Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: SoccerHQ on December 23, 2017, 07:24:14 PM

Title: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 23, 2017, 07:24:14 PM
Sigh. We're just not good enough are we?

Great first 10 minutes, Sheffield were better team after.

Jedinak with one of the worst games of his career.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: john e on December 23, 2017, 07:24:59 PM
Still in the play off places at Christmas time


Yaaaay
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: lovejoy on December 23, 2017, 07:25:17 PM
Cock piss Partridge
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: curiousorange on December 23, 2017, 07:26:06 PM
Back to the bleach.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Jimbo on December 23, 2017, 07:26:14 PM
Very Villa.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Bad English on December 23, 2017, 07:26:15 PM
Come on then Bruce, let's hear it for the TV cameras!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: VancouverLion on December 23, 2017, 07:27:11 PM
Shit.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Matt Collins on December 23, 2017, 07:27:11 PM
So frustrating

Jedinak really cost us dear there

The tactic of getting it to the full back to  punt down the line is pissing me off. Especially when you’ve got a midget and a striker who offers nothing more than nuisance value (gabby).

Thought grealish was good in flashes but he could do with better players around him
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Whiney MacWhineface on December 23, 2017, 07:27:19 PM
Boo.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: taylorsworkrate on December 23, 2017, 07:27:54 PM
Playoffs are the pinnacle this squad can achieve. Any decent team in those playoffs would destroy us. We are fucking shit
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: TonyD on December 23, 2017, 07:28:03 PM
Dr Tony,  if you care about this club you bought,  then get rid of Bruce now.   
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 23, 2017, 07:28:05 PM
Piss poor. Jedinak and the midfield were fucking diabolical.

I have a question, do you think we do any sort of training on attacking shape or plans? Doesn’t look like it. That’s exemplified by putting Gabby and Hogan on and then trying to lump it. People may have a go at Hogan, but fucking hell he gets absolutely zero to work with.

Nowhere near good enough, again.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Boz on December 23, 2017, 07:28:10 PM
We are utterly crap, what a load of wank*rs.

They don't deserve to be in the top 6 playing like the last 80 minutes
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on December 23, 2017, 07:28:21 PM
Awful. The players cant pass and Bruce keeping trying to force square pegs into round holes.


Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on December 23, 2017, 07:28:24 PM
Steve Bruce ‘Big Meeeeelay has had a horrible one battt he’s been terrific for us since he joined.  Look I’ve said it before this is a tough league so wor point at home to a very decent Sheffield side is a decent result.’
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Three Spires Villa on December 23, 2017, 07:28:36 PM
Rotten, poor, bah humbug
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: eamonn on December 23, 2017, 07:28:47 PM
We certainly put an end to t'Blades boom and bust football. Come to Villa, we'll bore you into a draw.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Three Spires Villa on December 23, 2017, 07:30:57 PM
Had enough of him, we are slipping away, and it’s what we deserve
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on December 23, 2017, 07:32:57 PM
We were six points clear of Leeds 20 days ago now a point behind. And we will get fcuk all at Brentford.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: steamer on December 23, 2017, 07:35:07 PM
Sorry, this lot are staying where we are for another Season.
God, we have been plagued with fucking useless managers, O,Dreary, Lambert, the Scottish one, Sherwood (he did a job in keeping us up) honorable mention for the abandoned French one, less honorable for Black and Mac Donald, don't know why the Italian one, and fuck me, potatoes face.
We really do pick em.
A merry Christmas to all on H&V
 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Fin Feds Dad on December 23, 2017, 07:35:43 PM
Another episode of one up front Bruceball .

We’re going nowhere with this dinosaur
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Hairbandinho on December 23, 2017, 07:36:36 PM
You can forget promotion, not happening.

Will be lucky to hang onto 6th place and then they play a team above them and inevitably will be found out and lose.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: clash city rocker on December 23, 2017, 07:37:02 PM
Yep...let's back Bruce until we realise we will still be in the championship  next season.....and with no fuckin money.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 23, 2017, 07:37:41 PM
I’m so fucking done with Steve Bruce. I can accept shit football if we are getting decent results. A sacrifice worth making to get promoted. But shit football and shit results. Well it’s just shit isn’t it?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: eamonn on December 23, 2017, 07:38:12 PM
Steve Bruce ‘Big Meeeeelay has had a horrible one battt he’s been terrific for us since he joined.  Look I’ve said it before this is a tough league so wor point at home to a very decent Sheffield side is a decent result.’

Write that Darren Farley fella's script and get him to speak for Bruce.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: CT Villan on December 23, 2017, 07:42:38 PM
Anyone want a Brucey bonus in their Christmas stocking ?

Thought not.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Flamingo Lane on December 23, 2017, 07:45:06 PM
I do think that the minute we slip out of the top six Bruce will be gone, and I would expect/hope that plans for this eventuality/likelihood are well in hand already.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: gpbarr on December 23, 2017, 07:48:19 PM
I do think that the minute we slip out of the top six Bruce will be gone, and I would expect/hope that plans for this eventuality/likelihood are well in hand already.

Now that would make for a Merry Xmas!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on December 23, 2017, 07:48:25 PM
A flyblown maggot infested dung heap. Merry Christmas  Aston Villa and fuck you very much.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Matt Collins on December 23, 2017, 07:48:42 PM
He’ll only go if there’s a better candidate on the market

I still can’t see who that is really
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: paul_e on December 23, 2017, 07:51:12 PM
I do think that the minute we slip out of the top six Bruce will be gone, and I would expect/hope that plans for this eventuality/likelihood are well in hand already.

The major problem there is that this is easily the worst time of the season to change manager, you've got a lot of games close together coupled with a very short window to add to the squad, even if we kicked him on Boxing day you'd be lucky to get a manager in by the FA cup weekend and then they really should be taking a couple of weeks with the squad before making signings which gives you a week or so to actually look for players.  That said I don't think he's going anywhere unless we're 5-6 points out of the playoffs, which will be too late, in my opinion.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: paul_e on December 23, 2017, 07:51:57 PM
He’ll only go if there’s a better candidate on the market

I still can’t see who that is really

We should hold out for Zidane, he's got a matter of weeks I reckon :D
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Smirker on December 23, 2017, 07:52:50 PM
That was a bad result.

All our own doing.

Just a really disappointing result.

I still think we will be OK but we can't afford many more of these.

We badly need Terry and Kodge back.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: gpbarr on December 23, 2017, 07:52:59 PM
You can forget promotion, not happening.

Will be lucky to hang onto 6th place and then they play a team above them and inevitably will be found out and lose.

Thats the thing. Even if we scrape into the playoffs (and even thats looking suspect), we will be turned over in the play offs. Our record against the Top 10 in the Championship as at tonight (half way mark) stands at 7 points for / 23 points against. Thats fucking completely unacceptable and if Xia and Wyness had any nous about them, they'd realize a change is needed.   
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ktvillan on December 23, 2017, 07:55:25 PM
So 3 points from the last 12, despite two fairly straightforward looking home fixtures.  A bit like our start to the season and quite simply not promotion form and not good enough. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: martyn ellis on December 23, 2017, 07:56:32 PM
What a shambles. Poor at the back. Poor in the middle. Poor up front. I swear he thought Davies was still on while instructing players to miss out the midfield and lump balls up front. And can Gabby please retire. Absolute zero ideas. Absolute zero shape. Absolute zero chance of going up this year.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: curiousorange on December 23, 2017, 07:57:29 PM
Even if we reach the playoffs and even if we reach Wembley, would Bruce be the man to trust with a Premier League campaign? You would argue that the man that gets us there has earned the right, but looking at us tonight compared with Burnley or Tottenham, who played at the same time...God, I wouldn't stick a bent halfpenny on us staying up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on December 23, 2017, 07:58:03 PM
He’ll only go if there’s a better candidate on the market

I still can’t see who that is really

We should hold out for Zidane, he's got a matter of weeks I reckon :D

"Aston Villa is ... how you say? 'top club' I could not have asked any more from le lads. I will be giving 'gabby' another run, he seems so keen!"
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Ads on December 23, 2017, 07:59:07 PM
Absolutely woeful defending from Jedinak cost us two of the softest goals we will concede all season.

Thought the midfield was flat and didn't offer enough legs or creativity.

442 is how you play 352 and it took us too long to get into that and then constrained ourselves with a deep midfield playing the wrong balls into the front two.

They should have had one sent off, ridiculous decision from the referee.

Lot of territory and possession, but Grealish apart it was too pedestrian centrally.

Snodgrass is out of sorts and Davis needing time out. Whelan at home is reminiscent of Westwood at times.

Three really poor results. The tempo is too slow and that comes from midfield.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: garyshawsknee on December 23, 2017, 07:59:22 PM
He’ll only go if there’s a better candidate on the market

I still can’t see who that is really

Oscar Garcia, Dean Smith, Nathan Jones, that's off the top of my head. Dread to think what Wyness would come up with.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Goldie.7 on December 23, 2017, 07:59:31 PM
Does Hourihane know he's allowed to move and pass the ball forward, maybe even run with it...? Just a thought after constantly seeing him slow down our already feeble attacking threat.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 23, 2017, 07:59:37 PM
I'm struggling to think of a worse manager in the top half. He's been found out but it's us that have to pay the price.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ktvillan on December 23, 2017, 08:02:07 PM
I’m so fucking done with Steve Bruce. I can accept shit football if we are getting decent results. A sacrifice worth making to get promoted. But shit football and shit results. Well it’s just shit isn’t it?

Yep - just like Pulis, and look what happened to him.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: gpbarr on December 23, 2017, 08:02:50 PM
He’ll only go if there’s a better candidate on the market

I still can’t see who that is really

Oscar Garcia, Dean Smith, Nathan Jones, that's off the top of my head. Dread to think what Wyness would come up with.

Add Lee Johnson and Derek McInnes to the list. There are lots of good managers available, we just have a shocking track record of appointing managers who have both the ability and the charisma to manage an institution
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: curiousorange on December 23, 2017, 08:03:23 PM
What I'm sick of is Villa trying the quick fix. I'd rather stay down and become a great adaptable side than bankrupt ourselves boring the crap out of all and sundry.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: cdward on December 23, 2017, 08:04:22 PM
Why can't we put teams away?
After 10 minutes and 2-0 up I was hoping tonight's game was the turning point in our season, but no, same old Villa.
We are going to be left behind soon if we don't start picking up more points.
We lose to the teams above us, and only manage draws with those around us.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Pete3206 on December 23, 2017, 08:06:25 PM
80 minutes of garbage
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: QuintonVilla on December 23, 2017, 08:09:37 PM
Still can't beat anyone who is even remotely decent. We won't win a game this month because none of them are shit.

The football we play is boring and one-dimensional and we create nothing in open play.

The likes of Whelan and Snodgrass are old and past it and there's zero pace in our side.

Grealish is shit. A few fancy flicks and passes but no substance and doesn't influence the game.

We are a million miles away from promotion and if we did go up it would be embarrassing.

Bruce has killed any atmosphere and for me you can sense that the fans haven't taken to him really. After Sheff Utd got their first goal the atmosphere was dreadful because we all knew what was coming. The style of play does nothing to excite or get people off their seats.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Taylor on December 23, 2017, 08:10:38 PM
Bruce is going nowhere. We need John Terry back.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Smirker on December 23, 2017, 08:12:48 PM
Nine points off autos, it's doable.

But if the gap gets any bigger we are really going to struggle to close it.

A lot of football to be played.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: oldtimernow on December 23, 2017, 08:14:01 PM
I can see Bruce gone by the New Year and Terry as interim player manager
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Bad English on December 23, 2017, 08:14:14 PM
A lot of football to be played.

Yes. It would be nice if we joined in and played some.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Clampy on December 23, 2017, 08:14:36 PM
Disapointed with the result more than the performance. We shot ourselves in the foot letting them back into it as early as we did and you could see them scoring everytime they broke in that first half. Second half was better and the ref definatley bottled the second yellow but 2-0 up, you should be going on to win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Smirker on December 23, 2017, 08:16:31 PM
A lot of football to be played.

Yes. It would be nice if we joined in and played some.

😂
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: clash city rocker on December 23, 2017, 08:29:22 PM
Not good enough.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: tomd2103 on December 23, 2017, 08:37:42 PM
Started well, but regressed back to the kind of disjointed rubbish we have seen too often as soon as they scored their first.  His goal apart, Jedinak had an awful game and looked half-hearted at times.  Really disappointing stuff. 

On another note, does anyone on here sit towards the front of R5 in the lower North Stand?  Seemed to be a bit of trouble there, which at one point looked like it was getting a bit out of hand. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Hookeysmith on December 23, 2017, 08:38:32 PM
Einstein said definition of insanity is doing repeatidly the same thing and expecting different results.

He keeps taking Snodgrass off as he is contributing nothing and then next game first name on the sheet.

Whelan  Hourihanne   Snodgrass

IT'S NOT FUCKING WORKING SO STOP TRYING IT

Where are the kids, at least on the bench but he decides to have 2 full backs instead. I accept that both goals the manager is not on the pitch to stop them but once in the dressing room is his time to change things and so often they are worse.
MON was always criticised for having no plan B  wish this clown had a plan A

He's got to go
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Stinkin_Thinkin on December 23, 2017, 08:43:27 PM
our most dangerous weapon today was Elmohamady on the overlap
If Id know Hogan was going to come on I would of caught the last train to sheffield...and I don't even live there
It's game over whenever he comes on to the pitch.
Jack had loads of ball but didn't a lot with it.
Jedi had a nightmare, but the only other option was tommy elphick.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: dave shelley on December 23, 2017, 08:44:57 PM
Just back and haven't yet read the thread but, oh dear.  I read this every week and think to myself it can't be as bad as they're all saying, it is, seen it for myself now.  I actually felt sorry for the ball. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on December 23, 2017, 08:46:02 PM
Not good enough!!!
Forget auto promotion, we'll be lucky to cling onto the playoffs.
Snoddy subbed after 59 but I bet he'll start the next game.
Anyone relying on Gabby even for 15 mins is in cloud cuckoo land.
qv having another subtle pop at the home Villa support is so transparent!
Cardiff losing is a positive but more so for Derby than for us!
Merry Christmas Villa fans!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Taylor on December 23, 2017, 08:48:07 PM
Einstein said definition of insanity is doing repeatidly the same thing and expecting different results.

He keeps taking Snodgrass off as he is contributing nothing and then next game first name on the sheet.

Whelan  Hourihanne   Snodgrass

IT'S NOT FUCKING WORKING SO STOP TRYING IT

Where are the kids, at least on the bench but he decides to have 2 full backs instead. I accept that both goals the manager is not on the pitch to stop them but once in the dressing room is his time to change things and so often they are worse.
MON was always criticised for having no plan B  wish this clown had a plan A

He's got to go

There is absolutely no point in sacking a manager while we are in a play off place.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Matt Collins on December 23, 2017, 08:48:20 PM
I would like to see what O’Hare could do on the right

But I expect we’ll see Adomah there and green left first
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 23, 2017, 08:52:25 PM
Disapointed with the result more than the performance. We shot ourselves in the foot letting them back into it as early as we did and you could see them scoring everytime they broke in that first half. Second half was better and the ref definatley bottled the second yellow but 2-0 up, you should be going on to win.

We were more stable in the 2nd half, but we created barely anything. That’s a consistent theme with us and it continues to be not good enough. I genuinely think Bruce has no idea how to build a cohesive attacking plan. Hence putting Hogan on and having the team hoof it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: curiousorange on December 23, 2017, 08:54:35 PM
Not for the first time, and not really to give Bruce credit for it, but I can see why Hogan doesn't start.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Clampy on December 23, 2017, 08:56:46 PM
Disapointed with the result more than the performance. We shot ourselves in the foot letting them back into it as early as we did and you could see them scoring everytime they broke in that first half. Second half was better and the ref definatley bottled the second yellow but 2-0 up, you should be going on to win.

We were more stable in the 2nd half, but we created barely anything. That’s a consistent theme with us and it continues to be not good enough. I genuinely think Bruce has no idea how to build a cohesive attacking plan. Hence putting Hogan on and having the team hoof it.

What I didnt get was the De Laet sub, unless Snodgrass had took a knock. He pushed Elmo further forward and ended up taking him off anyway.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ROBBO on December 23, 2017, 08:57:14 PM
Hogan and Gabby together smacked of I don't know what else to do. He really is a limited manager but while we are in contention he will survive. Thought Grealish tried hard he would be  a top player with better around him. How slow is Jedinak.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: kieron on December 23, 2017, 08:58:07 PM
The only positive I took from that game:

Seconds after going 2-0 up I said to my deliriously happy son "Don't get too excited, mate. We'll end up losing this 3-2."
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Gareth on December 23, 2017, 09:01:15 PM
Can someone get Bruce a pair of Jimmy Crickets wellies then there is the vague chance that he might try Snodgrass & Adomah on the correct sides of the pitch, thIs inverted wingers b****x is just another square peg, round hole defensive nonsense.

You have two players on the bench who have played centre half in the Premiership but persist in playing Jedinak there, he made that utter carthorse Donaldson look like Drogba with his abject weak play, nowhere near the physicality required in that position.

No way on earth this manager gets us up thIs year, he has dumbed down expectations that 100% should have been top 2 to a point where we are supposed to be grateful to be around play offs
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 23, 2017, 09:02:02 PM
If I was Elphick I’d be banging on the manager’s door, because Jedinak was an absolute amateur. One of the worst displays I’ve ever seen.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Mister E on December 23, 2017, 09:05:31 PM
Even if we reach the playoffs and even if we reach Wembley, would Bruce be the man to trust with a Premier League campaign? You would argue that the man that gets us there has earned the right, but looking at us tonight compared with Burnley or Tottenham, who played at the same time...God, I wouldn't stick a bent halfpenny on us staying up.
What I'm sick of is Villa trying the quick fix. I'd rather stay down and become a great adaptable side than bankrupt ourselves boring the crap out of all and sundry.
You're absolutely where I am, on both comments (curious!)
I decided, after having witnessed last week's shambles at Derby, to forego my season-ticket seat at VP (going, instead, to watch Harrogate Town beat North Ferriby 3-0). I felt guilty and dirty for having done so.
Now I just feel relieved for not having had to travel back, replaying the mediocrity that our current manager serves upp (yes, Clampy: I'm still unable to mention his name!).
I was reflecting earlier today about the last 15 years at Villa and I realise that D'OL - a total scrote of a man - produced a more enjoyable team to watch than several of our recent managers ... and he used to get absolute pelters!!
We're in a dark place; forget that we are still in the top 6.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: villalion on December 23, 2017, 09:10:00 PM
The only positive I took from that game:

Seconds after going 2-0 up I said to my deliriously happy son "Don't get too excited, mate. We'll end up losing this 3-2."
This! I said exactly the same to my nine year old daughter at exactly the same time.. her retort.. i know villa are crap.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 23, 2017, 09:12:23 PM
If I was Elphick I’d be banging on the manager’s door, because Jedinak was an absolute amateur. One of the worst displays I’ve ever seen.

Jedinak is a past it central midfielder that came in and did a very decent stop gap job at CB when needed. But that's what he is. He's not a regular player in that position and today against quite limited opponents he got fully exposed. I don't blame him entirely.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on December 23, 2017, 09:15:15 PM
No games won in December so far.  Fcukin shocking.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 23, 2017, 09:16:38 PM
If I was Elphick I’d be banging on the manager’s door, because Jedinak was an absolute amateur. One of the worst displays I’ve ever seen.

Jedinak is a past it central midfielder that came in and did a very decent stop gap job at CB when needed. But that's what he is. He's not a regular player in that position and today against quite limited opponents he got fully exposed. I don't blame him entirely.

Whether he should of been playing is down to the manager, but either way his performance was an utter embarrassment.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Legion on December 23, 2017, 09:23:20 PM
If I was Elphick I’d be banging on the manager’s door

He'd just miss and probably head-butt the wall instead.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Legion on December 23, 2017, 09:25:28 PM
I can see Bruce gone by the New Year and Terry as interim player manager

I can't. Unfortunately not to the former and no thanks to the latter.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Legion on December 23, 2017, 09:30:04 PM
Fantastic first ten minutes or so followed by calamity central. Very engaging first half followed by a lacklustre second. Ref bottled it with a few decisions in the second half. Linesman (assistant referee) on the Trinity Road side was inept to put it politely. I had a great seat and view thanks to the kindness and generosity of DBTW. Play-offs at best. Just.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on December 23, 2017, 09:31:10 PM
Bruce isn’t going anywhere soon.  The doctor has got no money to pay him off plus he’s part of the ‘Villa Engine.’
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Ad@m on December 23, 2017, 09:33:40 PM
Einstein said definition of insanity is doing repeatidly the same thing and expecting different results.

He keeps taking Snodgrass off as he is contributing nothing and then next game first name on the sheet.

Whelan  Hourihanne   Snodgrass

IT'S NOT FUCKING WORKING SO STOP TRYING IT

Where are the kids, at least on the bench but he decides to have 2 full backs instead. I accept that both goals the manager is not on the pitch to stop them but once in the dressing room is his time to change things and so often they are worse.
MON was always criticised for having no plan B  wish this clown had a plan A

He's got to go

There is absolutely no point in sacking a manager while we are in a play off place.

Don't worry, that won't be an issue by Tuesday.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Clampy on December 23, 2017, 09:35:14 PM
Fantastic first ten minutes or so followed by calamity central. Very engaging first half followed by a lacklustre second. Ref bottled it with a few decisions in the second half. Linesman (assistant referee) on the Trinity Road side was inept to put it politely. I had a great seat and view thanks to the kindness and generosity of DBTW. Play-offs at best. Just.

Some of the offside decisions in that second half were laughable. I thought the ref was fine in the first half. He was hopeless in the second.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Steve67 on December 23, 2017, 09:35:39 PM
Really poor. Everyone stops when they give it to Grealish, no movement at all. Throw on Gabby and Hogan but fail to change the long ball shit. Take off Snodgrass, move Elmo forward, the take him off too. Davis is a good player but not a goalscorer, hoof ball all afternoon. Bruce needs to go. Dinosaur.

Snodgrass is a poser, thinks he's doing us a favour. The midfield is not dominant at all.

We are completely one dimensional, boring, slow and predictable. Is Bruce tactics Tim in disguise?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: brian green on December 23, 2017, 09:37:22 PM
Just home.  Thoroughly nasty, frustrating pain of a game.  It's Christmas, we are at home, we badly need the points.  The game has gone flat.  We bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.  Let's really bore the supporters to death.  Bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.

For me the big picture is that we have players with serious attitude problems. They are not hungry enough.  Villa is not really where they want to be.  Villa are no more than a big fat pay check for their services.  Because they really can't be arsed they lack concentration and make elementary mistakes that lead to conceding soft goals.  We play without heart and we have no team spirit.  I think Snodgrass, Whelan, Jedinak and Hogan hold the club and the fans in something very close to contempt.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Legion on December 23, 2017, 09:38:51 PM
The thoughts and opinions of Bruceosaurus (http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/11183376/bruce-mistakes-cost-us)
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 23, 2017, 09:41:43 PM
Just home.  Thoroughly nasty, frustrating pain of a game.  It's Christmas, we are at home, we badly need the points.  The game has gone flat.  We bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.  Let's really bore the supporters to death.  Bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.

For me the big picture is that we have players with serious attitude problems. They are not hungry enough.  Villa is not really where they want to be.  Villa are no more than a big fat pay check for their services.  Because they really can't be arsed they lack concentration and make elementary mistakes that lead to conceding soft goals.  We play without heart and we have no team spirit.  I think Snodgrass, Whelan, Jedinak and Hogan hold the club and the fans in something very close to contempt.

I don’t think it’s fair to pin point Hogan really, given that Bruce adopts a “strategy” that would undermine any strengths he has.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Legion on December 23, 2017, 09:42:58 PM
Highlights (http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/11183331/aston-villa-2-2-sheffield-united)
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Steve67 on December 23, 2017, 09:43:06 PM
Great post Mr Green. Correct in my view, Hogan apart.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Clampy on December 23, 2017, 09:43:44 PM
Just home.  Thoroughly nasty, frustrating pain of a game.  It's Christmas, we are at home, we badly need the points.  The game has gone flat.  We bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.  Let's really bore the supporters to death.  Bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.

For me the big picture is that we have players with serious attitude problems. They are not hungry enough.  Villa is not really where they want to be.  Villa are no more than a big fat pay check for their services.  Because they really can't be arsed they lack concentration and make elementary mistakes that lead to conceding soft goals.  We play without heart and we have no team spirit.  I think Snodgrass, Whelan, Jedinak and Hogan hold the club and the fans in something very close to contempt.

Bearing in mind some of the no-hopers we've had playing for us over the years, the last line of that is so ridiculous and so way over the top it's untrue.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Taylor on December 23, 2017, 09:44:04 PM
Just home.  Thoroughly nasty, frustrating pain of a game.  It's Christmas, we are at home, we badly need the points.  The game has gone flat.  We bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.  Let's really bore the supporters to death.  Bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor
Who do you suggest we bring on?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Steve67 on December 23, 2017, 09:45:33 PM
Just home.  Thoroughly nasty, frustrating pain of a game.  It's Christmas, we are at home, we badly need the points.  The game has gone flat.  We bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.  Let's really bore the supporters to death.  Bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.

For me the big picture is that we have players with serious attitude problems. They are not hungry enough.  Villa is not really where they want to be.  Villa are no more than a big fat pay check for their services.  Because they really can't be arsed they lack concentration and make elementary mistakes that lead to conceding soft goals.  We play without heart and we have no team spirit.  I think Snodgrass, Whelan, Jedinak and Hogan hold the club and the fans in something very close to contempt.

Bearing in mind some of the no-hopers we've had playing for us over the years, the last line of that is so ridiculous and so way over the top it's untrue.

In your opinion. The last line reads anger to me, frustration maybe. The rest is spot on.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 23, 2017, 09:47:18 PM
I don’t think any of those players hold the club in contempt.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Steve67 on December 23, 2017, 09:47:38 PM
Just home.  Thoroughly nasty, frustrating pain of a game.  It's Christmas, we are at home, we badly need the points.  The game has gone flat.  We bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.  Let's really bore the supporters to death.  Bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor
Who do you suggest we bring on?

I think it's the long ball shit and lack of creative change that makes these subs the harder to fathom. One up top at home is also weird.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Clampy on December 23, 2017, 09:51:27 PM
Just home.  Thoroughly nasty, frustrating pain of a game.  It's Christmas, we are at home, we badly need the points.  The game has gone flat.  We bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.  Let's really bore the supporters to death.  Bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor
Who do you suggest we bring on?

I think it's the long ball shit and lack of creative change that makes these subs the harder to fathom. One up top at home is also weird.

I thought it was a good substitution at the time but it seemed to kill us a bit. Then again, if he leaves them both on the bench then he probably would have got stick for not bringing them on.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Legion on December 23, 2017, 09:52:27 PM
I don’t think any of those players hold the club in contempt.

Neither do I.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: brian green on December 23, 2017, 09:53:48 PM
If it is stay as you are or bring on Gabby and Hogan it's a no brainer.  Don't make the substitutions.  I would have a tiring Keinan Davis over Fat Gab going through the motions all day long.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Matt Collins on December 23, 2017, 09:54:03 PM
One up top at home isn’t weird

It’s how most teams play
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Steve67 on December 23, 2017, 09:54:42 PM
Just home.  Thoroughly nasty, frustrating pain of a game.  It's Christmas, we are at home, we badly need the points.  The game has gone flat.  We bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.  Let's really bore the supporters to death.  Bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor
Who do you suggest we bring on?

I think it's the long ball shit and lack of creative change that makes these subs the harder to fathom. One up top at home is also weird.

I thought it was a good substitution at the time but it seemed to kill us a bit. Then again, if he leaves them both on the bench then he probably would have got stick for not bringing them on.

Fair point Clampy. Very frustrating all round mate.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 23, 2017, 09:55:24 PM
If it is stay as you are or bring on Gabby and Hogan it's a no brainer.  Don't make the substitutions.  I would have a tiring Keinan Davis over Fat Gab going through the motions all day long.

If you bring Hogan on and lump it up to him I agree. I imagine if we had a manager who could vary a game plan it might be different.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Steve67 on December 23, 2017, 09:57:41 PM
One up top at home isn’t weird

It’s how most teams play

Sorry Matt but I don't care about fashion. We have to do what's right for us and its not good enough. One up top will work with a better midfield. Ours is poor other than Albert.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: brian green on December 23, 2017, 09:58:03 PM
I said very close to contempt and I standby that opinion.  You have your opinions, I have mine.  That performance by Mile Jedinak today disrespected the club and disrespected the fans.  In my opinion.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: rougegorge on December 23, 2017, 10:06:48 PM
If it is stay as you are or bring on Gabby and Hogan it's a no brainer.  Don't make the substitutions.  I would have a tiring Keinan Davis over Fat Gab going through the motions all day long.

I have to agree. Admittedly, Grealish apart, we weren't fizzing too much at the time, but  as soon as the 2 subs came on we fizzled out completely.

They took it in turns to foul Grealish though it could've been different had Basham gone. They were hard working and physical but limited and we should never have let them back in so easily.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 23, 2017, 10:10:08 PM
I said very close to contempt and I standby that opinion.  You have your opinions, I have mine.  That performance by Mile Jedinak today disrespected the club and disrespected the fans.  In my opinion.

Jedinak was awful no doubt, but I don’t think he was wilfully awful.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: malckennedy on December 23, 2017, 10:15:40 PM
If it is stay as you are or bring on Gabby and Hogan it's a no brainer.  Don't make the substitutions.  I would have a tiring Keinan Davis over Fat Gab going through the motions all day long.


Me too. I fucking hate Agbonlahor. He's just a waste of a shirt.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Tugby Villain on December 23, 2017, 10:15:59 PM
Bruce out.  This is shit.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: paul_e on December 23, 2017, 10:16:58 PM
I think Jedinak looked like a guy who's not really fit playing out of position in a key position who got targeted for a bit of roughing up.

Quite how it's come to the point where our options at the left side of defence are a 37 year old backed up by a 33 year old and an out of position 33 year old (who's main position is currently held by another 33 year old) I don't know but far too often we look slow and tired.  Terry gets away with it more because he's still a class above this league but Samba and Jedinak aren't and they just look like they're winding down to retirement for me.

Clark, Suliman and Bedeau all have good reputations and have performed well in the U23s for a while so quite why he won't at least put one of them on the bench baffles me.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: brian green on December 23, 2017, 10:18:48 PM
No I agree, I don't suggest for one minute that Jedinak's awfulness was deliberate.  It was awfulness by omission.  He did not stay focussed.  He ball watched.  He allowed himself to get rattled.  Playing football is his profession.  He is very well paid not to make monumental cock ups on the field of play.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: paulcomben on December 23, 2017, 10:19:24 PM
Keinan Davis is categorically nowhere near good enough. He cannot trap nor hold nor head nor pass nor shoot a football, unless by fluke.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 23, 2017, 10:22:39 PM
I think Jedinak looked like a guy who's not really fit playing out of position in a key position who got targeted for a bit of roughing up.

Quite how it's come to the point where our options at the left side of defence are a 37 year old backed up by a 33 year old and an out of position 33 year old (who's main position is currently held by another 33 year old) I don't know but far too often we look slow and tired.  Terry gets away with it more because he's still a class above this league but Samba and Jedinak aren't and they just look like they're winding down to retirement for me.

Clark, Suliman and Bedeau all have good reputations and have performed well in the U23s for a while so quite why he won't at least put one of them on the bench baffles me.

I think that’s the point. Terry is fair enough, because he’s quality, but not having a better back up option is appalling.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Clampy on December 23, 2017, 10:31:52 PM
No I agree, I don't suggest for one minute that Jedinak's awfulness was deliberate.  It was awfulness by omission.  He did not stay focussed.  He ball watched.  He allowed himself to get rattled.  Playing football is his profession.  He is very well paid not to make monumental cock ups on the field of play.

Yes, he may have had a poor game but that's not holding the club or fans in contempt like you suggested. He maybe just had a bad game. Some players do.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Uknowthescore on December 23, 2017, 10:33:29 PM
I said very close to contempt and I standby that opinion.  You have your opinions, I have mine.  That performance by Mile Jedinak today disrespected the club and disrespected the fans.  In my opinion.

He didn’t do it on purpose he fucked up end off to say it was disrespectful is a bit ott
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on December 23, 2017, 10:35:27 PM
Clayton fcukin Donaldson enough said.  Fcukin Clayton bastard Donaldson.  Considered not good enough for bottom of the table Small Heath.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Fasth56 on December 23, 2017, 10:36:02 PM
Gary Monk anyone?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: curiousorange on December 23, 2017, 10:36:16 PM
Davis has potential, but he's not one of those wonder teenagers you get who are the finished article straight away. Leaving him to lead the line for a team chasing promotion is ludicrous.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on December 23, 2017, 10:37:25 PM
We can debate the likes of team selection and shape till we're blue in the face ,but two things to me stand out
1)The complete lack of grit and physicality that makes teams like Sheff Utd come back too easily from what should have been an unassailable position
2)On any given attack, the lack of players in the box or busting a gut to get into it.We will never create enough chances whilst we pursue risk-free football
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: sickbeggar on December 23, 2017, 10:38:33 PM
bottom line is he isn't a centre half. As paule mentioned, the fact we've allowed our squad to get to that position where he's stuck playing  there is the real concern.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on December 23, 2017, 10:40:37 PM
Davis has potential, but he's not one of those wonder teenagers you get who are the finished article straight away. Leaving him to lead the line for a team chasing promotion is ludicrous.

It’s beyond comprehension that we have spent £40m on strikers and two of the three of them are not good enough to displace a 19 year old Ex Biggleswade trainee.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: curiousorange on December 23, 2017, 10:41:13 PM
What annoys me is the amount of time the ball spends in the air. Simple defensive clearance? Whack it. Ball above shin height? Chip it further so it's slightly less controllable. Second ball you should trap and play to feet? Use a wild and unnecessary panic volley at your closest teammate.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: paul_e on December 23, 2017, 10:46:17 PM
What annoys me is the amount of time the ball spends in the air. Simple defensive clearance? Whack it. Ball above shin height? Chip it further so it's slightly less controllable. Second ball you should trap and play to feet? Use a wild and unnecessary panic volley at your closest teammate.

All things which should be corrected in training by focusing on basic skills as a core part of it but we never do it.  Far too many of our players lack basic technical skills, it's been my biggest gripe about the club for years.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 23, 2017, 10:48:46 PM
What annoys me is the amount of time the ball spends in the air. Simple defensive clearance? Whack it. Ball above shin height? Chip it further so it's slightly less controllable. Second ball you should trap and play to feet? Use a wild and unnecessary panic volley at your closest teammate.

And probably also answers the question as to why Hogan has failed. I’ve no idea whether he’s good enough, but I know he scored a lot of goals in a team who played it on the deck. I also know if you hoof it up to him he’s never going to have a chance.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: curiousorange on December 23, 2017, 10:55:17 PM
What annoys me is the amount of time the ball spends in the air. Simple defensive clearance? Whack it. Ball above shin height? Chip it further so it's slightly less controllable. Second ball you should trap and play to feet? Use a wild and unnecessary panic volley at your closest teammate.

All things which should be corrected in training by focusing on basic skills as a core part of it but we never do it.  Far too many of our players lack basic technical skills, it's been my biggest gripe about the club for years.

The biggest indicator of that for me is throw-ins. I have never seen a club as collectively useless at them as Villa.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on December 23, 2017, 11:00:15 PM
What annoys me is the amount of time the ball spends in the air. Simple defensive clearance? Whack it. Ball above shin height? Chip it further so it's slightly less controllable. Second ball you should trap and play to feet? Use a wild and unnecessary panic volley at your closest teammate.

All things which should be corrected in training by focusing on basic skills as a core part of it but we never do it.  Far too many of our players lack basic technical skills, it's been my biggest gripe about the club for years.

The biggest indicator of that for me is throw-ins. I have never seen a club as collectively useless at them as Villa.

100% I just dont understand how we can be so awful at them over such a long period of time. Its probably also a "tell" that we have not had a manager for many years who actually drills the into players their positions.

 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: XXVilla on December 23, 2017, 11:01:12 PM
Keinan Davis is categorically nowhere near good enough. He cannot trap nor hold nor head nor pass nor shoot a football, unless by fluke.

Should have taken the £5M from Man Uwhen we had the chance...
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: curiousorange on December 23, 2017, 11:04:07 PM
Like the twenty five million we could have got for Amavi etc.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Clampy on December 23, 2017, 11:04:42 PM
bottom line is he isn't a centre half. As paule mentioned, the fact we've allowed our squad to get to that position where he's stuck playing  there is the real concern.

He brought in Terry who's injured, he brought in Samba who's injured and it seems he prefers Jedinak to Elphick, a player who not many on here rate anyway.
.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on December 23, 2017, 11:06:41 PM
Davis was poor, gabby & hogan managed to make him look good when they came on though. I am still scratching my head how the two of them combined managed to look even less of a threat than davis.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 23, 2017, 11:07:50 PM
bottom line is he isn't a centre half. As paule mentioned, the fact we've allowed our squad to get to that position where he's stuck playing  there is the real concern.

He brought in Terry who's injured, he brought in Samba who's injured and it seems he prefers Jedinak to Elphick, a player who not many on here rate anyway.
.

Right and Terry is fair enough, as the gamble given his pedigree makes sense. Having Samba as the only genuine centre back replacement he’s preapared to play is the issue. Samba who has not played much football in the last 18 months to two years.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Des Little on December 23, 2017, 11:16:23 PM
Absolute bomb scare. They shouldn’t have been near the ball for 15 minutes after we scored the second, yet we leave the door wide open and thereby undo all the good work up til then. It worries me greatly that our coaching set up is 100% defensive by nature (by that I mean personnel), yet we can’t hold on to a two goal lead at home. What’s more, who the fuck coaches us going forward?

I think Bruce’s days are numbered...5 games without a win and counting...
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Villafirst on December 23, 2017, 11:19:24 PM
Keinan Davis is categorically nowhere near good enough. He cannot trap nor hold nor head nor pass nor shoot a football, unless by fluke.

Should have taken the £5M from Man Uwhen we had the chance...

Davis needed to be taken out of the firing line 5/6 games ago. He's got a lot of potential but still has a lot to learn. But, SB has had no one else to turn to. Some daft comments writing him off so Early - ffs he's only 19!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PeterWithe on December 23, 2017, 11:22:26 PM
Not too many positives against yet another limited side who seemed to simply work harder than us and be more aggresssive.

Chester was calmness personified, Johnstone was steady and Jack tried to make something happen, other than that we were crap.

We don’t work hard enough to move the opposition around to create space for a forward pass, we are too slow at moving the ball and too predictable. It was really easy for Sheffield, get into two banks of five and make us go back, we will then belt the ball forward aimlessly and they pick it up. Again, and again and again.  There is not enough hunger and determination in the team, we need some young fearless players to come in and shake things up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: XXVilla on December 23, 2017, 11:23:23 PM
Like the twenty five million we could have got for Amavi etc.

Exactly...
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PeterWithe on December 23, 2017, 11:23:41 PM
Keinan Davis is categorically nowhere near good enough. He cannot trap nor hold nor head nor pass nor shoot a football, unless by fluke.

Should have taken the £5M from Man Uwhen we had the chance...

Davis needed to be taken out of the firing line 5/6 games ago. He's got a lot of potential but still has a lot to learn. But, SB has had no one else to turn to. Some daft comments writing him off so Early - ffs he's only 19!!

Davis was fine for half an hour, then tired rapidly and should have been replaced far earlier.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Gareth on December 23, 2017, 11:29:44 PM
When you have a targetman it makes sense to get crosses in that he can attack, with the wingers being on the wrong side of the pitch the quality of ball when they get near the byline is invariably weak....the best cross today came from Elmo overlapping and crossing on his correct foot.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Dominic22 on December 23, 2017, 11:37:24 PM
Jedinak had a nightmare but then play a centre back at centre  back... if he does not fancy a fella who has hardly played for 8 months either reserves or any other form of football in Elphick I can hardly blame him but play one of the under 23's that plays every week. When if ever are they going to be deemed to be good enough of given a chance . They are not 16 anymore they are either good enough for an injury ravaged average team in championship or should not be here

Playing a half fit holding midfield player with no pace at centre back was always going to be trouble.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: andyh on December 24, 2017, 12:41:31 AM
I had to miss the game because we we had tickets for Jersey Boys at the Alex, which was bloody brilliant, so I taped the game and watched it when I got home, without knowing the result.
Fucking hell. I’m glad I went to to see some real quality tonight, instead of the shite served up at villa park.
Yes, it was a great start, we were really good for 9 fucking minutes.
I must say, thank god for Chester, Jack and Bert. Other than those 3 there is a real paucity of quality in that team.
Snodgrass should be fucked off to wherever he came from as soon as possible.

Their goalie barely touched the ball for 80 mins after the goals, and yet we are the home team looking to push on in the promotion race.
We are incapable of putting a team under sustained pressure and dominating them. I would go as far as to say that we do not look like a team who has real and full confidence in their own abilities. I have said before, I believe we are very,very  fragile.

We play with shackles tight around us. Until those shackles are released and the team plays with freedom, I think we are destined to stay in this shit, poxy division for some time yet.

Our only hope is to bring in a manager who knows how to play the game that is suited to this century and not days of old.

Btw... I have had a few rums  whilst watching tonight’s debacle !
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: andyh on December 24, 2017, 12:47:52 AM
Disapointed with the result more than the performance. We shot ourselves in the foot letting them back into it as early as we did and you could see them scoring everytime they broke in that first half. Second half was better and the ref definatley bottled the second yellow but 2-0 up, you should be going on to win.

We were more stable in the 2nd half, but we created barely anything. That’s a consistent theme with us and it continues to be not good enough. I genuinely think Bruce has no idea how to build a cohesive attacking plan. Hence putting Hogan on and having the team hoof it.

What I didnt get was the De Laet sub, unless Snodgrass had took a knock. He pushed Elmo further forward and ended up taking him off anyway.
It’s probably because Snodgrass was absolutely fucking rubbish, as he has been for weeks. Surely even you can see that.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: taylorsworkrate on December 24, 2017, 12:51:15 AM
Einstein said definition of insanity is doing repeatidly the same thing and expecting different results.

He keeps taking Snodgrass off as he is contributing nothing and then next game first name on the sheet.

Whelan  Hourihanne   Snodgrass

IT'S NOT FUCKING WORKING SO STOP TRYING IT

Where are the kids, at least on the bench but he decides to have 2 full backs instead. I accept that both goals the manager is not on the pitch to stop them but once in the dressing room is his time to change things and so often they are worse.
MON was always criticised for having no plan B  wish this clown had a plan A

He's got to go

There is absolutely no point in sacking a manager while we are in a play off place.

For me this is the best time to get rid of the dinosaur, rather than in 3 weeks when we are in midtable.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 24, 2017, 12:54:54 AM
Disapointed with the result more than the performance. We shot ourselves in the foot letting them back into it as early as we did and you could see them scoring everytime they broke in that first half. Second half was better and the ref definatley bottled the second yellow but 2-0 up, you should be going on to win.

We were more stable in the 2nd half, but we created barely anything. That’s a consistent theme with us and it continues to be not good enough. I genuinely think Bruce has no idea how to build a cohesive attacking plan. Hence putting Hogan on and having the team hoof it.

What I didnt get was the De Laet sub, unless Snodgrass had took a knock. He pushed Elmo further forward and ended up taking him off anyway.
It’s probably because Snodgrass was absolutely fucking rubbish, as he has been for weeks. Surely even you can see that.
Ohare no where near the squad and Snodgrass doing nothing but the first name on the team sheet.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 24, 2017, 02:33:00 AM
The thoughts and opinions of Bruceosaurus (http://www.skysports.com/watch/video/sports/football/11183376/bruce-mistakes-cost-us)
The apparent lack of concern is alarming.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on December 24, 2017, 03:49:08 AM
What I didnt get was the De Laet sub, unless Snodgrass had took a knock. He pushed Elmo further forward and ended up taking him off anyway.

I didnt really understand that either. There were plenty of candidates to be subbed ahead of Snodgrass. Jedi is obvious but I think Hourihane aka "The Invisible Man" should have been in the mix.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: olaftab on December 24, 2017, 05:18:01 AM
Dr Tony,  if you care about this club you bought,  then get rid of Bruce now.   
Yes.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: mr underhill on December 24, 2017, 07:01:02 AM
I missed Milwall and for the first 15 minutes yesterday thought I was back in the PL. Then reality kicked in. Jedinack can't ever play in defense again. We need reinforcements in January and Terry back asap. Depending on who we bring in we might make the play offs, but I think it's obvious automatic promotion back to the gravy train is not going to happen.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: villabear on December 24, 2017, 07:36:06 AM
Still bloody annoyed this morning. If we can't win a game after being 2-0 up after 9 minutes, well.
Random thoughts you might or might not agree with:
Grealish - Flatters to deceive. I appreciate he's got obvious talent but albeit a few fancy touches he frustrates the life out of me.
Snodgrass - gets picked, plays on the wrong side, does nothing. Gets subbed.
Davis - looks lost. Looks knackered. Needs a break (I know there's hardly a queue either)
O'Hare - where is he? Apparently he's banging on the first team door.
Hourihane - anonymous. For him see Lansbury.
Whelan - some games he's just what we need, a midfielder who sits, breaks up play, keeps it simple. Some games he looks like it's the first time he's ever seen a football.
Hogan - never going to do anything the way we play.
Agbonlahor - don't get me started.
Bruce - "wor this, wor that"  He's now got another coach in. A progressive move? I don't think so as it's Steve Agnew.


Rant over. Happy Christmas to you all! 🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲

Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Mister E on December 24, 2017, 08:12:49 AM
Just home.  Thoroughly nasty, frustrating pain of a game.  It's Christmas, we are at home, we badly need the points.  The game has gone flat.  We bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.  Let's really bore the supporters to death.  Bring on Hogan and Agbonlahor.

For me the big picture is that we have players with serious attitude problems. They are not hungry enough.  Villa is not really where they want to be.  Villa are no more than a big fat pay check for their services.  Because they really can't be arsed they lack concentration and make elementary mistakes that lead to conceding soft goals.  We play without heart and we have no team spirit.  I think Snodgrass, Whelan, Jedinak and Hogan hold the club and the fans in something very close to contempt.

I don’t think it’s fair to pin point Hogan really, given that Bruce adopts a “strategy” that would undermine any strengths he has.
And, when the heads go it's usually because the players have lost faith with the manager and his lack of inspiration and capability.
The club needs a builder-craftsman as manager, not a jouneyman; to build from the bottom up with youngsters and clever purchases (i.e. not just throwing money at a problem and bringing in overpaid players with nothing to prove).
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Mister E on December 24, 2017, 08:18:01 AM
...

We don’t work hard enough to move the opposition around to create space for a forward pass, we are too slow at moving the ball and too predictable...  There is not enough hunger and determination in the team, we need some young fearless players to come in and shake things up.
Been saying it for weeks now. The points you make are so friggin' obvious to anyone watching our games: why is that our professional management team don't see it??!
The squad seems to have a fitness problem compounded by a coaching deficit ...
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PeterWithe on December 24, 2017, 08:45:38 AM
Was Ohoaha (sp?) injured or just given a well needed break? And has Hutton been suspended for games, he’s been the best player over the last games I’ve watched so surprised to see him on the bench.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: olaftab on December 24, 2017, 08:49:37 AM
Brian I agree in as much that our approach is all wrong to get the Club back to where we need to be. The signings have been awful and top heavy wages wise. The acrid smell around the place refuses to go away. We needed a totally different approach and sadly even Dr Xia has failed to deliver that. His appointment of Whyness and Co is not bearing fruit.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Bad English on December 24, 2017, 09:00:24 AM
A progressive move? I don't think so as it's Steve Agnew.

Consilio non impetu.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Rudy65 on December 24, 2017, 09:02:18 AM
The only positive I took from that game:

Seconds after going 2-0 up I said to my deliriously happy son "Don't get too excited, mate. We'll end up losing this 3-2."
This! I said exactly the same to my nine year old daughter at exactly the same time.. her retort.. i know villa are crap.

My son said we were goong to thrash them after our second!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: frank black on December 24, 2017, 09:06:22 AM
I thought we were going to win, until Bruce’s substitutions made us look devoid of any shape and seemed desperate.

Bruce and Jedi in the doghouse for me.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Rudy65 on December 24, 2017, 09:10:21 AM
Clayton fcukin Donaldson enough said.  Fcukin Clayton bastard Donaldson.  Considered not good enough for bottom of the table Small Heath.

He took his goals, especially the first, really well. Harry Kane scores the first and the pundits would be Replaying it countless times. He also didnt celebrate in front of the Holte unlike Deeney. Fair play
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Rudy65 on December 24, 2017, 09:13:35 AM
Absolute bomb scare. They shouldn’t have been near the ball for 15 minutes after we scored the second, yet we leave the door wide open and thereby undo all the good work up til then. It worries me greatly that our coaching set up is 100% defensive by nature (by that I mean personnel), yet we can’t hold on to a two goal lead at home. What’s more, who the fuck coaches us going forward?

I think Bruce’s days are numbered...5 games without a win and counting...

And we know have Steve Agnew on the coaching staff. Another lazy, jobs for the boys appointment. What about appointing someone who might be totally different to what we have and introduce some new ideas?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: PeterWithe on December 24, 2017, 09:20:38 AM
Clayton fcukin Donaldson enough said.  Fcukin Clayton bastard Donaldson.  Considered not good enough for bottom of the table Small Heath.

He took his goals, especially the first, really well. Harry Kane scores the first and the pundits would be Replaying it countless times. He also didnt celebrate in front of the Holte unlike Deeney. Fair play

He did, the defending was shambolic but his touch to control the high ball for the first was superb.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: cheltenhamlion on December 24, 2017, 09:38:52 AM
Utter shite in the second half. You can't expect promotion if you chuck away a two goal lead at home to a team with an almost identical record to yours.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Richard E on December 24, 2017, 09:40:04 AM
Sheffield United had clearly settled for a draw in the second half and we completely lacked the guile to break them down.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on December 24, 2017, 09:40:57 AM
Clayton fcukin Donaldson enough said.  Fcukin Clayton bastard Donaldson.  Considered not good enough for bottom of the table Small Heath.

He took his goals, especially the first, really well. Harry Kane scores the first and the pundits would be Replaying it countless times. He also didnt celebrate in front of the Holte unlike Deeney. Fair play

He did, the defending was shambolic but his touch to control the high ball for the first was superb.

Yeah, he really did take that goal very well.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: dorsetvillian on December 24, 2017, 09:41:50 AM
 I drove home with one thought. Why do our players look so scared of playing at Villa Park?. Our experienced premiership players against what was a Div 1 team last year unable to do the basics and making countless mistakes. Another poor away team made to look comfortable at Villa Park. I'm really struggling to see what we do for Brentford. Another late night and long drive on Boxing Day.Can't wait?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: dave shelley on December 24, 2017, 09:53:33 AM
My lad said to me after both Sheffield goals that it was noticeable that there was no one Villa player geeing up the rest to step it up.  No one with genuine leadership qualities.  Their heads went down and with it the game.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Damo70 on December 24, 2017, 10:04:35 AM
I drove home with one thought. Why do our players look so scared of playing at Villa Park?. Our experienced premiership players against what was a Div 1 team last year unable to do the basics and making countless mistakes. Another poor away team made to look comfortable at Villa Park. I'm really struggling to see what we do for Brentford. Another late night and long drive on Boxing Day.Can't wait?

Poor away team? Going into the game they were sixth and had won five out of their eleven away games, which as away records go isn't too shabby. They are also still riding the wave of confidence from their excellent season last year. Plus the big ex nose up front has always been a handful. Having said that, I thought their defender should have been sent off. If anything his second foul was worse than the one he get booked for. A prime example of referees bottling out of showing a second yellow.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Tugby Villain on December 24, 2017, 10:07:15 AM
Einstein said definition of insanity is doing repeatidly the same thing and expecting different results.

He keeps taking Snodgrass off as he is contributing nothing and then next game first name on the sheet.

Whelan  Hourihanne   Snodgrass

IT'S NOT FUCKING WORKING SO STOP TRYING IT

Where are the kids, at least on the bench but he decides to have 2 full backs instead. I accept that both goals the manager is not on the pitch to stop them but once in the dressing room is his time to change things and so often they are worse.
MON was always criticised for having no plan B  wish this clown had a plan A

He's got to go

There is absolutely no point in sacking a manager while we are in a play off place.

For me this is the best time to get rid of the dinosaur, rather than in 3 weeks when we are in midtable.

Yes.  Get rid.  The atmosphere at Villa Park is utterly dead when it should be buzzing, all because of Bruce's shit football.  For fuck's sake, in a relatively acceptable season results-wise our average gate is under 30000. I'd accept it if we bored teams to death and actually won games, but we look clueless against anyone outside the bottom few.  I'm fed up of being bored and miserable at Villa, I desperately want a riveting atmosphere and great team but this dinosaur won't produce it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: David_Nab on December 24, 2017, 10:09:33 AM
Grealish was our best player but those around him gave him  nothing to work with. Snodgrass is currently a waste of time and depriving Adomah of his best position. Houriane is still too deep to influence game in an attacking sense. Jedinek just an utter shambles just because he can win a header doesn't mean he can play CB !!!

The bench 2 RBS , A CB who is behind a midfielder in pecking order Thor who is clearly not up to it and 2 out of form strikers , how is there no one from the Youth's not on the bench. Bruce is obsessed with Experience and in the last 2 games his experienced players have cost us dearly.At the very least O'Hare should be on the bench.

Finally the sending on of 2 strikers neither who compliment each other and then we just lump it to them..neither of them touched the ball in any worth capacity and made us less of a threat.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: garyshawsknee on December 24, 2017, 10:15:18 AM
My lad said to me after both Sheffield goals that it was noticeable that there was no one Villa player geeing up the rest to step it up.  No one with genuine leadership qualities.  Their heads went down and with it the game.

Good point. Proves the " ex premier league pros " signings are being ineffective. Through some youth in Bruce.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: preston28 on December 24, 2017, 10:59:38 AM
I enjoyed the day with my boys & North West Villa. As for the game - typical Villa. I doubt many teams can blow a 2 goal lead so easily. Only plus is we didn’t lose & we’re still clinging on to a playoff place.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: The Edge on December 24, 2017, 11:00:53 AM
My lad said to me after both Sheffield goals that it was noticeable that there was no one Villa player geeing up the rest to step it up.  No one with genuine leadership qualities.  Their heads went down and with it the game.
Unfortunately our one genuine leader was sat in the stands.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: The Edge on December 24, 2017, 11:09:54 AM
At least yesterday has put to bed any thoughts of Jedinak being able to play at centre half. I've seen oil tankers turn quicker.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: ROBBO on December 24, 2017, 11:21:54 AM
It's no coincidence that our form has dropped away since terry's injury, the way our confidence dropped away when they scored their first was alarming. The self belief they have is fragile to say the least, terry's leadership was winning us games.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Dr_Fegg on December 24, 2017, 11:35:35 AM
What annoys me is the amount of time the ball spends in the air. Simple defensive clearance? Whack it. Ball above shin height? Chip it further so it's slightly less controllable. Second ball you should trap and play to feet? Use a wild and unnecessary panic volley at your closest teammate.

All things which should be corrected in training by focusing on basic skills as a core part of it but we never do it.  Far too many of our players lack basic technical skills, it's been my biggest gripe about the club for years.

The biggest indicator of that for me is throw-ins. I have never seen a club as collectively useless at them as Villa.

Blimey, i noticed that too!! Easiest thing to do even under 9's get it
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on December 24, 2017, 11:39:40 AM
The amount of times the midfield received the ball from the defense
And they had an opportunity to turn and move forward
And we just went backwards
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 24, 2017, 11:50:13 AM
I drove home with one thought. Why do our players look so scared of playing at Villa Park?. Our experienced premiership players against what was a Div 1 team last year unable to do the basics and making countless mistakes. Another poor away team made to look comfortable at Villa Park. I'm really struggling to see what we do for Brentford. Another late night and long drive on Boxing Day.Can't wait?

Poor away team? Going into the game they were sixth and had won five out of their eleven away games, which as away records go isn't too shabby. They are also still riding the wave of confidence from their excellent season last year. Plus the big ex nose up front has always been a handful. Having said that, I thought their defender should have been sent off. If anything his second foul was worse than the one he get booked for. A prime example of referees bottling out of showing a second yellow.

Sheffield United have lost their way recently. Only drew at home to SHA and also lost to Preston last week barely having a shot on target.

They are a decent team but bang out of form. No excuses not winning that from 2-0 up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Walmley_Villa on December 24, 2017, 12:53:21 PM
No imagination, creativity, clear chance creation. Atmosphere in the stands reflects the quality of the team at he moment....poor. lacking flair and imagination. All down to Bruce and the management. 80 goals we need this season Wyness was quoted as saying.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Pat McMahon on December 24, 2017, 01:48:02 PM
I knew I was in for a shit day when I locked myself out yesterday morning before leaving London and had to call a locksmith. I should have asked him to lock me in.

Random thoughts from a large selection of negatives to choose from:
A club like Villa should not need to play Jedinak at centre half. And playing a high line with him there is lethal.
We lack pace, particularly in midfield.
If Davis is not dominating his centre halves we have no attacking platform.
Snodgrass really adds nothing. Drop him and play Adomah on the right.
Hourihane should be payed close to the attack. As an all round midfielder he is lacking and has no pace.
Whelan actually broke play up well and played some decent passes in the first half. However not mobile enough (no pace) and I would tell him to not cross the half way line.
Grealish has the ability to beat players and create space but needs more players to move for him. However he does slow play down as he usually has ha.f a dozen touches in possession
We play far too many sideways and backwards passes
On several occasions our panicking clearances put us in deep trouble. Hoofing to row Z is acceptable when in trouble and gives you a chance to reorganise.

The atmosphere was dire. I was in the Holte upper and it was utterly dead. My last game was against Wednesday and I put the silence down to the early goal and being shit. Even at 2-0 yesterday it was quiet. That tells me something is seriously wrong. The only real animation came from anger at the ref, who awarded us a penalty that looked ropey to me, missed an obvious one for a push in the back on Davis, and should have sent off their number 6.

Highlight of the day was meeting Axl Rose with his wife and dad before the game. I think his Japanese wife was somewhat taken aback by the dowdiness of the Witton Arms, which incidentally has a Villa mirror on the wall proudly stating, "Aston Villa 1875".

Taylor offers no attacking threat.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Legion on December 24, 2017, 01:54:23 PM
Did anyone else notice that the big screens were promoting our FA Cup opponents as Peterbrough United instead of Peterborough United?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: BC54 VFC on December 24, 2017, 01:58:20 PM
Did anyone else notice that the big screens were promoting our FA Cup opponents as Peterbrough United instead of Peterborough United?
Probably also promoting that we're playing Middlesborough next Saturday.  ;)
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Legion on December 24, 2017, 02:12:45 PM
Extended Highlights (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOWJBlYa6hU)
Title: Re: Aston Villa 2 Sheffield United 2 Merry bloody Xmas Post Match thread.
Post by: Rudy65 on December 24, 2017, 06:35:30 PM
My lad said to me after both Sheffield goals that it was noticeable that there was no one Villa player geeing up the rest to step it up.  No one with genuine leadership qualities.  Their heads went down and with it the game.

The same has been happening for years.
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