Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: olaftab on October 22, 2023, 09:56:58 PM

Title: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: olaftab on October 22, 2023, 09:56:58 PM
Thursday 26 October 2023, Kickoff 17.45 BST 18.45 CET
AFAS Stadium, Stadionweg 1, 1812 AZ Alkmaar, Netherlands,

Here we go our next away UECL match. AZ are going like a bullet train this season. Second in the  Eredivisie having played 9 games  winning 8 and drawing 1. So it looks like a very tough match and I hope Unai has a plan for it. Looking forward to it.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Legion on October 22, 2023, 09:57:58 PM
2-0.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Bad English on October 22, 2023, 10:05:22 PM
1-2. FTF!
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Brazilian Villain on October 22, 2023, 10:10:51 PM
Was going to go for a Villa win but then realised that Aftab started the Legia pre-match thread. It'll be 3-2 to Alkmaar then. :(
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Bad English on October 22, 2023, 10:21:51 PM
The person who starts the match thread has no bearing on the result. Don't worry!
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: PeterWithesShin on October 22, 2023, 10:22:29 PM
Them 1 Us 4
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Brazilian Villain on October 22, 2023, 10:23:59 PM
Was going to go for a Villa win but then realised that Aftab started the Legia pre-match thread. It'll be 3-2 to Alkmaar then. :(

Phew, I guess that means I can wash my 'lucky pants' as well.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Smirker on October 22, 2023, 11:15:38 PM
1-2. FTF!

Yes, this.

Away win, FTF  8)
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Axl Rose on October 22, 2023, 11:31:28 PM
1-1
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: olaftab on October 23, 2023, 12:51:43 AM
Was going to go for a Villa win but then realised that Aftab started the Legia pre-match thread. It'll be 3-2 to Alkmaar then. :(

Phew, I guess that means I can wash my 'lucky pants' as well.
I did think about that Gary but Unai has burnt all taboos and interactions no longer apply to Aston Villa FC ;D
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Somniloquism on October 23, 2023, 08:59:16 AM
Going to be a tough one. We really need to get the away win and hope for a draw at the other match. However if we handicap ourselves with a second string startup we will struggle.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: brontebilly on October 23, 2023, 09:04:19 AM
Going to be a tough one. We really need to get the away win and hope for a draw at the other match. However if we handicap ourselves with a second string startup we will struggle.

I think Emery will have to rotate a few anyway so wouldn't be surprised to see the likes of Tielemans, Carlos and Bailey start. No point having strength in depth if we don't use it.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Footy-Vill on October 23, 2023, 09:32:06 AM
Martinez; Konsa, Carlos, Torres, Digne, Tielemans, Luiz, McGinn; Bailey, Diaby, Watkins.

3-1 Villa Win.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Nev on October 23, 2023, 10:09:13 AM
Anything other than our strongest side has see us struggle somewhat so here's hoping the Manager can change that with this game. That doubt has me accepting a draw, but as we keep seeing, Unai offers something special.

0-1
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on October 23, 2023, 10:20:03 AM
Comfortable win, 3-1 to the Villa.

Watkins, Zaniolo and McGinn.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Olneythelonely on October 23, 2023, 11:04:01 AM
Go full strength and rotate against Luton.

1-0 away win.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Footy-Vill on October 23, 2023, 11:08:56 AM
AZ away is an expected tougher match than Luton at home.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: lovejoy on October 23, 2023, 11:21:05 AM
Rest some, if we lose, we lose.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: LeeB on October 23, 2023, 11:25:20 AM
Rest some, if we lose, we lose.

I'm already begining to think 'fuck this thing, we can win the league', which is wrong I know.


We can win both.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Somniloquism on October 23, 2023, 11:30:27 AM
I would have it the other way. Play strength against them the next two matches and go for solid wins. We can then control the table by the fourth round and see who is "closest".  We could arguably be 4 points clear of second if those teams draw both their matches, (best case scenario), three if both teams win one, or level with someone we still need to play. Then we can play second string in at least one other match, and maybe both.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: AV82EC on October 23, 2023, 11:46:15 AM
The annoying thing at the moment is having no Mings, Moreno, Ramsey and Buendia means we can’t rotate as well as we’d like to so I think the suggestion of going all out against Alkmaar is a good one, then rotate against Luton. No complacency though this is a tricky tie and hopefully Unai will rotate the right way to keep us in it.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Brazilian Villain on October 23, 2023, 12:19:03 PM
Was going to go for a Villa win but then realised that Aftab started the Legia pre-match thread. It'll be 3-2 to Alkmaar then. :(

Phew, I guess that means I can wash my 'lucky pants' as well.

I did think about that Gary but Unai has burnt all taboos and interactions no longer apply to Aston Villa FC ;D

True enough, the media are already talking us up as a potential 'Top 5' team so no taboos left. :)
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Risso on October 23, 2023, 12:28:38 PM
I don't really class Man City as a bogey team, as they're just an insanely good side with a squad worth a gazillion quid, so I think the only sort of remaining jinx/bogey team to get rid of is our very mediocre record against the Dogheads.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: 85kota on October 23, 2023, 12:31:31 PM
Man City are our bogey team going back to the noughties.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: LeeB on October 23, 2023, 12:39:32 PM
Yeah, they were a bogey side when they were ordinary at best but always seemed to beat us, but since then as Risso says it's because they're cheats and miles better, which is not bogeyness.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: 85kota on October 23, 2023, 12:46:12 PM
When we beat them under the lights on 5th December the title race will be officially on.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: PeterWithesShin on October 23, 2023, 12:51:52 PM
70s 3 wins out of 10
80s 5 wins out of 16
90s 2 wins out of 14
00s 4 wins out of 20
10s+ 3 wins out of 25

I think it's fair to say that even when they were mainly shit we've had an awful record against Man City in my lifetime.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 23, 2023, 02:22:32 PM
That home match against them in the early 90s where David White wouldn't stop fucking scoring.

Was that under Dr Jo?
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: LeeB on October 23, 2023, 02:24:58 PM
That home match against them in the early 90s where David White wouldn't stop fucking scoring.

Was that under Dr Jo?

It was that season but he'd gone by then.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: PeterWithesShin on October 23, 2023, 02:26:11 PM
Yep, 1-5 in April '91. We conceded 5 away to Leeds in the next match as well.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: PeterWithesShin on October 23, 2023, 02:27:31 PM
That home match against them in the early 90s where David White wouldn't stop fucking scoring.

Was that under Dr Jo?

It was that season but he'd gone by then.

Dr Jo didn't leave until the season had ended.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: LeeB on October 23, 2023, 02:31:10 PM
That home match against them in the early 90s where David White wouldn't stop fucking scoring.

Was that under Dr Jo?

It was that season but he'd gone by then.

Dr Jo didn't leave until the season had ended.

My mind is playing tricks, was Peter Withe bought in to 'support' him? And didn't it feel a bit like when Houllier was bought in to 'help' Roy Evans?

I could've sworn he went around late Feb/ March.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: PeterWithesShin on October 23, 2023, 02:35:42 PM
Withe came in as a coach in early '91 I think. Dr Jo lasted the season but was gone pretty soon after it ended.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Allan C on October 23, 2023, 03:06:42 PM
0-2 to us.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: rob_bridge on October 23, 2023, 03:14:27 PM
2.2
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Dave P on October 23, 2023, 03:40:11 PM
Same team as Sunday, or 1-2 changes tops, and we will be fine.  2-0 Villa.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: AV84 on October 23, 2023, 05:04:18 PM
I think we should go strong as possible for this one. I know a few players were on international duty, but a lot of them didn't play, or only played once, so they should be rested enough to play again. Get a result in this one and we're in a decent position in the group (although it's almost like starting again given everyone's on the same points and +/-)

We *should* be able to beat Luton at the weekend with a couple of changes, so if anyone looks like they need a rest, it should come then, not Thursday.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: dave.woodhall on October 23, 2023, 05:17:07 PM
That home match against them in the early 90s where David White wouldn't stop fucking scoring.

Was that under Dr Jo?

It was that season but he'd gone by then.

Dr Jo didn't leave until the season had ended.

My mind is playing tricks, was Peter Withe bought in to 'support' him? And didn't it feel a bit like when Houllier was bought in to 'help' Roy Evans?

I could've sworn he went around late Feb/ March.

Peter Withe came in as his assistant midway through the season. They both left at the end. Venglos was given some daft title like Director of European Operations but I doubt he directed any of our future operations on the contient.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: RamboandBruno on October 23, 2023, 08:13:23 PM
Sounds daft after another great win yesterday, but hard one to predict until we know what side he’s putting out. He will have to rotate but hopefully not too much.

Martinez
Cash
Carlos
Torres
Digne
McGinn
Kamara
Tielemans
Watkins
Diaby
Bailey

2-1 us (Watkins, Diaby) but would probably take a draw.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Risso on October 23, 2023, 08:55:56 PM
That home match against them in the early 90s where David White wouldn't stop fucking scoring.

Was that under Dr Jo?

It was that season but he'd gone by then.

Dr Jo didn't leave until the season had ended.

My mind is playing tricks, was Peter Withe bought in to 'support' him? And didn't it feel a bit like when Houllier was bought in to 'help' Roy Evans?

I could've sworn he went around late Feb/ March.

Houllier was actual joint manager with Evans wasn't he?
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Villafirst on October 23, 2023, 11:04:52 PM
It'll be interesting to see if Jhon Duran is included. Some rumours circulating suggesting a fallout? I still think we're light up front and need experienced back up for Ollie.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: algy on October 24, 2023, 08:00:04 AM
I don't want us taking our foot off the gas in the league whilst there's even a small chance of us doing more than just tickling the belly of the Scab 6. Now that I've smelt it, I want their blood.

Let Emery work his magic in Europe with the stiffs. We'll be fine.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: PaulTheVillan on October 24, 2023, 08:13:45 AM
This is going to be really tough. They're looking good this season.

A win would be huge
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 24, 2023, 09:22:26 AM
Beating Luton is more important.
He has to rotate and he will.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: olaftab on October 24, 2023, 09:29:55 AM
Beating Luton is more important.
No, honestly NO! Beating both is important.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on October 24, 2023, 12:10:06 PM
Strongest team available. Win this and then beat them at home and there will then be room to rotate in the final two group games when games come thick and fast.
If our best can blow them away in the first hour then you can start making plenty of substitutions.

Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: rougegorge on October 24, 2023, 01:54:22 PM
Beating Luton is more important.
No, honestly NO! Beating both is important.
Exactly this. If a team has a mindset of thinking a game is not as important as the next, then they are more likely to under-perform. I know that by playing a full-strength team there is no guarantee of a win, but it is more likely. There is also no guarantee that by prioritising and having lots of rotation it will work out well.
I know it's easy to point at 2009 and CSKA followed by Stoke and then no wins in 8 games, but it is still an example to heed.

I would not mind rotating out players once we were qualified, but this is a tough group in this competition and the luxury may not be there.

I bet Alkmaar won't be resting many if any players to prioritise their title aspirations. They certainly won't be giving a rest to Pavlidis who already has 13 goals, whereas we have not started our top players like Luiz and Watkins in either of the two group games so far.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: brontebilly on October 24, 2023, 04:29:25 PM
Should be a cracking game. Need to rotate between this and Luton, if we are on it we should win both. Time for one of the nearly men to step up.

Martinez, Cash, Konsa, Carlos, Digne, Kamara, Tielemans, McGinn, Zaniolo, Bailey, Watkins
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: coreyfeldman on October 24, 2023, 04:58:32 PM
Beating Luton is more important.
No, honestly NO! Beating both is important.
Exactly this. If a team has a mindset of thinking a game is not as important as the next, then they are more likely to under-perform. I know that by playing a full-strength team there is no guarantee of a win, but it is more likely. There is also no guarantee that by prioritising and having lots of rotation it will work out well.
I know it's easy to point at 2009 and CSKA followed by Stoke and then no wins in 8 games, but it is still an example to heed.

I would not mind rotating out players once we were qualified, but this is a tough group in this competition and the luxury may not be there.

I bet Alkmaar won't be resting many if any players to prioritise their title aspirations. They certainly won't be giving a rest to Pavlidis who already has 13 goals, whereas we have not started our top players like Luiz and Watkins in either of the two group games so far.

But if we start full strength and still don't get results to qualify early then we have to keep playing full strength. I don't think we should see using the squad as 'resting' players, it's not that simple. We also have to keep the other squad members sharp, with competitive minutes. I'd trust emery to deal with that given his record, rather than pointing at a different team in a very different league, the comparisons aren't useful.

Watkins and several others aren't going to start 3 matches in a week so it's then about how you balance the priorities.

Imo I think Watkins will start on Thursday and not Sunday but who tf knows
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Meanwood Villa on October 24, 2023, 05:04:56 PM
We won't pick a full strength team and we have struggled when doing that this season. Not expecting a free flowing hammering as we have got used to in the league at home but just hope we've got enough to win.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: AV84 on October 24, 2023, 06:42:48 PM


Watkins and several others aren't going to start 3 matches in a week so it's then about how you balance the priorities.

Imo I think Watkins will start on Thursday and not Sunday but who tf knows

I'm wondering, if, and it's still a big IF, there's an issue with Durán, where does that leave us in terms of the line up?

We've been very lucky to have a player like Watkins who has a fantastic fitness record, but do we really want to push that?

We could probably play with Zaniolo or Diaby up front if we had to, but how would the rest of the lineup look if we're also trying to rest players.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Drummond on October 24, 2023, 09:06:52 PM
Traore and Diaby have both played up front.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: AV84 on October 24, 2023, 09:11:34 PM
I forget Traore plays for us.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Ads on October 24, 2023, 09:12:40 PM
The Frisian hooligan commrades of AZ are "looking for riots" against us, so says the local Alkmaar paper.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: VillaTim on October 24, 2023, 09:13:54 PM
Beating Luton is more important.
He has to rotate and he will.
Yep the EPL is priority and UE does keep confirming this
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: TelfordVilla on October 24, 2023, 09:47:19 PM
The Frisian hooligan commrades of AZ are "looking for riots" against us, so says the local Alkmaar paper.
   after what happened last year with West ham, I fear for the travelling Villa fans. Stay safe people.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: coreyfeldman on October 25, 2023, 12:01:32 PM
they had no sanctions and a pathetic fine as a result as well so hardly a deterrent
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: NeilH on October 25, 2023, 12:31:22 PM
The Frisian hooligan comrades of AZ are "looking for riots" against us, so says the local Alkmaar paper.
   after what happened last year with West Ham, I fear for the travelling Villa fans. Stay safe people.

This is precisely the same nonsense spouted at the first match of my local club in the Dutch 2nd Div when Cambuur played against them first match, cue a huge police presence with a ring of steel and not so much as a beaker thrown in anger. Bunch of keyboard hooligans attention-seekers.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: NeilH on October 25, 2023, 12:50:06 PM
https://radioalkmaar.nl/nieuws/artikel/alkmaar/meetingpoint-paardenmarkt-voor-aston-villa-supporters-cambuur-hooligans-geweerd/ (https://radioalkmaar.nl/nieuws/artikel/alkmaar/meetingpoint-paardenmarkt-voor-aston-villa-supporters-cambuur-hooligans-geweerd/)

Info for those going, it's in Dutch but I am sure any google translate will do the trick.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on October 25, 2023, 04:27:48 PM
A quick nose on an AZ Forum and their fans all seemed horrified by the hooligan actions of some of their fans and obviously were hoping for no trouble tomorrow.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on October 25, 2023, 04:50:21 PM
I'm expecting a very tough game. They'll be no push overs, their league form clearly demonstrates that. Played 9, won 8, drawn 1, scored 25, conceded 4. Only PSV are better with 9 straight wins.
Massive game for both teams and it would be great if we could come away with all three points.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: TelfordVilla on October 25, 2023, 05:26:04 PM
The Frisian hooligan comrades of AZ are "looking for riots" against us, so says the local Alkmaar paper.
   after what happened last year with West Ham, I fear for the travelling Villa fans. Stay safe people.

This is precisely the same nonsense spouted at the first match of my local club in the Dutch 2nd Div when Cambuur played against them first match, cue a huge police presence with a ring of steel and not so much as a beaker thrown in anger. Bunch of keyboard hooligans attention-seekers.
   what are you on about. The bunch that tried it on against West ham were not even AZ fans. They entered the stadium after the match with one intent. To have a go at the English fans. How could they recreate that in the Dutch 2nd division match you refer to. They will have a go at any Villa fans they stumble across. Probably not in the stadium though.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Ads on October 25, 2023, 05:57:27 PM
I'm sure we'll be fine. More risk of being washed away in this rain than anything else.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: eamonn on October 25, 2023, 06:29:07 PM
Did we get El Ghazi back on the payroll to scout these? He's in Germany now playing, but I bet he'd do 'owt for us.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: NeilH on October 25, 2023, 07:08:32 PM
 what are you on about. The bunch that tried it on against West ham were not even AZ fans. They entered the stadium after the match with one intent. To have a go at the English fans. How could they recreate that in the Dutch 2nd division match you refer to. They will have a go at any Villa fans they stumble across. Probably not in the stadium though.[/quote]
AZ ultras attempted to buy en masse tickets online for the game and then create issues in the home end together with Cambuur in the away end, fortunately Telstar admin spotted it, immediately closed online sales and the police then created a ring of steel within a km of the stadium, checking tickets and ID cards. This is a small club with a very local fanbase where I have never seen trouble, so it was rather confronting to cycle from home to the ground and be stopped by cops asking for my id and match ticket to go further.
There are groups here intent on causing trouble, just look at PSV last night and the authorities are not handling it well. The fact that our fans will be collated in a smallish square and then bussed to the stadium, shows that no chances are being taken.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: NeilH on October 25, 2023, 07:10:42 PM
The Frisian hooligan comrades of AZ are "looking for riots" against us, so says the local Alkmaar paper.
   after what happened last year with West Ham, I fear for the travelling Villa fans. Stay safe people.

This is precisely the same nonsense spouted at the first match of my local club in the Dutch 2nd Div when Cambuur played against them first match, cue a huge police presence with a ring of steel and not so much as a beaker thrown in anger. Bunch of keyboard hooligans attention-seekers.
   what are you on about. The bunch that tried it on against West ham were not even AZ fans. They entered the stadium after the match with one intent. To have a go at the English fans. How could they recreate that in the Dutch 2nd division match you refer to. They will have a go at any Villa fans they stumble across. Probably not in the stadium though.

AZ ultras attempted to buy en masse tickets online for the game and then create issues in the home end together with Cambuur in the away end, fortunately Telstar admin spotted it, immediately closed online sales and the police then created a ring of steel within a km of the stadium, checking tickets and ID cards. This is a small club with a very local fanbase where I have never seen trouble, so it was rather confronting to cycle from home to the ground and be stopped by cops asking for my id and match ticket to go further.
There are groups here intent on causing trouble, just look at PSV last night and the authorities are not handling it well. The fact that our fans will be collated in a smallish square and then bussed to the stadium, shows that no chances are being taken.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: olaftab on October 25, 2023, 07:17:34 PM
Checked into a bit of a flea pit right next to Oude kerk a penalty kick away from the red light district😩
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on October 25, 2023, 07:40:46 PM
Checked into a bit of a flea pit right next to Oude kerk a penalty kick away from the red light district😩
Don't bring any bed bugs back
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 25, 2023, 11:27:32 PM
I do not have a problem with us rotating this season, given how many matches we will play, but I would be tempted to go very near full strength on this one.

They're a really decent side by the looks of it, and we could do with the three points.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Toronto Villa on October 25, 2023, 11:30:56 PM
Why am I more nervous about this game than I was for our game vs West Ham?
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: VillaTim on October 25, 2023, 11:37:25 PM
Happy to see Emery make full use of the squad tomorrow . Sunday is a huge game and chance to make top 3 or 4 !!! Use the squad tomorrow that's why we have them
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Ads on October 25, 2023, 11:49:23 PM
Amsterdam has been bouncing tonight!
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: VillaTim on October 26, 2023, 12:01:10 AM
Did we get 950 allocation in the end ?
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Pat McMahon on October 26, 2023, 12:01:35 AM
Amsterdam has been bouncing tonight!

A mate has sent photos - one bar seems to have hundreds in there
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 26, 2023, 08:58:54 AM
Happy to see Emery make full use of the squad tomorrow . Sunday is a huge game and chance to make top 3 or 4 !!! Use the squad tomorrow that's why we have them
Agree.
As the season progresses we will have bigger games and with players missing.
It is essential that squad players are ready and not expected to be up to standard after several weeks without playing.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: London Villan on October 26, 2023, 09:06:34 AM
352 for me tonight

Bring in Carlos for Zaniolo and maybe Tielemans for McGinn or Kamara.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Clampy on October 26, 2023, 09:10:56 AM
Happy to see Emery make full use of the squad tomorrow . Sunday is a huge game and chance to make top 3 or 4 !!! Use the squad tomorrow that's why we have them

I'm not sure if I'd call Sunday's game huge.

This one's going to be tough by the sound of it though and yeah, I'd put out as strong a side as possible.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: olaftab on October 26, 2023, 09:32:09 AM
Happy to see Emery make full use of the squad tomorrow . Sunday is a huge game and chance to make top 3 or 4 !!! Use the squad tomorrow that's why we have them
Agree.
As the season progresses we will have bigger games and with players missing.
It is essential that squad players are ready and not expected to be up to standard after several weeks without playing.
No Sunday is not a huge game and if we need to get squad players ready for Premier League games coming up let’s play them against Luton and Fulham.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: VillaTim on October 26, 2023, 09:48:45 AM
No, use the squad players for the conference games. Full focus and strength for the EPL games and don't underestimate the likes of luton and Fulham. EPL is the priority and Emery does keep saying so too.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Rigadon on October 26, 2023, 09:54:48 AM
It’s relatively easy for me to say , as I’m not travelling to the Netherlands, but I have to agree the league needs to take priority.  It is a massive opportunity over the next handful of games to really cement ourselves in the top 4.  I want to win this too, but I’d take CL qualification over that because it’s beyond high time we did qualify.  Mad to think, but winning this wouldn’t change much for villa as a club in comparison with CL qualification. 



Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Olneythelonely on October 26, 2023, 10:10:32 AM
No, use the squad players for the conference games. Full focus and strength for the EPL games and don't underestimate the likes of luton and Fulham. EPL is the priority and Emery does keep saying so too.

Alkmaar are a better team than Luton. We qualified for this competition so that we could compete in it. It shouldn’t be the case that we automatically rest players for Europe, otherwise, what’s the point? I’d say we’ve got a better chance of getting into a better European competition by winning the one we’re currently in, than through the league. Treat every game on its merit and choose the team accordingly.

A side note, I hate when it’s called the EPL.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: tomd2103 on October 26, 2023, 10:11:39 AM
No, use the squad players for the conference games. Full focus and strength for the EPL games and don't underestimate the likes of luton and Fulham. EPL is the priority and Emery does keep saying so too.

I would have to agree.  If we can win the next three league games, it should put us in a very good position going in to a tough run of fixtures at the end of November and start of December. 

The squad players need to start contributing more as they are going to be needed at points in the season.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: hipkiss92 on October 26, 2023, 10:19:08 AM
Martinez

Cash
Carlos
Torres
Digne

Tielemens
Dendoncker
Kamara

Diaby
Duran
Bailey

Bit of rotation, taking out the key players (Konsa, Luiz, McGinn, Ollie) but leaving enough in there to hopefully be solid and get them on the counter attack. Can take Cash, Diaby, Kamara off after an hour to rotate and keep fresh.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: AV84 on October 26, 2023, 10:20:47 AM
The squad players need to start contributing more as they are going to be needed at points in the season.

That's the problem, isn't it. Even with the injuries, we should be able to rotate at least 6 players into the squad midweek and not see a massive drop off in quality. But that's not what's happened, so far.

Tielemans, Bailey, Carlos, Durán, Donk, and even Lenglet should be able to come into the squad and put in a performance that wins matches. I know it's a lot of disruption but other teams were making 11 changes in the last round of games, and still winning.

The results in our group have meant anyone could still qualify at this point, so we really need to be winning the next 2 games to make a mark on the table.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Risso on October 26, 2023, 10:22:20 AM
The squad players need to start contributing more as they are going to be needed at points in the season.

That's the problem, isn't it. Even with the injuries, we should be able to rotate at least 6 players into the squad midweek and not see a massive drop off in quality. But that's not what's happened, so far.

Tielemans, Bailey, Carlos, Durán, Donk, and even Lenglet should be able to come into the squad and put in a performance that wins matches. I know it's a lot of disruption but other teams were making 11 changes in the last round of games, and still winning.

The results in our group have meant anyone could still qualify at this point, so we really need to be winning the next 2 games to make a mark on the table.

Yes. That's the one thing that seems to be causing Emery issues at the moment, making changes and keeping a similar level of performance.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 26, 2023, 10:27:52 AM
Agree, we can manage a couple of changes fine, but not four or five.

We made a big deal of qualifying for this competition, we need to do whatever we need to to do well in it.

Rotate for Luton. Alkmaar are a much better side.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Brazilian Villain on October 26, 2023, 10:35:43 AM
I agree with PW, it's important we get a result tonight. That would give us a good chance of finishing top with 2 home games to come, and enable us to skip the preliminary knockout round post-Xmas.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: AV84 on October 26, 2023, 10:41:36 AM
We've got Luton, Forest, and Fulham around these two AZ matches. I think that's a run that allows for a couple of changes to the weekend sides.

Before the Warsaw match we've got Spurs, and then a Sun/Tue/Sat against Bournemouth/Man City/Arsenal leading into Zrinjski away.

That's a much tougher run of games, so I think getting two wins against AZ would be the best outcome for us, and we should be aiming for that with selection.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: LeeB on October 26, 2023, 10:43:02 AM
Agree, we can manage a couple of changes fine, but not four or five.

We made a big deal of qualifying for this competition, we need to do whatever we need to to do well in it.

Rotate for Luton. Alkmaar are a much better side.

I think a lot of teams are the same, even those with better quality in reserve. I always think the key is to just rotate three players at most, but mix it up with who it is and do the same in the league games. We can handle that without losing our shape.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Footy-Vill on October 26, 2023, 10:51:37 AM
Agree, we can manage a couple of changes fine, but not four or five.

We made a big deal of qualifying for this competition, we need to do whatever we need to to do well in it.

Rotate for Luton. Alkmaar are a much better side.

I think a lot of teams are the same, even those with better quality in reserve. I always think the key is to just rotate three players at most, but mix it up with who it is and do the same in the league games. We can handle that without losing our shape.

On paper Az away is far far tougher than Luton at home given respective players and form coupled with our own home form.

Insight:
Watkins, Diaby,Luiz,Cash and Torres haven't started in Europa Conference League matches yet.

Question:
Could some of this 5 start start tonight ? Given the respective difficulties of the Az and Luton matches?

Facts:
Seems evident that Zaniolo, Lenglet and Tielemans are European Conference regulars and that makes sense given their European experience they have started both matches in the competition so far.

Starting striker tonight Watkins or Duran or both?
Duran has been the starting striker in Europa Conference so far.

Does Emery revert to Hibs away line up which has been the strongest line up so far in Europe?

Martinez, Konsa, Diego Carlos, Pau, Digne, Bailey, Kamara, Douglas Luiz, McGinn, Diaby, Watkins.


Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Footy-Vill on October 26, 2023, 10:59:50 AM
All the best to travelling support and prayers with you for safety and enjoyable occasion.
Good Wishes and UTV!
God Bless us all
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Brazilian Villain on October 26, 2023, 11:02:37 AM
All the best to travelling support and prayers with you for safety and enjoyable occasion.
Good Wishes and UTV!
God Bless us all

Amen.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: darren woolley on October 26, 2023, 11:24:28 AM
I'm going for a 2-0 Villa win.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: AV82EC on October 26, 2023, 11:38:16 AM
Just on the train up to Alkmaar. UTV!
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: JUAN PABLO on October 26, 2023, 11:42:05 AM
Last time I travelled to Holland for a Villa match , we won.


It was 41 years ago tho


Id be happy with a draw   UTV
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: VillaTim on October 26, 2023, 11:59:19 AM
Use the squad , be happy with a draw tonight, then more importantly a win Sunday. If we can win the next 3 league games we will be sitting probably 2nd or 3rd in the EPL. dare to dream !!
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Brend'Watkins on October 26, 2023, 12:02:48 PM
Play a fairly strong side to start with and make changes for the 2nd half if we're going well. It's a bit of a concern that the peripheral players aren't really doing it, maybe it will come in time. It's the 3rd level Euro competition and we really should have enough to do well with whatever side we put out.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: AV84 on October 26, 2023, 12:34:36 PM
Are we wearing the blue 3rd kit tonight?
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Toronto Villa on October 26, 2023, 12:38:09 PM
Are we wearing the blue 3rd kit tonight?

Yep
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Toronto Villa on October 26, 2023, 12:41:17 PM
Team for tonight I reckon.

Martinez
Cash
Diego
Lenglet
Digne
Kamara
McGinn
Luiz
Tielemans
Bailey
Watkins
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: VillaTim on October 26, 2023, 01:10:12 PM
we don't have many options at FB other than Chambers or pushing Konsa out , or Torres . Basically CB's trying to play FB .
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: 144 Hard Boiled Eggs on October 26, 2023, 02:25:25 PM
Scrapyard craft beer taproom in Alkmaar. Very pleasant with some powerful brews including a 16% beer.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: VillaTim on October 26, 2023, 02:28:52 PM
No Beer in the away end later. That will ruin some peoples day
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Ads on October 26, 2023, 02:34:05 PM
Just been chatting to Bladen. Didn't realise the police in Warsaw at the top of the drive had a pressure washer with pepper spray 10× more potent than the WMP use just in case.

They've had their allocation cut as well. Alkmaar police described Legia as organised like an army. Shower of twats.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Lastfootstamper on October 26, 2023, 02:46:37 PM
They did deploy a smoke screen at Leicester a couple of years back as cover.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: olaftab on October 26, 2023, 02:51:43 PM
It’s relatively easy for me to say , as I’m not travelling to the Netherlands, but I have to agree the league needs to take priority.  It is a massive opportunity over the next handful of games to really cement ourselves in the top 4.  I want to win this too, but I’d take CL qualification over that because it’s beyond high time we did qualify.  Mad to think, but winning this wouldn’t change much for villa as a club in comparison with CL qualification. 

It’s easy for you to say, you are not sitting here freezing🥶
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: dorsetvillian on October 26, 2023, 02:53:32 PM
Alkmaar is a lovely place. Had a couple of hours wondering around the old streets and canals. I don't think many villa fans have left the one square. I haven't seen an Alkmaar fan yet. There were certainly a lot of Villa fans in Amsterdam who didn't have tickets. Very easy trip on the train from Amsterdam. Pretty big police presence but so far not on the scale of Warsaw.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Toronto Villa on October 26, 2023, 03:54:45 PM
Tonight’s kit and sponsor.


(https://i.ibb.co/R08TTrw/IMG-0788.jpg) (https://ibb.co/R08TTrw)
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on October 26, 2023, 03:55:53 PM
I hope that's Emi's shirt.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Toronto Villa on October 26, 2023, 03:58:36 PM
Nope that’s the third kit
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: AV84 on October 26, 2023, 04:04:22 PM
The women wore it a few weeks ago and I thought it actually looks quite nice. Honestly, the home one is the only one I actually dislike this season, design wise.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Dazvillain on October 26, 2023, 04:40:44 PM
Team for tonight I reckon.

Martinez
Cash
Diego
Lenglet
Digne
Kamara
McGinn
Luiz
Tielemans
Bailey
Watkins


👌🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 very impressive 11/11 corrrct sir !
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Toronto Villa on October 26, 2023, 04:45:34 PM
Team for tonight I reckon.

Martinez
Cash
Diego
Lenglet
Digne
Kamara
McGinn
Luiz
Tielemans
Bailey
Watkins


👌🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 very impressive 11/11 corrrct sir !

(https://media.tenor.com/H0gVDPNWSbgAAAAC/hat-tip.gif)
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on October 26, 2023, 04:50:25 PM
You deserve the Match thread start after that, TV. Well played.
Title: Re: UECL AZ Alkmaar v Aston Villa Pre Match
Post by: Ads on October 26, 2023, 06:38:20 PM
Hands (sore) down, the best atmosphere in an away end we've had. Almost ultra esq in noise.

Fucking come on Villa!!!
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