibralter fishing waters. I cannot see the problem to be honest. Long live Gibralter. 8)
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As McLeish has gone. Can we organise some anti Spanish protests before the game over the Gibralter issue ?
How would the UK Government react if Spain or France had control of Canvey Island or the Isle of Sheppey?
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As McLeish has gone. Can we organise some anti Spanish protests before the game over the Gibralter issue ?
How would the UK Government react if Spain or France had control of Canvey Island or the Isle of Sheppey?
Shell the fuck out of them and take it back.
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As McLeish has gone. Can we organise some anti Spanish protests before the game over the Gibralter issue ?
How would the UK Government react if Spain or France had control of Canvey Island or the Isle of Sheppey?
Funny how the Spanish don't apply the same principle to their two enclaves, Cueta and Melilla, in Morocco...
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As McLeish has gone. Can we organise some anti Spanish protests before the game over the Gibralter issue ?
How would the UK Government react if Spain or France had control of Canvey Island or the Isle of Sheppey?
Sink them.
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As McLeish has gone. Can we organise some anti Spanish protests before the game over the Gibralter issue ?
How would the UK Government react if Spain or France had control of Canvey Island or the Isle of Sheppey?
Ideally, build a big wall and make damn sure they don't try and give the fuckers back.
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As McLeish has gone. Can we organise some anti Spanish protests before the game over the Gibralter issue ?
How would the UK Government react if Spain or France had control of Canvey Island or the Isle of Sheppey?
Ideally, build a big wall and make damn sure they don't try and give the fuckers back.
Ha. Very good Sam.
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Right, looks like I won't make this game, thanks to a woman who confuses her mornings and her afternoons. BOLLOCKS!!! I bought the fucking ticket now and everything.
Looks like I'll make the 2nd half so I'll go 0-0 at half time, 9-6 to Villa at full time.
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Can we all turn up tomorrow with one of those Spanish holiday stuffed toy donkeys?
Just to create a bit of atmosphere like?
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Right, looks like I won't make this game, thanks to a woman who confuses her mornings and her afternoons. BOLLOCKS!!! I bought the fucking ticket now and everything.
Looks like I'll make the 2nd half so I'll go 0-0 at half time, 9-6 to Villa at full time.
Highly likely.
Leeg ain't going.
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I have wriggled out of other commitments and bought a ticket. Successfully argued that no season can officially begin without a 3pm KO on an August Saturday in shirtsleeves, trying to imagine how you will be there in two weeks wearing gloves, scarf, hat and puffa jacket.
Fixed.
Ha! Tick V.G.
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Totally gutted I'm missing this one, had my stomach op yesterday..
But I'm going for a 2-1 to us.
Very close game, with Vlaar and Benteke scoring..
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Totally gutted I'm missing this one, had my stomach op yesterday..
But I'm going for a 2-1 to us.
Very close game, with Vlaar and Benteke scoring..
Pun intended ?
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Totally gutted I'm missing this one, had my stomach op yesterday..
But I'm going for a 2-1 to us.
Very close game, with Vlaar and Benteke scoring..
Pun intended ?
Load of tripe.
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I'm not going, I just can't summon up the enthusiasm. I've got my ST and looking forward to the proper stuff but happy to put it off for a few more weeks.
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I'm not going, I just can't summon up the enthusiasm. I've got my ST and looking forward to the proper stuff but happy to put it off for a few more weeks.
I am the same with friendlies.
The last one I went to was the Inter game, because I had never sat in the Lower Holte.
I give them 9 months of the year, so I cannot be doing with friendlies.
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Same here. The last friendly I went to was at Motherwell and that only because I was seeing and staying with a mate from Edinburgh.
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Never started going to friendlies until last year but I seemed to have gained an enthusiasm for them from somewhere.
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Same here. The last friendly I went to was at Motherwell and that only because I was seeing and staying with a mate from Edinburgh.
Aren't you keen to see these new signings?.....I don't go to friendlies very often but I'm looking forward to it with these new players on board, and of course seeing the beast Benteke in a Villa shirt again!....must admit when he was sent-off against Chelski last season, I thought that would be his last appearance in the famouse claret and blue.
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I'm not going, I just can't summon up the enthusiasm. I've got my ST and looking forward to the proper stuff but happy to put it off for a few more weeks.
I am the same with friendlies.
The last one I went to was the Inter game, because I had never sat in the Lower Holte.
I give them 9 months of the year, so I cannot be doing with friendlies.
Bloody hell - I am agreeing with Ads - something just ain`t right :)
Not making the journey for this one
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Our lack of European football in the past few seasons made this one a little more attractive, So I've decided to go tomorrow. Expect the XI that starts tomorrow will be the one that starts at the Emirates and I think it will be:
Guzan
Lowton Vlaar Okore Luna
Sylla Westwood Delph
Weimann `Benteke Gabby
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Our lack of European football in the past few seasons made this one a little more attractive, So I've decided to go tomorrow. Expect the XI that starts tomorrow will be the one that starts at the Emirates and I think it will be:
Guzan
Lowton Vlaar Okore Luna
Sylla Westwood Delph
Weimann `Benteke Gabby
Pretty much the starting 11 I'd have pencilled in for most games this season.
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Our lack of European football in the past few seasons made this one a little more attractive, So I've decided to go tomorrow. Expect the XI that starts tomorrow will be the one that starts at the Emirates and I think it will be:
Guzan
Lowton Vlaar Okore Luna
Sylla Westwood Delph
Weimann `Benteke Gabby
Pretty much the starting 11 I'd have pencilled in for most games this season.
Agree, but the encouraging thing is we do have some other squad options this season. Saying that, let's hope we don't have the same number of injuries this season that we have had in the last couple.
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Our lack of European football in the past few seasons made this one a little more attractive, So I've decided to go tomorrow. Expect the XI that starts tomorrow will be the one that starts at the Emirates and I think it will be:
Guzan
Lowton Vlaar Okore Luna
Sylla Westwood Delph
Weimann `Benteke Gabby
I doubt Okore is fully fit yet.
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Our lack of European football in the past few seasons made this one a little more attractive, So I've decided to go tomorrow. Expect the XI that starts tomorrow will be the one that starts at the Emirates and I think it will be:
Guzan
Lowton Vlaar Okore Luna
Sylla Westwood Delph
Weimann `Benteke Gabby
Pretty much the starting 11 I'd have pencilled in for most games this season.
Agree, but the encouraging thing is we do have some other squad options this season. Saying that, let's hope we don't have the same number of injuries this season that we have had in the last couple.
Yep.We have cover/alternatives in almost every area of the pitch. And Lambert will definitely change things around according to my Norwich-supporting mate.
Still missing a strong creative midfielder though!
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Us 2 Them 1. First game of the season for me, can't wait.
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Same here. The last friendly I went to was at Motherwell and that only because I was seeing and staying with a mate from Edinburgh.
last friendly I went to was Rangers
Not very friendly
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Our lack of European football in the past few seasons made this one a little more attractive, So I've decided to go tomorrow. Expect the XI that starts tomorrow will be the one that starts at the Emirates and I think it will be:
Guzan
Lowton Vlaar Okore Luna
Sylla Westwood Delph
Weimann `Benteke Gabby
I doubt Okore is fully fit yet.
Should get a good gauge on his fitness tomorrow. Don't know if 60/70 mins tomorrow and a full week of training will be enough, but I can see him getting the nod even if he is not quite 100%.
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Same here. The last friendly I went to was at Motherwell and that only because I was seeing and staying with a mate from Edinburgh.
last friendly I went to was Rangers
Not very friendly
Expect the same tomorrow. Rangers and malaga are both as bad as each other.
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Same here. The last friendly I went to was at Motherwell and that only because I was seeing and staying with a mate from Edinburgh.
last friendly I went to was Rangers
Not very friendly
Expect the same tomorrow. Rangers and malaga are both as bad as each other.
Will there be many Malaga fans there ?
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Hopefully see as close to the first team as possible tomorrow and a nice win would be good.
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Looking forward to going down tomorrow, hopefully see a strong side for at least an hour or so and the fringe players trying to make an impression.
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Interesting Moxley has an article suggesting that Lambert is considering Baker and Okore as his starting CB's. i'd be quite shocked if that was the case.
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Interesting Moxley has an article suggesting that Lambert is considering Baker and Okore as his starting CB's. i'd be quite shocked if that was the case.
I wouldn't.
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Interesting Moxley has an article suggesting that Lambert is considering Baker and Okore as his starting CB's. i'd be quite shocked if that was the case.
I wouldn't.
Really? Why create a brand new captaincy controversy at the start of the season especially how well the summer has gone. From the games so far has Vlaar really done that badly. Okore has only played 2 halves as well.
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Interesting Moxley has an article suggesting that Lambert is considering Baker and Okore as his starting CB's. i'd be quite shocked if that was the case.
I wouldn't.
Really? Why create a brand new captaincy controversy at the start of the season especially how well the summer has gone. From the games so far has Vlaar really done that badly. Okore has only played 2 halves as well.
Baker's looked good pre-season.
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Interesting Moxley has an article suggesting that Lambert is considering Baker and Okore as his starting CB's. i'd be quite shocked if that was the case.
I wouldn't.
Really? Why create a brand new captaincy controversy at the start of the season especially how well the summer has gone. From the games so far has Vlaar really done that badly. Okore has only played 2 halves as well.
Baker's looked good pre-season.
No I get that, but has Vlaar done that badly to be dropped for Okore? I didn't think he had. I might be wrong.
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Interesting Moxley has an article suggesting that Lambert is considering Baker and Okore as his starting CB's. i'd be quite shocked if that was the case.
That's the pairing I'd go for, in truth. Especially if Vlaar didn't start to look better. Surprised Lambert thinks that way but don't think it is the worst idea in the world.
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I'm not saying it might not eventually end up that way, but I wouldn't have thought he'd be doing that so soon.
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I'm not saying it might not eventually end up that way, but I wouldn't have thought he'd be doing that so soon.
Have been thinking this myself. Thought he would start season with Baker and Vlaar but then if Vlaar got a knock (which he seems prone to do) and Okore came in and did well, would PL keep him in at the expense of his captain?
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Pre-season, Baker has looked our best CB. Okore needs the game time so perhaps that's the plan. Ron is a relatively steady ship, has played all pre-season so doesn't need the game as much as Okore does.
I expected Ron and Okore to emerge as our first choice CBs but I think Lambert is very happy to keep options open. As much as I like Clark I have been a bit disappointed that he hasn't progressed as much as I thought, whereas Baker has looked dominant as an out and out ball winner in the air.
Interesting to see how it pans out over the season.
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Baker is better in the air than Vlaar and Okore has the pace and energy to pick anything what gets behind the defence. Depends on Okore`s fitness. His distribution from defence is better than anything we have which will create an offensive game ........
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Totally gutted I'm missing this one, had my stomach op yesterday..
But I'm going for a 2-1 to us.
Very close game, with Vlaar and Benteke scoring..
Pun intended ?
Load of tripe.
Wish it was lads, gonna see if I can get it on some free stream somewhere, got my hopes on my first visit for cup game.
UTV
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Same here. The last friendly I went to was at Motherwell and that only because I was seeing and staying with a mate from Edinburgh.
last friendly I went to was Rangers
Not very friendly
Expect the same tomorrow. Rangers and malaga are both as bad as each other.
Will there be many Malaga fans there ?
Malaga is by the seaside and it is 35 degrees plus there, so they'll be a bit daft to head to Spaghetti Junction in the low 20s.
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Theoretically, Okore and Baker is our top partnership. A balance between right and left footed. One with pace, one strong in the air. Okore good on the deck.
But I'm not sure Lambert would take the plunge for the Arsenal game. While he clearly had faults, I think we'd have gone down if Vlaar had been out for much longer last season. His experience as much as anything was crucial.
It'd be a big ask to get Okore to come straight in against three of the top sides in the country (or two plus Liverpool!) after a maximum of 180 minutes of pre season football and play alongside a 21 year old who's still got plenty of ricks in him.
I see it as a choice between Baker and Okore.
Though I did like the look of Okore in Ireland.
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Totally gutted I'm missing this one, had my stomach op yesterday..
But I'm going for a 2-1 to us.
Very close game, with Vlaar and Benteke scoring..
Pun intended ?
Load of tripe.
Wish it was lads, gonna see if I can get it on some free stream somewhere, got my hopes on my first visit for cup game.
UTV
Is it on AVTV?
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It does seem to be on AVTV. It's not particularly well advertised though!
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It does seem to be on AVTV. It's not particularly well advertised though!
Just checked the OS and couldn't see anything, but as I'm going didn't really search much!
Thought it was odd that they would show it as it's a home game and they'd want folk going to VP rather than watching it online!
Selfish fu**er ain't I?
UTV!
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Our in-house TV channel is set to broadcast all of Villa's UK and Ireland pre-season games as Paul Lambert's side continue their preparations for the 2013-14 campaign.
It means you'll be able to see the games against Wycombe, Luton, Crewe, Walsall, Shamrock Rovers and Malaga.
It does say "set to" (and this was obviously a few weeks ago) so maybe it's been pulled for some reason? Or maybe they're not advertising it whilst they're trying to entice people to the game
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Our in-house TV channel is set to broadcast all of Villa's UK and Ireland pre-season games as Paul Lambert's side continue their preparations for the 2013-14 campaign.
It means you'll be able to see the games against Wycombe, Luton, Crewe, Walsall, Shamrock Rovers and Malaga.
It does say "set to" (and this was obviously a few weeks ago) so maybe it's been pulled for some reason? Or maybe they're not advertising it whilst they're trying to entice people to the game
This shows thought and intelligence Matt.
This is why you came up with it and I didn't!
*will now slope off and conduct intense search*
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Not so intense!
AVTV says coverage starts at 2.45.
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Our in-house TV channel is set to broadcast all of Villa's UK and Ireland pre-season games as Paul Lambert's side continue their preparations for the 2013-14 campaign.
It means you'll be able to see the games against Wycombe, Luton, Crewe, Walsall, Shamrock Rovers and Malaga.
It does say "set to" (and this was obviously a few weeks ago) so maybe it's been pulled for some reason? Or maybe they're not advertising it whilst they're trying to entice people to the game
This shows thought and intelligence Matt.
This is why you came up with it and I didn't!
*will now slope off and conduct intense search*
Being streamed live on AVTV - on OS (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/TV/LiveEventsDetail/0,,10265~3343576,00.html)
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Live stream also appears to be available @ bet365.com
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If you're catching the number 7 from town the stop is now at the back of Snow Hill on the Queensway.
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Guzan Lowton Luna Vlaar Okore El Ahmadi Delph Tonev Gabby Benteke Weimann
Interesting no Westwood starting, although would imagine he will be in for Tonev at Arsenal next week.
Also, why does Delph get such stick considering how well he played last 3 months of the season?
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Guzan, Lowton, Luna, Vlaar, Okore, KEA, Delph, Tonev, Weimann, Benteke, Gabby
Beat me by a few seconds Ozz. I think Delph has a really big role to play this season
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When will we be playing at VP at 3 o'clock on a Saturday next? It would be good to have a real performance this afternoon, expect we'll see less changes, PL must be getting close to his starting 11 (with the exception of KEA for Westwood). UTV
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When will we be playing at VP at 3 o'clock on a Saturday next? It would be good to have a real performance this afternoon, expect we'll see less changes, PL must be getting close to his starting 11 (with the exception of KEA for Westwood). UTV
Newcastle - Sept 14th
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Also, why does Delph get such stick considering how well he played last 3 months of the season?
I thought he was our most consistant player over those last 3 months. If he plays anything like he did over that period, then I reckon he will get a call up for England.
Also agree with TV. I think he may of come of age where he will now thrive on the responsibilty and can see either him or Westwood as the future captain of the side.
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Also, why does Delph get such stick considering how well he played last 3 months of the season?
I thought he was our most consistant player over those last 3 months. If he plays anything like he did over that period, then I reckon he will get a call up for England.
Also agree with TV. I think he may of come of age where he will now thrive on the responsibilty and can see either him or Westwood as the future captain of the side.
Yeah I don't get it either. I thought he was excellent since January, and ironically the first time he's been here where he's had a good run without injury.
Lambert clearly rates him and he's made him Captain in a few of the pre-season games so far. The other players clearly respect him. If Delph adds goals to his game too, which given his time at Leeds, he's capable of doing, I can see him making England squads before long.
For me, at this minute the CM ranks as Westwood, Delph, Sylla, with KEA in fourth. If we play two then I think it'll be Delph and Westy. Sylla would come in to make the third if we play 3 in the mid like last season.
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Since he arrived at the club, Delph has always come across as a really down to earth, humble young man. It's a shame that there's been so much injury and management volatility in his young career. Now he's getting and staying healthy and has a manager that believes in him. It is starting to show in his overall play.
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Delph was so poor in the middle third of the season, culminating in what I thought was a horrible performance against Bradford, that I'd practically written him off. He promptly became one of our best players and a crucial influence in that March to May run.
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Delph was so poor in the middle third of the season, culminating in what I thought was a horrible performance against Bradford, that I'd practically written him off. He promptly became one of our best players and a crucial influence in that March to May run.
Like most of the other players though Monty, and like the others they all improved as they started to believe in themselves.
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For me, Delph is finally showing what we though we were buying.
Infact, towards the end of last season I thought he was excellent.
If he can keep that level of performance and add goals to his game, he is the closest thing we have to Tayls, since Tayls.
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Delph was so poor in the middle third of the season, culminating in what I thought was a horrible performance against Bradford, that I'd practically written him off. He promptly became one of our best players and a crucial influence in that March to May run.
Like most of the other players though Monty, and like the others they all improved as they started to believe in themselves.
True. Guzan, Lowton, Westwood, Weimann and Benteke were the five who you always felt had it in them, but others stepping up - Delph and Gabby especially - is what saved us last year.
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Decent bench including everyone else barring herd and ngzobia who may feature this season.
No grealish or carruthers.
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Decent bench including everyone else barring herd and ngzobia who may feature this season.
No grealish or carruthers.
Carruthers is at MK Dons Rich. I imagine Grealish will be off somewhere soon too.
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Delph was so poor in the middle third of the season, culminating in what I thought was a horrible performance against Bradford, that I'd practically written him off. He promptly became one of our best players and a crucial influence in that March to May run.
I could not believe how good he was against West Ham.
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Cheers toronto missed that
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Who is giving Delph stick sorry?
I think his form at the back end of last season wasn't just good, it was fantastic. If he can keep that going and add some goals I think he's a cert for an international call up. He's looked good in pre-season from what I've seen.
Very talented player, now finally playing with the zip in his game we'd long expected, and just as importantly making the right decisions with and without the ball.
It's hard to argue that the squad doesn't look very significantly better than the one we started last season with.
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Having seen Delph at Crewe other week and last 3 months of last season , he something special and player who we been waiting to see.
Big season for him
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Delph was so poor in the middle third of the season, culminating in what I thought was a horrible performance against Bradford, that I'd practically written him off. He promptly became one of our best players and a crucial influence in that March to May run.
I could not believe how good he was against West Ham.
Indeed, he was excellent. Looking back that game was a huge catalyst for us.
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Absolutely typical Benteke goal, that. Massive strength, nobody was going to knock him off the ball there.
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Bloody hell!
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Class. Different class.
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That's an unbelievable goal. Truly different class.
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He is pure quality, master class by Benteke.
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It's all pretty familiar stuff really so far!
Benteke and the other two forwards look a real threat. Lowton and Delph look good. KEA looks lackadaisical in the face of better opposition but with moments of decent quality too. Defence still looks a bit suspect.
Moon good on the ball but I think needs to adjust defensively.
Tonev doesn't look ready to go into the side for me
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He can score every single type of goal. An utter nightmare to play against and plan For. Simply superb.
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He's just so hard to get off the ball, that goal was a perfect example of it. Did anyone think they were going to get the ball off him as he picked it up in their area? Not a chance
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A cornalty!
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Hello. That was a good ball in on tonev's wrong foot!
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Tonev has taken a corner with his left, and with his right. Ha ha. Just which foot is his stronger one? Brilliant. Ginola used to do that too (or more so for Spurs).
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Cracking corner.
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I already got the two scores in my previous shout yesterday, if Malaga get one, I'll be gutted, should of had a little bet....get in Vlaar, looking brilliant, Okore looks solid
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Great corner - Tonev is possibly going to be a bit a star.
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Nice play. We've passed it around better than Malaga. I thought they might have the majority of possesion, but they've struggled. Benteke is pure class. So much to his game.
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How long has it been since I've seen a villa side move off the ball in the way this side does? Perhaps since little's side or even BFR? That's been the most frustrating thing about watching villa over the years. An absolute absence of any real movement off the ball.
Still pretty concerned about our defence and the ease of getting behind it. Perhaps Vlaar's place is immediately under threat after all? Okore looks pretty good I reckon.
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Do you get the impression that Woodwank is operating the camera as well as blathering into the mic? - it's all very ham.
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How long has it been since I've seen a villa side move off the ball in the way this side does? Perhaps since little's side or even BFR? That's been the most frustrating thing about watching villa over the years. An absolute absence of any real movement off the ball.
That's been my bugbear re Villa sides for years now.
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We seem to actually found someone who can take a good corner from either side!
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Pen!
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Crikey Tonev. You look more than a little bit decent.
And I can't get my head around this "us taking useful corners" thing either.
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I like Tonev. Left foot, right foot. You don't know what he's going to do, and then he plays a lovely ball to Tekkers there on the outside of his right boot.
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How long has it been since I've seen a villa side move off the ball in the way this side does? Perhaps since little's side or even BFR? That's been the most frustrating thing about watching villa over the years. An absolute absence of any real movement off the ball.
That's been my bugbear re Villa sides for years now.
Absolutely. Considering the money we spent under MON it was criminal
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Pre Season and everything so cannot judge too much, but we look absolutely outstanding going forward!!
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nice pen, great ball from Tonev in the build up, bit upset that it's ruined my prediction, I was doing well.
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I'm really excited for the season lads :-[ :)
Gonna be a really good one I reckon.
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3-0!?
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"On your marks, get set, GOAL!"
The AVTV commentator genuinely believes he's Alan Partridge doesn't he?!
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Great through ball from Tonev to Benteke leading up to the penalty. Very impressed so far.
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We're playing great. 3-0. It's free to watch on the Malaga website too which is always nice.
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if we appoint a Paul Lambert about 5 or 6 years and skip O'Neill and Houllier and McLeish era it would be frightening to see where we are today. We got the right man now. Let hope he will be long term success story.
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Great tonev pass, we look very good going forward, Benteke penalty, pure confidence
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I have been telling people who've cared to listen over the last 3-4 weeks that although we may not win anything this season, we're going to see some great football and this squad should make us feel very proud.
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"On your marks, get set, GOAL!"
The AVTV commentator genuinely believes he's Alan Partridge doesn't he?!
;D
Only just got the game on, heard Tonev has been really good, has he? He was one of the signings I was most looking forward to seeing player (him, Okore and Helenius.)
Looking good.
200th post 8)
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We're playing great. 3-0. It's free to watch on the Malaga website too which is always nice.
Thanks for that. I can tune in now!
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We're playing great. 3-0. It's free to watch on the Malaga website too which is always nice.
Thanks for that. I can tune in now!
Or not, as the case may be.
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Tekkers looks good in the box, looks good dropping deep and looks good on the wing. He's like a number 9, 10 and 11 rolled into one.
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I can see this side exceeding our expectations this coming season. There's so much quality and promise in the side.
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We're playing great. 3-0. It's free to watch on the Malaga website too which is always nice.
Thanks for that. I can tune in now!
Or not, as the case may be.
I certainly can't find it.
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Hmmmm
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Jesus that was poor.
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We're playing great. 3-0. It's free to watch on the Malaga website too which is always nice.
Thanks for that. I can tune in now!
Or not, as the case may be.
Is this available in the UK, all I can see is a video about the new Malaga shirts. They do look good though for Los Boquerones.
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Defence is still awful.
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Bloody hell our defence is still shit then I see! Luna done very easily, vlaar too and could have given away a pen, and then Okore just sort of fell over
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Where is it on the malaga site?
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Are Malaga taking it seriously ?
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It will be such a shame if it turned out that the defence hadn't improved significantly on last season's showing.
I know an own goal is one of those things that can happen, but there was some well iffy defending in the run up to it.
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Defence is still awful.
Lambert out!
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We're playing great. 3-0. It's free to watch on the Malaga website too which is always nice.
Thanks for that. I can tune in now!
Help out a thicko who can't find it with a link please?
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http://tvmalaguista.es/index.php/directo
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Thanks
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Well, we can't half play some good stuff going forward.
Tonev looks really impressive, and can actually take a corner. Benteke's first was typical of him, defenders bouncing off him. I also thought Delph looked very good indeed.
Hard to draw many conclusions re the defence, but it'd be a shame if it hadn't improved greatly, given how excellent we can be when attacking.
Loved Woodward bigging up AVTV at the end for this live coverage, "because it isn't easy to do, you know" - we believe you, Jack, we spent 85 minutes watching a spinning loading animation for the first "live" game.
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We're playing great. 3-0. It's free to watch on the Malaga website too which is always nice.
Thanks for that. I can tune in now!
Help out a thicko who can't find it with a link please?
Same here.
Just Malag's new shirt is all I'm getting.
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Difficult to judge the defence today - first time that Okore and Vlaar have had signiificant time together as CB.
We have already seen that Luna - like Bennett - is better going forward.
I remain unconvinced by Vlaar ...
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Maybe we could have Vlaar doing the commentary and stick Jack in the middle of defence?
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It will be such a shame if it turned out that the defence hadn't improved significantly on last season's showing.
I know an own goal is one of those things that can happen, but there was some well iffy defending in the run up to it.
Are we the new Spurs a la Ardiles? Score more than them and we'll be OK...
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I do think Luna could get a bit of a tough time given he's gonna be up against Walcott and then mata. I wonder if baker might start there?
Vlaar isn't convincing is he? Looks just a bit off positionally, while lacking pace and dominance in the air
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whats the score ?
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3-1 Benteke (2) and Vlaar
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Maybe we could have Vlaar doing the commentary and stick Jack in the middle of defence?
You think Jack would talk the opposing strikers to death? - you know, it just might work.
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Gotta believe that Bennett willl get a run-out at some point today.
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thanks pw...who was at fault for the goal we conceded ?
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Maybe we could have Vlaar doing the commentary and stick Jack in the middle of defence?
You think Jack would talk the opposing strikers to death? - you know, it just might work.
More like a player will break him in half then we play the rest of game against 10 men :)
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2 poor crosses in quick succession from Delph and then Lowton
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Bright and sunny at VP. Malaga look as though they are a week or two behind us in fitness terms but still good so far. Okore has made one mistake otherwise competent. Tonev is all over the place. KEA and Delph good. Lawton needs to improve his precision. Will have a good look at Luna in the second half. We were very sloppy for five mi s leading up to their goal.
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thanks pw...who was at fault for the goal we conceded ?
It was a bit of poor stuff from Luna, then Vlaar and an own goal from Okore (who couldn't really do much about it, to be fair)
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thanks pw...who was at fault for the goal we conceded ?
All of them.
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KEA still gives too many free kicks away.
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Bit slow at the start of the second half. Would actually be good for us if we have to withstand some pressure. Good prep.
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I would hope this team would not be selected away against good teams. KEA and Delph in the midfield two leave us too stretched.
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Tonev looks a threat on the break doesn't he? Intriguing. Needs to improve his decision taking though.
Would still pick three in the middle though v arsenal
Good chance there. Who's fault was it that he got that one on one? They don't seem to be able to show replays on AVTV
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Did Leeg tune into the game when we were winning 3-0, and then we conceded? Just asking is all
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Did Leeg tune into the game when we were winning 3-0, and then we conceded? Just asking is all
A few minutes before but it did not work.
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Arsenal 3-0 up v citeh.
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They're all over us now really. I imagine we'll make some changes shortly?
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is there anything I can use to force full screen viewing on bet365 video. (I don't like magnifing glass option) because it is bad for dual screen viewing.
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is there anything I can use to force full screen viewing on bet365 video. (I don't like magnifing glass option) because it is bad for dual screen viewing.
Use that link on the Malaga page mate. I've got that full scene now
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Gabby and Weimann have been quiet today.
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Go and stand in the naughty corner Leeg!
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I'm cursed. I get the MalagaTV link to work and we concede.
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Haha
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When KEA got the ball on the halfway line then, I just knew he was gonna dawdle and give it away.
Tonev has looked increasingly good. But I really don't think we can afford the luxury of playing him in the hole. We leave our defence looking too exposed, particularly the full backs who get caught one on one too often.
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"Happy birthday to Paddy O'Doors from Sheldon!"
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Paddy o doors. jeez
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Tonev needs to look to pass occasionally.
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Is it still 3-1?
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Tonev looks good but he's a bit over ambitious with the shooting!
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Luna looks quite good other than when he has to defend!
Tonev needs to tone down his ambition.
When is Vlaar going to win a defensive header?
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Yeah that's my worry Matt.
If he plays in that position he will have to do a lot of closing down. Sylla has been excellent at that aspect, but is no where near as good going forward
Quandary
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Is it still 3-1?
3-2. All my fault.
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... I really don't think we can afford the luxury of playing Tonev in the hole. We leave our defence looking too exposed, particularly the full backs who get caught one on one too often.
True - I think he's a switch for Gabby or Weimann actually. I do like his set-piece delivery so it'd be good to slot him in the side somewhere.
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Far too easy to get behind us.
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Only just tuned in, how've we been? Thee comments in Spanish in the little chat box aren't very complimentary about us...
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The defence has been caught flat a few times today, as well.
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I blame Paul Lamberts suit!
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Is it still 3-1?
3-2. All my fault.
You and me both Legion!
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We struggled to keep the momentum going in the second half v Shamrock Rovers last week as well.
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Very poor this half, let's see what the changes bring.
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I don't really understand the praise for Tonev. Outside a couple of decent passes he's been woeful.
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I don't really understand the praise for Tonev. Outside a couple of decent passes he's been woeful.
What I have seen this half has been poor.
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Gabby and Weimann have had a few pretty ropey touches today.
Should have buried that Christian, even if it was offside
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I really like the look of Helenius' footwork.
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I think Tonev started sloppily, had a very good twenty minutes, and was then a bit ropey again.
Does anyone not think Malaga are going to score?
I think vlaar has been good in this second half though
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I don't really understand the praise for Tonev. Outside a couple of decent passes he's been woeful.
Well, apart from his neat first touch, his turn of pace and his set-piece delivery ... he does need to improve his decision-making.
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That pawlowski looks a good player doesn't he?
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Watching this I am very nervous when Vlaar has to do something.
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Vlaar looks happier on the right, tho he may grow into the left half of defence. As with last season, Delph looks happier when playing alongside Westwood.
Tonev has some potential but I see him more as a luxury when AW, GA and CB are already playing. I like the look of Helenius
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I've always thought Vlaar was a decent player struggling to adapt but of lateI am really not sure.
He is the player more than any who frightens me.
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I think we'll go back to playing 4-3-3 at the start of the season proper. I see Tonev and Helenius as being very useful bench options. But I do think we need that third man in the center to help us out defensively. KEA has done quite well in pre-season, but I think Sylla is still ahead in the pecking order.
Still, a good win today against a good side. We took our foot off the gas a bit and we're a bit lackluster second half, but by half time we could have had about 5 or 6.
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Legion is heading for a permanent ban at this point. He carries a gypsy curse.
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Enjoyable game I thought.
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Finished 3-2?
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Legion is heading for a permanent ban at this point. He carries a gypsy curse.
Have you seen Oldboy yet TV? Just an idea... ;)
I'd fancy a bet on us to win the title at 2000-1. Ha ha.
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Only saw the second half, so a bit disappointing I thought, although Malaga looked a quality team.
I liked the look of Tonev and Helenius.
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Legion is heading for a permanent ban at this point. He carries a gypsy curse.
Sorry. We did win, though.
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Brilliant first 30 minutes. Pretty crap after that. Think the message was not to get any injuries after half time as we sat off them and let them have all the ball. Malaga were excellent at pressing, nobody had more than a second or two on the ball and most of our players struggled to pass through them after that.
Defensively it seems that any ball kicked over the top will guarantee the opposition at least an offensive throw-in or a corner.
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I only watched the second half.
Thought we looked pretty poor. But hey it was obviously a game of two half's.
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Did we have a shot on target 2nd half?
Whilst the defence still looks wobbly, the midfield were completely missing second half. No idea why Lambert played with 4 attackers, not to mention Benteke out wide. Having watched that, I'm not expecting anything from the next couple of games.
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Similar to last season in that we were good for 45 minutes and poor for 45 minutes.
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Legion is heading for a permanent ban at this point. He carries a gypsy curse.
Sorry. We did win, though.
Yes, you got lucky
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What was the gate?
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What was the gate?
22,150.
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Cheers Dave. Not too bad for a friendly then.
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Cheers Dave. Not too bad for a friendly then.
The Pride of Their House got 5,200 this afternoon.
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There will be a very valid excuse...
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Did we just take our foot off the gas 2nd half then ?
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The fact that we played the starting XI for around 70 mins would suggest that it will be the team that starts next weekend. We looked a little sketchy at the back at times and Vlaar got caught out on a few occasions. Tonev looked promising (not seen a player take corners with both feet too many times) and is a definite upgrade on Holman. Interesting to see that we went with a 4-2-3-1 formation and that El Ahmadi got the nod in midfield. Maybe Westwood isn't considered to be mobile enough to play in a two-man central midfield. I just felt we left our full-backs exposed again at times and would maybe like to see us move back to the 4-3-3.
Was a bit disappointed with Malaga to be honest, though they got better as the game went on. Thought their two wide players were good.
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No. They put theirs on it.
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I just felt we left our full-backs exposed again at times and would maybe like to see us move back to the 4-3-3.
Even with 4-3-3, Lambert likes to play very narrow which gives acres to the opposition's wide men to run at us.
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The fact that we played the starting XI for around 70 mins would suggest that it will be the team that starts next weekend. We looked a little sketchy at the back at times and Vlaar got caught out on a few occasions. Tonev looked promising (not seen a player take corners with both feet too many times) and is a definite upgrade on Holman. Interesting to see that we went with a 4-2-3-1 formation and that El Ahmadi got the nod in midfield. Maybe Westwood isn't considered to be mobile enough to play in a two-man central midfield. I just felt we left our full-backs exposed again at times and would maybe like to see us move back to the 4-3-3.
Was a bit disappointed with Malaga to be honest, though they got better as the game went on. Thought their two wide players were good.
I didnt see the game but interesting Lambert is experimenting with 4 up front again, I think the mad bastard genuinely will play that a few times next season. Bloody hell we will be seeing a lot of goals next season if we do, at both ends.
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Looked good first half, lost our way second. Of the new signings was impressed with Luna (going forwards), Tonev and particularly Okore. We still leave oceans of space down the flanks for teams to open us up, and the marking for their second goal was laughable. Think the team that started the first half will be Lambert's 1st XI with the exception of Westwood in for KEA. 22k+ for a friendly was nice to see.
As an aside when I was taking in the world at the top of the Holte steps before the game I asked the turnstile supervisor if the people paying cash on the gate were having to pay a £2 transaction charge. She said 'no'. Maybe I'll post that separately on the relevant thread
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Looked good first half, lost our way second. Of the new signings was impressed with Luna (going forwards), Tonev and particularly Okore. We still leave oceans of space down the flanks for teams to open us up, and the marking for their second goal was laughable. Think the team that started the first half will be Lambert's 1st XI with the exception of Westwood in for KEA. 22k+ for a friendly was nice to see.
As an aside when I was taking in the world at the top of the Holte steps before the game I asked the turnstile supervisor if the people paying cash on the gate were having to pay a £2 transaction charge. She said 'no'. Maybe I'll post that separately on the relevant thread
It's been scrapped.
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Yeah just spotted that Dave when I scurried off to that thread. Common sense seems to have prevailed
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Did we just take our foot off the gas 2nd half then ?
Don't forget, we weren't playing a bunch of nobodies - they were seconds away from the Champions League semi-finals as recently as five months ago.
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For those who didn't watch the first half, we did play very well for much of it.
I'd definitely revert to the midfield we were playing at the end of last season though. We're just too open with that formation at the moment. Considering who we've got next I just don't think we can afford to play that way. It really helps the full backs to have midfielders who can shuffle across to help them
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For those who didn't watch the first half, we did play very well for much of it.
I'd definitely revert to the midfield we were playing at the end of last season though. We're just too open with that formation at the moment. Considering who we've got next I just don't think we can afford to play that way. It really helps the full backs to have midfielders who can shuffle across to help them
Also helps us. Lost count of the number of times Lowton got the ball and had no options in front of him. Sylla provided some width for us when he played towards the end of the season.
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Just back.
Great 1st half, some really promising passages of play, and I still marvel at Benteke's lovely, subtle touches combined with his bullish strength - he really wanted that 1st goal!
Almost inevitably they scored before half time, made with the winger cutting inside Luna. As much as I love the guy he gets beaten for pace on that side a bit too easily. Other than that he played well. Far too much space for them in midfield and our full backs had a lot of ground to cover as well as defend.
We scored from a corner!!!
Thought Gabby and Weimann contributed little, esp Gabby, not really getting into areas where we can give him the ball to take advantage of his pace. Weimann got into good positions but made some poor choices - crossing ball too early, too close to keeper. With a slightly steadier head I think he could have set up a couple more.
Okore looks good and I hope will improve. Although Tonev looks as though he could cause a few problems most of his corners were a bit too strong and from the B Bannan school of overhitting beyond everyone.
Westwood looked very composed as usual and I think he will start against Arse.
We let them back into it a little too easily in the 2nd half but as Dave says, they are a good side and a better test for us than Crewe, Walsall etc.
Roll on next Sat'dy!
UTV!
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I don't really understand the praise for Tonev. Outside a couple of decent passes he's been woeful.
Yep i thought he looked lost at times.
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From my seat i thought they should of had a blatant penalty awarded to them in the 1st half?
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never saw the game or followed it anywhere,
but have just read through the game thread and cant make my mind up whether we are going to win the league at a cantor, or finish rock bottom judging by the comments made
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Thought Tonev was shocking. Totally wasteful the whole game.
Thought Weimann was useless and Gabby not that much better.
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I don't really understand the praise for Tonev. Outside a couple of decent passes he's been woeful.
Yep i thought he looked lost at times.
I think he's got promise but needs to make the right choice of run/pass.
Playing just behind the front 3 today, a bit like Lambert plays N'Zogbia, means he got a bit lost.
Would he be more effective played wide?
I see him as an alternative to Gabby, who I thought was pretty poor today.
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Tonev was hit and miss, but 'woeful' is way too harsh. He did set up two of our three goals.
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Tonev was hit and miss, but 'woeful' is way too harsh. He did set up two of our three goals.
Was surprised he played through the middle. Thought he was more of a wide man.
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Thought Tonev was shocking. Totally wasteful the whole game.
Thought Weimann was useless and Gabby not that much better.
I'm really excited for the new season now!
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Ive been thinking about it on the way home and havent the time to read the whole thread. Tonev's got something in the way that Tony Daley had something. He might flatter to decieve or he might be very good,we shall see. Weimann and Agbonlahor didnt do a lot.The defence will concede a few again. Ron Vlaar is not up to the mark.
On a sartorial note I thought the away kit looked bloody awful on most people wearing it except for the really thin ones. And, I nearly got interviewed by Steve Wotsit who used to do the sports bits on Midlands Today 200years ago. He started towards me then veered off to a dad and son who were wearing about £10,000 worth of Villa kit.
About 20,000 there ,not bad at all.
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Thought Tonev was shocking. Totally wasteful the whole game.
Thought Weimann was useless and Gabby not that much better.
I'm really excited for the new season now!
Not half as much as me ;D
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Good win, decent crowd... nice one Villa
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We're not going to be boring this season, are we?
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Two things that worry me.
1. I think Westwood, Delph and Sylla must play together in midfield otherwise we look open. KEA can be back uo for any of them if needed. Maybe Tonev can replace Gabby who looks wasted.
2. Ron Vlaar. Honestly he is no good IMO.
Other than that we played very well against one of the top Spanish sides.
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Two things that worry me.
1. I think Westwood, Delph and Sylla must play together in midfield otherwise we look open. KEA can be back uo for any of them if needed. Maybe Tonev can replace Gabby who looks wasted.
2. Ron Vlaar. Honestly he is no good IMO.
Other than that we played very well against one of the top Spanish sides.
Agree with that but our defending is just not up to the required standard.
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Great first 30 minutes, then we seemed to stop playing. Every player seemed to drop down 2 gears, even the off the ball runs etc went down. Their number 19, whoever he was, destroyed us, he would have been my MOTM, we just couldn't cope with him. Still, it was fun game and we won. I always enjoy the first trip of the new season to Villa Park.
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Two things that worry me.
1. I think Westwood, Delph and Sylla must play together in midfield otherwise we look open. KEA can be back uo for any of them if needed. Maybe Tonev can replace Gabby who looks wasted.
2. Ron Vlaar. Honestly he is no good IMO.
Other than that we played very well against one of the top Spanish sides.
If it wasn't for Vlaar we'd have dropped 2 points today, I thought he was more than useful in the second half.
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I agree vlaar really stepped it up in the second half. But it was a concern how easily our offside trap was broached.
I think we're getting better and better going forwards. But definitely need the three in midfield at the moment.
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Benteke's first goal was class. Two assists from Tonev even if he was poor. Roll on season
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The goals are on AVTV now.
Tonev's two assists were very good.
Defending for the second was probably one of those things. Though I think if you have three more defensively minded midfielders in there you close those shots down better.
Luna and Vlaar didn't cover themselves in glory for the first. I think it just hit Okore really, although having got himself into the right position well, he probably should have had better body shape.
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I am definitely worried with Vlaar playing as the left side centre back. Right side he may be ok but for me definitely not left side.
Also Tonev I thought was well off the pace, over ran the ball several times and generally did not seem to know what to do/where the others were. Needs some time on the training pitch before he gets into the team IMO or if he plays, he needs to be instead of Gabby or Andreas.
KEA has some neat touches but again I think he struggles when the pace of the game is raised.
If the team that kicked off is the one PL intends to start against Arsenal and Chelsea then I am very worried.
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Benteke's first goal was class. Two assists from Tonev even if he was poor. Roll on season
Yep, I was going to post about how bad Tonev looked most of the game, then I remembered how he helped set up the goals.
Anyhow, it looks like it'll be a bit helter-skelter this season. We should score plenty but we'll probably ship more.
As mentioned above Spongey Ron improved as the game went one. However, KEA got worse. I'd prefer Gardner as Westwood's backup.
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If Tonev was ropey, could it be he needed more game time?
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Benteke was different class for that first goal the power and strength he has is something else. That guy for Malaga (Weligton) who collided with Benteke during the first goal fractured his collar bone.
Thought we looked ok in parts we only ever seem to be able to play in stages. Thought Pawlowski ( the number 19) was the man of the match he was outstanding at times.
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If Tonev was ropey, could it be he needed more game time?
Exactly, it takes time to adapt having missed much of the pre-season. FFS give the guy time to get used to his new team mates and to get match fit.
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compared to say Delph who has played most of pre season?
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I don't really understand the praise for Tonev. Outside a couple of decent passes he's been woeful.
Well, apart from his neat first touch, his turn of pace and his set-piece delivery ... he does need to improve his decision-making.
Tonev will get better and I do think his role is likely to be as an alternative to Gabby andWeimann.
I was a little surprised during the game how people were so keen to trash him: he made some poor decisions but there's definitely a decent player there.
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Were Sylla and Bacuna injured? They seem to have good engines and I think we need at least one of them in midfield at any given time.
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I think Gabby and Weimann will be better in more intense games, KEA, Tonev and Luna might be worse. Benteke would be class in both a kickabout in the park or a World Cup Final. Thought the whole team except Vlaar were good first half, and the opposite in the second.
Lovely day, enjoyable match, always nice to say hello to my beloved Villa Park after the summer. She looked magnificent as always.
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2. Ron Vlaar. Honestly he is no good IMO.
Suddenly I envisioned the season ending with Okore and Baker as our main defenders.
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I could see that some work is being done but have they finally got round to putting in some private boxes above the Doug Ellis upper?
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I could see that some work is being done but have they finally got round to putting in some private boxes above the Doug Ellis upper?
No, not yet. Don't think they will either. I was in the upper North and it all looks a bit rickety up there. Can't see it taking the weight of the facilities and a few hundred fat bastards like Digby Jones.
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I'm not going, I just can't summon up the enthusiasm. I've got my ST and looking forward to the proper stuff but happy to put it off for a few more weeks.
Yeah same. I went to Oldham-Walsall today to tick off another ground and watch some competitive football. Still I'll be at Arsenal next weekend.
What's certain is we're not going to be boring this season, I feel it will be a bit like 07/08 without us finishing quite as high as 6th but we'll be involved in some terrific matches.
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Tonev creates 2goals, plays first game at home and gets written off!!!
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Benteke was different class for that first goal the power and strength he has is something else. That guy for Malaga (Weligton) who collided with Benteke during the first goal fractured his collar bone.
I think a continental referee would have awarded a foul against Benteke for what was a brutal but proper shoulder charge.
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Tonev creates 2goals, plays first game at home and gets written off!!!
Yep its ridiculous. He's not gonna get it right all the time, and he hasn't had as much pre season as others either. I thought he looked threatening throughout. His decision making wasn't always brilliant, but this was friendly, and your more likely try something a bit more elaborate than necessary at times. I think he's gonna be very useful. He certainly has more about him than N'Zog offers, and certainly a hell of a lot more than Ireland.
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Were Sylla and Bacuna injured? They seem to have good engines and I think we need at least one of them in midfield at any given time.
Both were on the bench.
I think Sylla and Westwood will start next week and Lambert was just seeing how KEA, Delph and Tonev behind the front 3 worked. He will probably use them in certain games, utilising the whole squad, as and when.
Interesting that Bacuna played midfield/wide in the early friendlies and then full back in the later ones. He did well in both positions and like Tonev has two good feet.
Tonev was much more of a threat today than Gabby, who looked a bit jaded and uninterested. A pity as so many of us love him to bits.
Great when he's on form/in the mood; only providing work for the laundry when he's not.
Although Luna was at fault for letting their no 19 get past him to cross for their 1st, I thought he did a better job than Lowton when the Malaga guy switched sides in the 2nd half. He was often in acres of space and I couldn't help thinking that having Sylla in there would have cut a lot of this down.
Malage chipped an awful lot of balls over Vlaar and he struggled with almost all of them. Not a criticism, just an observation that they had a simple plan and we didn't seem able to cope with it too well.
All said and done can't wait 'til the Arse game next Sat!
UTV!
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People seem to forget Tonev has missed a big chunk of pre season.
I also don't see how it is possible to be woeful yet set up two goals - clearly not that woeful.
As for the game, we were three up and slowed down for the rest if the game. Wouldn't really read too much in to the non event of the second half.
People saying we are not going to be boring this season are spot on. We can be unstoppable going forward and dreadful at the back, I don't think much has changed there.
There are a few things I like about Vlaar but he's far from convincing defensively.
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Is Vlaar good enough to anchor this team ? And captain it?
I didn't see today's game but saw enough last season to raise this question .
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Compared to what we had become under TSM I love what we've become under Lambert. Fuck me TSM's Villa was utterly shit. Yes, we need to address a few things but when a player that sets up two goals is deemed woeful it tells you how far we've come. We'd have given our left nut for two goals in a game in 2011. Let's not be too critical when we have players that create chances and help us score goals.
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Anyone who watched the side McLeish put out at Norwich, then the first Benteke goal today, would say it is not possible to go from one to the other inside 14 months without having spent stupid money. Lambert has done it on a shoestring even compared to some of the fees being paid out by the newly promoted sides. He has worked wonders to assemble what he has so far, and I hope the attacking verve we have found is carried on through to next weekend, as it could really hurt Arsenal.
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Compared to what we had become under TSM I love what we've become under Lambert. Fuck me TSM's Villa was utterly shit. Yes, we need to address a few things but when a player that sets up two goals is deemed woeful it tells you how far we've come. We'd have given our left nut for two goals in a game in 2011. Let's not be too critical when we have players that create chances and help us score goals.
This. Agreed totally.
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Compared to what we had become under TSM I love what we've become under Lambert. Fuck me TSM's Villa was utterly shit. Yes, we need to address a few things but when a player that sets up two goals is deemed woeful it tells you how far we've come. We'd have given our left nut for two goals in a game in 2011. Let's not be too critical when we have players that create chances and help us score goals.
This. Agreed totally.
Hear hear!
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Malaga were very good. We had one period where we dominated them, and made the most of it.
I am sure PL knows what he is doing: if we were up against wingers like this every week in the PL, he would have to change both strategy and tactics.
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I think what's got lost slightly is that we won. A friendly. Nothing more. Don't worry about Tonev now, or Gabby or Weimann playing poorly its next week when it matters.
Yes, we've seen that our defensive deficiencies of last season seem likely to be present this year if we're going in with this set of players, but our attack will win us games.
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(http://i41.tinypic.com/2yowkyo.jpg)
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Foul!
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It's called being "Smalling'd"
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2. Ron Vlaar. Honestly he is no good IMO.
Suddenly I envisioned the season ending with Okore and Baker as our main defenders.
Wouldnt be that bad a thing. One very pacey CB and a very gutsy and strong one, not too bad. Both very young and inexperienced though would be the only concern, although Baker got thrown in the deep end last season, that will hopefully help him this one.
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Wow, great goal by Benteke, are the highlights anywhere else?
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Tonev creates 2goals, plays first game at home and gets written off!!!
Can't honestly see how anyone who was at the game can come to that conclusion. Don't think he's ready to be thrown in at the deep end just yet, but showed more than enough promising touches to suggest there is a lot to come.
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The goals here: http://www.malagacf.com/en/webtv/matches/aston-villa-fc-malaga-cf/111/46977
Great bullying goal from Benteke.
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Thought Tonev was shocking. Totally wasteful the whole game.
Yeah, completely wasteful. Apart from setting up two goals. If he can set up two goals whilst playing so terribly, I'd start him every single game.
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What was the attendance?
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Well I was at the game and I was happy with Tonev considering he's only had a bit of game time.Be nice to have a winger like Pawlowski but Tonev is two footed,takes a good corner and wants to attack.
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Attendance 22,000 about 50 Malaga fans,the Baggies had 5,000 yesterday for their friendly against Bologna!
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I want to know why there was a Leicester City flag in the Malaga section.
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I want to know why there was a Leicester City flag in the Malaga section.
Did they play them in Europe when MON was the manager ?
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I want to know why there was a Leicester City flag in the Malaga section.
There was a Nottingham Forest one in there as well
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The first goal is like an advert for the cult of Benteke. Power, pace, skill, brutalism, finesse, an injured defender and a goal. Brilliant.
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I didn't see the Forest one.
There did seem a fair few neutrals at the game.
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I'll be the first to put my hands up when it comes to being Pessimistic with my beloved Villa.
I have seen players come into this wonderful club that have been utter dross, woeful, but mostly not willing to kiss that badge with meaning and loyalty.
But now I have so many reasons to be optimistic.
1. A manager who believes, has a vision, seems to have great scouting techniques and can spot a future talent.
2. We now have a vibrant, youthful, energetic, exciting bunch of lads who seem to not shy away from the ball.
3. Our emphasis of play now seems to be attacking football, which is a breath of fresh air.
4. Cannot remember how long it has been since I have felt so excited about this season and our future.
I for one thoroughly enjoyed the game yesterday, first half was much more than I expected, we made a very good team look lacklustre at times, but also managed to hang on for a victory when they put on the pressure.
I cannot wait to see how this team will perform and change over the coming season.
I can already see gabby losing his spot to tonev or maybe Helenius striking a partnership with Tekkers. I think Vlaar has got to work his socks off this season or may fall behind Baker and see Okore as the general now.
And midfield looks like Delph and anybody.
I am so optimistic now that my 11 year old boy is going to see some of the football that I seen as a young lad, the future looks Claret & Blue.
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At least Tonev looks as if he can whip in a decent corner, and we scored from one, a rare bonus in itself. So glad BB won't be sending in his floaters this season.
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At least Tonev looks as if he can whip in a decent corner, and we scored from one, a rare bonus in itself. So glad BB won't be sending in his floaters this season.
Beat me to it. I wasn't there yesterday but from what I've seen of the highlights on AVTV, I reckon Tonev could be a useful player for us. We'll need to give him time and not get on his back though.
As for Vlaar, I can see him knocking in a few goals this season. He might be worth backing as a first goalscorer from time to time.
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Re Tonev's corners: he hit one good one and the rest were awful. I said to my mate after Vlaar scored 'Kin 'ell, we've got someone who can take a corner', and he took the piss out of me after every subsequent one.
He's quick though, with good technique, and could be a star if and when he realises how quickly he's going to be closed down in the Premier League.
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I can only assume Lambert is still looking at other formations. I can't see how we could field Tonev, Benteke, Weinmann and Gabby on the pitch all at the same time, no wonder midfield were overun 2nd half. Tonev for me will be a luxury player or one to bring on if were losing and need to have a real go.
1st 30 minutes was great yesterday, really aggressive and full of running and neat passing but faded badly after that, but that's what these games are all about though right?
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Great day talking to Malaga fans in the Witton Arms. Vlaar my only major concern. Okore is solid and has had little game time. Tonev needs at least a couple of games to get up to level but looks like he could be quality. Gabby was poor with his control but he can always come good when needed. CB with commanding aerial dominance still required. Baker would be my choice at the moment with Okore ......
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I can see Tonev becoming 4th choice midfielder and 3rd choice wide strikers to play in the wing upfront as the main role will be CB with the gladiator covering when needed. But we will have to see as the season unfold.
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The only thing which worried me a bit yesterday was the defnding. But what struck me more was the lackof caver they get from the central midfielders. We don't track runners very well meaning the centre-halves are always easily exposed. It cannot be easy if you're a central-defender who is always having t o pick up missed runners. But I do think Westwood and SYlla will offer that next season. And I've seen no reason why not go for Delph also. Ifthey get it right, and improve on the end of last season, they could become very good. Which, will immediately improve our defensive record.
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Sylla, Delph and Westwood would be my 3 in MF. Delph can do his bursts forward now and again, Westwood can do his through balls and Sylla can be banned from going into the final third.
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The only thing which worried me a bit yesterday was the defnding. But what struck me more was the lackof caver they get from the central midfielders. We don't track runners very well meaning the centre-halves are always easily exposed. It cannot be easy if you're a central-defender who is always having t o pick up missed runners. But I do think Westwood and SYlla will offer that next season. And I've seen no reason why not go for Delph also. Ifthey get it right, and improve on the end of last season, they could become very good. Which, will immediately improve our defensive record.
This is very true and I think anyone who plays centre half will struggle if this carries on. I think we will tighten up a bit with more help from the centre midfielders, however we are so attack minded (and young) that at times we are going to expose the back 2.
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Sylla, Delph and Westwood would be my 3 in MF. Delph can do his bursts forward now and again, Westwood can do his through balls and Sylla can be banned from going into the final third.
This for me. Unless we get somebody else I see us starting with the same midfield and front three that served us well towards the end of last season.
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Sylla, Delph and Westwood would be my 3 in MF. Delph can do his bursts forward now and again, Westwood can do his through balls and Sylla can be banned from going into the final third.
This for me. Unless we get somebody else I see us starting with the same midfield and front three that served us well towards the end of last season.
I thought that as well, but after Sylla didn't even get on yesterday I'm now not so sure. That is unless Lambert didn't want to show his hand yesterday to any onlookers.
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Maybe he just wanted to try a few other options as this is the last friendly?
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And Tonev and others were further behind on fitness than Sylla.
I hope we play that midfield three as well, or maybe give Bacuna a debut as he's industrious and useful at both ends of the pitch. We should definitely try and close up that midfield at the Emirates though, and try and hit them on the break like we did last season when we nearly got something.
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Maybe he just wanted to try a few other options as this is the last friendly?
I've quite liked the idea of using the "Attack-Attack" formation of Tekkers, Gabby, Andi and The Gladiator at the end of the pre-season games. Should the need arise during the season and we have to chase a game, hopefully we'll have a vague idea how to play unlike we did under McLeish when he went six up front in one game and they didn't have a clue what to to*.
(* "to Blockbuster" !!)
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we need to be able to switch to 4 men attack when we needed to to turn losing game to draw and draw to win. I hope we will find a new Martin Laursen from somewhere. I would love to see Baker and Okore partnership for long term.
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Tonev could be worthy of a shirt just for the fact he seems to be able to whip in scary corners. Since Young left weve been awful with corners.
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Scary for the ball boys maybe, a few were closer to hitting them than a Villa player.
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Scary for the ball boys maybe, a few were closer to hitting them than a Villa player.
Ha ha, oh really !? Only saw the one that Vlaar connected with for the goal.
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Scary for the ball boys maybe, a few were closer to hitting them than a Villa player.
I think 2-3 of his corners were very good indeed. I'll take those odds compared to the last few years where you're lucky for one good set piece delivery a game. I still haven't worked out whether he's a lefty or a righty either.
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It was a bit of a tongue in cheek post as he did put a few good ones in. One or two did go straight out of play though. I don't think Benteke standing on the shoulders of The Gladiator could have got his head on them.
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Who's The Gladiator ??
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Helenius, I call him The Gladiator because he sounds like he should be one.
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Who's The Gladiator ??
Nicklus Helenius Maximus.
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It was a bit of a tongue in cheek post as he did put a few good ones in. One or two did go straight out of play though. I don't think Benteke standing on the shoulders of The Gladiator could have got his head on them.
I think in fairness their keeper looked a bit ropey, so I can understand why he tried to whip it underneath his bar a few times. It worked with Rons goal anyhow.
Still, makes me reminisce about Stan Staunton scoring direct from a corner.
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Helenius, I call him The Gladiator because he sounds like he should be one.
Good nickname for him, fits like a glove.
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I'm hoping it catches on better than my attempt to get the NRC used as monetary amount did.
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Tonev could be worthy of a shirt just for the fact he seems to be able to whip in scary corners. Since Young left weve been awful with corners.
Young was awful at corners most of the time let's not forget.
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Young's corners were often too flat at the outset. But one in three was an absolute beauty. And I'd take that ratio. Over time, he started to float them in and they were shit.
People often say "you have to beat the first man". You can do that every time if you float it in, but you won't score many.
Westwood's corners to benteke at the back post got us a few goals. But if Tonev can whip them in like he did a couple of times on Saturday, I'd accept it if a few of his were wasted. That was an awesome delivery
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Maybe he just wanted to try a few other options as this is the last friendly?
Could have been the case PWS, especially with Tonev. El Ahmadi does seem to have featured in midfield fairly prominently in pre season though, whereas Sylla hasn't. Having seen a couple of games this summer, I still think the midfield three of Sylla, Westwood and Delph would be our best midfield line up.
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Scary for the ball boys maybe, a few were closer to hitting them than a Villa player.
I think 2-3 of his corners were very good indeed. I'll take those odds compared to the last few years where you're lucky for one good set piece delivery a game. I still haven't worked out whether he's a lefty or a righty either.
The corners he took with his right foot were markedly better than the ones he took with his left.
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Maybe he just wanted to try a few other options as this is the last friendly?
Could have been the case PWS, especially with Tonev. El Ahmadi does seem to have featured in midfield fairly prominently in pre season though, whereas Sylla hasn't. Having seen a couple of games this summer, I still think the midfield three of Sylla, Westwood and Delph would be our best midfield line up.
It could be that he's confident in what certain players can do so wanted to try others to see more of them and to maybe give them confidence as well. Sylla looked impressive last season while KEA didn't, so maybe that's why? Then again, i'm starting to think that trying to second guess Lambert is a hard thing to do.
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Maybe he just wanted to try a few other options as this is the last friendly?
Could have been the case PWS, especially with Tonev. El Ahmadi does seem to have featured in midfield fairly prominently in pre season though, whereas Sylla hasn't. Having seen a couple of games this summer, I still think the midfield three of Sylla, Westwood and Delph would be our best midfield line up.
It could be that he's confident in what certain players can do so wanted to try others to see more of them and to maybe give them confidence as well. Sylla looked impressive last season while KEA didn't, so maybe that's why? Then again, i'm starting to think that trying to second guess Lambert is a hard thing to do.
Again that could well be the case PWS. KEA was busy yesterday, but I would still have Sylla and Westwood in ahead of him.
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I mentioned before, I will be a lot happier if we start with Westwood, Delph and Sylla against Arsenal. However I wouldn't be shocked if Lambert went for it more and played only one of Delph and Sylla.
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I mentioned before, I will be a lot happier if we start with Westwood, Delph and Sylla against Arsenal. However I wouldn't be shocked if Lambert went for it more and played only one of Delph and Sylla.
Could be the case. Think Delph would get the nod in that scenario, as having a left footer in there brings a bit more balance to the midfield.
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Please start the season with Sylla Delph and Westwood PL. We can try the more fragile options when we're safely ensconsed in mid-table later on.
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Please start the season with Sylla Delph and Westwood PL. We can try the more fragile options when we're safely ensconsed in mid-table later on.
Yes yes yes! There seems virtually universal consensus on this point. Against the top sides I think we just have to go that way at the moment. That is how we ended the season. But I think ideally lambert would want to play 4231 and that's how we lined up away at Man U and arsenal last year. It worked ok at arsenal as we broke with real menace. But it was a big mistake at old Trafford where it left our full backs exposed one on one too often
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Please start the season with Sylla Delph and Westwood PL. We can try the more fragile options when we're safely ensconsed in mid-table later on.
This.
And confirmed our place in the FA Cup Final after winning the League Cup in March. :-)
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I think most of us would like to see a midfield of Delph/Westwood/Sylla as it looked very competent at the dog end of last season.
A centre back pairing of Baker/Okore also would suit a lot of us.
But Lambert tends to see things in different ways.
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I think most of us would like to see a midfield of Delph/Westwood/Sylla as it looked very competent at the dog end of last season.
A centre back pairing of Baker/Okore also would suit a lot of us.
But Lambert tends to see things in different ways.
Agree with your preferences here Ron, but...
as you suggest, Lambert will mix things up - my Norwich mate informs me that we will find some of his selections baffling and infuriating.
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Their winger who was really good is called Pawlowski, although only just joined them by the looks of things. Polish lad.
Think we will start with Delph, Sylla and Westwood in midfield, although Bacuna hasn't looked bad either. Tonev did some good flicks, but didn't offer enough I thought. Interesting that he can take a corner with either foot mind, I've never seen that before.
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You would have seen it a lot if you'd seen the great Sid play!