Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: SashasGrandad on November 29, 2015, 03:06:48 PM

Title: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: SashasGrandad on November 29, 2015, 03:06:48 PM
It is possible - however unlikely - we could survive.

Just think of the fun we would have confounding the critics. We would have to win quite a few games. That would be a pleasant change. We have a new manager who I'm sure has not come to prepare for a season in the championship.

When do they start playing the great escape theme?

No negatives on this thread - only positive remarks please - will have to go now the men in white coats are knocking at my door.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: supertom on November 29, 2015, 03:14:31 PM
If Garde kept us up he should walk away because frankly he'd have achieved something as remarkable as any other manager in our history has managed. There'd be no topping that. It's not impossible but it makes what Sherwood had to contend with last season like a piece of piss.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 29, 2015, 03:17:11 PM
What do you mean "if"? We will stay up!
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Axl Rose on November 29, 2015, 03:38:47 PM
I think we'll stay up, too.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Stirchley Villain on November 29, 2015, 03:41:06 PM
You're all mad. Feel free to throw that back at me if the miracle does happen...
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Dave Cooper please on November 29, 2015, 03:41:32 PM
Yep, please change the title to "When" the miracle happens.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: VillaAlways on November 29, 2015, 03:48:29 PM
I certainly think we shouldn't be throwing in the towel just yet.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Ron Manager on November 29, 2015, 04:07:32 PM
Not even December yet....five months of games to play!  We have a good manager who it appears is strong on discipline. We can do it!
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: ez on November 29, 2015, 04:09:56 PM
Surviving relegation is nothing to celebrate but if we do it from here i'll probably make an exception.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: SoccerHQ on November 29, 2015, 04:10:32 PM
It will just be the same next season though.

We will achieve nothing significant in the premier league again under Randy Lerner. Can anyone even see us finishing in the top 10 again under his ownership.

If we go down he'll have to lower his 150m asking price substantially with championship revenue streams so I'm hopeful a takeover would happen then and a fresh start albeit a division lower.

Of course there's a risk we could attract cowboy owners but still what a great opportunity to rebuild this club away from the premier league spotlight. You wouldn't need to spend 50m either, at least initially.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Lastfootstamper on November 29, 2015, 04:17:23 PM
I have a personal precedent which makes me believe we'll confound the entire universe; after yesterday's game, I had the same feeling of impending unstoppable doooooom that I got after the 0-15 in Lambert's first season. And we pissed that.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Marlon's Hairy Wood on November 29, 2015, 04:26:58 PM
If the TV money wasn't an issue I think i've got to the point of not caring whether we go down or not anyway

we haven't won a home game in over 200 days, if we survived by the skin of our teeth, next season would more than likely be the same

It's hard to see it now, but we'd probably have the time of our lives in the championship

Turning up at the ground knowing we're the big boys and we expect to win every game.. playing teams we haven't played in years, going to grounds we've never been before

We'll probably lose Richards, Traore and a few others. But get a few wins under our belts and a bit of confidence to go with Gardes management and we'll be laughing
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: tomd2103 on November 29, 2015, 04:36:34 PM
If the TV money wasn't an issue I think i've got to the point of not caring whether we go down or not anyway

we haven't won a home game in over 200 days, if we survived by the skin of our teeth, next season would more than likely be the same

It's hard to see it now, but we'd probably have the time of our lives in the championship

Turning up at the ground knowing we're the big boys and we expect to win every game.. playing teams we haven't played in years, going to grounds we've never been before

We'll probably lose Richards, Traore and a few others. But get a few wins under our belts and a bit of confidence to go with Gardes management and we'll be laughing

I'd go with that.  The club has been in a state of malaise for years now and a promotion winning season in the Championship could be just what is needed to lift that.  Things could go from bad to worse of course, but this the positive thread!
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Toronto Villa on November 29, 2015, 04:37:11 PM
Why should the amount of TV money make you care more or less about relegation? If the money was half of what it will be I'd be every bit as gutted with going down.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Chris Harte on November 29, 2015, 04:39:18 PM
The miracle won't happen.

What yesterday proved was that that lot ain't got a win in them.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: castlefields_villan on November 29, 2015, 04:40:29 PM
Not even December yet....five months of games to play!  We have a good manager who it appears is strong on discipline. We can do it!

Exactly 5 months is a long time in football - I remember years ago Graham Taylor saying "this is a club of extremes" and you certainly can't throw the towel in before December has even started.  The only time I'd ever accept it would be (as in 1967 & 1987) when it was mathematically impossible.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on November 29, 2015, 04:40:38 PM
Not even December yet....five months of games to play!  We have a good manager who it appears is strong on discipline. We can do it!

Much depends on what Remi Garde can do with the squad between now and the new year. Right now we look doomed but there are four other teams that we can catch up and/or over take by January.

Look at Newcastle's fixtures next month:

Liverpool (H)
Spurs (A)
Villa (H)
Everton (H)
West Brom (A)

The only win you can see there is against us which is why Remi needs to make sure we pick up something there - ideally the three points. Lose to us and no matter who is in charge, it will all fall apart. January isn't much better for them either:

Arsenal (A)
Man Utd (H)
West Ham (H)
Watford (A)

Not many points there, if any.

My guess is this season will record the lowest number of points needed to stay up. We're still alive, just but the game against Newcastle will either kill us or give us reason to hope.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: andyh on November 29, 2015, 04:40:43 PM
It's the hope that kills you.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Pete3206 on November 29, 2015, 04:43:02 PM
It's hard to see it now, but we'd probably have the time of our lives in the championship

Nope
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: four fornicholl on November 29, 2015, 04:46:44 PM
Surviving relegation is nothing to celebrate but if we do it from here i'll probably make an exception.
for exception replace with erection
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: N'Zimidy on November 29, 2015, 04:52:56 PM
I've seen enough in that Watford game to think we'll definitely pick up our fair share of points in the remaining games.

This squad is seriously better than it has been over the past 4-5 years. Now that we have a proper manager I can see us going on a run of wins. at some point this season.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: PaulTheVillan on November 29, 2015, 05:09:19 PM
There is no chance we'll win enough games to stay up.

We're not used to winning and we won't start now.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Richard E on November 29, 2015, 05:11:50 PM
Not even December yet....five months of games to play!  We have a good manager who it appears is strong on discipline. We can do it!

Much depends on what Remi Garde can do with the squad between now and the new year. Right now we look doomed but there are four other teams that we can catch up and/or over take by January.

Look at Newcastle's fixtures next month:

Liverpool (H)
Spurs (A)
Villa (H)
Everton (H)
West Brom (A)

The only win you can see there is against us which is why Remi needs to make sure we pick up something there - ideally the three points. Lose to us and no matter who is in charge, it will all fall apart. January isn't much better for them either:

Arsenal (A)
Man Utd (H)
West Ham (H)
Watford (A)

Not many points there, if any.

My guess is this season will record the lowest number of points needed to stay up. We're still alive, just but the game against Newcastle will either kill us or give us reason to hope.

So we might have a shout of finishing 19th rather than 20th then.

There isn't going to be a miracle. After yesterday I am convinced we are screwed.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Marlon's Hairy Wood on November 29, 2015, 05:14:05 PM
Why should the amount of TV money make you care more or less about relegation? If the money was half of what it will be I'd be every bit as gutted with going down.

Because it's the most critical season to stay in the league. Teams who survive are going to probably have a 100 million pounds more to play with than us

It's just as bad as any other season, except the gulf between the divisions has grown
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: oswald funkletrumpet on November 29, 2015, 05:17:54 PM
There is no chance we'll win enough games to stay up.

We're not used to winning and we won't start now.

3 home wins in a calendar year
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: PaulTheVillan on November 29, 2015, 05:20:58 PM
There is no chance we'll win enough games to stay up.

We're not used to winning and we won't start now.

3 home wins in a calendar year

that's why we're going down.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: murgsy on November 29, 2015, 05:21:26 PM
Only one answer to that question, for me: We will come back at the first go
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 29, 2015, 05:22:57 PM
No negatives on this thread - only positive remarks please - will have to go now the men in white coats are knocking at my door.

This must be confusing some people.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on November 29, 2015, 05:28:36 PM
Not even December yet....five months of games to play!  We have a good manager who it appears is strong on discipline. We can do it!

Much depends on what Remi Garde can do with the squad between now and the new year. Right now we look doomed but there are four other teams that we can catch up and/or over take by January.

Look at Newcastle's fixtures next month:

Liverpool (H)
Spurs (A)
Villa (H)
Everton (H)
West Brom (A)

The only win you can see there is against us which is why Remi needs to make sure we pick up something there - ideally the three points. Lose to us and no matter who is in charge, it will all fall apart. January isn't much better for them either:

Arsenal (A)
Man Utd (H)
West Ham (H)
Watford (A)

Not many points there, if any.

My guess is this season will record the lowest number of points needed to stay up. We're still alive, just but the game against Newcastle will either kill us or give us reason to hope.

So we might have a shout of finishing 19th rather than 20th then.

There isn't going to be a miracle. After yesterday I am convinced we are screwed.

Try 18th. Bournemouth have very tough fixtures too. Can't see them picking up a point in December. January 16th is their first real chance to pick up points.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: wolfman999 on November 29, 2015, 06:00:51 PM
Not even December yet....five months of games to play!  We have a good manager who it appears is strong on discipline. We can do it!

Much depends on what Remi Garde can do with the squad between now and the new year. Right now we look doomed but there are four other teams that we can catch up and/or over take by January.

Look at Newcastle's fixtures next month:

Liverpool (H)
Spurs (A)
Villa (H)
Everton (H)
West Brom (A)

The only win you can see there is against us which is why Remi needs to make sure we pick up something there - ideally the three points. Lose to us and no matter who is in charge, it will all fall apart. January isn't much better for them either:

Arsenal (A)
Man Utd (H)
West Ham (H)
Watford (A)

Not many points there, if any.

My guess is this season will record the lowest number of points needed to stay up. We're still alive, just but the game against Newcastle will either kill us or give us reason to hope.

Meanwhile, we carry on losing so how does this make a difference ? All it indicates is who will join us in the championship next year.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Lastfootstamper on November 29, 2015, 06:08:09 PM
No negatives on this thread - only positive remarks please - will have to go now the men in white coats are knocking at my door.

This must be confusing some people.

Didn't work.....
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: CT Villan on November 29, 2015, 06:26:32 PM
January 16th is their first real chance to pick up points.

Are they playing us at VP ?
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Rudy65 on November 29, 2015, 06:28:18 PM
10/3 to stay up. Thought it would be longer than that
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Risso on November 29, 2015, 06:32:49 PM
I doubt we'll get more than 20 points.  There isn't a chance in hell we'll stay up.  The sooner everybody comes to terms with the fact that we'll be in the Championship next season, the better.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: SashasGrandad on November 29, 2015, 07:17:53 PM
The nice men in the white coats have found me a nice padded cell - and I've got 10 minutes on the internet - providing I stop singing "once you get one you'll get more" (wins not goals).

Always think we should set our sights on the Tesco Bags - aim for them and we should be OK.  If we can close the gap on them they will start to panic.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: footyskillz on November 29, 2015, 08:12:55 PM
If stay up what happens it will be down to hard work. This and a bit of luck. Garde talks about application. Providing we get the organisation right the players applying themselves then staying up is in realms of possibility. It's better to look forward than back. What is clear is there are still many matches left. What is also clear is that a few wins would change complexity of situation. Step by step coming off bottom position then moving out of relegation zone. I don't feel its worth predicting where points will be won or lost as its a sport where different results can happen. On the day villa have to have more good days than bad from here on in. So why not?? Also so what that other teams before us were on little points and got relegated. Each season is different and doesn't reflect what can happen this season as this season is continuing... The outcome has not been reached.
If villa win and turn the season around by may it won't even be seen as a miracle more a turnaround of fortune. Miracles would mean other teams been deducted points I think villa won't be that lucky but can survive .
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on November 29, 2015, 08:16:08 PM
I doubt we'll get more than 20 points.  There isn't a chance in hell we'll stay up.  The sooner everybody comes to terms with the fact that we'll be in the Championship next season, the better.

Why ? Why is giving up  better ?
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Clampy on November 29, 2015, 08:20:20 PM
I doubt we'll get more than 20 points.  There isn't a chance in hell we'll stay up.  The sooner everybody comes to terms with the fact that we'll be in the Championship next season, the better.

There were also people on here who couldn't see where the next goal was coming from and we scored two yesterday. It's about having a bit of faith, you just never know do you?
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: SashasGrandad on November 29, 2015, 08:30:09 PM
Scored 2 yesterday and should have scored a couple more - we did create some reasonable chances - all is not lost.

Allez mes braves!
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: VinnieChase84 on November 29, 2015, 08:32:33 PM
9 wins and 6 draws from our 24 left may be enough.
Our run between December and mid Jan will determine if we do have hope or not
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: class-of-82 on November 29, 2015, 08:40:30 PM
Sooner or later these players are going to wake up and realise what this club is all about until now I don't think they have and sooner or later it's gonna click,Remi will hopefully stumble on a team that's gonna do the miracle.
An Albion fan said to me sat morning now you will find out who the real fans are well bottom of the prem and 35,000 turn up every one of us has to believe we can do it I won't give up saying we can do it till its mathematically impossible and I will be there aT every home game and what ever away games I can make.
Come on villa you can do it
Holte end the twelfth man you better believe it
Villa till I die
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Risso on November 29, 2015, 09:36:17 PM
I doubt we'll get more than 20 points.  There isn't a chance in hell we'll stay up.  The sooner everybody comes to terms with the fact that we'll be in the Championship next season, the better.

Why ? Why is giving up  better ?

It's the hope that kills you.  I obviously hope we stay up, but we're going to have to break every record in the book to do so, and it isn't going to happen.  Our defence is shit, our midfield is shit and our forwards are more or less non-existent.  Add to that the fact that we've haven't won a single home game in ages, and have lost to the likes of Watford and Swansea, and it's beyond bleak.   We're seven points adrift already, and honestly where can you see the next win coming from?
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Marlon's Hairy Wood on November 29, 2015, 09:42:35 PM
If anyones looking for a further positive... Clark's suspended for the next game, so we have to change the defence
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: saunders_heroes on November 29, 2015, 10:04:06 PM
I keep telling myself there's still well over half a season to go. Yesterday did see a turning point though and it almost felt like we'd already dropped. We haven't though, and there's still hope.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Cuz on November 29, 2015, 10:15:55 PM
Would have felt better if we had beat Watford, they aren't exactly full of world beaters, so I think we have had it. It's been horrible this season however Adama gave me some hope.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Ian. on November 29, 2015, 10:20:44 PM
If anyones looking for a further positive... Clark's suspended for the next game, so we have to change the defence
I'd rather I play Sanchez back there than having to see Lescott recalled. I hope Okore is fit to play.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Richard E on November 29, 2015, 10:22:58 PM
In a similar vein to this thread we should have one 'What Will You Enjoy Most About Your Threesome With Scarlett Johannsen and Jennifer Lawrence?'', which has a similar likelihood of coming to pass.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: footyskillz on November 29, 2015, 10:53:46 PM
Alexis Sanchez likely out for a while. Plus koschelny and carzola injured. This is good news for villa fixture in a few weeks . Luck could be. Turning. Certainly with those three and coquelin missing Remy garde first home win v arsenal live on sky sports too
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: ROBBO on November 29, 2015, 11:03:20 PM
As always we need so little to make it possible, if at the start of the season we had Crouch leading the line  and a half decent centre half then we would't be in this mess. As many have said we needed to buy quality and reliability not quantity.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Goldie.7 on November 30, 2015, 05:13:30 AM
If anyone's looking for a further positive... Clark's suspended for the next game, so we have to change the defence.

That is incorrect, he's only totted up four after Saturday.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Villafirst on November 30, 2015, 06:01:55 AM
Ain't going to happen. This lot have the 'losing mentality' and lack the desire. Look at Grealish.....a disgrace given the club's current position.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Dave Cooper please on November 30, 2015, 09:54:02 AM
I see the "no negativity on this thread" plea in the OP didn't even last a page!
You bunch of miserable feckers.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: asgpaul on November 30, 2015, 10:13:37 AM
One win will change a lot of attitudes both within and outside the club - it ain't over yet!
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on November 30, 2015, 10:15:55 AM
One win will change a lot of attitudes both within and outside the club - it ain't over yet!

I was on my summer holiday when we won our first league match of the season. I reckon I'll be on my Christmas holiday when we win our second.

Apologies for the misery
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: levico on November 30, 2015, 11:22:23 AM
One win will change a lot of attitudes both within and outside the club - it ain't over yet!

I was on my summer holiday when we won our first league match of the season. I reckon I'll be on my Christmas holiday when we win our second.

Apologies for the misery

I think you are being wildly optimistic.

Very much doubt if our next win is before February.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Risso on November 30, 2015, 11:36:18 AM
I see the "no negativity on this thread" plea in the OP didn't even last a page!
You bunch of miserable feckers.

I really dislike posts like that, to be honest.  The nature if a board is that it's there for discussion. "I don't think Bono is a gigantic thundercunt, please only post if you agree" would rightly be given short shrift.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Risso on November 30, 2015, 11:37:13 AM
One win will change a lot of attitudes both within and outside the club - it ain't over yet!

I was on my summer holiday when we won our first league match of the season. I reckon I'll be on my Christmas holiday when we win our second.

Apologies for the misery

I think you are being wildly optimistic.

Very much doubt if our next win is before February.

He didn't specify which Christmas!
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Ads on November 30, 2015, 12:14:31 PM
I can only waste bandwidth and echo what has been said previously, if we do stop up, then we will likely find ourselves here again next season, amongst the bottom six and worse, as the club lacks any sort of ambition.

Lerner is of course chiefly responsible for the predicament. There has been little investment in either transfer fees or wages for the past five seasons and the quality of the squad has diminished drastically as a consequence.

Other, significantly smaller sides, have outspent us or thought smarter than us. We’ve lurched from one type of manager to another, wasting the scant resources we have in the process. If a Garde type  had followed Houllier,  then that would have shown consistency and made sense. We’ve instead lurched from one bad manager to another.

If your aim is to act like a big club to finish in a position where a big club should be finishing, then you’ve got to fund that ambition to at least stand a chance. On the reverse side, we’ve aimed for 17th the past 5 seasons and failed to fund that pathetic ambition, which this season looks like it may cost us.

Lerner must go. He wants to go but he must accept that he’s set fire to his kitchen, flooded his bathroom, built an extension out back that didn’t meet building specs and need tearing down and has done nothing to avert the subsidence of his house. As a result, £150 million is a fanciful price for his level of neglect, no matter how noble his initial intentions were to restore the property and that no buyer will ever be forthcoming as a result.

If he wants out, then he must swallow the loss and walk away. His clinging on in this cycle of repeated neglect and lowly ambition has lead us down the road to top flight oblivion, where his losses will only haemorrhage further.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: LeeB on November 30, 2015, 12:15:42 PM
If anyone's looking for a further positive... Clark's suspended for the next game, so we have to change the defence.

That is incorrect, he's only totted up four after Saturday.

Just when you get your fucking hopes up somebody comes and pisses on your chips.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Archbishop Herbert Cockthrottle on November 30, 2015, 12:18:02 PM
Not if:

Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on November 30, 2015, 12:28:33 PM
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Pat McMahon on November 30, 2015, 02:28:07 PM


I prefer his "Birmingham, my kind of city" video
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 30, 2015, 02:41:55 PM
I see the "no negativity on this thread" plea in the OP didn't even last a page!
You bunch of miserable feckers.

I really dislike posts like that, to be honest.  The nature if a board is that it's there for discussion. "I don't think Bono is a gigantic thundercunt, please only post if you agree" would rightly be given short shrift.

There are numerous threads where folks can be, and are being, as negative as they feel and want to be. I don't see the harm in one thread for positivity only.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 30, 2015, 02:43:17 PM
If anyone's looking for a further positive... Clark's suspended for the next game, so we have to change the defence.

That is incorrect, he's only totted up four after Saturday.

Just when you get your fucking hopes up somebody comes and pisses on your chips.

He is suspended. 4 yellows in the league and 1 in the LC against sha.

http://www.thefa.com/football-rules-governance/suspensions
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Goldie.7 on November 30, 2015, 03:13:34 PM
If anyone's looking for a further positive... Clark's suspended for the next game, so we have to change the defence.

That is incorrect, he's only totted up four after Saturday.

Just when you get your fucking hopes up somebody comes and pisses on your chips.

He is suspended. 4 yellows in the league and 1 in the LC against sha.
 
http://www.thefa.com/football-rules-governance/suspensions

Oh. I did look on the F.A site when I posted that (obv wasn't updated) and a few other places had him on a total of three before Saturday, apologies.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: SashasGrandad on November 30, 2015, 03:21:52 PM
I started this thread as I'm an eternal optimist - even when watching the Villa. I taught for over 30 years - and to survive in that profession you have to believe even the thickest kid can achieve something.

I said "What if" and not "When" for 2 reasons. If we do survive it will mean we must win quite a few games, which after the last few years will be a pleasant surprise. We have already seen vs Man C and 1st half on Saturday - this team can show some passion. If they get a break or two and some momentum we all know we will get right behind them and we could then play the part of the 12th man again.

Can't remember what the second reason was - but I managed to (easily) put a Tesco Baggie in his place this morning who tried to wind me up. If and when we start catching your lot up - you will start to soil your pants. If Saido buggers off and you can't score, you have a few suspensions from all the bookings you get, you will soon start to panic. We are not aiming for 17th we want to get above your pile of whatever. Whatever happens, even if the worst happens we will never be beneath your lot, and you know who you are!!

Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Mostinho II on November 30, 2015, 03:50:01 PM
I have a theory that this is all part of Lerner's plan...Take us as low as we can possibly go without actually getting relegated and then turn it all around and finish 17th again. Then next season qualify for Champs League, season after that win it.

Then sell the story to Hollywood. What a blockbuster that would be. Cue dramatic Hollywood voice-over bloke... One of the most historic, aristocratic, oldest clubs in England, who invented the league (or football if you like) falling into the abyss, rock bottom, without a hope in hell or an angel to answer it's prayers. And then, along comes a man. One vision, one mission, one goal. Save our souls. And maybe score some f**king goals. As we rise like a phoenix from the flames and claim our rightful place at the summit of world football.

Yeh I know.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Skerra on November 30, 2015, 05:02:37 PM
So difficult to be positive. Having played at a decent for many years, I cannot see:-
a) Where our goals are going to come from on a consistent basis
b) Who better than Guzan is going to want to come to Villa Park in January when they will know
that we have been otr just about to be relegated as points total is so low it will be virtually impossible to get out of the bottom three
c) For exactly the same reason as b) anybody other than a journey man just is not going to come to the Villa in January

I really hope that I'm 100% wrong but, please, don't hold your breathe and, yes, I'm a season ticket holder and go to every home match.

Villa could do 2 things to cheer me up:

a) Stop that "end of the world" music they play when the teams come out. Go back to the old one that they had for years, "Theme from a silent movie" I think it was called.

b) Get rid of "Bella" and the male lion and, replace it with just one that looks as if they mean "business"

Rant over for now
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: in exile on November 30, 2015, 05:06:29 PM
b) Get rid of "Bella" and the male lion and, replace it with just one that looks as if they mean "business"
But my wife likes Bella
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Exeter 77 on November 30, 2015, 05:52:17 PM
Get rid of "Bella" and the male lion and, replace it with just one that looks as if they mean "business"
I think we should replace it with a real lion that is on a lead and which Remi Garde struggles to control throughout the game - that might see an end to individual errors and defensive cock ups.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: glasses on November 30, 2015, 06:06:31 PM
If we can stay up, this is likely to be the first season in years we aren't going to be shitting ourselves about losing our best player/players. (We cant name them for a start) The squad will have moulded into a unit that has got some win's under them. We will have a good base to improve from next season.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: devilla on November 30, 2015, 06:07:26 PM
I saw enough on Saturday to believe there is cause for cautious optimism. For one,  we scored. Twice. Second, it was only an unlucky own goal that denied us a point. Third, we came back from being one down.

If we can stop the stupid mistakes in defence we can do it. Okore instead of Clark would be a good start.

Newcastle are in a mess and Bournemouth won't keep picking up points as luckily as they did on Saturday. My only concern is Sunderland but they're no better than us.

Let's see what happens in the January window. We just need to pick up a few points between now and then.

So yes I don't think we can be written off yet.

UTV.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Lastfootstamper on November 30, 2015, 06:15:28 PM
In a similar vein to this thread we should have one 'What Will You Enjoy Most About Your Threesome With Scarlett Johannsen and Jennifer Lawrence?'', which has a similar likelihood of coming to pass.

Tbh, the last one I had with them weren't all that. Good breakfast after, mind. That Lawrence does a nice cheese and ham omelette.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: CJ on November 30, 2015, 06:25:22 PM
It's not "end of the world" it's actually "Dogs of War", although the way we're playing the former would be a more appropriate description than the latter
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: claret and blue blood on November 30, 2015, 07:56:07 PM
I know it's hard not to be resigned to the drop but let's not take it without a fight, while there's a chance we can play our part as the 12 the man, I forced myself to watch match of the day and as well as Ayew's goal and his obvious spirit, there was a spell of pressure in the first half when we were going for an equaliser and the commentator heard our fans and said ' listen to that, no win for ages and they roar like that'.
Both of these things made me proud and that's what we need to get back-our pride.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on November 30, 2015, 08:00:01 PM
Okore instead of Clark would be a good start.

Just a shame Jores isn't a left sided central defender. He can always replace Richards though.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: UK Redsox on November 30, 2015, 08:07:39 PM
It's not "end of the world" it's actually "Dogs of War", although the way we're playing the former would be a more appropriate description than the latter

Maybe replace it with "Comfortably Numb"
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: class-of-82 on November 30, 2015, 08:20:37 PM
January the 4th our luck will change I just know it
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: brian green on November 30, 2015, 08:26:07 PM
The one thing they could do for me to change the mood is lose the lion off the big screen. Let's have something scary like Jack Nicholson in The Shining or Maggie Thatcher holding that poor terrified calf.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Stirchley Villain on November 30, 2015, 08:47:00 PM
January the 4th our luck will change I just know it

We'll be very nearly relegated by then,
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Archbishop Herbert Cockthrottle on November 30, 2015, 10:59:21 PM
January the 4th our luck will change I just know it

Good man, I agree.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Des Little on November 30, 2015, 11:04:19 PM
January the 4th our luck will change I just know it

I'd love to hear more about this. Come on
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: devilla on November 30, 2015, 11:10:57 PM
Just bought my tickets for the West Ham game. I'm sure the lads will give me 3 points for Christmas. How's that for a positive attitude?

Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Nelly on November 30, 2015, 11:44:45 PM
Positivity; we're Aston bloody Villa!!!!!
Negativity; we're the current Aston Villa.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: eamonn on December 01, 2015, 12:52:54 AM
January the 4th our luck will change I just know it

I'd love to hear more about this. Come on

Up against Paul Lambert's Blackburn in our near-defence of the FA Cup.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Archbishop Herbert Cockthrottle on December 01, 2015, 08:43:13 AM
The one thing they could do for me to change the mood is lose the lion off the big screen. Let's have something scary like Jack Nicholson in The Shining or Maggie Thatcher holding that poor terrified calf.

Steady now.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 01, 2015, 10:14:26 AM
I'd rather they just showed something cheery like Muppets Christmas Carol than the actual football.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on December 01, 2015, 12:08:14 PM
I doubt we'll get more than 20 points.  There isn't a chance in hell we'll stay up.  The sooner everybody comes to terms with the fact that we'll be in the Championship next season, the better.

Why ? Why is giving up  better ?

It's the hope that kills you.  I obviously hope we stay up, but we're going to have to break every record in the book to do so, and it isn't going to happen. Our defence is shit, our midfield is shit and our forwards are more or less non-existent.  Add to that the fact that we've haven't won a single home game in ages, and have lost to the likes of Watford and Swansea, and it's beyond bleak.   We're seven points adrift already, and honestly where can you see the next win coming from?

Glad to see you are now being more positive.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Ads on December 01, 2015, 12:25:00 PM
If its going to happen, and I really don't think another 33 points qualifies as turning water into wine and five loafs and the such like, then we need results and quickly. I think its likely we will go down at present, but if we scan take 9-10 points from now until the end of the Sunderland game, then by virtue of the sides we will need to have beaten to get to that amount, we will be in touch and with a January window ahead of us.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Richard E on December 01, 2015, 12:28:09 PM
I'd rather they just showed something cheery like Muppets Christmas Carol than the actual football.

Now you're talking!!
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: chrisw1 on December 01, 2015, 12:31:38 PM
If we were going to survive, we needed to take something from the Swansea and Watford games.  I'm with Risso unfortunately.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Archbishop Herbert Cockthrottle on December 02, 2015, 09:14:05 AM
BRING BACK THE ORANGE DOT .                                                                 OR IF THAT FAILS,,,,                                                                                                THE GREEN COMMA ,
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: castlefields_villan on December 02, 2015, 09:18:07 AM
Our run of bad luck (eg Hutton's OG on Saturday) has got to change at some point - I firmly believe we've got enough time to get of this.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: AVH87 on December 02, 2015, 01:15:29 PM
36 points was enough for safety last season (35 if you fancy a nervy, stay up on goal difference ending) if we work on that being the minimum this time around, we need at least 30 points from 24 games, at 1.25 PPG. Whilst this doesn't sound that daunting, when did a Villa team last have a period/half a season with that kind of return? Sherwood was considered to have had a positive impact at the end of last season, when we got 16 points from 13 games, that was with Mr Benteke. This season we actually need a slightly better return than that, over a longer period, with a worse squad. The only small glimmer of hope would come if we were just about in touch in Jan and made 2 really great signings, one of them a goalscorer. Who will want to come to a sinking ship though? In summary, we're down.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Des Little on December 02, 2015, 03:32:40 PM
If we were going to survive, we needed to take something from the Swansea and Watford games.  I'm with Risso unfortunately.

Absolutely.  We've fucked it. 
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: oldhill_avfc on December 02, 2015, 04:22:18 PM
Our run of bad luck (eg Hutton's OG on Saturday) has got to change at some point - I firmly believe we've got enough time to get of this.


We can get out of this - but need to dramatically change the way (tactics/systems) we are trying to play.   Our enema is not bad luck, but trying to play football.

To oft used quote is something about being mad if you try the same things over and over and expect to get a different outcome.

Call me Big Sam but we should keep it very simple and play hoofball to Gestede with Ayew and Traore running on to flick ons. 

Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: glasses on December 02, 2015, 04:47:00 PM
Our run of bad luck (eg Hutton's OG on Saturday) has got to change at some point - I firmly believe we've got enough time to get of this.


We can get out of this - but need to dramatically change the way (tactics/systems) we are trying to play.   Our enema is not bad luck, but trying to play football.

To oft used quote is something about being mad if you try the same things over and over and expect to get a different outcome.

Call me Big Sam but we should keep it very simple and play hoofball to Gestede with Ayew and Traore running on to flick ons. 


Great typo!

I do agree with your post mind.

We really need to flush these shit performances out of our system
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: castlefields_villan on December 02, 2015, 04:50:51 PM
I'm sure that just getting a win (however we get it) can turn the season round.  With all respect to Leicester - if they can go from bottom to top in under a year - surely we can finish 17th or above.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: oswald funkletrumpet on December 02, 2015, 05:12:40 PM
if we get nothing from the next two games we need 33 points from 22 games which is 1.5 points per game which is top 8 form

with all the will in the world does anyone seriously believe that this is achievable?

bear in mind in our last 48 games we have taken 33 points
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: garyshawsknee on December 02, 2015, 05:20:11 PM
If and it is a big if, we somehow got a win, then the team would get a massive confidence lift and better results would come, you see it in little bits during games, we were awful against Spurs for an hour, scored a goal and then looked like a different team, it obviously goes the other way too and the team quickly gets deflated when we are behind. We are due a massive bit of luck, own goal or penalty to go our way, but games and time is running out. 2 points out of the next two games would seem like CL qualification right now.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: footyskillz on January 02, 2016, 07:23:08 PM
Oldham 1993 needed to win 3 matches from last 3 matches in order to survive.
Annoyingly they beat villa at first as we know challenging for league!
Oldham unexpectedly won 3 matches in 8 days!
Villa are 11 points from safety with 18 games.
There's a transfer window on its way.
It's not over til it's over.
Win two or three matches on spin never know...
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Risso on January 02, 2016, 07:27:55 PM
Give it a rest.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 02, 2016, 07:30:59 PM
Oldham 1993 needed to win 3 matches from last 3 matches in order to survive.
Annoyingly they beat villa at first as we know challenging for league!
Oldham unexpectedly won 3 matches in 8 days!
Villa are 11 points from safety with 18 games.
There's a transfer window on its way.
It's not over til it's over.
Win two or three matches on spin never know...
That must have been some crazy Acid Trip. :o
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 02, 2016, 07:33:42 PM
Give it a rest.

Why should he if he wants to think it's still possible we'll stay up?
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on January 02, 2016, 08:11:25 PM
Oldham 1993 needed to win 3 matches from last 3 matches in order to survive.
Annoyingly they beat villa at first as we know challenging for league!
Oldham unexpectedly won 3 matches in 8 days!
Villa are 11 points from safety with 18 games.
There's a transfer window on its way.
It's not over til it's over.
Win two or three matches on spin never know...

Genuinely I respect your faith and optimism. I hope it is rewarded.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Tokyo Sexwhale on January 02, 2016, 08:16:09 PM
We need 10 wins or the equivalent thereof, to even stand a chance.

We have won 1 league game all season.

We are not going to be able to attract anyone decent in the position we are.

We have just had our easiest run of games (on paper) and got only 2 points out of them.

All we can do is try to build for the future, perhaps some good lower division players for our Championship campaign, play attacking football because we have nothing much to lose, and try to fluke our way to an FA Cup.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Stinkin_Thinkin on January 02, 2016, 09:13:38 PM
I plan to buy a brown suit and cream loafers then invade the pitch with a memorable jig. shame the last game is away. I predict a 2-0 defeat but we still stay up que scenes of jubilation.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: footyskillz on January 13, 2016, 12:04:19 AM
Just yes !! Finally the hard work, luck, combo pays off
Now for the next game ! Payback for the 3-2 defeat Leicester !
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 13, 2016, 12:10:02 AM
Just yes !! Finally the hard work, luck, combo pays off
Now for the next game ! Payback for the 3-2 defeat Leicester !

Footyskillz, you have a disciple in me.

I wrote on the post-match thread, and stand by (now corrected for spelling):

I shall henceforth refer to the space between Wayne Hennessey's legs as The Miracle of Villa Park. And it shall be written that that The Miracle of Villa Park was when the greatest fightback of any fightback ever began.

Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: tomd2103 on January 13, 2016, 12:11:09 AM
I'll be taking it "one game at a time", but a win on Saturday and if the results go for us, things might begin to look a lot better.  Then of course there is the trip to Sandwell.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: LukeJames on January 13, 2016, 12:13:17 AM
Don't do it to yourselves!
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 13, 2016, 12:15:33 AM
Don't do it to yourselves!

I'd be doing it to myself anyway at this time of night so I may as well throw one in for the Villa.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Archbishop Herbert Cockthrottle on January 13, 2016, 08:56:52 AM
Good lord.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: LeeS on January 13, 2016, 12:41:05 PM
I think our chances of staying up are pretty slim. If I thought differently I'd be laying us on Betfair at 33-1. But maybe, just maybe the absolute hopelessness of our situation is what could save us.

A win last night gave us no more than a tiny glimmer of hope. A win against Leicester (not totally out of the question) would still leave us rooted to the bottom and cast adrift. But a third win, against the baggies, and all of a sudden it starts to look like a miracle could happen. And it would still be a miracle at that stage - and that is the key. Galvanised by 3 wins, the players suddenly realise that they can actually achieve something incredible. Staying up from where we are now would be an achievement comparable with winning a cup or getting into the top 4. The prospect of writing their names into Villa folklore may just be the thing that sparks a revolution. Result after result, the dream continues until we suddenly find ourselves propelled up the league and into safety.

All it needs is another couple of performances like last night and this bunch of chancers and journeymen could just become legends.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 13, 2016, 12:44:16 PM
I'll believe in a miracle happening if we can reduce the gap to 5 points by early February. We need momentum of 2 to 3 wins. It's not going to be easy at all.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: JUAN PABLO on January 13, 2016, 12:44:39 PM
beat Leicester

My faith will be restored
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Lobsterboy on January 13, 2016, 12:47:36 PM
We are 8 points from safety but there are still 51 points to play for - it could, note could, still happen...
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: JUAN PABLO on January 13, 2016, 12:50:23 PM
We are 8 points from safety but there are still 51 points to play for - it could, note could, still happen...

beat leicester , could be 5

It is possible then

Garde convinces a few players to come in saying with the teams confidence and the way they are playing better and all belief they can do it , we could get a couple of better players.

If we beat Leicester , its not over.
 
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Ad@m on January 13, 2016, 12:59:32 PM
Don't do it to yourselves!

It's the hope that kills you!
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: ozzjim on January 13, 2016, 12:59:51 PM
You have to think we need to take last night into Leicester. Get a win in that and anything is then possible. Need a draw in the Swansea game tonight though, as I think Bournemouth will score enough to get out and also think they will buy more yet this month.

I was thinking last night too, how unlucky in some ways we have been. Deflected shots have gone in against us almost weekly, yet our always go wide (must have been 8 or 9 last night deflected wide). Until last night very little luck with mistakes, bad injuries at times, little decisions in games going the wrong way, and then of course simply poor finishing. Thinking West Ham where we should have won, Ayew missing early on against Watford, the Richards miss on the line against Sunderland, throwing away the points at Leicester. We should be where we are, but there are enough what if moments for us to believe if we can make our own luck through hard work and good play, we can at least restore some pride this season.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: martin o`who?? on January 13, 2016, 01:09:47 PM
Well they can cancel the "Aston Villa relegation Party" thats been all over Facebook for a fucking start!!.....
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: footyskillz on January 17, 2016, 03:07:11 AM
Still in there with a point. Come on the villa. I see between now and march 1 massive. That's 5 matches before march is tough beginning with Everton, man city and spurs then what could be a biggie v Swansea.
Basically its chunks see 12 points next 6 then another 7//8 get 14/15. That's the hope.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: ez on January 17, 2016, 12:58:28 PM
For me losing to Sunderland sealed our fate. I'm not even entertaining the thought of stopping up now. It's quite liberating actually. Nothing to lose anymore. Of course if the unthinkable did happen i'd be in for a pleasant surprise.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: CJ on January 17, 2016, 01:44:24 PM
I'm the same. For me wins against Sunderland and/or Norwich were key to us scrapping for survival. Losing both sealed our fate I fear and,like ez above, I've come to just accept it, and with the improved performances and tempo Garde now seems to be instilling I'm almost looking forward to next season. Almost.
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: tomd2103 on January 17, 2016, 03:36:52 PM
Although I think it will take something pretty exceptional for us to stay up now, I'll still think we'll have a chance until relegation is actually confirmed,  I don't suppose there is any chance of Newcastle and Norwich going into administration is there?
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: MoetVillan on January 17, 2016, 03:50:46 PM
Although I think it will take something pretty exceptional for us to stay up now, I'll still think we'll have a chance until relegation is actually confirmed,  I don't suppose there is any chance of Newcastle and Norwich going into administration is there?
I'll see if I can sort something out
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: class-of-82 on January 17, 2016, 04:14:20 PM
Stop buying that sports direct shit and delia smith cook books will help to
Title: Re: What if - the miracle happens?
Post by: Des Little on January 17, 2016, 04:43:10 PM
Stop buying that sports direct shit and delia smith cook books will help to

But what if I wanted to rustle up a Lonsdale soufflé?
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