Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Bad English on December 18, 2023, 05:56:37 AM
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Friday 22 December, 20:00 hrs. Tip*of the table Vs bottom.
3--1 and 3 points. FTF!
*Edit. 'Top' FFS!
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I like the addition of 'hrs' to the time 😂
Anyway, they'll cheat and win.
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Us 0 Them 1.
Diaby og as he lobs Marshall from the half way line.
Martinez was dropped by Emery shortly before ko for going into away dressing room and hiding all their shirts.
Watkins sent off for jumping into away section to Kung Fu kick Sean Bean who has been shouting insults about his tropical fish.
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Want villa park rocking on friday from the off ! Roaring us on to top spot , no we only gotta turn up bollox please
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A much tougher game with Wilder back in the hotseat. They'll be well organised and may take some time to break down, but on the back of our recent performances and insane home record, I'm fully expecting to be singing
"We are toppa the league say we are toppa the league" as I'm leaving the ground.
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A 3.0 win
Had Heckingbottom still been about I would be proposing 6.0
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0-2.
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I think the last time we knew that a win would take us top of the league was also a Friday night.. And we lost 3-0 and Patrick Bamford scored a hatrick..
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I think the last time we knew that a win would take us top of the league was also a Friday night.. And we lost 3-0 and Patrick Bamford scored a hatrick..
Yeah I remember listening to that one on TalkShite. F***ing depressing. Which is why we must not go in with a We'll Walk This attitude. I think a convincing win for us but no steamrollering and not without scares. 3-1
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I reckon we will win 3-1
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A much tougher game with Wilder back in the hotseat. They'll be well organised and may take some time to break down, but on the back of our recent performances and insane home record, I'm fully expecting to be singing
"We are toppa the league say we are toppa the league" as I'm leaving the ground.
If we win we're top for at least 21 1/2hrs and if the game the next day finishes in a draw then... this is all surreal, frankly. Am so glad to have got two tickets together to this one. I may have had to fork out £85 for them but right now this feels like great VFM...
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‘Tip’?! What is this, amateur hour?!
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We're at the tip, not the top?
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It would be insanely Villa to just lose this 2-1 after two men sent off and a dramatic own goal. Like Liverpool-Spurs earlier this year.
Doug back will be a boost, especially with Bouba out. Hopefully Tielemans too, although do we maybe play the Donk as a more direct replacement for Kamara?
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We're at the tip, not the top?
(https://i.ibb.co/K67WFxX/0e-IF7-EF8icepops.jpg) (https://ibb.co/K67WFxX)
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We're now in a position to believe (mate) that straightforward home games should be just that. While always retaining a sense of caution and humility, we should win this. It's how the Manager behaves and he's dragged the players and fans along with him to this significant point. It will be trickier with Wilder in charge, a man who doesn't like "do-gooders". The biggest do-gooder for us will be stood alongside him and I hope he stuffs it right up him.
3-0
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The return of Cameron Archer. Just saying...
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The return of Cameron Archer. Just saying...
Oh God, you've got it, that's exactly what it is, that's the curse.
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7-0 Easy.
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4-0 Villa.
Statement win. Graphics going round the Internet saying 'Villa are now top scorers in the league'. The club account on Twitter posts 16 Ws. Me and Brazilian Villan will be on here at about 10pm Friday wearing our sunglasses and smirking again.
FTF.
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1-0 Whittingham after sub Garry Parker confuses the rest of the Villa lads by getting the ball down and passing it.
Just kidding- 2-0 and Ollie with both
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I'll give you 'tip' you heartless bullies!
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A win but by one, and a hard game to boot. Would imagine the Donk will be a direct replacement for Kamara. Top on Xmas day and hopefully we don't do a JG from there 😥
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I'll give you 'tip' you heartless bullies!
This may have been a nice forum for old farts who mostly reminisced about former glories and had some gentle banter with each other. Well I've got news for you. It's now the go to forum for one of the top teams in the country that is going to be competing for trophies on multiple fronts season in season out with the media fawning over and looking at every aspect of a fully woken giant.
H & Vers are really going to step up their standards in this brave new world and take all this very very seriously. The world is watching ! Stop the typos !
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‘Tip’?! What is this, Amateur Hour?!
FTFY
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A much tougher game with Wilder back in the hotseat. They'll be well organised and may take some time to break down, but on the back of our recent performances and insane home record, I'm fully expecting to be singing
"We are toppa the league say we are toppa the league" as I'm leaving the ground.
Going to be an insane atmosphere if we get an early goal.
"We are staying up" followed by "we are top of the league" will feel so surreal yet sum up our journey perfectly in just the last 18 months nevermind last five years.
I think we'll be o.k. Sheffield United were organised at Chelsea but ultimately had little scoring threat and Chelsea eventually eased to victory. Think they're playing Archer as a left winger currently.
2-0 win and a Merry xmas to one and all. Love this time of the year for football and it's so much better when the team you follow are in their best shape for decades.
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Kamara out but Luiz back and hopefully Tielemans . Bailey has to come in for the ineffective Diaby and I'd leave Cash out of this one too. Ramsey hopefully inching his way back to being match sharp.
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0-2.
Mixed feelings for you if Cam bags the winner.
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3-0
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I am missing this due to my 60th Birthday being on Christmas day and we are away. But thankfully i will be watching (kicks off at midnight for me) in a nice hotel with suitable refreshments on hand.
We need to be calm and let our boys do their work and the result will come.
UTV
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1-1 Cyrille Regis 90th minute equaliser in front of the Holte.
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They will probably play with a back five sitting very deep, I just hope we can get an early goal so that eventually they will have to come forward and open up otherwise it could be 90 minutes of attack versus defence.
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They will probably play with a back five sitting very deep, I just hope we can get an early goal so that eventually they will have to come forward and open up otherwise it could be 90 minutes of attack versus defence.
Like yesterday for most of the game (not that you'd get that from some of the match reports I've read this morn).
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Sheff Utd have as much chance of winning this as we do of winning the title.
12/1 with most bookies.
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a clean sheet please Villa...
UTV
The Doc
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Oops!
https://x.com/TheTremontiPick/status/1736647672713359486?t=uSTI9U6FKsAyTwlVVw0N0w&s=08
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(https://i.ibb.co/Gv3trJc/Screenshot-20231218-142652-Whats-App.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Gv3trJc)
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Well Archer will be back at Villa Park after Friday some time in May so not a massive mistake, just a look into the future.
If we do have to buy him back in the summer are we allowed to sell him in the same window?
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This is the one I am dreading.
Not because we aren't good enough to beat them, on paper, or that they are amazing or anything like that.
Its just that being a Villa fan for over 40 years, experience tells me that this is the perfect storm banana skin sort of game to end our home victory run & stop us from sitting at the top of the table over Christmas.
0-1 to Sheff U.
And obviously, the only scorer could be Cameron Archer.
A £20 bet on this might be the easiest money one could ever make. 😂
I really really hope that I am wrong & you people can rip the piss out of me after the game...😉
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I thought we would lose to Brentford so it has to be this one , or does it ??
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I thought we would lose to Brentford so it has to be this one , or does it ??
Bournemouth for me, think we need to realise Emery is taking 'typical Villa' and dismantling it much like he did with Brighton.
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Oops!
https://x.com/TheTremontiPick/status/1736647672713359486?t=uSTI9U6FKsAyTwlVVw0N0w&s=08
How can I be blocked from viewing this? I don't know who it is. Random.
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I think 3-1 to Villa. Dougie being back will make a big difference, plus Digne, Tielemans and Bailey. That will set a new record of 16 straight home wins.
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(https://i.ibb.co/YR21YKT/Screenshot-20231218-151323-Samsung-Internet.jpg) (https://ibb.co/YR21YKT)
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It's a golden chance for us to build on our goal difference before the visit to Old Trafford. That said I expect we'll drop down a few gears second half to preserve energy with Unai making a few subs. Another tough game but at Villa Park I'm expecting no surprises. It also offers another chance for Moreno and especially JJ to get up to speed.
I like Sheffield, the people and prefer United over Wednesday but they'll have to go elsewhere in their search for points if they want to survive this season. Expect them to park the bus, five across the back with Archer the lone striker to try and catch us on the break.
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3-0 to us maybe more
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Edited
Wrong thread🤔
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41968
And how many will they score in reply?
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41968
I know they're bad but blimey, would do the goal difference some good though.
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41968
I know they're bad but blimey, would do the goal difference some good though.
Obviously, the Blessed Cam will score lots of goals in reply.
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He's allowed a consolation goal.
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Emery is a very astute man so hope that he has now realised that Cash is not really a winger. Also, Diaby seems to have turned into a Pep’s Grealish type, with no trying to go past the full back but just playing 1,2’s with Cash that get us absolutely nowhere. Unai needs to work his magic on Diaby and get him to use his pace again to get him back up to speed.
Also, considering we were winning the game, with not long to go, I thought Emi risked a sending off for grabbing Maupay by the shirt and, that incident led to Kamara being sent off. All very avoidable. Emi should just have stood and laughed at Maupay whilst also thanking him for wasting his own team’s time. That’s the really clever way of doing things. I think Emery will make the same point to all the players involved in the melee.
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41968
And how many will they score in reply?
On the basis that the ref adds 30 seconds stoppage time for a goal being scored, the match may just finish in time to get to Middlesbrough in time for the cup game in January.
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3-0. All three goals only just crossing the line with the ref confirming each using the technology proving it works just fine.
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Emery is a very astute man so hope that he has now realised that Cash is not really a winger. Also, Diaby seems to have turned into a Pep’s Grealish type, with no trying to go past the full back but just playing 1,2’s with Cash that get us absolutely nowhere. Unai needs to work his magic on Diaby and get him to use his pace again to get him back up to speed.
Also, considering we were winning the game, with not long to go, I thought Emi risked a sending off for grabbing Maupay by the shirt and, that incident led to Kamara being sent off. All very avoidable. Emi should just have stood and laughed at Maupay whilst also thanking him for wasting his own team’s time. That’s the really clever way of doing things. I think Emery will make the same point to all the players involved in the melee.
Diaby has been a huge disappointment, shows no endeavour whatsoever .
Cash simply isn't good enough for this team
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They'll play exactly like Brentford and use Archer on the counter. It going to be a very tough match but as I've been doing my rounds apparently we've already won it.
Hopefully we make some signings in January because playing every 4 days is starting to take its toll and you can see it by how much we are slowing the pace to almost pedestrian. We look absolutely fucked but we're still getting the luck which is helping massively.
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If we get behind the team from the word go on Friday, hopefully, it will result in an early goal for us to settle any nerves. This team is more than capable of putting away sides like The Blades. However, don’t let us play too slow at the start of the match, grab it by the balls and put them under pressure. An early goal for us and they cannot then try to shut up shop, enabling us to go for another couple of goals. We are good enough, we are Aston Villa.
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They'll play exactly like Brentford and use Archer on the counter. It going to be a very tough match but as I've been doing my rounds apparently we've already won it.
Hopefully we make some signings in January because playing every 4 days is starting to take its toll and you can see it by how much we are slowing the pace to almost pedestrian. We look absolutely fucked but we're still getting the luck which is helping massively.
We do?
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If you can’t be optimistic after 15 home wins in a row, playing the bottom of the league, and the very definition of ‘relegation fodder’, then you never will be.
Can’t see anything but a home win.
AVFC 7 - 0 The Blunt Blades.
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They'll play exactly like Brentford and use Archer on the counter. It going to be a very tough match but as I've been doing my rounds apparently we've already won it.
Hopefully we make some signings in January because playing every 4 days is starting to take its toll and you can see it by how much we are slowing the pace to almost pedestrian. We look absolutely fucked but we're still getting the luck which is helping massively.
We do?
Nope but I think some people still haven't realised that part of why Emery is so successful in Europe is that he encourages a style of play that doesn't take so much out of the legs of his players.
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They'll play exactly like Brentford and use Archer on the counter. It going to be a very tough match but as I've been doing my rounds apparently we've already won it.
Hopefully we make some signings in January because playing every 4 days is starting to take its toll and you can see it by how much we are slowing the pace to almost pedestrian. We look absolutely fucked but we're still getting the luck which is helping massively.
We do?
Nope but I think some people still haven't realised that part of why Emery is so successful in Europe is that he encourages a style of play that doesn't take so much out of the legs of his players.
Yeah I felt we played at a good pace, but they had a low block and all 11 behind the ball, so congested you could throw a blanket over them.
Our left side looked dynamic again with Moreno and Ramsey. We didn't look knackered at all.
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Emery is a very astute man so hope that he has now realised that Cash is not really a winger. Also, Diaby seems to have turned into a Pep’s Grealish type, with no trying to go past the full back but just playing 1,2’s with Cash that get us absolutely nowhere. Unai needs to work his magic on Diaby and get him to use his pace again to get him back up to speed.
Also, considering we were winning the game, with not long to go, I thought Emi risked a sending off for grabbing Maupay by the shirt and, that incident led to Kamara being sent off. All very avoidable. Emi should just have stood and laughed at Maupay whilst also thanking him for wasting his own team’s time. That’s the really clever way of doing things. I think Emery will make the same point to all the players involved in the melee.
Diaby has been a huge disappointment, shows no endeavour whatsoever .
Cash simply isn't good enough for this team
Diaby was excellent for the first couple of form at the moment but doesn’t mean he is not a quality player. ‘Huge disappointment’ sounds like your writing him off, which is just daft. Cash is fine at right he just can’t play wide midfield
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It would be insanely Villa to just lose this 2-1 after two men sent off and a dramatic own goal. Like Liverpool-Spurs earlier this year.
Doug back will be a boost, especially with Bouba out. Hopefully Tielemans too, although do we maybe play the Donk as a more direct replacement for Kamara?
I'd swap the Donk in. Moving McGinn just weakens us going forward and the Donk should be ok next to Luiz. Ramsey might be under pressure to hold his spot and Bailey will come back in.
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Sky Sports promotion for Friday is a picture of Ollie and Cameron Archer. Cameron is pictured in a white Villa shirt.
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Emery is a very astute man so hope that he has now realised that Cash is not really a winger. Also, Diaby seems to have turned into a Pep’s Grealish type, with no trying to go past the full back but just playing 1,2’s with Cash that get us absolutely nowhere. Unai needs to work his magic on Diaby and get him to use his pace again to get him back up to speed.
Also, considering we were winning the game, with not long to go, I thought Emi risked a sending off for grabbing Maupay by the shirt and, that incident led to Kamara being sent off. All very avoidable. Emi should just have stood and laughed at Maupay whilst also thanking him for wasting his own team’s time. That’s the really clever way of doing things. I think Emery will make the same point to all the players involved in the melee.
Diaby has been a huge disappointment, shows no endeavour whatsoever .
Cash simply isn't good enough for this team
Diaby was excellent for the first couple of months of the season but has lost form at the moment but doesn’t mean he is not a quality player. ‘Huge disappointment’ sounds like your writing him off, which is just daft. Cash is fine at right he just can’t play wide midfield
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They’ll sit deep and hope to counter so we’ll have to work hard.
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We will press from the start. If we can get an early goal, something we do quite often at home, they will need to come at us. That will leave massive gaps and we will batter them.
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They’ll sit deep and hope to counter so we’ll have to work hard.
Early goal is a game changer
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They were shocking under Heckingbottom, far less so with Wilder. Hope we do not under-estimate them.
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They are so shit they lost away to Chelsea. No one is so shit that they lose away to Chelsea. But Sheff United Nil were.
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They were shocking under Heckingbottom, far less so with Wilder. Hope we do not under-estimate them.
what is it 1 win , 1 defeat under Wilder ? I think they will be more motivated , more pumped up, but they are a limited team ultimately.
that said we need to show respect , I'm sure Emery and the players will know this
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We will press from the start. If we can get an early goal, something we do quite often at home, they will need to come at us. That will leave massive gaps and we will batter them.
That's how I see it and hope it pans out that way, but I've gone for a draw again. It does have a Coventry away on Boxing Day feel to it though.
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It will be a lavish, celebratory funeralling, like the New Orleans one in Live and Let Die.
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We're at the tip, not the top?
(https://i.ibb.co/K67WFxX/0e-IF7-EF8icepops.jpg) (https://ibb.co/K67WFxX)
Possibly a bad omen, they're known as Mr. Freezes in Ireland. I doubt Emery has heard of them, thankfully.
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We have to punish shit teams.
Wilder realises they’ll be on a hiding to nothing so he’ll put 10 behind the ball with us camped in their half.
Think we’ll only score from 80th min that takes the roof off VP because of the blades shit football and hoping to nick a point. 2 more late goals and the goal fest floodgates open.
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I think he'll employ something like 4-5-1 and try to stifle the midfield.
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It will be a lavish, celebratory funeralling, like the New Orleans one in Live and Let Die.
It's going to be like they do in India.
We're going to set fire to these motherfuckers, stick them on an inflatable and float them down the Ganges canal.
I would imagine Sir Cameron Archer is right now spreading the fear in their dressing room. He'll be pacing around, smoking furiously.
"But, but, you don't understand, you don't know what Villa Park will be like under the lights on a Friday night just before Christmas, it's insane, you can never understand, you've never seen it. We're They're going to funeral them us"
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Luiz is back, we are on a roll . Hope Tielemans is available.
We should all look forward to what will be a great Friday night in B6
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Not being over confident, but with top of the league in sight, 4-0 (Ollie 2, Bailey, Luiz)
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Not being over confident, but with top of the league in sight, 4-0 (Ollie 2, Bailey, Luiz)
With chat like that, the game might as well be sponsored by Fyffes.
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Not being over confident, but with top of the league in sight, 4-0 (Ollie 2, Bailey, Luiz)
With chat like that, the game might as well be sponsored by Fyffes.
Are you saying I’m bannanas BV? 😂
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I just hope it's not like Wimbledon in 1990... Looked invincible the week before then lost 3-0 at home... the scars are always there.
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It will be a lavish, celebratory funeralling, like the New Orleans one in Live and Let Die.
I look forward to the bench revolving and casting Chris Wilder into the alligator pit.
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I think he'll employ something like 4-5-1 and try to stifle the midfield.
They will definitely do that. I think they will treat it like Luton did and just try to keep the goals down so even an early goal might not open the flood gates. As Archer invariably trained against the back four, would that give him an advantage trying to break the line?
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I think he'll employ something like 4-5-1 and try to stifle the midfield.
They will definitely do that. I think they will treat it like Luton did and just try to keep the goals down so even an early goal might not open the flood gates. As Archer invariably trained against the back four, would that give him an advantage trying to break the line?
If he knows them, they know him.
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Not being over confident, but with top of the league in sight, 4-0 (Ollie 2, Bailey, Luiz)
With chat like that, the game might as well be sponsored by Fyffes.
Are you saying I’m bannanas BV? 😂
Not at all, rather the more confident we are, the more likely it is to be a potential banana skin.
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Not being over confident, but with top of the league in sight, 4-0 (Ollie 2, Bailey, Luiz)
With chat like that, the game might as well be sponsored by Fyffes.
Are you saying I’m bannanas BV? 😂
Not at all, rather the more confident we are, the more likely it is to be a potential banana skin.
Very true and Ive spent all season being over cautious, but its Christmas and all that. Saying all that, some mentioned the Wimbledon game in February 1990 and I was at that.
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I think Emery the Magician has cast off all the previous bad karma from the ground though. If we lose, it will be because Sheffield United have come and played massively above themselves, we've had an off day and they've taken advantage. But in terms of form, ability of the players and managers, this should be a very straightforward win similar to Luton. Sheffield United are crap, and Wilder was sacked last time out for being crap. He's since been sacked by two Championship clubs for being crap. Even if he improves them by 20%, they're still crap.
3-0 Villa, 4-1 if we want to give Archer a consolation and sing his name.
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An early goal for us would surely be decisive.
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We're going to lose and Archer will score a few.
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Archer scores 1 and points at someone in the crowd.... cards all round.
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"That's for giving me a D in English Mr. Leeg!"
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So... do we think Benteke pointing at God every time he scored a goal is what led to the almighty just making him crap?
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I’ll be doing my usual and putting £20 on the opposition. Has cost me a pretty penny so far this season. All money well spent.
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I’ll be doing my usual and putting £20 on the opposition. Has cost me a pretty penny so far this season. All money well spent.
good man- taking one for the team
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Looks like we're getting some tacky pre-match coldplay light show with our mobile phones or something?! If only we could get an effin signal within half a mile of Villa Park?!
(https://i.ibb.co/fDnpbQb/image.png) (https://ibb.co/fDnpbQb)
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Looks like we're getting some tacky pre-match coldplay light show with our mobile phones or something?! If only we could get an effin signal within half a mile of Villa Park?!
(https://i.ibb.co/fDnpbQb/image.png) (https://ibb.co/fDnpbQb)
Jesus Christ, why not hand out vuvuzelas & those plastic happy clapping contraptions while we are at it? 🤨
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Great, extra pint in the pub then and waddle up to my seat a few minutes after kick off.
I know I'm getting old but I find any sort of choreographed support utterly cringeworthy.
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I wonder how long it will be in the rematch build up and commentary before we hear " of course Villa would have been relegated if the goal line technology had failed?
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I’ll be doing my usual and putting £20 on the opposition. Has cost me a pretty penny so far this season. All money well spent.
I did that in 2015-16 and bought a new car.
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I’ll be doing my usual and putting £20 on the opposition. Has cost me a pretty penny so far this season. All money well spent.
I did that in 2015-16 and bought a new car.
Now it is just funding a new swimming pool for Denise Coates.
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I wonder how long it will be in the rematch build up and commentary before we hear " of course Villa would have been relegated if the goal line technology had failed?
I'll go out on a limb and say they're better than that. I wouldn't be surprised if there's a compromise though...mentioning that it's a rematch of the first game played after football returned following Covid.
Obviously the Blues forum will go on about how lucky we are and that we should have gone down etc etc.
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Their fans know how shite they are and have given in already, they are expecting a cricket score.
I just hope Emery has spent enough time on this one rather than focusing on Old Trafford.
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We're at the tip, not the top?
(https://i.ibb.co/K67WFxX/0e-IF7-EF8icepops.jpg) (https://ibb.co/K67WFxX)
Possibly a bad omen, they're known as Mr. Freezes in Ireland. I doubt Emery has heard of them, thankfully.
We will press from the start. If we can get an early goal, something we do quite often at home, they will need to come at us. That will leave massive gaps and we will batter them.
That's how I see it and hope it pans out that way, but I've gone for a draw again. It does have a Coventry away on Boxing Day feel to it though.
Saint Stephen would like a word even if just for consistency sake. >:(
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But where is St Stephen? You guessed it! In a box.
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But where is St Stephen? You guessed it! In a box.
Deep and crisp and eaten (by worms)
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Their fans know how shite they are and have given in already, they are expecting a cricket score.
I just hope Emery has spent enough time on this one rather than focusing on Old Trafford.
This is Emery we're talking about.
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Looks like we're getting some tacky pre-match coldplay light show with our mobile phones or something?! If only we could get an effin signal within half a mile of Villa Park?!
(https://i.ibb.co/fDnpbQb/image.png) (https://ibb.co/fDnpbQb)
Jesus Christ, why not hand out vuvuzelas & those plastic happy clapping contraptions while we are at it? 🤨
A) We have an American at the helm of all things customer service etc - so no surprising they are trying to introduce razzamataz into the game "experience" - bet it will not be long that the players enter the pitch by running through a banner like in college NFL in US
B) We have a potentially a new and much younger fanbase looking to be associated with us - i am in and around the family areas at the ground and the kids certainly love all the smoke, fire and flashing lights stuff. I still shit myself when the CO2 things go off right next to me.
The height of sophistication for us oldies at a game was having pepper on our Bovril - times and tastes change (not always for the better)
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Prefer that to those bongo cams from a few years back.
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An early goal for us would surely be decisive.
Agreed, they come out of their shell and we will crucify them on the counter I think. Need Bailey to start. Good few selection decisions for Emery, dependent somewhat on Tielemans and Torres fitness. Might be best trying to play Ramsey into form but I think Emery will stick McGinn on left to squeeze Bailey in on the right plus one of Diaby or even Duran in from the start.
------------------Martinez
Cash, Konsa, Torres/Lenglet, Moreno
-------------Luiz, Donk
McGinn------------------Ramsey
-------Bailey, Watkins
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Not Donk. He's alright to bring on for the last 20, not to be starting.
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Not Donk. He's alright to bring on for the last 20, not to be starting.
He should be ok next to Luiz, just needs to give him the ball at every opportunity. I don't like McGinn or Tielemans in there, Tielemans was awful there v Bournemouth.
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Looks like we're getting some tacky pre-match coldplay light show with our mobile phones or something?! If only we could get an effin signal within half a mile of Villa Park?!
(https://i.ibb.co/fDnpbQb/image.png) (https://ibb.co/fDnpbQb)
Jesus Christ, why not hand out vuvuzelas & those plastic happy clapping contraptions while we are at it? 🤨
A) We have an American at the helm of all things customer service etc - so no surprising they are trying to introduce razzamataz into the game "experience" - bet it will not be long that the players enter the pitch by running through a banner like in college NFL in US
B) We have a potentially a new and much younger fanbase looking to be associated with us - i am in and around the family areas at the ground and the kids certainly love all the smoke, fire and flashing lights stuff. I still shit myself when the CO2 things go off right next to me.
The height of sophistication for us oldies at a game was having pepper on our Bovril - times and tastes change (not always for the better)
I don't mind any of that, it's not meant for me and I don't see it anyway, my arse touches my seat as the game kicks off. I do like those light shows at our ground and others where they flash the LED floodlights in broad daylight. Ace.
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An early goal for us would surely be decisive.
Agreed, they come out of their shell and we will crucify them on the counter I think. Need Bailey to start. Good few selection decisions for Emery, dependent somewhat on Tielemans and Torres fitness. Might be best trying to play Ramsey into form but I think Emery will stick McGinn on left to squeeze Bailey in on the right plus one of Diaby or even Duran in from the start.
------------------Martinez
Cash, Konsa, Torres/Lenglet, Moreno
-------------Luiz, Donk
McGinn------------------Ramsey
-------Bailey, Watkins
Think I pretty much agree with this team, other than possibly Digne for Moreno then Moreno starting at Old Trafford
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I wonder how long it will be in the rematch build up and commentary before we hear " of course Villa would have been relegated if the goal line technology had failed?
I'll go out on a limb and say they're better than that. I wouldn't be surprised if there's a compromise though...mentioning that it's a rematch of the first game played after football returned following Covid.
Obviously the Blues forum will go on about how lucky we are and that we should have gone down etc etc.
THAT goal was that one we should have been given against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park (Lansbury?) in injury time in that season! That's one hill in my life I will die on...
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You never know which Donk you're going to get. He's been pretty good sometimes, especially Newcastle at home last year when he was tremendous, but other times he's properly floundered. You'd hope you can trust him against Sheffield United - but then, you'd also hope Luiz and Tielemans would dominate against them too, so we'll see.
Hopefully we'll be in a position to make a few changes, rest a few ahead of Man Utd, maybe give players like Diaby and Zan a few more minutes for getting into form.
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I think I'd go:
Martinez
Cash Konsa Torres/Carlos Digne
Bailey Luiz McGinn Moreno
Diaby Watkins
If we're going to try full backs out wide, I reckon Moreno would be miles better at it than Cash, and he'd have a proper full back behind him so would have to do less donkey work.
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Oh I'd be resting one of Moreno and Digne so that the other is fresh for Man Utd. Also that's really a midfield four with two wingers, definitely not how we play.
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Oh I'd be resting one of Moreno and Digne so that the other is fresh for Man Utd. Also that's really a midfield four with two wingers, definitely not how we play.
Not sure either of them really need a rest. I think Sheffield United is the sort of game where we really need to go at them, but happy to drop Diaby and play Tielemans instead if he's fit.
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Oh I'd be resting one of Moreno and Digne so that the other is fresh for Man Utd. Also that's really a midfield four with two wingers, definitely not how we play.
Not sure either of them really need a rest. I think Sheffield United is the sort of game where we really need to go at them, but happy to drop Diaby and play Tielemans instead if he's fit.
Or Bailey, depending on how his fitness is.
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I think Digne starting with Moreno there if/when things need changing up is the best option at the moment. Moreno had a long lay off and we're not in a situation where we need to overdo it with how much he plays at the moment.
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I think Digne starting with Moreno there if/when things need changing up is the best option at the moment. Moreno had a long lay off and we're not in a situation where we need to overdo it with how much he plays at the moment.
Just think he's better getting in around the back of a packed defence than Digne. Worked against Brentford at the end. Extra yard of pace helps too. Game at Brentford with all the extra minutes might have taken a lot out of him, mind.
I'd play Digne at Old Trafford for sure.
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I think Digne starting with Moreno there if/when things need changing up is the best option at the moment. Moreno had a long lay off and we're not in a situation where we need to overdo it with how much he plays at the moment.
Just think he's better getting in around the back of a packed defence than Digne. Worked against Brentford at the end. Extra yard of pace helps too. Game at Brentford with all the extra minutes might have taken a lot out of him, mind.
I'd play Digne at Old Trafford for sure.
Yeah, fair point. I'm glad we've got the two great options there now, whichever way we use them.
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If we're more than 1-0 up with half an hour left get big Tim Ig on the pitch, he needs to be playing now.
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Why the assumption that SheffU are going to park the bus?
They're at the point where they need wins
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Why the assumption that SheffU are going to park the bus?
They're at the point where they need wins
That’s their best chance - keep it tight and hope to pinch it near the end.
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Why the assumption that SheffU are going to park the bus?
They're at the point where they need wins
Nah, they'll bank on their home form and six-pointers away from home. Still more than half the season to go.
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Told a few folks about us going top if we win. They all ask who we're playing and say "well you're bound to win that." Makes me nervous!
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The closer this game gets , the more nervous I'm getting . It looks a stone wall banker home win which is making me very uneasy .
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No way are we going to go into a match against a team in red and white stripes who we unexpectedly fail to beat, thereby signalling what turns out to be the end of our dreams.
No way is that ever happening.
*wink*
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Expect a home win, that's how much confidence I have in Emery, anything else and I be having words
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Expect a home win, that's how much confidence I have in Emery, anything else and I be having words
Are you from the west country?
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Villa will score three. Not sure if Sheffield will score one or none.
Will sleep on it.
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Wrong thread
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I'm getting stupidly excited about this and it's only Tuesday.
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That's how I see it and hope it pans out that way, but I've gone for a draw again. It does have a Coventry away on Boxing Day feel to it though.
Saint Stephen would like a word even if just for consistency sake. >:(
Well, the match in question took place in England, and I wanted our English listeners to be clear on which game I was referring to. For events happening in Ireland, I refer to Dec. 26 by its correct name e.g.
St. Stephen's Night and the local pub will be full of Irish plastic Mancs, I hope we batter them.
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Go on then...and mine's a pint.
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I'm getting stupidly excited about this and it's only Tuesday.
This....i mean it's strictly Wednesday now but, yeah.
Have even shelled out £14 to park on someone's drive on Trinity Road to ensure that I'm not going to risk struggling to park and missing any of it...
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If we do win and go top, I'd like the League to change to a South American Opening (Apertura) and Closing (Clausura) system.
So as Apertura winners, we'd be guaranteed to be in the Final for the title....
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I'm getting stupidly excited about this and it's only Tuesday.
Me too Sam.
I remember queuing from 5:30 to get into the Ipswich match the season we won the league.
40 odd years later, I feel like getting there ridiculously early again to make sure I get in, only this time I already have my seat.
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Slept on it. 3-1 to the boys in C & B.
Watkins, Diaby and Ramsey.
Happy days.
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Face the Holte first half and go at them like they owe us money.
Get a couple of goals early and they will be shell shocked.
The whole country wakes up to realise "This Villa team is the real deal"
Thousands of screen shots taken of the league table as a marker for when we returned to greatness.
UTV
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We're going to lose, aren't we.
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it does have that feel
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That's the spirit.
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I think we're going to win, the atmosphere is going to be awesome.
Whether we are top over Christmas, I don't know. I'd settle for being top over Ramadan.
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Can we sing ' what the Heck is going on' if we go a goal down ?? :D
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it does have that feel
It really doesn't. It feels like we're going to batter them and go top. We're great, our home record is impeccable, and they're a load of shite.
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it does have that feel
It really doesn't. It feels like we're going to batter them and go top. We're great, our home record is impeccable, and they're a load of shite.
this, with christmas bells on !
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And in all seriousness, that's exactly the attitude we have to get away from. The idea that somehow it's all going to go wrong at some point is what's held us back for so long.
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And in all seriousness, that's exactly the attitude we have to get away from. The idea that somehow it's all going to go wrong at some point is what's held us back for so long.
And one thing we've learned over the last 14 months is that Emery does not like to give a league place back once he's got his hands on it.
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And in all seriousness, that's exactly the attitude we have to get away from. The idea that somehow it's all going to go wrong at some point is what's held us back for so long.
It's a tricky one, because you can't blame the fans for this feeling! The problem has been that it's one the club has shared, which honestly doesn't feel like it's the case anymore.
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And in all seriousness, that's exactly the attitude we have to get away from. The idea that somehow it's all going to go wrong at some point is what's held us back for so long.
That and Doug Ellis/Randy Lerner not going for it in a postion of strength
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And in all seriousness, that's exactly the attitude we have to get away from. The idea that somehow it's all going to go wrong at some point is what's held us back for so long.
That and Doug Ellis/Randy Lerner not going for it in a postion of strength
How many false dawns have we had over the years.
Hopefully this is different, it does feel different
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And in all seriousness, that's exactly the attitude we have to get away from. The idea that somehow it's all going to go wrong at some point is what's held us back for so long.
And one thing we've learned over the last 14 months is that Emery does not like to give a league place back once he's got his hands on it.
I think that attitude in pre-match is one thing but where it worries me more is that we still see these nerves during a game. We are as good as anyone in Europe at holding on to a lead now and yet you can still feel the tension if we're ahead and the opposition get a bit of possession. It'll take time, just like it has for fans to get used to us playing the ball around the defence but I think we'll get there.
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It's a different kind of pressure coming at the players now
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Look at the voting! Even the Queen's funeral won't be as impressive.
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Potential banana skin but lets hope we can deliver and be top even if ita for 24 hours.
The fans play a massive part
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Look at the voting! Even the Queen's funeral won't be as impressive.
I hope I'm not as upset on Friday as I was during that.
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I'd be supremely confident if it weren't for the fact it's my local derby, and the in-laws, and half my colleagues, are desperate to get one over on me!
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Looking at our subs bench recently against Arsenal, it is the strongest bench I have seen from any top team this season.
Knowing Emery has the tools at his disposal gives me loads of confidence.
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4 0
top for 24 hrs at least and hopefully a draw between the other two shitting about us
cant wait
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We’ll take it seriously and we’ll win, doesn’t mean it’ll be easy - it might be - but I’m confident we’ll win.
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Starting to get a weird feeling about this, triumphalism seems to abound. Feel like, with all the nervous energy in the crowd, Doug getting on the ball and asserting it as ours is a must in the opening exchanges.
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I think the crowd is going to be so 'up for it' it will lift the players and we really will, FTF !!
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We've already had a few of these pivotal games under Emery where we have to stamp our authority on the match from the kick-off.
Man Utd
Newcastle
Brighton (this season and last)
Man City
I trust him to get us prepped for this...
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I'd be supremely confident if it weren't for the fact it's my local derby, and the in-laws, and half my colleagues, are desperate to get one over on me!
Haha similar as I'm just north of Sheffield although to be fair it's a mixture round here of both Sheffield clubs, Barnsley and bloody Man Utd.
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Maybe the worry comes from knowing we can't/won't win every home game, no one does.
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I think the crowd is going to be so 'up for it' it will lift the players and we really will, FTF !!
The noise just before kick off and then in the first 10 minutes against Arsenal, was a noise I don’t really remember hearing in many many years if ever on the Holte in all the years I’ve been going, it was just f***ing spine tingling.
I thought Fridays game would be less so, quite a few I knew were humming and haaring whether to go being so close to Christmas with other plans. Not now, not since Brentford and the fact we can go top. No ones missing this one. Its going to loud abd if we can start like we have done in virtually every league home game other than Palace and if we can get an earlyish goal, I really believe we’ll bury them. And I’m the biggest pre match pessimist there is.
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We've already had a few of these pivotal games under Emery where we have to stamp our authority on the match from the kick-off.
Man Utd
Newcastle
Brighton (this season and last)
Man City
I trust him to get us prepped for this...
I bet he'll be banning all talk of the league table and telling players to focus on nothing but the game itself
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Right, I've put £20 on Sheffield United at 12-1 with Bet365. That should seal the points for us.
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I bet he'll be banning all talk of the league table and telling players to focus on nothing but the game itself
Agreed. However, the one thing he won't have is much of an idea how they will set up given that it's Wilder's second game.
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I bet he'll be banning all talk of the league table and telling players to focus on nothing but the game itself
Agreed. However, the one thing he won't have is much of an idea how they will set up given that it's Wilder's second game.
It's Wilder's 4th game in charge.
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I bet he'll be banning all talk of the league table and telling players to focus on nothing but the game itself
Agreed. However, the one thing he won't have is much of an idea how they will set up given that it's Wilder's second game.
He's probably analysing all the games under Wilder's previous tenure.
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I bet he'll be banning all talk of the league table and telling players to focus on nothing but the game itself
Agreed. However, the one thing he won't have is much of an idea how they will set up given that it's Wilder's second game.
It's Wilder's 4th game in charge.
Oh. Then 3-0.
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Right, I've put £20 on Sheffield United at 12-1 with Bet365. That should seal the points for us.
Shocking stuff, you could have got 13/1 with Paddy Power.
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And in all seriousness, that's exactly the attitude we have to get away from. The idea that somehow it's all going to go wrong at some point is what's held us back for so long.
It will go wrong at some point, at least in terms of losing a home game. I'm not saying that SheffU will be that game, but it will happen.
However, the key is to make sure that it's only a blip.
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We're going to lose, aren't we.
No, we are going to smash them into pieces. Like a bag of crisps that we trampled with our feet.
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Right, I've put £20 on Sheffield United at 12-1 with Bet365. That should seal the points for us.
Shocking stuff, you could have got 13/1 with Paddy Power.
Agreed. I don't see us winning 12-1. Seems a bit aggressive. Maybe 4 or 5-0.
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Right, I've put £20 on Sheffield United at 12-1 with Bet365. That should seal the points for us.
Shocking stuff, you could have got 13/1 with Paddy Power.
Agreed. I don't see us winning 12-1. Seems a bit aggressive. Maybe 4 or 5-0.
Well, if we win by 7 goals and Liverpool beat Arsenal by 1, we still go top! ;D
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I bet he'll be banning all talk of the league table and telling players to focus on nothing but the game itself
Agreed. However, the one thing he won't have is much of an idea how they will set up given that it's Wilder's second game.
He's probably analysing all the games under Wilder's previous tenure.
I don't think there's any 'probably' about it.
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Imagine the post game drink with Unai as your opposite number. He'll be saying 'ah, tough game though, reminded me when you tweaked the right winger's off-ball positioning as Forest Green manager against Morecambe in that 2012 FA Cup replay remember, you were wearing a grey coat, M&S I believe...'
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Has anyone noticed if t'Blades are looking better under Wilder? I haven't caught much of their recent games. I can imagine him being a good motivator but have things changed much, tactically, compared to Heckingbottom ?
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He's probably analysing all the games under Wilder's previous tenure.
I don't think there's any 'probably' about it.
Some, yes. All, maybe not.
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Has anyone noticed if t'Blades are looking better under Wilder? I haven't caught much of their recent games. I can imagine him being a good motivator but have things changed much, tactically, compared to Heckingbottom ?
He seems confident enough.
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Yes Chris, all managers are the same with the same attention to detail. Pillock.
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he's got the injury card in nice and meticulously early
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Has anyone noticed if t'Blades are looking better under Wilder? I haven't caught much of their recent games. I can imagine him being a good motivator but have things changed much, tactically, compared to Heckingbottom ?
They both deploy classic Yorkshire tactics. Blood, guts and grit, all pushed uphill on a cobbled pitch in a Hovis trolly. You can’t beat that.
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They've scored 4 away from home all season, the last 2 of which were OGs. They last stuck it in the net in September.
Their fans are hoping to keep the score down to 3 but are expecting a lot worse (to be fair there are one or two who are hoping a miracle might happen and that they could escape with a draw).
Some comments about Wilder perhaps playing McBurnie, but the fans don't rate him; 'a traffic cone would be more use'. Also some suggesting they should play Archer centrally on his own rather than out left and leave McBurnie out.
They've adopted 5 at the back on occasion, and also gone for 4-5-1 too.
They are focusing on Luton on Boxing Day as their must win.
Midfield wise they will have McAtee, Slimani, Hamer, all half decent players and you'd think they will target our central areas with Kamara being out.
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Has anyone noticed if t'Blades are looking better under Wilder? I haven't caught much of their recent games. I can imagine him being a good motivator but have things changed much, tactically, compared to Heckingbottom ?
Better is relative. They were utter shit, getting battered by all and sundry. Now they have upped their game just about enough where they might not lose to everyone. But they’re still going down because they won’t shock anyone between now and the end of the season. And they are suddenly not good enough to beat the best sides. Not saying they can’t raise their game and get a jammy win so we still need to do our job on Friday. But they’re not very good, and have rehired a manager they fired for not being very good at this level.
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Has anyone noticed if t'Blades are looking better under Wilder? I haven't caught much of their recent games. I can imagine him being a good motivator but have things changed much, tactically, compared to Heckingbottom ?
They both deploy classic Yorkshire tactics. Blood, guts and grit, all pushed uphill on a cobbled pitch in a Hovis trolly. You can’t beat that.
Erm..the Hovis bike ad was filmed on Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, Dorset.
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I remember us being linked with McBurnie a few transfer windows ago.
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We are the ones who knock
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GA8YfI0WsAArlTr?format=jpg&name=large)
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Interesting to see Wilder's reaction to Cameron Archer/eligibility/buy-back clause. He seemed quite sheepish.
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Imagine the post game drink with Unai as your opposite number. He'll be saying 'ah, tough game though, reminded me when you tweaked the right winger's off-ball positioning as Forest Green manager against Morecambe in that 2012 FA Cup replay remember, you were wearing a grey coat, M&S I believe...'
Thanks for making him sound like Hannibal Lecter. Can't unsee.
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Interesting to see Wilder's reaction to Cameron Archer/eligibility/buy-back clause. He seemed quite sheepish.
Plus Wilder hints at players he yet really knows. I think Archer may be one of them.
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Imagine the post game drink with Unai as your opposite number. He'll be saying 'ah, tough game though, reminded me when you tweaked the right winger's off-ball positioning as Forest Green manager against Morecambe in that 2012 FA Cup replay remember, you were wearing a grey coat, M&S I believe...'
“Very very good game, I watched it 35 times. Yesterday.”
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Has anyone noticed if t'Blades are looking better under Wilder? I haven't caught much of their recent games. I can imagine him being a good motivator but have things changed much, tactically, compared to Heckingbottom ?
They both deploy classic Yorkshire tactics. Blood, guts and grit, all pushed uphill on a cobbled pitch in a Hovis trolly. You can’t beat that.
Erm..the Hovis bike ad was filmed on Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, Dorset.
Shame on you RCF for ruining my surgical dissection of Yorkshire tactics with mere facts.g
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Just to add to the confidence levels. The Blades have failed to win in their last 14 league visits to VP, their most recent win was almost 58 years ago in January 1966.
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And in all seriousness, that's exactly the attitude we have to get away from. The idea that somehow it's all going to go wrong at some point is what's held us back for so long.
It will go wrong at some point, at least in terms of losing a home game. I'm not saying that SheffU will be that game, but it will happen.
However, the key is to make sure that it's only a blip.
It went wrong against Stevenage, that was the time. We’re a different outfit now and one that will be pumped up knowing that top spot, even if it’s temporary, is within our grasp. We win the game if we do what we can do. Sheff Utd might make it difficult but they’re not turning a corner at Villa park on Friday.
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
Can’t fuckin wait!!
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
Wait. WAIT. Hang on a sec.
[Sounds of furious maths: keys clack, machines honk and hum, paper prints and scrunches and lands soft in bins, chalk interrupts chalk while coffee glugs and is glugged and men swear in technicolour amid the screeches of monkeys. Finally, ring of a bell and curtain-fall of a pregnant, expectant silence.]
By George he's right!
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
Wait. WAIT. Hang on a sec.
[Sounds of furious maths: keys clack, machines honk and hum, paper prints and scrunches and lands soft in bins, chalk interrupts chalk while coffee glugs and is glugged and men swear in technicolour amid the screeches of monkeys. Finally, ring of a bell and curtain-fall of a pregnant, expectant silence.]
By George he's right!
And YOU FUCKING KNOW what that means. Don't you?
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
You aren’t allowed to say stuff like that on here apparently.
Some get all pearl clutchy like you are invoking a gypsy curse or something.
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
Wait. WAIT. Hang on a sec.
[Sounds of furious maths: keys clack, machines honk and hum, paper prints and scrunches and lands soft in bins, chalk interrupts chalk while coffee glugs and is glugged and men swear in technicolour amid the screeches of monkeys. Finally, ring of a bell and curtain-fall of a pregnant, expectant silence.]
By George he's right!
And YOU FUCKING KNOW what that means. Don't you?
Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
You aren’t allowed to say stuff like that on here apparently.
Some get all pearl clutchy like you are invoking a gypsy curse or something.
[Sighs, fires up the supercomputer.]
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
Wait. WAIT. Hang on a sec.
[Sounds of furious maths: keys clack, machines honk and hum, paper prints and scrunches and lands soft in bins, chalk interrupts chalk while coffee glugs and is glugged and men swear in technicolour amid the screeches of monkeys. Finally, ring of a bell and curtain-fall of a pregnant, expectant silence.]
By George he's right!
I did think I was reading George's Marvellous Medicine for a moment there!
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Dougie has ‘leaked’ that Torres isn’t fit for Friday.
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
You aren’t allowed to say stuff like that on here apparently.
Some get all pearl clutchy like you are invoking a gypsy curse or something.
Just using the phrase “pearl clutchy” relegates you to the “bantz boys” ignore bin.
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
Wait. WAIT. Hang on a sec.
[Sounds of furious maths: keys clack, machines honk and hum, paper prints and scrunches and lands soft in bins, chalk interrupts chalk while coffee glugs and is glugged and men swear in technicolour amid the screeches of monkeys. Finally, ring of a bell and curtain-fall of a pregnant, expectant silence.]
By George he's right!
I did think I was reading George's Marvellous Medicine for a moment there!
Hmph, goes for Joyce, ends up with Dahl. Ah well, I hope it was a spicy Dahl.
Dougie has ‘leaked’ that Torres isn’t fit for Friday.
Cash Konsa Carlos Digne/Moreno then? You'd really, really hope that would be OK.
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
You aren’t allowed to say stuff like that on here apparently.
Some get all pearl clutchy like you are invoking a gypsy curse or something.
I think the curse is lifted if a Villa fan breaks into the Trillion Trophy Stadium and pisses on each corner flag.
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
You aren’t allowed to say stuff like that on here apparently.
Some get all pearl clutchy like you are invoking a gypsy curse or something.
Just using the phrase “pearl clutchy” relegates you to the “bantz boys” ignore bin.
Ahhh, I guess you are one of them then !
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Cash Konsa Carlos Digne/Moreno then? You'd really, really hope that would be OK.
Christ, yes
We must have the strongest array of CB talent in the league, even post Mings injury.
I love what Pau gives us, but if he needs to miss a home match to the bottom team in the league, then it's not a massive problem.
Cash - Konsa - Carlos - Moreno
That's an unbelievable fall-back configuration, and even if it wasn't Moreno fit, we'd have Digne - who has been superb this season - in there.
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Why would Douglas Luiz be leaking anything about players on the eve of the game? He’s never done that before. There is nothing on his official Twitter feed. And the one where it was supposed to have claimed it has been deleted.
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I bought Torres for my FPL team last weekend, so this is likely my fault. I'm very sorry.
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Cash Konsa Carlos Digne/Moreno then? You'd really, really hope that would be OK.
Christ, yes
We must have the strongest array of CB talent in the league, even post Mings injury.
I love what Pau gives us, but if he needs to miss a home match to the bottom team in the league, then it's not a massive problem.
Cash - Konsa - Carlos - Moreno
That's an unbelievable fall-back configuration, and even if it wasn't Moreno fit, we'd have Digne - who has been superb this season - in there.
Also a French international in Lenglet plus if we are really fucked Callum Chambers.
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Just think. On Friday night we could very well be top of the league.
You aren’t allowed to say stuff like that on here apparently.
Some get all pearl clutchy like you are invoking a gypsy curse or something.
Just using the phrase “pearl clutchy” relegates you to the “bantz boys” ignore bin.
Ahhh, I guess you are one of them then !
What, somebody with a grasp of basic arithmetic?
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Why would Douglas Luiz be leaking anything about players on the eve of the game? He’s never done that before. There is nothing on his official Twitter feed. And the one where it was supposed to have claimed it has been deleted.
He ‘broadcasts’ on twitch……whatever that is, which has been posted on Twitter
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If there is any truth to it I imagine he’ll be dealing with the Head Master first thing tomorrow morning.
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If there is any truth to it I imagine he’ll be dealing with the Head Master first thing tomorrow morning.
Or it could be part of a cunning plan by 'El Maestro'. Either way, I'll not get too het up about it till 7pm on Friday.
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Yep we have loads of depth. It’s just really daft if any player discusses player availability. Wasn’t there some stupid thing a season or so ago with Villa players taking McGinn out of their fantasy line up?
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There's flexibility there either way.
Konsa Carlos Lenglet Moreno
Cash Konsa Carlos Moreno
Konsa Carlos Lenglet Digne
Cash Konsa Carlos Digne
My preference is the second option there, it would give us more ability to push forward on either side. He could put Cash RM or Moreno LM too if he was concerned.
With Kamara out he could of course opt for all sorts of other options too.
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Aston Villa are the only Premier League team yet to concede a first-half goal at home this season.
Sheffield United are the only Premier League team yet to score a first-half goal away from home this season.
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And in all seriousness, that's exactly the attitude we have to get away from. The idea that somehow it's all going to go wrong at some point is what's held us back for so long.
True, but I’d also like us to get away from the idea that when it does go wrong, which it will do occasionally, it’s the end of the world. Like after Forest away.
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And in all seriousness, that's exactly the attitude we have to get away from. The idea that somehow it's all going to go wrong at some point is what's held us back for so long.
True, but I’d also like us to get away from the idea that when it does go wrong, which it will do occasionally, it’s the end of the world. Like after Forest away.
Agreed. We haven’t earned that yet at one furious when we underperform. A year after staring relegation in the face we are going for the title. But every so often we will slip up. Just like other more established top 6 clubs will. Over time if we progress on this trajectory we will or at least should slip up less against sides we should beat. We’re not invincible and we don’t have the depth to overcome dips in the form or injuries.
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The Forest result seems a waste for them and us. They ended-up sacking a good man anyway, a manager who over-achieved ridiculously to get them into the Premier League barely 18 months ago. They still have a cushion on the drop-zone. Give us those three points, they'd still be safe and we'd be plain-sailing at the summit. How much do you think they'd accept?
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Also a French international in Lenglet plus, if we're fucked...
I'd say former international as he hasn't been in the squad since 2021. He's a Deschamps 'plus if we're fucked' option.
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Also a French international in Lenglet plus, if we're fucked...
I'd say former international as he hasn't been in the squad since 2021. He's a Deschamps 'plus if we're fucked' option.
Yep. I used the term loosely that he’s played for France. Still not the worst option to have on hand should we get in trouble with our starting options. And in fairness, he’s generally done pretty well when he’s played, albeit mainly in Europe.
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Dougie has ‘leaked’ that Torres isn’t fit for Friday.
That’s a big blow, he’s absolutely key to our style of play. Hope we can cover it against Sheffield United, and he’s back quickly.
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The plan is:-
A) Break up for Christmas.
B) McGinn avoids getting booked and suspended.
C) We beat United (Sheffield).
D) Top of the League.
E) Arse and Liverpool draw.
F) Mirth and Merriment.
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We are the only team who can be top on Christmas day who also have a player born on Christmas day... surely a sign?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa)
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We are the only team who can be top on Christmas day who also have a player born on Christmas day... surely a sign?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa)
It is the way.
It is the way
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Word of warning if we are top at Xmas.
1998/99. We were top 3 points clear of Chelsea, 36 points from 18 games. We took 19 points from the remaining 20 games and finished 6th. The lowest any team top at Xmas has finished.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998%E2%80%9399_Aston_Villa_F.C._season
https://www.msn.com/en-nz/sports/football/every-club-top-of-the-premier-league-at-christmas-in-history/ar-AA1kNH7i
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Word of warning if we are top at Xmas.
1998/99. We were top 3 points clear of Chelsea, 36 points from 18 games. We took 19 points from the remaining 20 games and finished 6th. The lowest any team top at Xmas has finished.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998%E2%80%9399_Aston_Villa_F.C._season
https://www.msn.com/en-nz/sports/football/every-club-top-of-the-premier-league-at-christmas-in-history/ar-AA1kNH7i
Think we were the only team that was top at Christmas and failed to finish in the Top 4 spots in the Prem.
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It all seemed to collapse after losing at home to 3rd division Fulham in the FA Cup.
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I think the game against Fulham was where Collymore went missing and Gregory attacked him in the media. Couldn't have been good for the morale in the dressing room. It was some spectacular collapse though.
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We are the only team who can be top on Christmas day who also have a player born on Christmas day... surely a sign?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa)
Dirty Leeds' title winning side the year before football was invented included Gary McAllister and Chris Kamara, both born on Christmas day.
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We are the only team who can be top on Christmas day who also have a player born on Christmas day... surely a sign?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa)
Dirty Leeds' title winning side the year before football was invented included Gary McAllister and Chris Kamara, both born on Christmas day.
It's gonna take one hell of an upheaval for them to be top on Christmas day though.
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I think the game against Fulham was where Collymore went missing and Gregory attacked him in the media. Couldn't have been good for the morale in the dressing room. It was some spectacular collapse though.
Feb 1999....John Gregory questions why his predecessor Brian Little ever signed troubled striker Stan Collymore.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/football/283480.stm
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It’s going to be windy.
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We are the only team who can be top on Christmas day who also have a player born on Christmas day... surely a sign?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa)
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=N8NcQzMQN_U
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We are the only team who can be top on Christmas day who also have a player born on Christmas day... surely a sign?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa)
(https://i.ibb.co/8XRPXLm/Screenshot-20231221-114517-Instagram.jpg) (https://ibb.co/8XRPXLm)
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We are the only team who can be top on Christmas day who also have a player born on Christmas day... surely a sign?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emiliano_Buend%C3%ADa)
(https://i.ibb.co/8XRPXLm/Screenshot-20231221-114517-Instagram.jpg) (https://ibb.co/8XRPXLm)
Grrrrrrr.
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I know, he should lose a few weeks wages for allowing that photo to reach the public sphere.
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Dougie has ‘leaked’ that Torres isn’t fit for Friday.
That’s a big blow, he’s absolutely key to our style of play. Hope we can cover it against Sheffield United, and he’s back quickly.
The gaffer won’t be happy with Doug. Silly thing to have said.
https://x.com/total_villa/status/1737772073416786066?s=46
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I know, he should lose a few weeks wages for allowing that photo to reach the public sphere.
Shut up, it's got Mrs Buendia in nightwear. OK they're rubbish Xmas PJs, but still.
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I know, he should lose a few weeks wages for allowing that photo to reach the public sphere.
Shut up, it's got Mrs Buendia in nightwear. OK they're rubbish Xmas PJs, but still.
Not everything in the photo is a problem, just the things that are happen to be very big problems indeed.
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Dougie has ‘leaked’ that Torres isn’t fit for Friday.
That’s a big blow, he’s absolutely key to our style of play. Hope we can cover it against Sheffield United, and he’s back quickly.
The gaffer won’t be happy with Doug. Silly thing to have said.
https://x.com/total_villa/status/1737772073416786066?s=46
I will never cease to be impressed by Dougie's versatility. It's incredible the ease from which he can go from midfield enforcer to bedroom-dwelling grounded-15-year old is very impressive.
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New T-shirt has arrived, I will decide if it's lucky (or not) at about 10pm tomorrow night...
(https://i.ibb.co/hLwJrzL/Emi-T-shirt.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hLwJrzL)
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Ace.
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Tomorrow's game is probably one, fitness permitted, where we could get away with Diaby and Bailey in the team. It's potentially the kind of game that's made for someone like Diaby whos been off the boil and struggling for confidence.
If they start falling apart a little like a number of games this season it's one where the flair players may grow in confidence as the game goes on, get a goal or assist. Bailey initially benefited early in the season when Diaby was in good form as there seems a good rapport with them on the pitch (As well as off clearly). I think the reverse could be true whilst Leon is in such good form. But generally it's been one of the other and not both of late.
That said Zaniolo and Ramsey would also benefit from a shot in the arm too.
And we've also got to ensure we've got a good tempo to the game as we don't want it to be a Barnsley/Cov at Home type of game. But I'm confident that Emery won't allow them to fall into the trap in the Prem too often.
I'd be inclined to hold fire on Youri if he's just about ready. Maybe give him the weekend to recover fully in time for Utd.
Hopefully, we'll be ruthless, hit them early and have the game put to bed enough we can slip back to training mode for the final 20 minutes.
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Would be nice for a hitherto fringe player to have a stormer.
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Archer?
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I hope idiots don't boo him if he doesn't wave as he's warming up like some did to Ramsey at Burnley.
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I like to think he'll get a good reception similar to the one Makamba received.
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Archer?
Oh no I've done it haven't I!!
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I like to think he'll get a good reception similar to the one Makamba received.
I'd like to think he'll have a reasonable game, not score, but show he can mix it with players at the level we now play at. And end the game on the wrong end of a 3-0 scoreline.
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Torres doubtful now , no Kamara , Tielemans 50/50 ? Not liking the sound of this . Wde cannot be weakening the team further by experiments like playing Diaby & Bailey together , simply no.
------- Martinez --------
Cash Konsa Diego Digne
---- Luiz -- Dendoncker---
McGinn ----------- Ramsey
--- Bailey --- Watkins---
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Yep we have loads of depth. It’s just really daft if any player discusses player availability. Wasn’t there some stupid thing a season or so ago with Villa players taking McGinn out of their fantasy line up?
If I was Emery I be 'please don't do that again'-ing Doug about this. I would feel undermined
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Torres doubtful now , no Kamara , Tielemans 50/50 ? Not liking the sound of this . Wde cannot be weakening the team further by experiments like playing Diaby & Bailey together , simply no.
------- Martinez --------
Cash Konsa Diego Digne
---- Luiz -- Dendoncker---
McGinn ----------- Ramsey
--- Bailey --- Watkins---
I would start with Diaby as Bailey seems to be the better impact player
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Torres doubtful now , no Kamara , Tielemans 50/50 ? Not liking the sound of this . Wde cannot be weakening the team further by experiments like playing Diaby & Bailey together , simply no.
------- Martinez --------
Cash Konsa Diego Digne
---- Luiz -- Dendoncker---
McGinn ----------- Ramsey
--- Bailey --- Watkins---
I would start with Diaby as Bailey seems to be the better impact player
Bailey is on fire he has to start. Diaby has been as useful as an empty crisp packet for weeks now , the new Stephen Ireland
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Torres doubtful now , no Kamara , Tielemans 50/50 ? Not liking the sound of this . Wde cannot be weakening the team further by experiments like playing Diaby & Bailey together , simply no.
------- Martinez --------
Cash Konsa Diego Digne
---- Luiz -- Dendoncker---
McGinn ----------- Ramsey
--- Bailey --- Watkins---
No Torres or Tielemans confirmed. I'd probably start this team, but maybe Zaniolo right and McGinn central would be an option. Maybe.
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Is Torres injured as in see you next winter, or is it just a knock, do we know?
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Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Carlos
Moreno
McGinn
Donk
Luiz
Ramsey
Bailey
Watkins
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Is Torres injured as in see you next winter, or is it just a knock, do we know?
Could return against Man U, apparently.
Tielemans out for two weeks.
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shows how bloody stupid Kamara was
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shows how bloody stupid Kamara was
It really does. I was going to say the same thing.
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As always, Emery will have a plan.
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It was out of character and not smart. But everyone got carried away in that game. But let’s not make this into something more than it is. He didn’t choke a player out, or go in two footed. He pushed back on a player that provoked him. He shouldn’t have done it and I’m sure he regrets it.
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shows how bloody stupid Kamara was
and Martinez
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shows how bloody stupid Kamara was
and Martinez
Kind of expect it from Damián though
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Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Carlos
Moreno
McGinn
Donk
Luiz
Ramsey
Bailey
Watkins
Probably.
I'd possibly suggest McGinn dropping back, someone more attacking for Donk, hammer into a quick 2-0 lead and then see the game out with the squad. Their forum seem to think they'll basically be playing two banks of five and won't see much of our half.
Then Donk comes in for Old Trafford.
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Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Carlos
Moreno
McGinn
Donk
Luiz
Ramsey
Bailey
Watkins
Probably.
I'd possibly suggest McGinn dropping back, someone more attacking for Donk, hammer into a quick 2-0 lead and then see the game out with the squad. Their forum seem to think they'll basically be playing two banks of five and won't see much of our half.
Then Donk comes in for Old Trafford.
I like Dave’s suggestion better.
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Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Carlos
Moreno
McGinn
Donk
Luiz
Ramsey
Bailey
Watkins
Probably.
I'd possibly suggest McGinn dropping back, someone more attacking for Donk, hammer into a quick 2-0 lead and then see the game out with the squad. Their forum seem to think they'll basically be playing two banks of five and won't see much of our half.
Then Donk comes in for Old Trafford.
I like Dave’s suggestion better.
I'd ve worried about pushing McGinn back, he needs to avoid a yellow at all costs or our midfield is very light for boxing day
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It was out of character and not smart. But everyone got carried away in that game. But let’s not make this into something more than it is. He didn’t choke a player out, or go in two footed. He pushed back on a player that provoked him. He shouldn’t have done it and I’m sure he regrets it.
I agree.
Don't raise your fucking hands. Grab em by the gonads and give a good twist like Vinnie Jones infamously did to Gazza. Or a karate finger stab to the chest.
Yellow card, max.
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Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Carlos
Moreno
McGinn
Donk
Luiz
Ramsey
Bailey
Watkins
Probably.
I'd possibly suggest McGinn dropping back, someone more attacking for Donk, hammer into a quick 2-0 lead and then see the game out with the squad. Their forum seem to think they'll basically be playing two banks of five and won't see much of our half.
Then Donk comes in for Old Trafford.
McGinn central and Bailey or Zaniolo wide?
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Yeah, that sort of thing.
If we're going to spend most of the game passing the ball around forty yards from their goal, feels like the sort of situation that needs Zaniolo more than Dendonker.
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Martinez
Cash Konsa Carlos Digne
McGinn Luiz
Bailey Moreno/Ramsey
Diaby Watkins
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Is Torres injured as in see you next winter, or is it just a knock, do we know?
Could return against Man U, apparently.
Tielemans out for two weeks.
That’s a relief, hope it turns out to be true and likewise Youri.
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shows how bloody stupid Kamara was
It really does. I was going to say the same thing.
Nah, if he had done a shit headbutt like Dion did with Savage, I would back you up. However I think a slight touch of the face compared to what the Brentford player did, first to Martinez even though the ref was whistling and ordering the player back, then to I think Moreno and finally in reaction to Kamara touching him is all that is wrong with certain laws.
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This will be tricky. We should have enough despite injuries and suspension. Wilder will set up to frustrate us. Hope we score early which will force them to open up. 2-1 Villa.
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Longest pre-match thread ever?! Heading for 20 pages but then we are heading for top of the biggest league of the world.
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Martinez
Cash Konsa Carlos Digne
McGinn Luiz
Bailey Moreno/Ramsey
Diaby Watkins
Yep, this for me, with Moreno to start. Very good starting XI despite the absentees.
I think we’ll batter’em.
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Tight 1 - 0 win to put us top of the league. Emery to demand we sign Muzzy Izzet immediately after the final whistle
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Longest pre-match thread ever?! Heading for 20 pages but then we are heading for top of the biggest league of the world.
It is. Longest previous this season Legia Warsaw away (263 replies). In the league Newcastle away (247 replies). Both defeats !
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If we maintain our structure and discipline, we will impose our idea in the moment and emerge victoriously.
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Connecting with the fans.
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Admiring the new 150 years logo...
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in a small family
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Their away record in the PL is appalling. 27 defeats from the last 33 played.
It’s going to take something unbelievable from them to win and/or something horrible from us.
Neither appears remotely likely.
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I’d go Diaby and Bailey tomorrow. Smash them out of the ground. Then have The Donk come in for Man U if Tielemans isn’t back.
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I know it's a long shot but anyone in Dubai looking to catch the game?
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If we maintain our structure and discipline, we will impose our idea in the moment and emerge victoriously.
this is key , going all gung - ho with the team selection could backfire
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I’d go Diaby and Bailey tomorrow. Smash them out of the ground. Then have The Donk come in for Man U if Tielemans isn’t back.
If we can't play The Donk in this game, there's no way we should be putting him in against United relatively cold.
I would play both Bailey and Diaby though, and give Ramsey a bit more time to recover.
Keep Moreno for this game, and bring Digne back for the Man U game.
Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Carlos, Moreno; Dendoncker, Luiz, McGinn; Diaby, Bailey; Watkins.
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I’d go Diaby and Bailey tomorrow. Smash them out of the ground. Then have The Donk come in for Man U if Tielemans isn’t back.
If we can't play The Donk in this game, there's no way we should be putting him in against United relatively cold.
I would play both Bailey and Diaby though, and give Ramsey a bit more time to recover.
Keep Moreno for this game, and bring Digne back for the Man U game.
Martinez; Cash, Konsa, Carlos, Moreno; Dendoncker, Luiz, McGinn; Diaby, Bailey; Watkins.
I agree re players going in cold.
We're going to have no Kamara for three games, whatever we do to fill that void, it needs to be something we can carry across three games, not just something to beat these no-good chumps.
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Their away record in the PL is appalling. 27 defeats from the last 33 played.
It’s going to take something unbelievable from them to win and/or something horrible from us.
Neither appears remotely likely.
Don't say these things, please!
-
Don't know if it means anything in terms of severity of injuries but Tielemans was visiting the children's hospitals today with the team, but there was no sign of Torres.
In other news, that young keeper Sam Proctor has signed his first professional contract with the club.
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[Don't say these things, please!
It's not even remotely likely that you'll ever marry a supermodel.
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Win the midfield and the rest takes care of itself. It's that simple. Our results demonstrate it to. Mike Bassett style..4.4. Fucking 2 but with Unai's tactics. No musical chairs, no square pegs in round holes, just replace Booby with the Donk, Bailey or Diaby to start. Give Moreno 70 minutes. Carlos in for Torres.
3-0 Villa.
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They will go 5 at the back
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They will go 510 at the back
FTFY
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They will go 510 at the back
FTFY
😂
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This should be a right battering, they have a shit manager and shit players. We should be looking at scoring at least 5.
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They will go number 11A at the back.
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Emery’s interview on Sky sounds like Lenglet will play.
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This should be a right battering, they have a shit manager and shit players. We should be looking at scoring at least 5.
i thought that when we played the Bosnian plumbers and carpenters the other week, football doesn't always pan out like that. It's important we keep our structure and system and dare i say discipline, after Sunday they may sense a weakness in that area.
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I'd settle for 1-0 and no more injuries or suspensions.
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I'd settle for 1-0 and no more injuries or suspensions.
Same here, 3 points and move on to Yanited away with as many bodies available as possible.
-
I'd settle for 1-0 and no more injuries or suspensions.
Yep same.
-
;D
They will go number 11A at the back.
Personally, I find it easier to get to the ground by train! ;)
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Yeah, but parking the train....
-
seems Lenglet will be starting tomorrow so probably Konsa at RB, hopefully not Cash in RM again though
-
Focus, focus, focus. And we will win.
-
Always liked Lenglet; come on, mon fils!
-
Lenglet used to train with Messi so he is familiar with facing attackers of rapier-like blade quality.
-
We should smash Sheff Utd out of sight, but I am strangely nervous.
I think it is just what is at stake and used to Villa f**king up when things are going well.
Fingers crossed that we FTF's and win 4-0, which we should do.
-
If Lenglet is going to play the Pau role it’s a big responsibility, so good luck to him.
-
Playing out from the back will be extra edgy tonight especially if they do the high press .
-
Im never over confident but we’ve been playing out from the back since Emery arrived, with a combination of Mings, Konsa, Torres, Carlos and Lenglet nevermind the full backs.
Don’t get me wrong Torres and Kamara have been integral with how we play and Torres is an unbelievably good passer of the ball, but apart from Legia away, Lenglet has been very good in the few games he’s played.
Absolute no disrespect to Sheffield United, anything can happen and we will lose or draw at home at some point, but they are bottom of the table for a reason and i just don’t this game being it.
Fingers crossed, saluting magpies etc
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Dendoncker is a worry when playing out , Lenglet should be fine
-
Do we know what the injuries are, to Torres and Tielemans?
-
Playing out from the back will be extra edgy tonight especially if they do the high press .
If they do that, I suspect we will adopt similar tactics to Newcastle last season and go longer; either way we should have enough.
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Playing out from the back will be extra edgy tonight especially if they do the high press .
no way will they play the high press
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Do we know what the injuries are, to Torres and Tielemans?
Torres knock on the ankle...could be back boxing day, Youri calf strain..couple of weeks
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I know it's a long shot but anyone in Dubai looking to catch the game?
Rose and Crown, Al Habtoor City, Shk Zayed Road. Home of the Dubai Lions. Should be full of Villa fans tonight.
-
I know it's a long shot but anyone in Dubai looking to catch the game?
Rose and Crown, Al Habtoor City, Shk Zayed Road. Home of the Dubai Lions. Should be full of Villa fans tonight.
I love things like this
-
It only occurred to me yesterday afternoon that there was even a possibility we could lose this match. And I realised immediately that Christmas would be ruined. :'(
-
It was on this day, 22 December, in 1970, that we beat Manchester United 2-1 at Villa Park, to reach the League Cup Final. That was some night, and some Christmas!
-
Got up this morning to find a large branch had fallen on our car in the night. We park in a large copse behind the house, and of the dozens and dozens of trees, the bastard right next to our car had split and part of just happened to fall in the wrong direction.
So figured this was going to be a really shit day.
However, it seems the branch was slightly supported by another tree on the other side of the car, so not all of the weight was resting on it. Got a couple of friends to come and help lift the branch a few inches while Mme Mouse drove out from underneath, and lo and behold, just a few minor scratches and no real damage.
I can't figure out whether this is a harbinger of doom or a good omen for today.
It was an olive branch, ironically.
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so, do we just try and win by 7 tonight ? it means Liverpool can win (as long as only by 1) and we would STILL be on top at Christmas :-)
Cover all the bases
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It only occurred to me yesterday afternoon that there was even a possibility we could lose this match. And I realised immediately that Christmas would be ruined. :'(
Lump a load of cash on us not winning - will soften the blow!
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Nah, I'm not a gambler.
I was forced to go to Doncaster races a few months ago and ended up about £35 up, so I'm quitting while I'm ahead!
-
Just seen the Video of the players and staff visiting Birmingham Childrens hospital - puts everything into perspective!
-
They're 11-1 on Paddy Power. Still £10 on then buy a decent bottle of whisky to drown the sorrows over Xmas.
-
so, do we just try and win by 7 tonight ? it means Liverpool can win (as long as only by 1) and we would STILL be on top at Christmas :-)
Cover all the bases
Works for me! Also means we can ease up for the last half an hour and make some subs with an eye on Boxing Day.
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No Torres confirmed. Lenglet to step in. Tielemans still out.
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If Lenglet's playing then I assume he'll continue with Konsa at right back and Cash on the bench?
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If Lenglet's playing then I assume he'll continue with Konsa at right back and Cash on the bench?
better on the bench than in midfield !
-
I would assume so. It worked better at home I suppose. Writing on the wall long term for Cash I think.
-
Yep, I'd be surprised if we don't get a right-back upgrade in the next two windows.
-
Surprised that Lenglet would step in rather than Cash.
-
If Lenglet's playing then I assume he'll continue with Konsa at right back and Cash on the bench?
better on the bench than in midfield !
Why not cash konsa lenglet and a left back?
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Why not cash konsa lenglet and a left back?
The lack of Kamara in midfield who also drops in might mean he goes safer with Konsa at right back.
Also Cash becomes an option later in the game if we do need a goal
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Why not cash konsa lenglet and a left back?
The lack of Kamara in midfield who also drops in might mean he goes safer with Konsa at right back.
Also Cash becomes an option later in the game if we do need a goal
Eh?
-
We’ve struggled defensively and had hardly any clean sheets all season, but since we made Konsa right back we’ve only let in one goal. I wonder if he feels we’re harder to beat but still pose enough threat going forward.
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Yeah true. I'd love to see moreno start at home tonight to fucking get in to them
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Two clean sheets in the last two home games to be fair, against Arsenal and City.
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I'm confident based on what I've seen from Lenglet so far this year that he'll be capable of playing Pau's role against the team bottom of the league.
If we were playing a really aggressive, high-pressing side I'd be worried, but with that extra bit of time he'll get vs a team that will almost certaintly set up with a low block, he'll be capable of picking out the forward passes that Torres can do.
I think I'd go Moreno over Digne against a team like this. Him and Ramsey's combinations down the left, with Moreno arriving late to crosses like v Brentford, will be a real source of chances for us against a team that is sitting deep.
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Why not cash konsa lenglet and a left back?
The lack of Kamara in midfield who also drops in might mean he goes safer with Konsa at right back.
Also Cash becomes an option later in the game if we do need a goal
Eh?
Maybe he means we have one of those nights where we can't 'buy a goal' !!
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From Emery's recent interview with Sky;
"...when I was at Arsenal, we played against Brighton with Lewis Dunk. He never played. They were playing long balls. He never built up. But he adapted. Now, he is completely different, playing in the build-up, confident with the ball. Clement is working on the same ideas as Pau Torres."
https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11677/13035897/unai-emery-exclusive-interview-five-factors-in-aston-villas-success-from-the-offside-trap-to-ollie-watkins-up-front (https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11677/13035897/unai-emery-exclusive-interview-five-factors-in-aston-villas-success-from-the-offside-trap-to-ollie-watkins-up-front)
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"Today, we had a meeting analysing the last match that we played at home. I put in there eight to 10 movie clips showing them the line, talking to them about holding that line, either with four or five, and the importance of everyone staying focused."
Movie clips! Love it. When non-native English speakers use an expression in English that a native wouldn't tend to employ, but it has a flourish or grandiose quality to it, I basically fall in love with them.
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From Emery's recent interview with Sky;
"...when I was at Arsenal, we played against Brighton with Lewis Dunk. He never played. They were playing long balls. He never built up. But he adapted. Now, he is completely different, playing in the build-up, confident with the ball. Clement is working on the same ideas as Pau Torres."
https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11677/13035897/unai-emery-exclusive-interview-five-factors-in-aston-villas-success-from-the-offside-trap-to-ollie-watkins-up-front (https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11677/13035897/unai-emery-exclusive-interview-five-factors-in-aston-villas-success-from-the-offside-trap-to-ollie-watkins-up-front)
Fantastic interview this. So many of those stats show the elite level we are operating at this season, totally different universe from where we were a few years ago. It's crazy. Give him everything he wants and we are here to stay.
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Bring the noise tonight guys , villa park bouncing from the off ,
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How many people are going to do the lightshow thing with their phones?
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Not me.
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Not me.
But it might be majestic!
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Probably won't work in the warm boxes with the tinted glass though.
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Two clean sheets in the last two home games to be fair, against Arsenal and City.
I think I saw that we had only conceded 5 in the whole run of 15 back-to-back wins.
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If Lenglet's playing then I assume he'll continue with Konsa at right back and Cash on the bench?
better on the bench than in midfield !
Why not cash konsa lenglet and a left back?
Because Carlos has been doing well, and if McBurnie plays he's the perfect player to sort him out. As he did with Haaland.
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Not me.
But it might be majestic!
Could it be magic?
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Not me.
But it might be majestic!
Could it be magic?
A kind of magic...
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I'm not comparing McBurnie and Haaland, except that they both need manhandling.
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I could be wrong but of the few games Lenglet has played, they were all with Carlos. The one exception was the Legia away game, which didn't go especially well (although probably not just because of a Konsa/Lenglet pairing.)
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So looking forward to this.
A few beers me thinks.
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I know there are a lot of fans, who don't like players, who don't celebrate, when they score against their old clubs, just wondering, what those fans will think if Cam scores, but doesn't celebrate?
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I know there are a lot of fans, who don't like players, who don't celebrate, when they score against their old clubs, just wondering, what those fans will think if Cam scores, but doesn't celebrate?
I don't mind if he celebrates, as long as it's not in an aggressive disrespectful way towards us. He can jump up and down and fire his arrow and hugs every man and his dog to his heart's content.
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I know there are a lot of fans, who don't like players, who don't celebrate, when they score against their old clubs, just wondering, what those fans will think if Cam scores, but doesn't celebrate?
I don't mind if he celebrates, as long as it's not in an aggressive disrespectful way towards us. He can jump up and down and fire his arrow and hugs every man and his dog to his heart's content.
I'd want him to tbh. Young player going back, under the lights and up against the odds. Would be a special moment for him
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I know there are a lot of fans, who don't like players, who don't celebrate, when they score against their old clubs, just wondering, what those fans will think if Cam scores, but doesn't celebrate?
I don't mind if he celebrates, as long as it's not in an aggressive disrespectful way towards us. He can jump up and down and fire his arrow and hugs every man and his dog to his heart's content.
He's probably busy planning for being born on Monday.
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If he can score against us then I wouldn't begrudge him firing his arrow then dropping his shorts and pants and giving a Goatse to the Holte. Who cares? We'll have 6 anyway.
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Lads, nervous about all this confidence.
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This is Aston Villa - when we are expected to win, we don't.
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I expected us to win 13 out of the last 15 at home and we have. I expected us to win on Sunday, and we did.
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Lads, nervous about all this confidence.
Same here. We're cruisin' for a bruisin' from the gods, I can feel it. If we're not careful, Archer's going to channel Apollo and puncture our Marsyas-esque hubris.
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I think we will shall triumph.
But there will be layers of jeopardy, concern and euphoria.
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I think we will shall triumph.
But there will be layers of jeopardy, concern and euphoria.
It’d be swell if we could dispatch this lot with the minimum of fuss and without blood pressure concerns.
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I know there are a lot of fans, who don't like players, who don't celebrate, when they score against their old clubs, just wondering, what those fans will think if Cam scores, but doesn't celebrate?
I don't really care what he does as long as he doesn't score the winning goal against us. If we're 3-0 up and he scores a late consolation goal for them, let him go nuts, and I'll clap along for him.
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But there will be layers of jeopardy, concern and euphoria.
Is that watching the match, or going drinking on Black Eye Friday?
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If Lenglet is playing, them I think it will probably be Konsa at RB tbh. Can see it being:
Martinez
Konsa
Carlos
Langlet
Digne
Bailey
Dendoncker
Luiz
McGinn
Diaby
Watkins
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There’s a minutes applause due in the 13th minute tonight for 13 year old Kiera Devine who took her own life in November. I only mention it as she was a school friend of my daughters. Very tragic.
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Why not cash konsa lenglet and a left back?
The lack of Kamara in midfield who also drops in might mean he goes safer with Konsa at right back.
Also Cash becomes an option later in the game if we do need a goal
Eh?
Because he's a more attacking right back than Konsa. But you knew that already
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There’s a minutes applause due in the 13th minute tonight for 13 year old Kiera Devine who took her own life in November. I only mention it as she was a school friend of my daughters. Very tragic.
Is this just her family and friends trying to get it happen?
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Stupidly excited about tonight. Don't balls it up Villa !
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Just win, please just bloody win.
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Us going 1 up in the first 15 minutes would be perfect
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There’s a minutes applause due in the 13th minute tonight for 13 year old Kiera Devine who took her own life in November. I only mention it as she was a school friend of my daughters. Very tragic.
Is this just her family and friends trying to get it happen?
I’m not sure to be honest. A lot about it on Facebook etc
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There’s a minutes applause due in the 13th minute tonight for 13 year old Kiera Devine who took her own life in November. I only mention it as she was a school friend of my daughters. Very tragic.
Is this just her family and friends trying to get it happen?
I’m not sure to be honest. A lot about it on Facebook etc
There's another one on 44 for some lad. It's getting ridiculous.
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There’s a minutes applause due in the 13th minute tonight for 13 year old Kiera Devine who took her own life in November. I only mention it as she was a school friend of my daughters. Very tragic.
Is this just her family and friends trying to get it happen?
I’m not sure to be honest. A lot about it on Facebook etc
There's another one on 44 for some lad. It's getting ridiculous.
Bit much for Kamara's suspension.
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Has everyone got a ticket for match tonight. PM if not
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Ticket now gone
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Ticket now gone
Shall delete my draft!
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Us going 1 up in the first 15 minutes would be perfect
Going 7 up with 15 to go would be nicer still.
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I’ve had to skip the beers at our Christmas do this afternoon so that I could drive to this tonight, so I feel I am owed a convincing victory.
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It was on this day, 22 December, in 1970, that we beat Manchester United 2-1 at Villa Park, to reach the League Cup Final. That was some night, and some Christmas!
Oh yes; amazing night.
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Left very early expecting travel chaos. Amazingly sailed through. Even the M6 was easy. Nervous about tonight though. Just win Villa...
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I think we will shall triumph.
But there will be layers of jeopardy, concern and euphoria.
We want none of that nonsense. Just massively boring 1-0 will suffice.
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I’ve had to skip the beers at our Christmas do this afternoon so that I could drive to this tonight, so I feel I am owed a convincing victory.
It’s disappointing that you are not agile enough to do both……..tut tut.
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I’ve had to skip the beers at our Christmas do this afternoon so that I could drive to this tonight, so I feel I am owed a convincing victory.
It’s disappointing that you are not agile enough to do both……..tut tut.
I obviously would be if it wasn’t for these pesky nitpicking nanny state laws about not being allowed to drive cars when you are three sheets to the wind.
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I’ve had to skip the beers at our Christmas do this afternoon so that I could drive to this tonight, so I feel I am owed a convincing victory.
It’s disappointing that you are not agile enough to do both……..tut tut.
I obviously would be if it wasn’t for these pesky nitpicking nanny state laws about not being allowed to drive cars when you are three sheets to the wind.
Ina time not long ago you could have slept it off at the match.
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It was on this day, 22 December, in 1970, that we beat Manchester United 2-1 at Villa Park, to reach the League Cup Final. That was some night, and some Christmas!
Really sorry to be pedantic but it was on 23 December 1970!
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It was on this day, 22 December, in 1970, that we beat Manchester United 2-1 at Villa Park, to reach the League Cup Final. That was some night, and some Christmas!
Really sorry to be pedantic but it was on 23 December 1970!
Oops.
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Left very early expecting travel chaos. Amazingly sailed through. Even the M6 was easy. Nervous about tonight though. Just win Villa...
Same here. Was expecting chaos on the M5 but it was quieter than normal
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I'm flipping nervous. I keep getting flashbacks to our previous title challenge balls-ups: Wimbledon 1990 etc (yes, I'm that old)!
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Christmas is a time for joy and giving, but also a time to think of those less fortunate than ourselves.
Like Sheffield Utd for instance, who through no fault of their own face a major FUNERALLING only days before.
4-0
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10.00 kick off here
Enforced semi sobriety to stay awake
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On this day in 1996 we thrashed Wimbledon 5-0
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I'm flipping nervous. I keep getting flashbacks to our previous title challenge balls-ups: Wimbledon 1990 etc (yes, I'm that old)!
Oldham Athletic home 1993 the year football was invented, even took my wife along.
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I know there are a lot of fans, who don't like players, who don't celebrate, when they score against their old clubs, just wondering, what those fans will think if Cam scores, but doesn't celebrate?
I don't really care what he does as long as he doesn't score the winning goal against us. If we're 3-0 up and he scores a late consolation goal for them, let him go nuts, and I'll clap along for him.
I'm more concerned Cam celebrates all the Villa goals.
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On this day in 2017 we drew 2-2 at home to Sheff Utd having led 2-0 after 10 mins. Uncle Albert and the Jedi scored for us.
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I gave serious consideration to bringing earplugs to block out the pre-game crappy Xmas music.
Forgot to put them in my pocket, so now I’m suffering
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I gave serious consideration to bringing earplugs to block out the pre-game crappy Xmas music.
Forgot to put them in my pocket, so now I’m suffering
Liar.
We all know this is you dancing to all the songs as you love Christmas.
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/06/b1/68/06b168f9cc022c51a90ddd1c2d0832c8.gif)
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(https://i.ibb.co/dM5QBVJ/scorchio.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Pj65xPz)
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Oops! Soz man! Went early. Just too excited.
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Rent free
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I'm flipping nervous. I keep getting flashbacks to our previous title challenge balls-ups: Wimbledon 1990 etc (yes, I'm that old)!
Oldham Athletic home 1993 the year football was invented, even took my wife along.
That was so horrible: all those celebrating Manure fans all over national television afterwards! :'( :'( :'(
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Rent free
Have you prepared your copy and pastes?
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Rent free
Have you prepared your copy and pastes?
How's your one man match thread going?
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Rent free
Have you prepared your copy and pastes?
How's your one man match thread going?
Ace thanks! I get to chat shit without attention seekers.
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Get a grip!!!!!
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The last time we opened the season with 8 home wins in a row, we lost to Sheffield (Wednesday).
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The last time we opened the season with 8 home wins in a row, we lost to Sheffield (Wednesday).
Shit, fuck and pissballs.
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Not long back.Just watched the highlights, thought it was a soft VAR at the time for Bailey's goal chalked off. Watching it now , I would be screaming for a free kick if Martinez had been in a similar situation. The Witton Arms queue gets longer every game , the're obviously not checking people for drugs as it seems like Coke central in the beer garden.
One more moan (this isn't a better fan than you gripe) , but every season without fail around Christmas we seem to attract fans that only go to one game a season and proceed to moan their bollocks off. Granted , it wasn't great tonight, but cries of shambles and sort it out Emery piss me off. Well I won't miss their footballing insight for another year, although there will probably be another new batch of them for the Burnley game.