Post by: Toronto Villa on January 30, 2021, 09:54:19 PM
Post by: DrGonzo on January 30, 2021, 09:55:48 PM
Post by: Legion on January 30, 2021, 09:56:06 PM
Post by: Jon Crofts on January 30, 2021, 09:56:17 PM
Post by: Rigadon on January 30, 2021, 09:56:30 PM
Post by: KevinGage on January 30, 2021, 09:56:30 PM
First time to ten wins in the topflight since Houllier or Lamberk possibly.
Not a great performance, but some sort of justice after Wednesday.
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 30, 2021, 09:56:36 PM
Delighted with that. 😁
Post by: usav on January 30, 2021, 09:56:47 PM
Question: who is the coach I keep seeing that is not Terry, Shakespeare or Kelly?
Post by: DB on January 30, 2021, 09:56:51 PM
Post by: Deano's Mullet on January 30, 2021, 09:56:52 PM
Post by: Proposition Joe on January 30, 2021, 09:57:04 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 30, 2021, 09:57:05 PM
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 30, 2021, 09:57:10 PM
Post by: Rory on January 30, 2021, 09:57:39 PM
Post by: AV82EC on January 30, 2021, 09:57:44 PM
Post by: Villatillidie1982 on January 30, 2021, 09:58:15 PM
Fucking hell Dean. Make changes sooner. Thank fuck we held on. Some incredible defending and goalkeeping in the end. It's a brilliant resultMakes up for the disallowed goal v West Ham. Swings and roundabouts.
Post by: LukeJames on January 30, 2021, 09:58:58 PM
Post by: PhilVill on January 30, 2021, 09:59:59 PM
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on January 30, 2021, 10:00:08 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 30, 2021, 10:00:33 PM
I don’t get the reluctance to make changes!? It’s not 1981, Dean!
Question: who is the coach I keep seeing that is not Terry, Shakespeare or Kelly?
Neil Cutler. He once played for us you know.
Post by: enigma on January 30, 2021, 10:00:46 PM
Post by: ez on January 30, 2021, 10:00:54 PM
Post by: SheffieldVillain on January 30, 2021, 10:01:06 PM
If you'd suggested that at the start of the season, I'd have thought you were nuts. Well done Villa.
Post by: Uknowthescore on January 30, 2021, 10:01:44 PM
Post by: Drummond on January 30, 2021, 10:02:25 PM
I don’t get the reluctance to make changes!? It’s not 1981, Dean!
Question: who is the coach I keep seeing that is not Terry, Shakespeare or Kelly?
Cutler. GK coach.
Post by: Taylor on January 30, 2021, 10:03:21 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 30, 2021, 10:03:35 PM
Overall though we did ride our luck. Barely strung two passes together in the second half. A four point haul probably would have been fair this week and we've got three. We don't do draws, do we?!
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 30, 2021, 10:03:54 PM
Post by: Bobby Boy on January 30, 2021, 10:04:11 PM
Got a bit lucky but if any team deserves some luck then it's us.
Great win. Massive.
Post by: andyh on January 30, 2021, 10:04:46 PM
It was our turn to benefit from VAR. it’s taken long enough.
Post by: Goldie.7 on January 30, 2021, 10:04:55 PM
I don't want to hear a peep from anyone about VAR. I've always said it evens itself out in the end. Their goal was never offside, just like all of our incorrect decisions weren't.
We totally got out of jail because Smith is too stubborn to time waste.
Post by: manic-road on January 30, 2021, 10:05:02 PM
More wins this season than what we got last season, Jack was class again. Wouldn't mind Dean resting John McGinn as he seems a bit off form at the moment.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 30, 2021, 10:06:22 PM
We rode our luck a bit but were due a game where we had marginals go our way.
Clean sheet and 8th and Targett and Jack avoid 5th yellow so looking forward to West Ham now and get close to them again.
Post by: usav on January 30, 2021, 10:06:28 PM
I don’t get the reluctance to make changes!? It’s not 1981, Dean!
Question: who is the coach I keep seeing that is not Terry, Shakespeare or Kelly?
Neil Cutler. He once played for us you know.
Thanks. Don’t understand why he’s discussing tactics and sub decisions with Dean, though!
Post by: CT Villan on January 30, 2021, 10:06:59 PM
A 6/10 performance, but a win is a win.
Onwards and upwards.
Post by: clash city rocker on January 30, 2021, 10:07:08 PM
Post by: Ian. on January 30, 2021, 10:07:08 PM
Well done though really dug in, Mings and Konsa lead that back line superb. Target again so solid and enterprising on the attack. Ollie worked his bollocks off and our keeper, well what a keeper!
Post by: Villa Lew on January 30, 2021, 10:07:20 PM
UP THE VILLA
Post by: supertom on January 30, 2021, 10:07:20 PM
Good goal. We looked a threat on the counter once we sparked into life. I thought we were all round better the other day but very sloppy. Today a bit more focused and we ground out the result. We might have dallied once too often still around our own box, but a clean sheet is a clean sheet. Great from Martinez too.
Jack's been better but still provided so many flashes of class.
Deano needs to be making changes sooner in games and a couple of players will need rotating soon. I'd be tempted to change up Dougy (who's been a little under par recently) for Splendid in the next game and AEG for Traore. Thought Targett was very good today again. Ezri once again. Mings had his best game in a while, though still the occasional blip. Once again Ollie put in a great shift. If we were unlucky against City and Utd, we got a little back today. We aint even yet though.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on January 30, 2021, 10:08:02 PM
Post by: rob_bridge on January 30, 2021, 10:08:12 PM
Post by: Proposition Joe on January 30, 2021, 10:08:37 PM
Post by: colin69 on January 30, 2021, 10:08:51 PM
Post by: Risso on January 30, 2021, 10:09:44 PM
Post by: Aldridge Villa on January 30, 2021, 10:10:06 PM
Post by: Dave on January 30, 2021, 10:10:25 PM
Post by: Villatillidie1982 on January 30, 2021, 10:10:40 PM
Fucking hell we got away with one there. I thought VAR did us a huge favour tonight. Should probably have been a pen, I'd have been fuming if it was not given for us and another hairline offside decision. I'll take it but we did it the hard way.The penalty seemed the same as the one Cash gave away v City. It was accidental but he gains an advantage with his arm being up. Like the offside, some you get, some you don't.
Post by: villadelph on January 30, 2021, 10:10:58 PM
I think I've said it in the last three post match threads. I do not know the rules of this game anymore. Dean has got to start making some earlier substitutions. Ross Barkley's got to come off sooner and why not inject fresh legs out wide at the 70-75min mark? Our ball retention drops drastically by that time and we've got useful players on the bench.
That said, we had some truly incredible defensive moments albeit desperate at times. We're up to 8th, 5th in goal differential and leading the league in Shots per Match.. almost hard to believe. We need to continue to improve.
I've never stolen anything in my life and I feel dirty.
Post by: Legion on January 30, 2021, 10:11:41 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 30, 2021, 10:12:10 PM
Post by: stubbsyandy on January 30, 2021, 10:13:14 PM
Post by: Risso on January 30, 2021, 10:14:00 PM
Cash - 6
Konsa - 7
Mings - 8
Targett - 9
Luiz - 6
McGinn - 5
Jack- 9
Barkley - 6
Traore - 5
Watkins - 7
Post by: Somniloquism on January 30, 2021, 10:14:22 PM
Great battling performance.
It was our turn to benefit from VAR. it’s taken long enough.
The pitch officials denied both, VAR just didn't over rule them. Without VAR same result so no benefit for us really.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 30, 2021, 10:14:30 PM
Post by: Astral Weeks on January 30, 2021, 10:14:32 PM
I remember him as lead singer with the Wurzels.I don’t get the reluctance to make changes!? It’s not 1981, Dean!
Question: who is the coach I keep seeing that is not Terry, Shakespeare or Kelly?
Neil Cutler. He once played for us you know.
Post by: Risso on January 30, 2021, 10:14:38 PM
Where were the six minutes added time from?
And then another 90 seconds on top of that.
Post by: Somniloquism on January 30, 2021, 10:14:50 PM
Where were the six minutes added time from?
Injuries to the Southampton players?
Post by: Monty on January 30, 2021, 10:15:18 PM
On the VAR, look, I don't know how many times Ollie has been given offside by an armpit hair, so we were due that one as well.
Post by: andyh on January 30, 2021, 10:15:18 PM
Where were the six minutes added time from?It took Walcott 5 mins to amble off plus their other lengthy injury.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 30, 2021, 10:15:22 PM
About time too.
Post by: rob_bridge on January 30, 2021, 10:15:34 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 30, 2021, 10:15:48 PM
Where were the six minutes added time from?
Walcott and the other guy were down injured for a bit but yeah it was ridiculous considering there were no goals and we didn't make a sub until 96th minute.
Southampton put one on when injury time was already decided so you're talking two subs in the second half and five more minutes were added on top of that which is ridiculous.
I'd love them to put on twitter fourth officials notes after each game about what is added on as that was taking the pee.
Post by: AV82EC on January 30, 2021, 10:15:48 PM
Martinez - 9
Cash - 6
Konsa - 7
Mings - 8
Targett - 9
Luiz - 6
McGinn - 5
Jack- 9
Barkley - 6
Traore - 5
Watkins - 7
Agree with that, though Barkley would be 4 in my view but he scored!
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on January 30, 2021, 10:16:23 PM
Never do them myself.
Martinez. Perfect 10.
Post by: ktvillan on January 30, 2021, 10:16:28 PM
At Burnley we murdered them and contrived to lose, tonight we were nowhere near our best and somewhat fortunate, but contrived to win. It's a funny old game innit
Post by: Risso on January 30, 2021, 10:16:35 PM
Martinez - 9
Cash - 6
Konsa - 7
Mings - 8
Targett - 9
Luiz - 6
McGinn - 5
Jack- 9
Barkley - 6
Traore - 5
Watkins - 7
Agree with that, though Barkley would be 4 in my view but he scored!
Same, 2 points for the goal!
Post by: TonyD on January 30, 2021, 10:16:44 PM
The ball hit Cash’s thigh - so it wasn’t a pen....
Tough shit on their offside goal - lap it up
Super goal to win it. Nice cross from Jack. Ross’s header was of the highest quality.
Again were the fuck did 6 extra mins come from?
Post by: andyh on January 30, 2021, 10:16:58 PM
I know some of you on here do individual player ratings.Agreed or A*
Never do them myself.
Martinez. Perfect 10.
Post by: enigma on January 30, 2021, 10:17:01 PM
Where were the six minutes added time from?Southampton had a few players go off with injuries and then there were the VAR checks.
Post by: ktvillan on January 30, 2021, 10:17:07 PM
I know some of you on here do individual player ratings.
Never do them myself.
Martinez. Perfect 10.
Hmmm - he dropped one and was lucky to get away with it.
Post by: AV82EC on January 30, 2021, 10:17:27 PM
Why did 6 mins extra come from?2 injuries and 3 or 4 subs.
The ball hit Cash’s thigh - so it wasn’t a pen....
Tough shit on their offside goal - lap it up
Super goal to win it. Nice cross from Jack. Ross’s header was of the highest quality.
Again were the fuck did 6 extra mins come from?
Post by: adrenachrome on January 30, 2021, 10:17:39 PM
That's it. That's the tweet.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 30, 2021, 10:17:46 PM
Post by: ROBBO on January 30, 2021, 10:18:14 PM
Post by: Holte132 on January 30, 2021, 10:18:49 PM
Where were the six minutes added time from?Southampton had a few players go off with injuries and then there were the VAR checks.
One VAR check was in the first half and the 2nd was in stoppage time so wouldn't have affected the time added on
Post by: ktvillan on January 30, 2021, 10:20:00 PM
Great battling performance.
It was our turn to benefit from VAR. it’s taken long enough.
The pitch officials denied both, VAR just didn't over rule them. Without VAR same result so no benefit for us really.
Very good point
Post by: J on January 30, 2021, 10:20:09 PM
I know some of you on here do individual player ratings.
Never do them myself.
Martinez. Perfect 10.
Hmmm - he dropped one and was lucky to get away with it.
Definitely dropped it, definitely not a foul. Great performance nonetheless.
Post by: tomd2103 on January 30, 2021, 10:20:45 PM
Our failure to see the game out on Wednesday was really disappointing and it looked like tonight that we hadn't learnt any lessons from it. Barkley and Traore faded out of the game as the second half went on and we just kept trying to force things towards the end and giving the ball away in dangerous areas. That meant extra pressure on defenders, wHo do slip up from time to time. It might be naivety from coaching staff and players, but it's the equivalent of boxer still looking for a tear up in the final rounds of a fight when they are well ahead on points.
As for the offside, it is a load of rubbish, but we have been on the end of too many decisions like that to have too much sympathy.
Post by: Risso on January 30, 2021, 10:21:08 PM
Post by: CT on January 30, 2021, 10:21:14 PM
The decisions may have gone our way but it still shows how farcical VAR is.
This. I’d have been fuming if those had been the other way round tonight. VAR is shite, it’s just happened to be in our favour tonight.
Great three points, massive shift.
Post by: john2710 on January 30, 2021, 10:21:41 PM
Some if them look very tired.
Post by: Risso on January 30, 2021, 10:22:30 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 30, 2021, 10:22:34 PM
I don't think it was a pen. The ball obviously deflected upwards before it reached where his hand was, and the only camera angle where the ball is clearly seen to strike something, was the one where it hit his stomach (cause of the upwards deflection). It was a bit like watching the 3rd umpire in cricket.you would be going nuts if that was against us
Post by: robbo1874 on January 30, 2021, 10:22:46 PM
Some of our passing in the first half was sublime, but very little goal threat up to when we did actually score and what a move that was. Martinez probably man if the match for me, close 2nd Grealish. They all put a shift in though, yet again.
Battling performance.
Post by: villadelph on January 30, 2021, 10:24:00 PM
The decisions may have gone our way but it still shows how farcical VAR is.
This. I’d have been fuming if those had been the other way round tonight. VAR is shite, it’s just happened to be in our favour tonight.
Great three points, massive shift.
When Ollie had his goal ruled out again West Ham for the new offside rule I almost tossed my television out the window.
It was about time we got one in our favor.
Post by: PaulTheVillan on January 30, 2021, 10:24:06 PM
Post by: olaftab on January 30, 2021, 10:24:11 PM
That was a tense 2nd half. Southampton always looked like they’d nick a goal towards the end. Thank god for VAR!The Assistant Ref has given it offside VAR only confirmed it.
Post by: DB on January 30, 2021, 10:24:23 PM
Post by: TonyD on January 30, 2021, 10:25:17 PM
Post by: brontebilly on January 30, 2021, 10:25:38 PM
Lots of talk about the need to strengthen the squad in certain positions but no point doing that if Smith isn't going to rotate or use his subs properly.
Martinez 7 - couple of great saves but got very lucky with that parry at the end that he put up in the air. Slower off line today and not as composed with ball at his feet
Cash 8 - very lucky early on but kicked two off the line in the second half
Konsa 7 - composed as ever
Mings 7 - for large parts our best player but played Adams onside for that shot in second half, poor clearance let to Redmond's chance
Targett 7 - very strong second half after a struggle early on
Luiz 6 - better second half after a very slow first half. Not in great form
McGinn 5 - made one great block but off the pace generally and his passing was very poor
Traore 4 - very poor, no idea how he lasted past 60 mins. Passenger and a liability at times
Barks 6 - dreadful first half until the goal, better after the break but needed hooking 10-15mins before the end.
Jack 8 - our best player again and that's a bit of a worry. Great assist
Watkins 7 - lively first half with excellent movement, quieter after break
Smith 4 - inability to use his subs very nearly cost us.
Post by: Ads on January 30, 2021, 10:26:24 PM
Felt second half we exerted some good game management and we dicated the tempo, as their press died off.
I was convinced it hit Cash on the body before the arm and I still am, referee didn't give it and if you and have to watch it back for 10 minutes then its not clear and obvious.
Lino gave offside and again, its awful that they get the rulers out but he is off. VAR had no bearing on the game.
The defence was very good, McGinn grew into it, Jack's touch was incredible.
Felt Traore faded badly second half as Bertrand was that far forward it made it de facto 3 at the back.
They had 4 attempts and scored 4 goals at Villa Park, this game was a lot more even. Watkins is a constant menace too!
32 points at the turn. Looking very good indeed.
Post by: Legion on January 30, 2021, 10:27:06 PM
Post by: ExclDawg on January 30, 2021, 10:27:14 PM
Great battling performance.
It was our turn to benefit from VAR. it’s taken long enough.
The pitch officials denied both, VAR just didn't over rule them. Without VAR same result so no benefit for us really.
Very good point
Which is the way VAR "should" work. Go with the on-pitch decisions unless VAR shows something clear and obvious enough to overturn it. Not the, "We think his shirt sleeve wiggled into the offside position according to this line we drew, so we're going to disallow the goal we had originally called good", that usually goes against us.
Post by: olaftab on January 30, 2021, 10:27:43 PM
Dick Turpin esque result really.NO. A deserved win.
Post by: Dave on January 30, 2021, 10:28:07 PM
Martinez 7 - couple of great saves but got very lucky with that parry at the end that he put up in the air. Slower off line today and not as composed with ball at his feet
*raises eyebrow*
Post by: dorsetvillian on January 30, 2021, 10:28:12 PM
Post by: olaftab on January 30, 2021, 10:28:14 PM
How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?I want more worries like that.
Post by: Risso on January 30, 2021, 10:28:51 PM
Post by: Legion on January 30, 2021, 10:29:01 PM
Post by: adrenachrome on January 30, 2021, 10:29:52 PM
Quote
Ian Taylor
@IanTaylor7
·
9m
Good job @mattycash622
has a small arse.....
Peach
Face with tears of joy
Face with tears of joy
Purple heart
Blue heart
#utv
Post by: Legion on January 30, 2021, 10:30:54 PM
Post by: Villatillidie1982 on January 30, 2021, 10:31:47 PM
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on January 30, 2021, 10:32:03 PM
Post by: KevinGage on January 30, 2021, 10:32:48 PM
Post by: Jon Crofts on January 30, 2021, 10:35:17 PM
Post by: stubbsyandy on January 30, 2021, 10:36:14 PM
Post by: Legion on January 30, 2021, 10:36:33 PM
Great tweet from McGinn
Which was?
Post by: brontebilly on January 30, 2021, 10:36:41 PM
How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?
We are becoming increasingly reliant on him again. For counter attacks, for creating chances , for even keeping the ball.
Post by: ExclDawg on January 30, 2021, 10:37:01 PM
Where was John Terry today? Didn’t see him all game.He was subbed off at half-time
Post by: Legion on January 30, 2021, 10:38:44 PM
How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?
We are becoming increasingly reliant on him again. For counter attacks, for creating chances , for even keeping the ball.
Name a better player.
Post by: brontebilly on January 30, 2021, 10:39:32 PM
How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?
We are becoming increasingly reliant on him again. For counter attacks, for creating chances , for even keeping the ball.
Name a better player.
Messi possibly
Post by: Uknowthescore on January 30, 2021, 10:39:42 PM
Post by: Steve67 on January 30, 2021, 10:40:30 PM
Post by: The Edge on January 30, 2021, 10:40:41 PM
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on January 30, 2021, 10:41:04 PM
Great tweet from McGinn
Which was?
Just as well it wasn’t my backside
#UTV9
Post by: richtheholtender on January 30, 2021, 10:41:34 PM
Post by: Uknowthescore on January 30, 2021, 10:41:49 PM
How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?
We are becoming increasingly reliant on him again. For counter attacks, for creating chances , for even keeping the ball.
Name a better player.
Messi possibly
Maybe 5 years ago. Not now. There is no one is the answer
Post by: Steve67 on January 30, 2021, 10:42:29 PM
How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?
We are becoming increasingly reliant on him again. For counter attacks, for creating chances , for even keeping the ball.
I really disagree with you. We have plenty of players who we now rely on. Lots of attacking intent from all over the pitch. He is our best player that is agreed but we have others to cause the opposition problems these days.
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 30, 2021, 10:43:26 PM
Post by: TelfordVilla on January 30, 2021, 10:45:47 PM
Post by: The Edge on January 30, 2021, 10:47:23 PM
Post by: dave shelley on January 30, 2021, 10:48:10 PM
Post by: robbo1874 on January 30, 2021, 10:51:09 PM
yes I realise that mate- still feels like we got away with it a bit. I don’t think there’d have been too many complaints if both ruled-out goals had been given if the VAR system wasn’t in place. At least there seems to be a bit of consistency with how it’s applied now. My heart sank after the ref didn’t give a pen and the commentator said ‘that’s gone to Mike Dean to check at Stockley Park!That was a tense 2nd half. Southampton always looked like they’d nick a goal towards the end. Thank god for VAR!The Assistant Ref has given it offside VAR only confirmed it.
Post by: brontebilly on January 30, 2021, 10:51:19 PM
How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?
We are becoming increasingly reliant on him again. For counter attacks, for creating chances , for even keeping the ball.
I really disagree with you. We have plenty of players who we now rely on. Lots of attacking intent from all over the pitch. He is our best player that is agreed but we have others to cause the opposition problems these days.
Don't think many of them are stepping up at the moment. Not sure what is gone wrong with McGinn but his form is so inconsistent. Luiz hasn't really been at his best all season. Smith failing to rotate or use his subs properly isn't helping matters at all, MON esque really.
Post by: Risso on January 30, 2021, 10:51:38 PM
Post by: DB on January 30, 2021, 10:51:43 PM
Post by: Clampy on January 30, 2021, 10:52:02 PM
Post by: TonyD on January 30, 2021, 10:54:44 PM
Is it fickle that I really like Jamie Carragher now?I just thought that.
He is gushing about us.
But he still reminds of Basil Brush
Post by: Clampy on January 30, 2021, 10:55:10 PM
How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?
We are becoming increasingly reliant on him again. For counter attacks, for creating chances , for even keeping the ball.
I really disagree with you. We have plenty of players who we now rely on. Lots of attacking intent from all over the pitch. He is our best player that is agreed but we have others to cause the opposition problems these days.
Don't think many of them are stepping up at the moment. Not sure what is gone wrong with McGinn but his form is so inconsistent. Luiz hasn't really been at his best all season. Smith failing to rotate or use his subs properly isn't helping matters at all, MON esque really.
The regular negativity after a win is starting to get a bit stale. It's almost as if you enjoy the attention it brings. Odd.
Post by: Somniloquism on January 30, 2021, 10:57:41 PM
How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?
We are becoming increasingly reliant on him again. For counter attacks, for creating chances , for even keeping the ball.
I really disagree with you. We have plenty of players who we now rely on. Lots of attacking intent from all over the pitch. He is our best player that is agreed but we have others to cause the opposition problems these days.
For the past 12 months Manure mostly win through Fernandez. For a good chunk of games Citeh need De Bruyne, and prior to selling him Chelsea need Hazard. Alot of teams have most of the play going though their best playmaker. Grealish is ours. The reason for most is he will move for the space for the ball, he can take the ball in situations most players don't want it and he can pass the ball into dangerous areas. We do have Traore, Barkley and others benefiting from Grealish doing this but also being on the pitch and freeing up space. I wouldn't say we are totally reliant on him, but then a player is that good, most of the play will obviously go through him.
I would rather be relying on Grealish then Rodriguez at Everton for example.
Post by: Aldridge Villa on January 30, 2021, 10:59:36 PM
Post by: Jon Crofts on January 30, 2021, 10:59:55 PM
God forbid we should have a player who's so much better than anyone else in the league.
Indeed, Konsa is brilliant and Grealish isn’t bad either.
Post by: Lizz on January 30, 2021, 11:01:08 PM
Post by: Monty on January 30, 2021, 11:02:04 PM
How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?
We are becoming increasingly reliant on him again. For counter attacks, for creating chances , for even keeping the ball.
I really disagree with you. We have plenty of players who we now rely on. Lots of attacking intent from all over the pitch. He is our best player that is agreed but we have others to cause the opposition problems these days.
Don't think many of them are stepping up at the moment. Not sure what is gone wrong with McGinn but his form is so inconsistent. Luiz hasn't really been at his best all season. Smith failing to rotate or use his subs properly isn't helping matters at all, MON esque really.
The regular negativity after a win is starting to get a bit stale. It's almost as if you enjoy the attention it brings. Odd.
Personally I enjoy having good players and winning games.
Post by: dave shelley on January 30, 2021, 11:03:04 PM
Post by: Clampy on January 30, 2021, 11:03:15 PM
In my point of view have to agree, SJM and Dougie not quite at the races at present..
They've both played nearly every game and there are going to be occasions where they have a dip in form. McGinn plays deeper than he's used to which might explain why he's not as combative (for want of a better word) as we're used to seeing him. They both put a massive shift in tonight though, they all did.
Post by: brontebilly on January 30, 2021, 11:06:56 PM
How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?
We are becoming increasingly reliant on him again. For counter attacks, for creating chances , for even keeping the ball.
I really disagree with you. We have plenty of players who we now rely on. Lots of attacking intent from all over the pitch. He is our best player that is agreed but we have others to cause the opposition problems these days.
Don't think many of them are stepping up at the moment. Not sure what is gone wrong with McGinn but his form is so inconsistent. Luiz hasn't really been at his best all season. Smith failing to rotate or use his subs properly isn't helping matters at all, MON esque really.
The regular negativity after a win is starting to get a bit stale. It's almost as if you enjoy the attention it brings. Odd.
The resident virtue signaller is up late tonight!
Post by: Exeter 77 on January 30, 2021, 11:07:20 PM
Post by: villabear on January 30, 2021, 11:10:04 PM
Post by: rougegorge on January 30, 2021, 11:10:43 PM
The defence did very well to keep a clean sheet but we had some luck to hold on.
Although we won, I didn't really get Smith's game management with the almost total lack of substitutions when we needed fresh legs to tighten the game. Traore should have been subbed well before the end and Luiz has struggled the last few games.
However we've lost a couple when we should have won comfortably, so it was a big plus to win, especially after turning in some terrible recent performances down there.
Post by: robbo1874 on January 30, 2021, 11:12:30 PM
I think this may also go some way to accounting for how some people Think McGinn is a bit off it at the moment. Last season him and Jack were probably our stand out players. This season we’ve got better players in the side than the ones they’ve replaced and some of the others have improved significantly.How can Grealish being our best player be a worry?
We are becoming increasingly reliant on him again. For counter attacks, for creating chances , for even keeping the ball.
I really disagree with you. We have plenty of players who we now rely on. Lots of attacking intent from all over the pitch. He is our best player that is agreed but we have others to cause the opposition problems these days.
I also think the huge improvement over last season means the standards we judge by are a lot higher. A few have said it was a poor performance. I don’t think it was. If we’d had that result and performance there last season, it would have probably ranked as one of the best, certainly in the pre-lockdown part of it.
We battled, played some really nice football at times and took one of our few clear cut chances and also got a bit of overdue luck against what I thought was a very good Southampton side.
Post by: curiousorange on January 30, 2021, 11:13:01 PM
Post by: brontebilly on January 30, 2021, 11:16:46 PM
My only thinking regarding the subs or lack thereof was a reluctance to meddle with the balance of the team in a game where we were constantly challenged. Other than that I'm baffled.
Smiths in game management remains very average. Subs made far too late v Burnley but it was like he doubled down tonight by refusing to make any until the 95th min. Nakamba, Trez and AEG particularly have all played well for us recently so it isn't as if he didn't have options. If nothing else it would have killed the clock a bit.
Post by: Legion on January 30, 2021, 11:17:20 PM
Martinez 7 - couple of great saves but got very lucky with that parry at the end that he put up in the air. Slower off line today and not as composed with ball at his feet
*raises eyebrow*
Just watched the MotD highlights. Martinez was outstanding as was Grealish. Don't see where or why the criticism is warranted. The praise for Grealish was effusive.
Post by: caster troy on January 30, 2021, 11:17:20 PM
Jamie Carragher sounded like a closet Villa fan after the game. Always thought he was a top bloke.
He gets major points for being the first pundit I’ve seen acknowledge that our recruitment last season wasn’t actually bad and is now paying dividends.
Post by: pelty on January 30, 2021, 11:17:24 PM
Emi great again and Jack had a nice game. Worried about McGinn and Luiz as they have not looked great of late. Still do not fully understand Traore. Too much of a passenger for me even though he gets goals at times.
Thrilled for the three points but hope we can turn it up a notch in the next match.
Post by: Ian. on January 30, 2021, 11:24:10 PM
Me neither, someone earlier actually rated Smith a 4, what’s all that about? Ok a sub might have helped, it might not of. We won so who’s right and who’s wrong.Martinez 7 - couple of great saves but got very lucky with that parry at the end that he put up in the air. Slower off line today and not as composed with ball at his feet
*raises eyebrow*
Just watched the MotD highlights. Martinez was outstanding as was Grealish. Don't see where or why the criticism is warranted. The praise for Grealish was effusive.
They are a good side and we went there and won and you could argue we could have scored more.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on January 30, 2021, 11:26:10 PM
Post by: Ian. on January 30, 2021, 11:31:02 PM
Who do we know had Covid other than Taggart?
Post by: enigma on January 30, 2021, 11:32:04 PM
Jamie Carragher sounded like a closet Villa fan after the game. Always thought he was a top bloke.He's changed his tune. A few months back he was saying Grealish wasn't good enough for the top teams.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 30, 2021, 11:33:14 PM
Interesting comments on MOD about Jack. Touted for possible footballer of the year.
Loved Ian Wright’s comment about the talent England have. ‘Man dem’. Lineker repeated it and said ‘another word you’ve taught me’.
I felt at home in England again for a minute.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 30, 2021, 11:36:08 PM
Interesting comments on MOD about Jack. Touted for possible footballer of the year.
When I heard those comments and JJ referring to him as Jack I knew it would really wind the Heathens up and a quick check on SHA shows I was right. :)
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 30, 2021, 11:39:12 PM
Where was John Terry today? Didn’t see him all game.
Stayed back at BMH to oversee the final preparations for LBGT History month.
Post by: robbo1874 on January 30, 2021, 11:41:56 PM
This is no way a criticism so don’t all jump in but anyone else think Martinez’ kicking looked a bit weak tonight? Could get much distance on anything played back to him. I might just ask Alan Smith as he’s got all the answers where we’re concerned. Villa fan my arse.it’s mad how people can see the same match and have such diverging opinions! I thought Martinez’ distribution was excellent tonight. I noticed it early on and was watching for it throughout the game. I only remember a couple of times where his kicks didn’t go to one of our players. I’m not saying you’re wrong, it’s just not how I saw it.
Post by: Pat McMahon on January 30, 2021, 11:43:22 PM
Martinez 7 - couple of great saves but got very lucky with that parry at the end that he put up in the air. Slower off line today and not as composed with ball at his feet
*raises eyebrow*
Just watched the MotD highlights. Martinez was outstanding as was Grealish. Don't see where or why the criticism is warranted. The praise for Grealish was effusive.
I think Smith said Martinez told him after the game he had tried to tip it over the bar but got too much on it
Post by: taylorsworkrate on January 30, 2021, 11:45:02 PM
Post by: Steve67 on January 30, 2021, 11:45:08 PM
Where was John Terry today? Didn’t see him all game.
Stayed back at BMH to oversee the final preparations for LBGT History month.
Allegedly, busy shagging Wayne Bridge's latest squeeze whilst Bridge was on Soccer AM this morning?
Post by: Pat McMahon on January 30, 2021, 11:47:02 PM
This is no way a criticism so don’t all jump in but anyone else think Martinez’ kicking looked a bit weak tonight? Could get much distance on anything played back to him. I might just ask Alan Smith as he’s got all the answers where we’re concerned. Villa fan my arse.it’s mad how people can see the same match and have such diverging opinions! I thought Martinez’ distribution was excellent tonight. I noticed it early on and was watching for it throughout the game. I only remember a couple of times where his kicks didn’t go to one of our players. I’m not saying you’re wrong, it’s just not how I saw it.
And given the time difference I assume you’re watching with a clear head Rob? :)
Post by: Breezeblock on January 30, 2021, 11:48:13 PM
Post by: robbo1874 on January 30, 2021, 11:50:18 PM
seems as if we have different pundits for the Optus Sports coverage. They had Tony Adams and Paul Scholes and Owen Hargreaves for this one. Adam’s didn’t say much but was pretty fair. Hargreaves was also fair and seems quite intelligent in his analysis. Scholes finished up gushing over Grealish and his last comment, said with a smirk, was ‘Villa will be lucky to hang on to him’.Is it fickle that I really like Jamie Carragher now?I just thought that.
He is gushing about us.
But he still reminds of Basil Brush
Post by: Legion on January 30, 2021, 11:50:39 PM
Post by: Exeter 77 on January 30, 2021, 11:51:18 PM
Post by: Legion on January 30, 2021, 11:51:32 PM
Post by: brontebilly on January 30, 2021, 11:52:30 PM
Jack didn't have his best game by any means tonight, but was still streets ahead of any other player and produced 3/4 utterly sublime moments of skill. He made a difficult 1st time cross with his weaker foot look like he was playing a 5 yard sideways pass.
There was a cross field ball at one stage in the first half that Jack killed stone dead with his foot. As it's Jack it hardly got any comment but I'm not sure another player on the pitch could have done it. He was pretty much on the sideline at the time with a defender or two near him.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 30, 2021, 11:54:12 PM
Jack didn't have his best game by any means tonight, but was still streets ahead of any other player and produced 3/4 utterly sublime moments of skill. He made a difficult 1st time cross with his weaker foot look like he was playing a 5 yard sideways pass.
There was a cross field ball at one stage in the first half that Jack killed stone dead with his foot. As it's Jack it hardly got any comment but I'm not sure another player on the pitch could have done it. He was pretty much on the sideline at the time with a defender or two near him.
It was a great ball from the Merciless as well.
Post by: robbo1874 on January 30, 2021, 11:58:08 PM
After Wednesday, there were a few 'play worse than that and win' comments, and tonight was definitely one.I agree- Traore should probably have been subbed around the hour mark, but would probably have hooked Barkly rather than Dougie round about 75 mins. Talking of subs, Heaton was named as a sub for this match. Not sure if that’s the first time this season?
The defence did very well to keep a clean sheet but we had some luck to hold on.
Although we won, I didn't really get Smith's game management with the almost total lack of substitutions when we needed fresh legs to tighten the game. Traore should have been subbed well before the end and Luiz has struggled the last few games.
However we've lost a couple when we should have won comfortably, so it was a big plus to win, especially after turning in some terrible recent performances down there.
Post by: tomd2103 on January 31, 2021, 12:01:28 AM
Jack didn't have his best game by any means tonight, but was still streets ahead of any other player and produced 3/4 utterly sublime moments of skill. He made a difficult 1st time cross with his weaker foot look like he was playing a 5 yard sideways pass.
There was a cross field ball at one stage in the first half that Jack killed stone dead with his foot. As it's Jack it hardly got any comment but I'm not sure another player on the pitch could have done it. He was pretty much on the sideline at the time with a defender or two near him.
He produced a brilliant piece of skill in the second half where he turned Romeu in a really tight space up against the goal line and then just left him for dead. It has been a joy to watch him the last few seasons.
Post by: robbo1874 on January 31, 2021, 12:05:14 AM
No comment!This is no way a criticism so don’t all jump in but anyone else think Martinez’ kicking looked a bit weak tonight? Could get much distance on anything played back to him. I might just ask Alan Smith as he’s got all the answers where we’re concerned. Villa fan my arse.it’s mad how people can see the same match and have such diverging opinions! I thought Martinez’ distribution was excellent tonight. I noticed it early on and was watching for it throughout the game. I only remember a couple of times where his kicks didn’t go to one of our players. I’m not saying you’re wrong, it’s just not how I saw it.
And given the time difference I assume you’re watching with a clear head Rob? :)
Post by: olaftab on January 31, 2021, 12:13:28 AM
I’d say Dougie is definitely, Barkley too but he’s been injured. I thought Ollie ran his bollocks off all night to be fair to him.Has inspector Taggart joined our team?
Who do we know had Covid other than Taggart?
Post by: robbo1874 on January 31, 2021, 12:15:41 AM
ive noticed in the last few games Mings’ long range passing is some times bang on. I still can’t quite believe how many passes go across the back through our penalty area with opposition players nearby and we haven’t been caught out from it. I kind of get that’s how a lot of sides play these days, but I very much remember the days when that would’ve been called ‘fannying about at the back with it’ or something similar.Jack didn't have his best game by any means tonight, but was still streets ahead of any other player and produced 3/4 utterly sublime moments of skill. He made a difficult 1st time cross with his weaker foot look like he was playing a 5 yard sideways pass.
There was a cross field ball at one stage in the first half that Jack killed stone dead with his foot. As it's Jack it hardly got any comment but I'm not sure another player on the pitch could have done it. He was pretty much on the sideline at the time with a defender or two near him.
It was a great ball from the Merciless as well.
Post by: Matt C on January 31, 2021, 12:22:34 AM
Two very decent sides going full pelt and not much to pick between them but this was no fluke win, we earned it with a gritty performance and a resolute desire to not concede.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 31, 2021, 12:33:39 AM
Good sides, even the best ones, grind out wins whilst not playing at anywhere near their best.
I think we'll probably finish around 8th this season, maybe a bit higher. We are going to have more ups and downs and will remain a bit inconsistent, but I'll take that, as pretty much every single one of us would have before the season started.
More than anything what pleases me is we are so entertaining to watch. We must surely be the team neutrals most enjoy watching, our games are never boring.
After a decade of stinking the top flight out, how great is that?
Post by: RichardBatchelor on January 31, 2021, 12:33:48 AM
seems as if we have different pundits for the Optus Sports coverage. They had Tony Adams and Paul Scholes and Owen Hargreaves for this one. Adam’s didn’t say much but was pretty fair. Hargreaves was also fair and seems quite intelligent in his analysis. Scholes finished up gushing over Grealish and his last comment, said with a smirk, was ‘Villa will be lucky to hang on to him’.Is it fickle that I really like Jamie Carragher now?I just thought that.
He is gushing about us.
But he still reminds of Basil Brush
And he no doubt thinks his club has a divine right to sign him and assume he’d rather play there, the twat.
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 31, 2021, 12:37:44 AM
We are a good side.
Good sides, even the best ones, grind out wins whilst not playing at anywhere near their best.
I think we'll probably finish around 8th this season, maybe a bit higher. We are going to have more ups and downs and will remain a bit inconsistent, but I'll take that, as pretty much every single one of us would have before the season started.
More than anything what pleases me is we are so entertaining to watch. We must surely be the team neutrals most enjoy watching, our games are never boring.
After a decade of stinking the top flight out, how great is that?
Pretty much exactly how I feel. I now go into every game looking forward to watching us play.
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 31, 2021, 12:38:06 AM
Post by: pelty on January 31, 2021, 12:42:07 AM
We are a good side.
Good sides, even the best ones, grind out wins whilst not playing at anywhere near their best.
I think we'll probably finish around 8th this season, maybe a bit higher. We are going to have more ups and downs and will remain a bit inconsistent, but I'll take that, as pretty much every single one of us would have before the season started.
More than anything what pleases me is we are so entertaining to watch. We must surely be the team neutrals most enjoy watching, our games are never boring.
After a decade of stinking the top flight out, how great is that?
100%, Paulie! Great post!
Post by: wittonwarrior on January 31, 2021, 12:48:32 AM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on January 31, 2021, 12:49:05 AM
We are a good side.
Good sides, even the best ones, grind out wins whilst not playing at anywhere near their best.
I think we'll probably finish around 8th this season, maybe a bit higher. We are going to have more ups and downs and will remain a bit inconsistent, but I'll take that, as pretty much every single one of us would have before the season started.
More than anything what pleases me is we are so entertaining to watch. We must surely be the team neutrals most enjoy watching, our games are never boring.
After a decade of stinking the top flight out, how great is that?
100%, Paulie! Great post!
Did you just say we are everybody’s second team? 😳😄
What will Leeds say 🤔
Post by: Ian. on January 31, 2021, 12:49:25 AM
Oh shit, I’m now like my dear old mom and just making names up willy-nilly.I’d say Dougie is definitely, Barkley too but he’s been injured. I thought Ollie ran his bollocks off all night to be fair to him.Has inspector Taggart joined our team?
Who do we know had Covid other than Taggart?
Post by: OzVilla on January 31, 2021, 01:15:32 AM
Although those 2 decisions went for us by the letter of the laws the laws are an ass imo. But we got no sympathy so stuff em.
Post by: ROBBO on January 31, 2021, 01:28:16 AM
Post by: JD on January 31, 2021, 01:34:15 AM
About time we won ugly.
Post by: robbo1874 on January 31, 2021, 01:46:49 AM
yeah that’s what I was implying. I also typed ginger twat at the end, but deleted it before posting!seems as if we have different pundits for the Optus Sports coverage. They had Tony Adams and Paul Scholes and Owen Hargreaves for this one. Adam’s didn’t say much but was pretty fair. Hargreaves was also fair and seems quite intelligent in his analysis. Scholes finished up gushing over Grealish and his last comment, said with a smirk, was ‘Villa will be lucky to hang on to him’.Is it fickle that I really like Jamie Carragher now?I just thought that.
He is gushing about us.
But he still reminds of Basil Brush
And he no doubt thinks his club has a divine right to sign him and assume he’d rather play there, the twat.
Post by: ktvillan on January 31, 2021, 02:07:32 AM
Great tweet from McGinn
Which was?
Just as well it wasn’t my backside
#UTV9
And Thank God Gareth Barry wasn't there to take any penalties.
Post by: Astral Weeks on January 31, 2021, 07:34:17 AM
Me too. I love watching this team.We are a good side.
Good sides, even the best ones, grind out wins whilst not playing at anywhere near their best.
I think we'll probably finish around 8th this season, maybe a bit higher. We are going to have more ups and downs and will remain a bit inconsistent, but I'll take that, as pretty much every single one of us would have before the season started.
More than anything what pleases me is we are so entertaining to watch. We must surely be the team neutrals most enjoy watching, our games are never boring.
After a decade of stinking the top flight out, how great is that?
Pretty much exactly how I feel. I now go into every game looking forward to watching us play.
Even in the first half when we were under pressure (though hardly the "onslaught" the Sky commentator would have us believe), I texted my mate and said I was really enjoying it because it was a proper contest between two good teams.
Post by: JD on January 31, 2021, 08:31:55 AM
We are a good side.
Good sides, even the best ones, grind out wins whilst not playing at anywhere near their best.
I think we'll probably finish around 8th this season, maybe a bit higher. We are going to have more ups and downs and will remain a bit inconsistent, but I'll take that, as pretty much every single one of us would have before the season started.
More than anything what pleases me is we are so entertaining to watch. We must surely be the team neutrals most enjoy watching, our games are never boring.
After a decade of stinking the top flight out, how great is that?
Totally agree Paulie. We are already 3 or 4 points off last years total and long as we are making progress that's what matters. Finishing 8-10th is great progress.
Post by: London Villan on January 31, 2021, 08:39:39 AM
Post by: JD on January 31, 2021, 08:45:14 AM
As long as we keep improving and signing better players I think Jack will stay. I don't think getting into Europe this season will be the make or break for Jack.
Post by: richtheholtender on January 31, 2021, 08:45:19 AM
Finishing in a european place will be the difference in keeping or losing Jack.
I don’t think it will be to fair. If Jack only stayed on the basis of us getting to Europe this season then they may as well have sold him last year and invested the wages elsewhere because the chances of going from staying on goal difference to qualifying for Europe are extremely slim. That slim that it shouldn’t really be happening. I do think however, too 10 needs to be achieved and would probably have been a more realistic conversation with Jack and his representatives, which they’re on course to do. The club is progressing as fast as it can to match their own, ours and Jacks expectations. I do think Europe will need to be achieved next year though.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on January 31, 2021, 08:50:37 AM
Post by: Astnor on January 31, 2021, 09:00:23 AM
Grealish cant be praised enough really. His moments of quality wins games like yesterday ; assist to Barkley, same his goal at Burnely and the list goes on and on really. Magic appear when inteplay with other quality moves like Barkley s yesterday and Luiz s assist at Burnley. Interesting yesterday that commentators in early stages of the game did applaude the genius of their manager putting Ward - Prowse at right back; they put their best player to stop Jack and even so he did him for the goal fx and their midfield where really disorganised because of it. He does exeptional moves in every game - yesterday the comentators was wondering if he in fact where running faster with the ball than without it after he left their midfield behind with the ball :). We have good players now and probl will get some more but what team had we ve been without him? He cant be replaced neither in the future.
Matinez - have to love everything about him also his (latinamerican) passion - he gives everything he has in every situation
We where the better team yesterday - impossible to deny it!
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 31, 2021, 09:05:15 AM
Some other observations.
They had done their homework on how we play and in the 1st half closed Martinez down quickly, stopping his generally excellent distribution that kick starts many of our attacks.
I was surprised that Trez didn’t come on for Traore on about 60 mins.
Barcklay is playing himself to fitness and I thought did generally well tonight.
Mings was excellent and deserves credit where it’s due.
Thought their manager showed a bit of class in post match interview not banging on about the decisions too much.
I thought Smith should of made a couple of subs, but the fact he didn’t doesn’t make his game management average as has been mentioned earlier on the thread. There are plenty of times this season when Traore has been hooked on 60-70 mins, he must of had his reasons to keep him on last night. This time two years ago we were mid table to lower half championship after having a January where we got tonked by Wigan and scraped draws at home to QPR and Hull. Smith has got us up, kept us up and now has built an excellent side who play excellent football and will be challenging for an European place this season in two years!! that is top quality management.
Post by: lovejoy on January 31, 2021, 09:23:28 AM
Post by: Smithy on January 31, 2021, 09:29:33 AM
I thought we looked a little leggy second half, which is perhaps no surprise given it's our fourth game in 10 days, and by and large it's been the same 11 players on the pitch throughout. It's a little worrying Smith doesn't seem to trust in the replacements to keep playing at the same level as the 11 on the pitch at the start.
Barkley said something interesting on Sky, about getting his match fitness as he's not really doing any training since coming back - which to me implied it's been play/recovery/play/recovery cycle for the last ten days. So maybe it's no surprise we looked a little flat? Two more games in the next six days - I'll be interested to see if some of the first 11 get a little rest, even if it's starting but only playing an hour.
Post by: Smithy on January 31, 2021, 09:31:55 AM
I’m not sure about Traore, he seems like an icing on the cake player whereas we often need a player to help us grind out victories.
In games like last night, definitely. But at times, especially when we have a decent chunk of possession, he looks like a massive threat, and is scoring goals. I suspect if we'd started Trez for his higher work rate and protection for Cash we might have considered the set-up 'negative' as it's 'only Southampton'.
It is important that the first 11 don't start to believe they will start regardless of the level of performance, we want them absolutely convinced a drop-off in their levels will see a return to the bench - not sure we have that right now?
Post by: PaulTheVillan on January 31, 2021, 09:36:27 AM
Southampton are struggling for results but are a good side and their high press game is impressive and had us pegged back, especially in the first half. Given, it was a dogged performance from us, with some moments of class and an excellent result, we need to be able to produce these kinds of performances as well as the strutting our stuff performances against the likes of Newcastle.
Some other observations.
They had done their homework on how we play and in the 1st half closed Martinez down quickly, stopping his generally excellent distribution that kick starts many of our attacks.
I was surprised that Trez didn’t come on for Traore on about 60 mins.
Barcklay is playing himself to fitness and I thought did generally well tonight.
Mings was excellent and deserves credit where it’s due.
Thought their manager showed a bit of class in post match interview not banging on about the decisions too much.
I thought Smith should of made a couple of subs, but the fact he didn’t doesn’t make his game management average as has been mentioned earlier on the thread. There are plenty of times this season when Traore has been hooked on 60-70 mins, he must of had his reasons to keep him on last night. This time two years ago we were mid table to lower half championship after having a January where we got tonked by Wigan and scraped draws at home to QPR and Hull. Smith has got us up, kept us up and now has built an excellent side who play excellent football and will be challenging for an European place this season in two years!! that is top quality management.
One of Ming’s best games for a while. I also thought we should have changed it earlier, maybe throwing Nakamba on for Traore to add another body in the middle.
Post by: Hillbilly on January 31, 2021, 09:38:20 AM
“There’s been a murder at Firhill”I’d say Dougie is definitely, Barkley too but he’s been injured. I thought Ollie ran his bollocks off all night to be fair to him.Has inspector Taggart joined our team?
Who do we know had Covid other than Taggart?
Post by: Neil Hawkes on January 31, 2021, 09:43:28 AM
This is no way a criticism so don’t all jump in but anyone else think Martinez’ kicking looked a bit weak tonight? Could get much distance on anything played back to him. I might just ask Alan Smith as he’s got all the answers where we’re concerned. Villa fan my arse.I thought that also, until I heard about the wind coming across the stadium during the match commentary. The wind down South from the sea is pretty fierce the last few days.
Post by: Smithy on January 31, 2021, 09:44:57 AM
Finishing in a european place will be the difference in keeping or losing Jack.
I disagree. I can't see how he would sign a five-year contract on the basis of a team from a relegation fight getting a place in Europe the next season. I don't think even the most optimistic fan would have predicted that for THIS season.
I don't doubt he has expectations of improvement in the team - but we HAVE improved, measurably, and I suspect we will improve again next summer. As long as the trend is upwards, I have no concerns at all about Jack leaving. The worry will come at the point we plateau, or worse, start going backwards - but we're at least a year away from that even being a concern.
Post by: Clampy on January 31, 2021, 09:45:33 AM
Post by: brontebilly on January 31, 2021, 09:53:38 AM
I’m not sure about Traore, he seems like an icing on the cake player whereas we often need a player to help us grind out victories.
In games like last night, definitely. But at times, especially when we have a decent chunk of possession, he looks like a massive threat, and is scoring goals. I suspect if we'd started Trez for his higher work rate and protection for Cash we might have considered the set-up 'negative' as it's 'only Southampton'.
It is important that the first 11 don't start to believe they will start regardless of the level of performance, we want them absolutely convinced a drop-off in their levels will see a return to the bench - not sure we have that right now?
Definitely not. If Smith doesn't give the backup players minutes he will lose them eventually. No excuse for it last night. The selection against West Ham will be interesting.
Post by: andyh on January 31, 2021, 10:04:00 AM
I was going to post about that. It was incredible, and as you say, it went without comment, because it ‘just what he does’Jack didn't have his best game by any means tonight, but was still streets ahead of any other player and produced 3/4 utterly sublime moments of skill. He made a difficult 1st time cross with his weaker foot look like he was playing a 5 yard sideways pass.
There was a cross field ball at one stage in the first half that Jack killed stone dead with his foot. As it's Jack it hardly got any comment but I'm not sure another player on the pitch could have done it. He was pretty much on the sideline at the time with a defender or two near him.
I hope there will be a clip of it somewhere.
Post by: Ads on January 31, 2021, 10:04:50 AM
Traore and Barkely did a lot more off the ball, although I felt the former faded second half and I would have had Trez on.
Trez
El Ghazi
Morgan
Ramsey
Good options in midfield, you can see where we will be adding in the summer with a striker and centre half. If we qualify for a European spot, then doubly so.
Very happy with 32 points at the turn. We've achieved in half a season effectively did in all of last.
As much as VAR supported the on field decisions last night, felt we've been unlucky at Burnley, West Ham, Brighton, Man United and Man City not to have more. A combination of clinical ruthlessness and VAR might have delivered more.
But this team is so much more organised, confident, tough that its a remarkable turn around.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 31, 2021, 10:07:45 AM
Some tired a bit though. The difference was a piece of class forward play.
Great ball from Target to set the cross from Jack and top Finnish.
Post by: Ads on January 31, 2021, 10:14:40 AM
Territory and possession, but all huff and puff.
Martinez had 2 saves to make. Sometimes that's enough in a tight game, that efficiency at Villa Park was all they needed.
Post by: Clampy on January 31, 2021, 10:16:37 AM
I think it was a case of "prove you're gritty enough" after Burnley last night.
Traore and Barkely did a lot more off the ball, although I felt the former faded second half and I would have had Trez on.
Trez
El Ghazi
Morgan
Ramsey
Good options in midfield, you can see where we will be adding in the summer with a striker and centre half. If we qualify for a European spot, then doubly so.
Very happy with 32 points at the turn. We've achieved in half a season effectively did in all of last.
As much as VAR supported the on field decisions last night, felt we've been unlucky at Burnley, West Ham, Brighton, Man United and Man City not to have more. A combination of clinical ruthlessness and VAR might have delivered more.
But this team is so much more organised, confident, tough that its a remarkable turn around.
Totally agree, which is why I don't get some of the constant negativity at times. It's our second season back up, we are playing some of the best football we've played in a long time and yes, we will throw in a few stinkers now and again but we need to expect that. Also, like you said we are unlucky not to be a few more points better off than we are. I think we've been fantastic overall personally. It's up to us to build on it though because it may be a lot tougher next season but I'm sure these owners will.
Post by: Smithy on January 31, 2021, 10:20:04 AM
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 31, 2021, 10:30:24 AM
I’m not sure about Traore, he seems like an icing on the cake player whereas we often need a player to help us grind out victories.
In games like last night, definitely. But at times, especially when we have a decent chunk of possession, he looks like a massive threat, and is scoring goals. I suspect if we'd started Trez for his higher work rate and protection for Cash we might have considered the set-up 'negative' as it's 'only Southampton'.
It is important that the first 11 don't start to believe they will start regardless of the level of performance, we want them absolutely convinced a drop-off in their levels will see a return to the bench - not sure we have that right now?
Definitely not. If Smith doesn't give the backup players minutes he will lose them eventually. No excuse for it last night. The selection against West Ham will be interesting.
You seem to be going out of your way to find excuses to moan. If he had brought subs on and we'd conceded a couple of goals, presumably you'd have been happy with his decision?
Post by: Steve67 on January 31, 2021, 10:31:33 AM
I am really enjoying this season!
Post by: Walmley_Villa on January 31, 2021, 10:39:38 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 31, 2021, 10:46:12 AM
I think that Matt Targett is the most improved player in the squad. Really solid left back for us and was really good again last night. Seems a hell of a lot fitter this season and often seen defending way up the pitch, supporting Jack.He is doing really well, solid defensively and supporting the attack at the right time.
I am really enjoying this season!
Post by: RichardBatchelor on January 31, 2021, 10:46:57 AM
I was going to post about that. It was incredible, and as you say, it went without comment, because it ‘just what he does’Jack didn't have his best game by any means tonight, but was still streets ahead of any other player and produced 3/4 utterly sublime moments of skill. He made a difficult 1st time cross with his weaker foot look like he was playing a 5 yard sideways pass.
There was a cross field ball at one stage in the first half that Jack killed stone dead with his foot. As it's Jack it hardly got any comment but I'm not sure another player on the pitch could have done it. He was pretty much on the sideline at the time with a defender or two near him.
I hope there will be a clip of it somewhere.
There was also a moment in the first half where I thought he’d miscontrolled it out wide but in fact he was pushing into space in order to tee up a cross which he duly delivered. His spatial awareness is absolutely brilliant. All world class players have it, God being another example of course.
Post by: The Edge on January 31, 2021, 10:47:28 AM
I think that Matt Targett is the most improved player in the squad. Really solid left back for us and was really good again last night. Seems a hell of a lot fitter this season and often seen defending way up the pitch, supporting Jack.Yeah I agree. Targetts turn around this season has mirrored the remarkable turnaround of the whole team and I was a big critic of him last season. His involvement in our goal last night has been overlooked due to the brilliance of Jack and Ross who finished it off. His contribution was just as important. The way he controlled the crossfield pass with his chest then put Jack away with a perfectly weighted pass over the head of the Saints player was absolutely top drawer.
I am really enjoying this season!
Post by: Mister E on January 31, 2021, 10:50:21 AM
We rode our luck, got our share of VAR decisions (when I heard who was on VAR duty, I thought we were dead meat!) and defended like lions.
The back five were excellent throughout (the pass from Targett to JG for the goals was sublime).
Watkins again worked his nuts off (decision-making on the ball could have been slightly better).
Doug put in a shift and a half; McGinn was all over the place, making crazy blocks.
Traore worked as hard as we've seen, and JG played his usual game.
I think one criticism is that when we did have possession we could have protected the ball better and made more use of it; the last quarter oft eh game we piled a little pressure on ourselves by trying to be almost too intricate with it. But - hey! - brilliant stuff after the disappointment of Turf Moor and Mancester.
Post by: Risso on January 31, 2021, 10:53:50 AM
I don’t think Tez was brought on as it would potentially have played into their hands. Trez would have been likely to have given away free kicks near our box. Ward-Prowse delivery was their big threat.
Why would Trez do that? Can't see that that would have been more of a risk than leaving Traore on, who did very little second half. At the end of the day, they did get the ball in the net and we'd have had two points less other than for VAR. It was daft of Smith and co not to make any subs, they were all over us.
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 31, 2021, 10:55:05 AM
I don’t think Tez was brought on as it would potentially have played into their hands. Trez would have been likely to have given away free kicks near our box. Ward-Prowse delivery was their big threat.
Why would Trez do that? Can't see that that would have been more of a risk than leaving Traore on, who did very little second half. At the end of the day, they did get the ball in the net and we'd have had two points less other than for VAR. It was daft of Smith and co not to make any subs, they were all over us.
We won, therefore he did the right thing and the linesman flagged. VAR had nothing to do with it.
Post by: wittonwarrior on January 31, 2021, 10:59:30 AM
Post by: Smithy on January 31, 2021, 11:01:55 AM
I don’t think Tez was brought on as it would potentially have played into their hands. Trez would have been likely to have given away free kicks near our box. Ward-Prowse delivery was their big threat.
Why would Trez do that? Can't see that that would have been more of a risk than leaving Traore on, who did very little second half. At the end of the day, they did get the ball in the net and we'd have had two points less other than for VAR. It was daft of Smith and co not to make any subs, they were all over us.
Technically, even in the pre-VAR days, it would have been disallowed because the linesman flagged for it. The VAR check was very very close, but in the end it backed up the onfield decision, rather than disallowing the goal.
Post by: malckennedy on January 31, 2021, 11:02:15 AM
Post by: Clampy on January 31, 2021, 11:05:02 AM
Post by: Walmley_Villa on January 31, 2021, 11:06:28 AM
I don’t think Tez was brought on as it would potentially have played into their hands. Trez would have been likely to have given away free kicks near our box. Ward-Prowse delivery was their big threat.
Why would Trez do that? Can't see that that would have been more of a risk than leaving Traore on, who did very little second half. At the end of the day, they did get the ball in the net and we'd have had two points less other than for VAR. It was daft of Smith and co not to make any subs, they were all over us.
I like Trez but sometimes he is like Captain Chaos. Their big threat was from corners and set pieces.
Post by: Allan C on January 31, 2021, 11:16:16 AM
I disagree London Villan.Yes that’s my view JD. I think the owners sold Jack a vision of improvement and investment and they’ve been good to their word. After last year and the previous years of waste they couldn’t possibly have promised European football after this season. I think Jack signed his contract with a view to seeing it through
As long as we keep improving and signing better players I think Jack will stay. I don't think getting into Europe this season will be the make or break for Jack.
Post by: CT on January 31, 2021, 11:17:45 AM
I don’t think Tez was brought on as it would potentially have played into their hands. Trez would have been likely to have given away free kicks near our box. Ward-Prowse delivery was their big threat.
Why would Trez do that? Can't see that that would have been more of a risk than leaving Traore on, who did very little second half. At the end of the day, they did get the ball in the net and we'd have had two points less other than for VAR. It was daft of Smith and co not to make any subs, they were all over us.
I like Trez but sometimes he is like Captain Chaos. Their big threat was from corners and set pieces.
I don’t remember Captain Chaos? Definitely Captain Caveman, but not Chaos.
Post by: brontebilly on January 31, 2021, 11:18:05 AM
I’m not sure about Traore, he seems like an icing on the cake player whereas we often need a player to help us grind out victories.
In games like last night, definitely. But at times, especially when we have a decent chunk of possession, he looks like a massive threat, and is scoring goals. I suspect if we'd started Trez for his higher work rate and protection for Cash we might have considered the set-up 'negative' as it's 'only Southampton'.
It is important that the first 11 don't start to believe they will start regardless of the level of performance, we want them absolutely convinced a drop-off in their levels will see a return to the bench - not sure we have that right now?
Definitely not. If Smith doesn't give the backup players minutes he will lose them eventually. No excuse for it last night. The selection against West Ham will be interesting.
You seem to be going out of your way to find excuses to moan. If he had brought subs on and we'd conceded a couple of goals, presumably you'd have been happy with his decision?
Didn't realise bringing subs on would have automatically led us to conceding a couple of goals ...
Is there any chance fresh legs might have helped us keep possession better or pressed Southampton harder in the last 20 mins?
Post by: Walmley_Villa on January 31, 2021, 11:21:24 AM
I don’t think Tez was brought on as it would potentially have played into their hands. Trez would have been likely to have given away free kicks near our box. Ward-Prowse delivery was their big threat.
Why would Trez do that? Can't see that that would have been more of a risk than leaving Traore on, who did very little second half. At the end of the day, they did get the ball in the net and we'd have had two points less other than for VAR. It was daft of Smith and co not to make any subs, they were all over us.
I like Trez but sometimes he is like Captain Chaos. Their big threat was from corners and set pieces.
I don’t remember Captain Chaos? Definitely Captain Caveman, but not Chaos.
Cannonball Run....but yes more like Captain Caveman for an all arms and legs as an analogy!
Post by: Allan C on January 31, 2021, 11:22:46 AM
One thing I like is that even when we are not quite at our best, we always look as if we have a couple of goals in us. We didn't really get going in that first half but we could have gone in two goals up.Yes totally agree with this.
Post by: PeterWithe on January 31, 2021, 11:24:06 AM
Post by: Villa Lew on January 31, 2021, 11:26:08 AM
Regarding Dean, when we were under the cosh in the last 20 minutes, why he didn't think a fresh pair of legs would help us, I simply don't know, Bert particularly comes to mind, he was contributing virtually nothing. He does seem to have a weakness, when it comes to subs, I believe he makes changes too late in games, I've noticed it's the opposition manager, who normally makes a tactical change first.
Moan over to be on 32 points at the half way point is a tremendous effort and full credit goes to Dean and the players for that.
Post by: Monty on January 31, 2021, 11:29:52 AM
Post by: garyellis on January 31, 2021, 11:31:53 AM
One thing in particular stood out for me in the post match analysis was both Carragher and Keane now recognise the amount of rebuilding that had to be completed summer 2019 and overall what a great job has been done over the transfer windows to get us where we are now.
Post by: Jon H on January 31, 2021, 11:33:05 AM
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 31, 2021, 11:37:26 AM
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 31, 2021, 11:37:49 AM
Post by: LeeB on January 31, 2021, 11:39:46 AM
Haven't we got more late goals than anyone else? That would seem to indicate that Smiffy's 'game management' works more often than not.
And up until Man City I don't think we'd conceded a goal in the last 15 minutes.
Post by: KevinGage on January 31, 2021, 11:41:28 AM
The problem with making subs (though you can argue about Bert and AEG, for instance) at 1-0 is, if you concede immediately after bringing on Marvelous for McGinn (say), how do press for the win? 2-0 with 10 minutes to go would be different, and I think it will be different when Morgan's integrated, but last night I understood keeping the powder dry.
The other issue is for players coming on cold it can take them a period of time to get up to speed with the game and switch on tactically.
I'd have liked to see fresh legs come on from past the hour mark onwards. But if that was Marv and he starts giving the ball back to the opposition (as he's liable to do at times) or lets players run off him it's not much of a benefit.
As you say, with someone to come on like Sanson when he's fully integrated, that might be less of a concern.
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 31, 2021, 11:43:39 AM
Leicester, Liverpool, Man U, Newcastle and West Ham have scored more goals in the last ten minutes than we have. Nobody has conceded fewer.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 31, 2021, 11:46:52 AM
Post by: brontebilly on January 31, 2021, 11:49:57 AM
The problem with making subs (though you can argue about Bert and AEG, for instance) at 1-0 is, if you concede immediately after bringing on Marvelous for McGinn (say), how do press for the win? 2-0 with 10 minutes to go would be different, and I think it will be different when Morgan's integrated, but last night I understood keeping the powder dry.
The other issue is for players coming on cold it can take them a period of time to get up to speed with the game and switch on tactically.
I'd have liked to see fresh legs come on from past the hour mark onwards. But if that was Marv and he starts giving the ball back to the opposition (as he's liable to do at times) or lets players run off him it's not much of a benefit.
As you say, with someone to come on like Sanson when he's fully integrated, that might be less of a concern.
Trez for Traore was the obvious one. Nakamba for Barks and shove McGinn further forward (or take him off) another obvious change.
Agree it wasn't the game to bring Sanson in but likes of AEG, Trez and Nakamba all should have seen decent game time.
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 31, 2021, 11:51:37 AM
I’m not sure about Traore, he seems like an icing on the cake player whereas we often need a player to help us grind out victories.
In games like last night, definitely. But at times, especially when we have a decent chunk of possession, he looks like a massive threat, and is scoring goals. I suspect if we'd started Trez for his higher work rate and protection for Cash we might have considered the set-up 'negative' as it's 'only Southampton'.
It is important that the first 11 don't start to believe they will start regardless of the level of performance, we want them absolutely convinced a drop-off in their levels will see a return to the bench - not sure we have that right now?
Definitely not. If Smith doesn't give the backup players minutes he will lose them eventually. No excuse for it last night. The selection against West Ham will be interesting.
You seem to be going out of your way to find excuses to moan. If he had brought subs on and we'd conceded a couple of goals, presumably you'd have been happy with his decision?
Didn't realise bringing subs on would have automatically led us to conceding a couple of goals ...
Is there any chance fresh legs might have helped us keep possession better or pressed Southampton harder in the last 20 mins?
They wouldn't have got us a better result, which is the only thing you can say for certain.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 31, 2021, 12:07:50 PM
Post by: Moonraker on January 31, 2021, 12:08:06 PM
Post by: Nev on January 31, 2021, 12:13:40 PM
I'm happy.
Post by: DB on January 31, 2021, 12:19:34 PM
Targett was never as bad as some people here were suggesting last season. Delighted for him that he's kicked on from there.
He has improved lots. But it does help when you have Grealish playing in front of you.
Post by: KevinGage on January 31, 2021, 12:37:37 PM
Targett came to us with a reputation as a full-back/wing back who likes to get forward and support the attack. That's how I remember him at Fulham.
He's still capable of getting forward, but he's had to rein it in and adapt. The strongest part of his game this season has been his interceptions and reading of the game.
Post by: Bad English on January 31, 2021, 12:54:09 PM
Post by: richtheholtender on January 31, 2021, 12:55:31 PM
Just watched MOTD highlights to confirm, yes, we nicked that one and had some luck but we are still owed some more going forward. Some good performances there. Interesting that the pundits talked about "Watkins Barkley....and Jack". Nice to see them talking him up and on first name terms...
He’ll always be Jack to us and Grealish to the rest
Post by: olaftab on January 31, 2021, 01:07:51 PM
I was screaming for Dean to make a substitution as I was worried that tired legs might let them get one back at the end. But we won, and I do not need to point to Dean's subbing strategy (which I would have done) as evidence that I knew best. ;-)Couldn't you do one of those raised finger "But in future Dean...."?
Post by: Russ aka Big Nose on January 31, 2021, 01:16:17 PM
We have the players and the approach to create enough chances. At that end of the pitch it is about taking enough of those chances.
The other side of it is being tough to beat - in terms of organisation, concentration and bloody-minded determination. The last of these being demonstrated by Cash, Mings etc. throwing themselves in the way.
I swapped a few messages with a mate who is a Saints fan. He was right - we deserved something from our home game and they deserved something from last night - but a loss and a win (3 points) is better for both clubs than a couple of draws. UTV
Post by: darren woolley on January 31, 2021, 01:16:48 PM
Post by: KevinGage on January 31, 2021, 01:20:22 PM
A great win and as Dean Smith said in his interview after (on AVTV), we need to be hard to beat.
We have the players and the approach to create enough chances. At that end of the pitch it is about taking enough of those chances.
The other side of it is being tough to beat - in terms of organisation, concentration and bloody-minded determination. The last of these being demonstrated by Cash, Mings etc. throwing themselves in the way.
I swapped a few messages with a mate who is a Saints fan. He was right - we deserved something from our home game and they deserved something from last night - but a loss and a win (3 points) is better for both clubs than a couple of draws. UTV
Decent way of looking at it.
I was impressed with Southampton last night. They were some way short of their best, had various injury issues pre game and had two important players pull up during the game.
But they largely nullified us as an attacking threat (even the CL chasing sides haven't been able to do that) and created enough chances second half to win.
But thems the breaks.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on January 31, 2021, 01:46:20 PM
So happy with the win and clean sheet it was our turn to have some VAR luck.Me too Darren, up till now we have been vary unlucky. Let's hope it's not var today and gone tomorrow!
Post by: john e on January 31, 2021, 01:54:24 PM
I don’t think Tez was brought on as it would potentially have played into their hands. Trez would have been likely to have given away free kicks near our box. Ward-Prowse delivery was their big threat.
Why would Trez do that? Can't see that that would have been more of a risk than leaving Traore on, who did very little second half. At the end of the day, they did get the ball in the net and we'd have had two points less other than for VAR. It was daft of Smith and co not to make any subs, they were all over us.
We won, therefore he did the right thing and the linesman flagged. VAR had nothing to do with it.
That’s a bit harsh on Smith
If we’re going with that logic every time we lost its Smiths fault
you know, we lost therefore he did the wrong thing
yet I feel there is plenty of times this season when we have lost and yet we were the better side therefore he was doing the right things
but things just went against us
It happens
Post by: Ads on January 31, 2021, 01:56:13 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 31, 2021, 03:29:58 PM
Post by: SamTheMouse on January 31, 2021, 03:48:41 PM
Post by: Chris Smith on January 31, 2021, 03:55:11 PM
Can we hire one of those planes to fly over the stadium in the second half of our next match, with the message "Make a bloody sub, Dean"?
I honestly think that it would have been a mistake to change things yesterday. Everyone was doing their job defending a tight lead and there is always a slight readjustment required when a sub comes on while they get up to speed and that could have been enough for them to snatch an equaliser.
Post by: Mister E on January 31, 2021, 03:59:53 PM
Post by: Flamingo Lane on January 31, 2021, 04:00:17 PM
Post by: The Edge on January 31, 2021, 04:25:01 PM
I don't know why Dean and his staff are getting questions about not using subs and somehow their game management is suspect. He/they probably felt that as the game was on such a knife edge the benefits of keeping the shape outweighed the benefits of fresh legs. We won the game anyway so their decisions were vindicated.I’m not sure about Traore, he seems like an icing on the cake player whereas we often need a player to help us grind out victories.
In games like last night, definitely. But at times, especially when we have a decent chunk of possession, he looks like a massive threat, and is scoring goals. I suspect if we'd started Trez for his higher work rate and protection for Cash we might have considered the set-up 'negative' as it's 'only Southampton'.
It is important that the first 11 don't start to believe they will start regardless of the level of performance, we want them absolutely convinced a drop-off in their levels will see a return to the bench - not sure we have that right now?
Definitely not. If Smith doesn't give the backup players minutes he will lose them eventually. No excuse for it last night. The selection against West Ham will be interesting.
You seem to be going out of your way to find excuses to moan. If he had brought subs on and we'd conceded a couple of goals, presumably you'd have been happy with his decision?
Didn't realise bringing subs on would have automatically led us to conceding a couple of goals ...
Is there any chance fresh legs might have helped us keep possession better or pressed Southampton harder in the last 20 mins?
They wouldn't have got us a better result, which is the only thing you can say for certain.
Post by: Chris Smith on January 31, 2021, 04:27:39 PM
It's because a slight readjustment is needed when a substitution is made that makes it necessary to not leave them until it's too late for them to have any effect.
Or not do them at all, if it ain’t broke...
Obviously that isn’t always the case but yesterday I didn’t see any reason to make the change.
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 31, 2021, 04:54:59 PM
It's because a slight readjustment is needed when a substitution is made that makes it necessary to not leave them until it's too late for them to have any effect.
I thought Trez should of come on for Traore, but what do I know. Smith thought otherwise, we won away against a very good side. On the basis of that alone, Smiths game management was proved correct.
Post by: brontebilly on January 31, 2021, 05:20:02 PM
A small observation. Ings didn't get a look-in apart from the offside goal. Yes, he mugged Luiz befor the penalty shout; and he had a speculative shot in the second half. But he was self-contained... a measure of our defensive capabilities.
He put the ball through for Adams chance also
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 31, 2021, 05:27:59 PM
We did well to see it out but you only have to go back 3 days and we didn't see out a game when 2-1 up with twenty minutes left. Then 3 subs were suddenly deemed useable for last 10 minutes once losing.
Ultimately the schedule is brutal and we are rotating rarely compared to most teams in the league so we do have to be a little bit careful and freshen things up when required.
It's also a great way of slowing a game down aswell especially when opposition are dominating.
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 31, 2021, 05:28:04 PM
It's because a slight readjustment is needed when a substitution is made that makes it necessary to not leave them until it's too late for them to have any effect.
I thought Trez should of come on for Traore, but what do I know. Smith thought otherwise, we won away against a very good side. On the basis of that alone, Smiths game management was proved correct.
Exactly.
Post by: Ian. on January 31, 2021, 05:31:55 PM
Quite right. 3 points is all the proof I need on Smith’s call. I’m still baffled by someone on here rating Smith a 4 for his performance yesterday.It's because a slight readjustment is needed when a substitution is made that makes it necessary to not leave them until it's too late for them to have any effect.
I thought Trez should of come on for Traore, but what do I know. Smith thought otherwise, we won away against a very good side. On the basis of that alone, Smiths game management was proved correct.
Exactly.
Post by: The Edge on January 31, 2021, 05:40:32 PM
Really? I must've missed that. Jesus weptQuite right. 3 points is all the proof I need on Smith’s call. I’m still baffled by someone on here rating Smith a 4 for his performance yesterday.It's because a slight readjustment is needed when a substitution is made that makes it necessary to not leave them until it's too late for them to have any effect.
I thought Trez should of come on for Traore, but what do I know. Smith thought otherwise, we won away against a very good side. On the basis of that alone, Smiths game management was proved correct.
Exactly.
Post by: Ian. on January 31, 2021, 05:45:56 PM
I know! We won, a smash and grab maybe but sometimes you just have to enjoy the moment.Really? I must've missed that. Jesus weptQuite right. 3 points is all the proof I need on Smith’s call. I’m still baffled by someone on here rating Smith a 4 for his performance yesterday.It's because a slight readjustment is needed when a substitution is made that makes it necessary to not leave them until it's too late for them to have any effect.
I thought Trez should of come on for Traore, but what do I know. Smith thought otherwise, we won away against a very good side. On the basis of that alone, Smiths game management was proved correct.
Exactly.
We play some wonderful football at times and even yesterday when at times were really up against it but we’re still great to watch. We dig in, we press, niggle away and then attack with such a force. What’s not to like?
Post by: The Edge on January 31, 2021, 06:58:54 PM
Quite a lot apparently! I'm with you I'm really enjoying this season it's been some of the best football in living memory. We all get niggly when things go against us but we seem to have a hard core who just always look for something negative to say. It's a tiny minority though but everyone's entitled to an opinion however baffling. Can't wait to get back to VP I can just imagine the roar when we get to see some exciting flowing football in the flesh. God knows we've waited long enough.I know! We won, a smash and grab maybe but sometimes you just have to enjoy the moment.Really? I must've missed that. Jesus weptQuite right. 3 points is all the proof I need on Smith’s call. I’m still baffled by someone on here rating Smith a 4 for his performance yesterday.It's because a slight readjustment is needed when a substitution is made that makes it necessary to not leave them until it's too late for them to have any effect.
I thought Trez should of come on for Traore, but what do I know. Smith thought otherwise, we won away against a very good side. On the basis of that alone, Smiths game management was proved correct.
Exactly.
We play some wonderful football at times and even yesterday when at times were really up against it but we’re still great to watch. We dig in, we press, niggle away and then attack with such a force. What’s not to like?
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 31, 2021, 07:34:34 PM
4 against Burnley might have been justified, but winning away at Sampton?Really? I must've missed that. Jesus weptQuite right. 3 points is all the proof I need on Smith’s call. I’m still baffled by someone on here rating Smith a 4 for his performance yesterday.It's because a slight readjustment is needed when a substitution is made that makes it necessary to not leave them until it's too late for them to have any effect.
I thought Trez should of come on for Traore, but what do I know. Smith thought otherwise, we won away against a very good side. On the basis of that alone, Smiths game management was proved correct.
Exactly.
Post by: The Edge on January 31, 2021, 07:36:50 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 01, 2021, 08:35:49 AM
Post by: cdbearsfan on February 01, 2021, 08:39:32 AM
Post by: BC54 VFC on February 01, 2021, 02:06:10 PM
Ings is a fucking brilliant player. I wish he played for us.He's a very sound bloke, too. When the son of family friends - massive Burnley fans - died suddenly aged just 20 five years ago he was very supportive to the family and kept in touch for a long time, quite possibly still does.
Post by: Andy Poole on February 01, 2021, 04:40:11 PM
Ings is a fucking brilliant player. I wish he played for us.He's a very sound bloke, too. When the son of family friends - massive Burnley fans - died suddenly aged just 20 five years ago he was very supportive to the family and kept in touch for a long time, quite possibly still does.
He is mates with my Daughters bloke. Grealish to Spurs is going to happen according to him. Not a fan. Of both Ings and my Daughters bloke.
Post by: DrGonzo on February 02, 2021, 07:25:36 PM
Post by: The Edge on February 02, 2021, 08:01:13 PM
Heard Darren Bent on talkshite today. He was telling the story of his move from Spurs to Sunderland. Basically he was stopped from going on a tour of the far east as a deal had been done. He was actually on board the plane when he was told about it and had to get off and make his own way home where he waited for further news. Two weeks later Spurs returned from the trip and Darren was still holed up in his London home. The deal was still not done. He said it was all about Daniel Levy haggling over every last penny and detail of the deal. He did get his move eventually and it highlighted what a total arsehole Levy is to deal with. I don't believe Jack is going anywhere yet and I certainly don't think he will go to Spurs when he finally does leave us. I can't see our owners wanting anything to do with Daniel Levy.Ings is a fucking brilliant player. I wish he played for us.He's a very sound bloke, too. When the son of family friends - massive Burnley fans - died suddenly aged just 20 five years ago he was very supportive to the family and kept in touch for a long time, quite possibly still does.
He is mates with my Daughters bloke. Grealish to Spurs is going to happen according to him. Not a fan. Of both Ings and my Daughters bloke.