Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Dave on March 07, 2024, 07:36:23 PM

Title: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Dave on March 07, 2024, 07:36:23 PM
Could be worse. Hope anyone over there enjoyed the trip more than the match.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: LukeJames on March 07, 2024, 07:36:54 PM
Maybe English refs aren't as bad as they seem after all.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Dave P on March 07, 2024, 07:36:58 PM
We couldn’t string many passes together so to come away with a 0-0 is ok I suppose.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: usav on March 07, 2024, 07:37:00 PM
Different ref for the second leg please!
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on March 07, 2024, 07:37:21 PM
No Konsa or Zani for the second leg. Lets hope the Torres sub was planned. Other then that, we have the home leg to make it good.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on March 07, 2024, 07:37:23 PM
The ref was shocking
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Jon Crofts on March 07, 2024, 07:37:37 PM
Albanian referees can shit off.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: astonvilla82 on March 07, 2024, 07:37:43 PM
Disappointed overall, wasn't impressed with Ajax
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: nigel on March 07, 2024, 07:37:48 PM
Looks like Emi and Dougie having a disagreement 😲
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Exeter 77 on March 07, 2024, 07:38:09 PM
Referee was an idiot. Far worse than anything in the Premier League and that's saying something.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Nev on March 07, 2024, 07:38:14 PM
Apart from the red card, that was fine. Nothing more, nothing less.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: villadelph on March 07, 2024, 07:38:18 PM
Fucking knuckle dragging Albanian buffoon.

That said, we must be better.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: BC Villain on March 07, 2024, 07:38:38 PM
Below our best, though Ajax never really looked like scoring
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Matt C on March 07, 2024, 07:38:38 PM
A better occasion than game in the end but all still to play for.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: IFWaters on March 07, 2024, 07:38:53 PM
Satisfactory
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on March 07, 2024, 07:38:55 PM
The ref had visited one of the famous cafes before the game I reckon.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pablo_picasso on March 07, 2024, 07:39:28 PM
The commentary was shit.

The game was shit.

The ref was worse than both.

At least we didn't lose, so small mercies.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Smirker on March 07, 2024, 07:39:35 PM
Good result.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on March 07, 2024, 07:39:50 PM
Moussa worrying again.     
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on March 07, 2024, 07:39:52 PM
Maybe English refs aren't as bad as they seem after all.

This is something I say, there are foreign fans who laugh when we say our refs are shit.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: nigel on March 07, 2024, 07:40:03 PM
Disappointed overall, wasn't impressed with Ajax

Really?
I thought they raised their game and played very well
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 07, 2024, 07:40:23 PM
Albanian referees can shit off.

Norman Wisdom would have done better.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: CT Villan on March 07, 2024, 07:40:26 PM
Awful ref, no way were Zani or Konsa bookings. Don't think theirs was a booking either, but there you go.

Turgid crap. I guess we got the 0-0 we were after.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Clark W Griswold on March 07, 2024, 07:41:40 PM
We were a bit shit, they were a bit shitter and the ref was utter shit.
0-0 but that’s an ok result with the second leg to play at home.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: DB on March 07, 2024, 07:41:53 PM
Did what was obviously asked. Sloppy and never really went for it. Ref was worse than Uriah Rennie.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Keeno on March 07, 2024, 07:43:18 PM
God that was boring and I’m absolutely OK with it. Lets see it out next week.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on March 07, 2024, 07:43:19 PM
Scrappy but a clean sheet.

That ref must have been on the weed all day.

Total weapon.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on March 07, 2024, 07:46:42 PM
Awful ref, no way were Zani or Konsa bookings. Don't think theirs was a booking either, but there you go.

Turgid crap. I guess we got the 0-0 we were after.

The ref was poor, but Konsa was very stupid in the way he got his first yellow, and he did put his arm across the striker for his second.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on March 07, 2024, 07:47:25 PM
To be honest, thank god for the refs comedy performance.

Would have been an incredibly boring match without it
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: DB on March 07, 2024, 07:47:51 PM
They almost scored near the end, could have been daylight Brobbery.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Behind Bluenose Lines on March 07, 2024, 07:48:23 PM
Awful ref, no way were Zani or Konsa bookings. Don't think theirs was a booking either, but there you go.

Turgid crap. I guess we got the 0-0 we were after.

The ref was poor, but Konsa was very stupid in the way he got his first yellow, and he did put his arm across the striker for his second.
He'd better play a blinder against Spurs then!
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: villadelph on March 07, 2024, 07:48:29 PM
1 shot on goal and 40% possession - not good enough.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Bad English on March 07, 2024, 07:49:05 PM
Moussa worrying again.   
He may have the left the gas on.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on March 07, 2024, 07:49:22 PM
Hard to know what to make of it. We barely played any football, and it's disappointing that there was such a drop-off from how we play most of the time.

Emi's distribution was worse than Bosnich but he made some good saves when required. We didn't get a hold of the midfield til Meatball came on. Zaniolo actually made a decent cameo, the ref gave him a ridiculous yellow especially when barely a few minutes later one of their players swatted Watkins across the face and he escaped punishment.

The cheek of their lad who was sent-off. He (and everyone else) assumed that the ref had forgotten that he'd already been booked.

Konsa looked ropey again, he needs to get his head back on for Sunday. We should be ok next week with Carlos/Pau covering for him. 

Fair play to those who went. Utterly forgettable game to travel for. If you don't drink, I hope there are some tulips in bloom to make it worthwhile.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: garyellis on March 07, 2024, 07:49:45 PM
It’s the last 16 and an away match first
All that counts is the result over two legs not the entertainment factor
We are on track.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 07, 2024, 07:49:48 PM
Quite staggeringly poor refereeing performance tonight. Can't remember the last time I saw one that bad.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: The Man With A Stick on March 07, 2024, 07:50:54 PM
Worst ref since Celta Vigo.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on March 07, 2024, 07:52:42 PM
Satisfied with the draw in the end, even if the sending off marred it. That ref was truly terrible. The Zaniolo booking made no sense whatsoever.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: steamer on March 07, 2024, 07:53:48 PM
Pretty crap really
We defiantly need the injured guys back for next years squad.
the youngsters are still work in progress.
Ajax were also crap, mainly youngsters + the Gay rights advocate who was also rubbish, banged on for the Euros then.
Not sure why some think that going back to VP 0-0 is OK.
They were poor and could have been beaten.
Next week they get a streaky goal and we could be out.
Anyway Sunday the big one.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on March 07, 2024, 07:55:05 PM
Olympiakos got humped at home so it's unlikely we'll be facing Greeks in Greece if we get there ourselves.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Meanwood Villa on March 07, 2024, 07:55:07 PM
Pleased not to have lost and can't complain with away draw in a European tie. Was a shit watch though.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 07, 2024, 07:55:17 PM
Talking about fucking Arsenal.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Gareth on March 07, 2024, 07:56:25 PM
That referee…wow! I don’t think the Ajax lad realised he had the first booking, he just waved it at him while he was bent over Digne!

Solid not spectacular…worrying that Torres was hooked again, hope it was planned not another injury.

Tim did ok until that last ball before he came off, Rogers was pretty anonymous. 

Missed Kamara….he does do much work helping the defence
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: frank black on March 07, 2024, 07:56:57 PM
Defended well, not really out of second gear, minutes shared out amongst the squad. Hopefully they’ll be fresh for the big match on Sunday.

Never looked like conceding
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: coreyfeldman on March 07, 2024, 07:57:22 PM
Zani got booked for nothing then Watkins got punched in the head and wasn't even a free kick. Thought the ref was totally in an appeasing the home crowd type mood

Not many performances tonight, we looked very reserved
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on March 07, 2024, 07:58:38 PM
Ref lost all control in the second half. Mad 5 or 10 minutes, three crazy decisions went against us. Zaniolo yellow for nothing, their guy not getting a second yellow for a forearm smash on Watkins and Konsa getting a second yellow for the forward pulling him down. At least their idiot right back got a second yellow nearly straight away to even it up. McGinn finishing at RCB was interesting and not in a good way. Ajax were spirited but very limited. Their LCB looks a fine player but that aside they had nothing.

For us, obviously the team selection showed where the priorities are and no surprise it was reflected in a performance that lacked intensity and ambition. Worse for us really, is bar Lenglet to a degree, none of the fringe players made any kind of impression. Rogers and Iroegbunam were lost and neither Diaby or Tielemans made any kind of impact. Konsa was awful at right back but much better in centre. Martinez played sweeper keeper role well too.

With the subs, Moreno looked like he was in the coffee shops earlier in the afternoon. Rest were fine.

Martinez 7, Konsa 5, Lenglet 6, Torres 6 (Cash 6), Digne 6 (Moreno 4), Luiz 6, Iroegbunam 4 (Zaniolo 6), Diaby 5 (Bailey 6), Rogers 4 (McGinn 6), Tielemans 5, Watkins 5.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Stu82 on March 07, 2024, 07:59:02 PM
Worst ref since Celta Vigo.

Exactly what I thought, the Swiss lunatic.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: mrfuse on March 07, 2024, 07:59:18 PM
Not sure why some think that going back to VP 0-0 is OK.

Because we put out a weakened team. A clean sheet and a draw in an away leg at this stage in Europe is a good result.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Baldy on March 07, 2024, 08:00:35 PM
Never had to get out of 2nd gear and kept a clean sheet.

Just what Unai ordered before Spuds and the second leg.

Boring but professional.

Onwards and upwards.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 07, 2024, 08:01:52 PM
God that was boring and I’m absolutely OK with it. Lets see it out next week.

Same here, you know it's a dull game when the accountancy notes discussion is the highlight of the match thread.

Now that away goals don't count, 0-0 is fine.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on March 07, 2024, 08:02:53 PM
It was a classic European away performance really, only lacking a sneaky away goal.  It's difficult to compare to domestic games, so I won't try.  We will beat them at Villa Park I'm sure. 

Now, about that Torres substitution...  He IS ok isn't he?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Stu on March 07, 2024, 08:03:13 PM
Albanian referees can shit off.

Norman Wisdom would have done better.

Niche
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: charlatan on March 07, 2024, 08:03:26 PM
Thought the ref was OK except for the Zaniolo booking. At least he wasn't a bottler trying to find reasons not to send people off like most referees.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: andyh on March 07, 2024, 08:04:38 PM
Decent result.
Shit performance.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on March 07, 2024, 08:05:20 PM
Ref aside we have a strange approach in these away European ties. We’ve consistently looked stodgy and one paced, which is very different to how we are domestically. Still 0-0 away isn’t the worst, as long as Pau isn’t injured.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on March 07, 2024, 08:06:04 PM
SUE never moans about the refs . The presenter was trying but SUE ' everyone makes mistakes'

Class.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Risso on March 07, 2024, 08:06:13 PM
Who is this fucking moron interviewing Unai? He's absolutely dismal.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Bad English on March 07, 2024, 08:06:33 PM
Not sure why some think that going back to VP 0-0 is OK.

The stats show that most teams that draw 0-0 away end up progressing.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Gareth on March 07, 2024, 08:06:35 PM
Torres was planned not injured :-)
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on March 07, 2024, 08:07:08 PM
Pau not injured what a relief
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: charlatan on March 07, 2024, 08:07:17 PM
Ref aside we have a strange approach in these away European ties. We’ve consistently looked stodgy and one paced, which is very different to how we are domestically. Still 0-0 away isn’t the worst, as long as Pau isn’t injured.
Conserving energy?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on March 07, 2024, 08:07:20 PM
Torres was planned not injured :-)

Hallelujah.  It's been a good, if not great, night then.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: mrfuse on March 07, 2024, 08:07:22 PM
Torres was planned not injured :-)

Yes just heard that thank goodness.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on March 07, 2024, 08:07:39 PM
Pau was planned .
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on March 07, 2024, 08:07:52 PM
Thank goodness for that.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: frank black on March 07, 2024, 08:09:14 PM
Who is this fucking moron interviewing Unai? He's absolutely dismal.

I thought he was nervous but did a good job
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: London Villan on March 07, 2024, 08:10:17 PM
Ref aside we have a strange approach in these away European ties. We’ve consistently looked stodgy and one paced, which is very different to how we are domestically. Still 0-0 away isn’t the worst, as long as Pau isn’t injured.

All part of the plan in cup competitions - same as the FA and League Cup.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Olneythelonely on March 07, 2024, 08:10:25 PM
Not one for the neutrals. Or Ajax and Villa fans to be fair. A decent result.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 07, 2024, 08:11:46 PM
Not sure why some think that going back to VP 0-0 is OK.

The stats show that most teams that draw 0-0 away end up progressing.

Yes.

That was a classic European away performance. Minimal drama and don’t lose, then bring the tie home.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: frank black on March 07, 2024, 08:12:08 PM
Not sure why some think that going back to VP 0-0 is OK.

Because we put out a weakened team. A clean sheet and a draw in an away leg at this stage in Europe is a good result.

Also Sunday is vital and we are favourites to get through this tie now.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Stu on March 07, 2024, 08:12:14 PM
That was such a bad game! Villa played with no intensity at all and Ajax seemed to be playing at full throttle but didn’t offer any real threat. I think we’ll get the low block treatment at VP and need to smash them asap in the first half.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: nigel on March 07, 2024, 08:13:30 PM
For those who were there, was the stadium as impressive as it looked on the TV?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on March 07, 2024, 08:13:57 PM
Have to applaud ajax youngsters they did very well.  We need to be a lot better at villa park thats for sure
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: passport1 on March 07, 2024, 08:15:13 PM
Still all to play for. Roll on next Thursday. Onwards and upwards.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: nigel on March 07, 2024, 08:15:18 PM
Have to applaud ajax youngsters they did very well.  We need to be a lot better at villa park thats for sure

I thought that, too. I can see why they needed Henderson
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: usav on March 07, 2024, 08:23:07 PM
Have to applaud ajax youngsters they did very well.  We need to be a lot better at villa park thats for sure

I thought that, too. I can see why they needed Henderson

Yep and I know he gets a lot of stick, but I don't mind him and thought he played well today.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: manic-road on March 07, 2024, 08:26:37 PM
Not a bad result considering the below average performance, looking forward to the return and hopefully it will be a lot better than tonught.

Happy to hear Emery say the Torres sub was planned, he also acknowledged we were poor.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on March 07, 2024, 08:30:40 PM
The game barely justified a yellow for either side.
The worst European referee since Dieter Schoch at the Hawthorns.
Impressive defensive performance for them from Roger Thornhill.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: steamer on March 07, 2024, 08:31:52 PM
Not sure why some think that going back to VP 0-0 is OK.

The stats show that most teams that draw 0-0 away end up progressing.
All of this logic I fully understand and against a stronger team than Ajax would be very happy with
But they were poor and if we showed a bit more ambition we could have won. Taking away any nerves or trepidation for the second leg.
Sunday is big, and when we win 3.0 on thursday my thoughts will be irrelevant .
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: john2710 on March 07, 2024, 08:31:53 PM
Emery will have seen performances like that on multiple occasions. Don't lose, don't get injured, don't exert much effort & give some game time to fringe players. Other than a late winner that was exactly what he would have asked for.

Bizarre referee, so many yellows for nothing & the the forearm on Watkins, which was the only challenge worthy of a yellow card, wasn't even given as a foul. Hope we don't get him next week.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithe on March 07, 2024, 08:31:55 PM
I'd have taken that before the game so all good, thought we were slightly the more likely to score as the game went into its latter stages and they ran out of puff.

I cant remember their keeper making a save, and Emi only made one. Shite game.

Fuck me that ref was shit, a load of undeserved cards, he really was completely out of his depth, we get better on a Saturday morning in the Central Warks.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Meanwood Villa on March 07, 2024, 08:34:04 PM
Pau was planned .

Is it just me who thinks planning to take someone off at HT is a bit odd?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: bilsim on March 07, 2024, 08:38:57 PM
Pau was planned .

Is it just me who thinks planning to take someone off at HT is a bit odd?

I think the first 45 was more about giving Torres and Lenglet a bit of time together before Sunday. That's certainly what I was anticipating before the team was announced.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: jon collett on March 07, 2024, 08:40:43 PM
Pau was planned .

Is it just me who thinks planning to take someone off at HT is a bit odd?

Me too! And I fear adding the tactical bit is too much information!
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: usav on March 07, 2024, 08:42:53 PM
Is there an appeal process for us to follow with Konsa?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: usav on March 07, 2024, 08:44:22 PM
Pau was planned .

Is it just me who thinks planning to take someone off at HT is a bit odd?

Me too! And I fear adding the tactical bit is too much information!

That is less risky than not starting with him and then bringing him on later - at that point you have already subbed out his potential replacement if he were to get hurt.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on March 07, 2024, 08:44:48 PM
Is there an appeal process for us to follow with Konsa?

Never is with two yellows as far as I know.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on March 07, 2024, 08:45:57 PM
Pau was planned .

Is it just me who thinks planning to take someone off at HT is a bit odd?

I think the first 45 was more about giving Torres and Lenglet a bit of time together before Sunday. That's certainly what I was anticipating before the team was announced.

I never want to see Konsa at RB again.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on March 07, 2024, 08:46:35 PM
Is there an appeal process for us to follow with Konsa?

I cant see it being reversed tbh. The forst yellow was silly by ezri handballing it when ref didnt gove a foul. 2nd looked a foul so i cant see how we have grounds on it. Harsh but just cant see them reversing. Thought the hato one was more harsh
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on March 07, 2024, 08:47:09 PM
Not sure why some think that going back to VP 0-0 is OK.

The stats show that most teams that draw 0-0 away end up progressing.

Yes.

That was a classic European away performance. Minimal drama and don’t lose, then bring the tie home.

We didn't perform at all! Minimal drama...did you miss the last 10 minutes??
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: jon collett on March 07, 2024, 08:47:15 PM
Pau was planned .

Is it just me who thinks planning to take someone off at HT is a bit odd?

Me too! And I fear adding the tactical bit is too much information!

That is less risky than not starting with him and then bringing him on later - at that point you have already subbed out his potential replacement if he were to get hurt.

I get that but when people tell white lies they over elaborate. Why not just say it was planned?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Nev on March 07, 2024, 08:47:22 PM
I noticed Doug take a free kick instead of Pau and it struck me that we were protecting him somewhat so his withdrawal didn't come as too much of a surprise.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: enigma on March 07, 2024, 09:33:54 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on March 07, 2024, 09:34:58 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?

Out of their depth really
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Meanwood Villa on March 07, 2024, 09:35:55 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?

Out of their depth really

Agreed but no one played well really
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: steamer on March 07, 2024, 09:36:21 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?

Out of their depth really
Kind view
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on March 07, 2024, 09:36:31 PM
High(?)lights

https://www.tntsports.co.uk/football/uefa-europa-conference-league/2023-2024/ajax-v-aston-villa-europa-conference-league-highlights-as-both-teams-have-player-sent-off-in-draw_vid2099338/video.shtml

Konsa Red

(With added football commentator being a twat.)

https://www.tntsports.co.uk/football/uefa-europa-conference-league/2023-2024/ezri-konsa-sees-red-late-on-for-aston-villa-after-getting-into-an-almighty-tangle-with-chuba-akpom_vid2099325/video.shtml

Lucy Ward does decent, the man was atrocious. Wonder what Barton thought?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Brend'Watkins on March 07, 2024, 09:37:05 PM
Got a result that suggests we’ll put some effort into the return fixture.  We weren’t ourselves is s much as I can say in our defence for being mainly poor or average at best. Ajax (now) are really shit, we should have battered them out of sight and made the return leg a formality. Villa never do such things. Okay, it’s minutes for Rogers and Tim….Early days I know but they didn’t do anything to suggest they’re adequate replacements at this time.

However, yet again a shit ref. Nearly as bad as Oliver last weekend.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Ian. on March 07, 2024, 09:49:36 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?

Out of their depth really

Harsh as quite a few of the usual first 11 were way off the pace too. We didn’t really get into gear, which is pretty much the way we’ve played every game in this tournament.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Gareth on March 07, 2024, 09:51:09 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?

Out of their depth really

I would disagree, Iroegbunam was fine until the last pass before he went down with cramp, was no worse than any of the other midfielders who let’s not forget are internationals - Rogers was v quiet though.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on March 07, 2024, 09:55:19 PM
I thought Tim and Rogers were both ok. Bronte is just being Bronte.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: dorsetvillian on March 07, 2024, 09:55:32 PM
A very odd performance from Villa with almost no one playing any where near the levels needed. However Ajax didn't trouble us really. Hopefully we get the job done next week. Decent trip so far and looking forward to seeing more of Amsterdam tomorrow.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pablo_picasso on March 07, 2024, 09:56:35 PM
The problem with Iroegbunam & Douglas Luiz, along with a few others too, was that the whole midfield was so congested. There was very little space for any of them to do anything. Iroegbunam made a few passes, lost the ball a few times but he played no worse than any other player on the pitch. Rogers was the same. Every time he got the ball, he was surrounded.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on March 07, 2024, 09:58:52 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?

Out of their depth really

Agreed but no one played well really

True...but in terms of them being ready to step up for regular PL minutes, they both seem miles off it. The team was poor tonight but as Emery made clear a few weeks ago, when Tim gets his chance he needs to take it. He didnt tonight. I know loads of players have been written off on here after a game or two...but Im really struggling to see what Emery does in Rogers. Needs a hard pre season for starters anyway as his fitness levels and conditioning are nowhere near what's required.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: VillaTim on March 07, 2024, 10:00:59 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?
Floundered. The game has passed them both by.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 07, 2024, 10:03:17 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?

Out of their depth really

Yeah, I agree, but then again, it's a tough ask to make your first start somewhere like that in a match like this. They both struggled to impose themselves, and Tim's passing was loose (although he was far from the only one).

Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on March 07, 2024, 10:03:27 PM
Pau was planned .

If he hadnt mentioned it after the game, we would all ne having a sleepless night tonight thinking hes out for the season :)

Is it just me who thinks planning to take someone off at HT is a bit odd?

Me too! And I fear adding the tactical bit is too much information!


If he hadnt mentioned it after the game, we would all ne having a sleepless night tonight thinking hes out for the season :)
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 07, 2024, 10:03:51 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?

Out of their depth really

Agreed but no one played well really

Martinez played very well.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: VillaTim on March 07, 2024, 10:07:35 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?

Out of their depth really

Agreed but no one played well really

Martinez played very well.
another world class save tonight.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on March 07, 2024, 10:10:32 PM
I honestly don't know what some fans expected from a young defensive midfielder and a player who's only played Championship football up to now away from home in Europe in front of a 55k sell out crowd. They wasn't great but they most definatley wasn't out of their depth neither.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 07, 2024, 10:12:08 PM
I honestly don't know what some fans expected from a young defensive midfielder and a player who's only played Championship football up to now away from home in Europe in front of a 55k sell out crowd. They wasn't great but they most definatley wasn't out of their depth neither.

With respect, I disagree.

They looked out of their depth for precisely the reason you yourself just mentioned.

What I expect from players in that position is exactly what we saw, they struggled.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on March 07, 2024, 10:15:51 PM
I wouldn't say they struggled. They did ok, nothing more. The experience of playing in a game and atmosphere like that will have done them the world of good.

They were better than that fucking ref though.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on March 07, 2024, 10:17:14 PM
I honestly don't know what some fans expected from a young defensive midfielder and a player who's only played Championship football up to now away from home in Europe in front of a 55k sell out crowd. They wasn't great but they most definatley wasn't out of their depth neither.

With respect, I disagree.

They looked out of their depth for precisely the reason you yourself just mentioned.

What I expect from players in that position is exactly what we saw, they struggled.
With respect I don’t agree. We manged the game.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: 85kota on March 07, 2024, 10:18:43 PM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Meanwood Villa on March 07, 2024, 10:21:24 PM
Couldn't watch the game tonight. How did Rogers and Irroegbunam do?

Out of their depth really

Agreed but no one played well really

Martinez played very well.
another world class save tonight.

Fair point. I take it for granted at this point tbh
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 07, 2024, 10:22:54 PM
I honestly don't know what some fans expected from a young defensive midfielder and a player who's only played Championship football up to now away from home in Europe in front of a 55k sell out crowd. They wasn't great but they most definatley wasn't out of their depth neither.

With respect, I disagree.

They looked out of their depth for precisely the reason you yourself just mentioned.

What I expect from players in that position is exactly what we saw, they struggled.
With respect I don’t agree. We manged the game.

I didn't say we didn't manage the game, I was talking about the point made about Tim and Rogers.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on March 07, 2024, 10:24:17 PM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

Yep disgraceful that Villa fans sang songs and went out. They should have just got to the hotel, only gone out to get their tickets then gone back to the hotel until an hour before kick off. Then sat meekly in the seats until fulltime. Bloody villa, giving football fans a bad name.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 07, 2024, 10:25:46 PM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

Oooh! You're SO controversial!
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: 85kota on March 07, 2024, 10:26:05 PM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

Yep disgraceful that Villa fans sang songs and went out. They should have just got to the hotel, only gone out to get their tickets then gone back to the hotel until an hour before kick off. Then sat meekly in the seats until fulltime. Bloody villa, giving football fans a bad name.

Distasteful, not disgraceful.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Risso on March 07, 2024, 10:29:11 PM
They wasn't great but they most definatley wasn't out of their depth neither.

Has Footy stolen your log in this evening?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: rob_bridge on March 07, 2024, 10:29:55 PM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

Yeah it's well put of order away fans enjoying themselves.

Any trouble. Any arrests? From such disturbing scenes.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: jon collett on March 07, 2024, 10:31:43 PM
Pau was planned .

If he hadnt mentioned it after the game, we would all ne having a sleepless night tonight thinking hes out for the season :)

Is it just me who thinks planning to take someone off at HT is a bit odd?

Me too! And I fear adding the tactical bit is too much information!


If he hadnt mentioned it after the game, we would all ne having a sleepless night tonight thinking hes out for the season :)


If it was planned to take him off why not just leave it at that? Why say we were seeing if he could last 90 and it was a tactical change.

Too much information on this one!
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on March 07, 2024, 10:31:59 PM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

Yep disgraceful that Villa fans sang songs and went out. They should have just got to the hotel, only gone out to get their tickets then gone back to the hotel until an hour before kick off. Then sat meekly in the seats until fulltime. Bloody villa, giving football fans a bad name.

Distasteful, not disgraceful.
Point still stands whatever word you want to use. Villa (and pretty much every other team) have flags they take to away games. From all the pictures I have seen It was railings at the side of the canal, not a bridge. But it also wasn't Anne Franks house or some other historical buidling or bridge so why be so hoity toity?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on March 07, 2024, 10:34:13 PM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

Yeah it's well put of order away fans enjoying themselves.

Any trouble. Any arrests? From such disturbing scenes.

Not by us it seems.

https://twitter.com/HooligansTV_eu/status/1765830567264760280

Hope the two were ok. The kid seemed to be punched from both sides at once at one point.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Brend'Watkins on March 07, 2024, 10:42:16 PM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

You’re a point off the bottom 3 and you’re thinking about flags on bridges?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: rob_bridge on March 07, 2024, 10:46:22 PM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

You’re a point off the bottom 3 and you’re thinking about flags on bridges?

Oh is another Flinstone
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: tomd2103 on March 07, 2024, 10:53:31 PM
I honestly don't know what some fans expected from a young defensive midfielder and a player who's only played Championship football up to now away from home in Europe in front of a 55k sell out crowd. They wasn't great but they most definatley wasn't out of their depth neither.

Thought Rogers' performance was pretty much the same as his other ones so far, some promise and some bright moments on the ball.   Thought Irroegbunam had a poor game though on a night that was a big chance for him.  Looked a bit out of his depth unfortunately.

The 18 year old who played left centre-back for them.looked a very good player.  Kept Diaby and Bailey very quiet. 
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: The Edge on March 07, 2024, 10:54:52 PM
I wouldn't say they struggled. They did ok, nothing more. The experience of playing in a game and atmosphere like that will have done them the world of good.

They were better than that fucking ref though.
They were both targeted in the first half. I thought Tim came out better. I thought he had a solid second half. Rogers is a talent but not really ready for a game like this. All in all they both get a pass from me. Tim dealt with the situation better and grew into the game. Rogers showed glimpses of real talent. This game will prove invaluable to both of them in in the long term. Once again Unai called it spot on. Oh and the referee was a absolute twonk.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Lizz on March 07, 2024, 11:10:37 PM
I thought Emi didn't have too much to do, but when he had to do something, he was extremely alert.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: andyh on March 07, 2024, 11:45:11 PM
Ajax’s young, unexperienced youngsters were much better than our young, inexperienced youngsters.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Paul.S on March 07, 2024, 11:49:48 PM
Great atmosphere and a performance that could’ve been better but we got a draw which is never bad away in Europe.
A decent few days, well Policed by the Dutch and met some Ajax fans who were overjoyed with a draw.
Back home tomorrow and I think we’ll go through next week but it will not be easy.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on March 08, 2024, 12:04:14 AM
Ajax’s young, unexperienced youngsters were much better than our young, inexperienced youngsters.
FTFY

Kaplan in their centre three has probably the same amount of first team starts as Tim/Rogers. The rest have played multiple matches in the first team even at their ages. It might be why Ajax are not as good due to having youth but no the stars they used to uncover at those ages.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Stu on March 08, 2024, 12:05:39 AM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

"footie"
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on March 08, 2024, 12:26:26 AM
Ref aside we have a strange approach in these away European ties. We’ve consistently looked stodgy and one paced, which is very different to how we are domestically. Still 0-0 away isn’t the worst, as long as Pau isn’t injured.

All part of the plan in cup competitions - same as the FA and League Cup.
Indeed
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: tomd2103 on March 08, 2024, 12:27:00 AM
Ajax’s young, unexperienced youngsters were much better than our young, inexperienced youngsters.
FTFY

Kaplan in their centre three has probably the same amount of first team starts as Tim/Rogers. The rest have played multiple matches in the first team even at their ages. It might be why Ajax are not as good due to having youth but no the stars they used to uncover at those ages.

Said above, but I was impressed with the lad at LCB.  Think they said commentary that he is only 18, but has already made 50 appearances.  Might have been the Dutch connection, but he reminded me a bit of Freddie Bouma.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: LukeJames on March 08, 2024, 12:28:28 AM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!
Some people's hobbies baffle me, I genuinly don't get this whole writing bollocks for reactions trend.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on March 08, 2024, 12:35:50 AM
Was so looking forward to us playing Ajax off the park as we are clearly capable of.
Instead started with an “almost but not best” eleven.
And we never got out 2nd and had to rely on Emi with a few good saves.
Still not convinced the powers that be care about Cups.

I will be looking forward to next Thursday - hoping they do want us to progress. 
Ticket prices at VP suggest……..maybe otherwise.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Small Rodent on March 08, 2024, 12:36:20 AM
I think we’ve played crap in all our Euro games except for the Alkmaar thrashing.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on March 08, 2024, 12:57:47 AM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!
The end of a knob.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: AV82EC on March 08, 2024, 04:45:49 AM
These early flights after Euro aways can fuck right off.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Axl Rose on March 08, 2024, 05:50:38 AM
These early flights after Euro aways can fuck right off.

Enjoy mate! Would have loved to have been there in Amsterdam.

Have tentatively checked Tokyo-Athens flights!!

Up the Villa
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: AV82EC on March 08, 2024, 05:55:28 AM
These early flights after Euro aways can fuck right off.

Enjoy mate! Would have loved to have been there in Amsterdam.

Have tentatively checked Tokyo-Athens flights!!

Up the Villa

I’m quite envious of those who’ve gone for the pricier later flights but have the luxury of a lie in. The bastards.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: steamer on March 08, 2024, 06:07:11 AM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!
your lot would struggle to spell burminghum on a flag
It is why so many of them stayed in Bruges to learn a foreign language.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: sid1964 on March 08, 2024, 07:39:18 AM
Looks as though there was trouble at the train station - a number of Ajax "fans" attacking a few Villa fans.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on March 08, 2024, 08:30:27 AM
Not sure why some think that going back to VP 0-0 is OK.

The stats show that most teams that draw 0-0 away end up progressing.

Yes.

That was a classic European away performance. Minimal drama and don’t lose, then bring the tie home.

We didn't perform at all! Minimal drama...did you miss the last 10 minutes??

Home team attack the away side in the later stages of the game. Whatever will come of it.

Would you have preferred a smiliar result to the one Brighton got?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Nev on March 08, 2024, 08:39:54 AM
Having read the Guardian report, which was pretty accurate, I just wonder how our performance would be framed had it been Liverpool who were playing?

Our debutants were underwhelming in an ok showing, but you can imagine this would be "two of Klopps Kids stepping up again with maturity in a classic Liverpool away performance in Europe".

The important thing for Rogers and Tim was minutes and experience, I'm sure they will improve but they can't sitting on the bench.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: taylorsworkrate on March 08, 2024, 08:41:05 AM
Not sure why some think that going back to VP 0-0 is OK.

The stats show that most teams that draw 0-0 away end up progressing.

Yes.

That was a classic European away performance. Minimal drama and don’t lose, then bring the tie home.

We didn't perform at all! Minimal drama...did you miss the last 10 minutes??

Home team attack the away side in the later stages of the game. Whatever will come of it.

Would you have preferred a smiliar result to the one Brighton got?

They beat Ajax 2-0 away. So yes  ;)
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: The Edge on March 08, 2024, 08:57:24 AM
Ref aside we have a strange approach in these away European ties. We’ve consistently looked stodgy and one paced, which is very different to how we are domestically. Still 0-0 away isn’t the worst, as long as Pau isn’t injured.

All part of the plan in cup competitions - same as the FA and League Cup.
Indeed
He's not going to expect an all guns blazing hell for leather performance when we have a massive game coming up with only two rest days. It was as controlled a performance as I would expect from El Maestro. Three of our major players only played half a game and two youngsters got some valuable game time in a high pressure environment. All in all he got it spot on.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on March 08, 2024, 09:08:23 AM
Ref aside we have a strange approach in these away European ties. We’ve consistently looked stodgy and one paced, which is very different to how we are domestically. Still 0-0 away isn’t the worst, as long as Pau isn’t injured.

All part of the plan in cup competitions - same as the FA and League Cup.
Indeed
He's not going to expect an all guns blazing hell for leather performance when we have a massive game coming up with only two rest days. It was as controlled a performance as I would expect from El Maestro. Three of our major players only played half a game and two youngsters got some valuable game time in a high pressure environment. All in all he got it spot on.

He did.  The performances from Rogers and Tim were as you'd expect - inexperienced and a bit lightweight.  As soon as McGinn came on we looked better - again exactly what you'd expect from a seasoned pro and our captain. 

That we have Torres, Konsa and Carlos all being fit for Sunday is a big bonus. 
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on March 08, 2024, 09:40:24 AM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

Yep disgraceful that Villa fans sang songs and went out. They should have just got to the hotel, only gone out to get their tickets then gone back to the hotel until an hour before kick off. Then sat meekly in the seats until fulltime. Bloody villa, giving football fans a bad name.

Distasteful, not disgraceful.

Original working title for The Cure's Disintegration album.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on March 08, 2024, 09:41:15 AM
I thought Emi didn't have too much to do, but when he had to do something, he was extremely alert.

His kicking was a bit krap.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Allan C on March 08, 2024, 09:54:39 AM
I wouldn't say they struggled. They did ok, nothing more. The experience of playing in a game and atmosphere like that will have done them the world of good.

They were better than that fucking ref though.
They were both targeted in the first half. I thought Tim came out better. I thought he had a solid second half. Rogers is a talent but not really ready for a game like this. All in all they both get a pass from me. Tim dealt with the situation better and grew into the game. Rogers showed glimpses of real talent. This game will prove invaluable to both of them in in the long term. Once again Unai called it spot on. Oh and the referee was a absolute twonk.
I agree with that. I thought Tim did ok but as you say, they were both targeted from the start. At one point Rodgers got the ball just in the area and had 4 players surrounding him. As for the sending off, I judge them by asking would I have called for it if it was for us. I think I probably would have
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on March 08, 2024, 10:16:17 AM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!
What did your lot do in Bruges?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: caster troy on March 08, 2024, 10:25:58 AM
I thought the gameplan was to keep as much in the tank as possible for Spurs while keeping us in the tie. We have a six pointer on Sunday, Emery will be hoping we get a result there and that the return leg will be easier than last night. 0-0 without any injuries while giving starts to a couple of youngsters seems like a pretty good outcome to me.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pablo_picasso on March 08, 2024, 10:29:14 AM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

Is that you Phil McNulty?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on March 08, 2024, 10:32:42 AM
The ref was trying to match Michael Oliver for ineptitude.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on March 08, 2024, 10:38:44 AM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

Is that you Phil McNulty?

"Send us the" Bill maybe?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pablo_picasso on March 08, 2024, 10:46:48 AM
Really distasteful scenes with all the flags draped over bridges in the city. Who gives a fuck with all the look at me bullshit? Get over yourselves, footie fans!

Is that you Phil McNulty?

"Send us the" Bill maybe?

These are such "dark days"...
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: OCD on March 08, 2024, 11:02:46 AM
The Ajax players doing a lap of honour was a bit much. They raised their game, and was probably the best they've played all season. They're not the same club that's won the European Cup 4 times.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Villan82 on March 08, 2024, 11:04:41 AM
I enjoyed it. Nice to see us playing there again and a reminder of how far we have come.
Hopefully we can get the job done in the return leg.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on March 08, 2024, 11:11:59 AM
I enjoyed it. Nice to see us playing there again and a reminder of how far we have come.
Hopefully we can get the job done in the return leg.

When did we last play in that Stadium? I thought we had only played Ajax once and that was at Villa Park.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Villan82 on March 08, 2024, 11:24:04 AM
I enjoyed it. Nice to see us playing there again and a reminder of how far we have come.
Hopefully we can get the job done in the return leg.

When did we last play in that Stadium? I thought we had only played Ajax once and that was at Villa Park.

Brain fart. Think I meant playing them again and on a stage like that
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on March 08, 2024, 11:34:37 AM
The ref was trying to match Michael Oliver for ineptitude.

Indeed.  I thought Konsa was fouled for both his bookings. 
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: The Edge on March 08, 2024, 11:42:02 AM
The ref was trying to match Michael Oliver for ineptitude.

Indeed.  I thought Konsa was fouled for both his bookings.
I totally agree. He should never have been given that game in the first place. I read that he has been a referee since 2018 and that was only his 17th professional game.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Brend'Watkins on March 08, 2024, 11:45:13 AM
The ref was trying to match Michael Oliver for ineptitude.

Indeed.  I thought Konsa was fouled for both his bookings. 

You get one really crap ref now and then and then sometimes two come along together. The one last night completely out of his depth. The Zaniolo foul and booking was utterly bewildering too. 
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on March 08, 2024, 12:32:40 PM
The ref was trying to match Michael Oliver for ineptitude.

Indeed.  I thought Konsa was fouled for both his bookings.

Don't have much sympathy for him for the first one. Jumping on the ball with both hands is a high risk strategy. Poor play to get caught on the ball like that in the first place. The second was a terrible decision. That's the trick a pub league striker might come up with to grab a flailing arm and pull it into you and fall over. Refs at this level shouldn't be getting conned like that.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on March 08, 2024, 12:35:15 PM
Any news on Pau substitution?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: simon ward 50 on March 08, 2024, 12:42:13 PM
Any news on Pau substitution?

Planned apparently!
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: tomd2103 on March 08, 2024, 01:23:13 PM
The ref was trying to match Michael Oliver for ineptitude.

Indeed.  I thought Konsa was fouled for both his bookings.

Don't have much sympathy for him for the first one. Jumping on the ball with both hands is a high risk strategy. Poor play to get caught on the ball like that in the first place. The second was a terrible decision. That's the trick a pub league striker might come up with to grab a flailing arm and pull it into you and fall over. Refs at this level shouldn't be getting conned like that.

He clearly wasn't at that level.  Plucked from the backwater of the Albanian league and was way out of his depth.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on March 08, 2024, 01:23:28 PM
I think we’ve played crap in all our Euro games except for the Alkmaar thrashing.

True and difficult to understand other than not wanting the players to spend too much energy. If we are to go on and win the competition we'll need to raise our game at some point but right now it's a plan that appears to be working.

Sunday is massive and a win will make last night all but forgotten. Shocking ref again which goes to show Albanian refs are just as poor as those in the PL.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Villa Lew on March 08, 2024, 01:24:07 PM
The Ajax players doing a lap of honour was a bit much. They raised their game, and was probably the best they've played all season. They're not the same club that's won the European Cup 4 times.

I think that says more about how we are now thought about in Europe, getting a draw against us, was probably the most their players expected.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Drummond on March 08, 2024, 01:48:21 PM
Job done.

Iroegbunam and Rogers getting starts in big games with big atmospheres is a positive. Both did fine in the overall context of the game.

Always accept a draw away from home. Players didn't need to exert themselves, so fit for Sunday and next Thursday.

Red card disappointing and a bit soft but Konsa is wily enough to know what he was doing there.

Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Risso on March 08, 2024, 01:59:58 PM
Agree with Drummond, I can't really see too many negatives, other than the fairly rotten standard of football on the night, but you get those now and again. We came through unscathed in terms of injuries, and got some minutes into Ireoegbunam and Rogers, plus Torres got some game time without hopefully exacerbating any remaining issues. I'd fully expect us to beat Ajax back at Villa Park.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on March 08, 2024, 02:21:28 PM
Does Konsa miss PL games for the red card?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Lastfootstamper on March 08, 2024, 02:24:32 PM
No
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: usav on March 08, 2024, 02:36:43 PM
Does Konsa miss PL games for the red card?

No and it was a second yellow not a straight red.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on March 08, 2024, 02:59:31 PM
Our Ajax taxi driver, and a  technician at the airport were delighted with a draw! And admitted it was a massive night for them playing Aston Villa!
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on March 08, 2024, 03:15:13 PM
Does Konsa miss PL games for the red card?

No and it was a second yellow not a straight red.

Wouldn't have mattered what way he got the red card, it wouldn't have an affect on League games. (or other domestic cup games we would have been in if we treated those seriously).
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Drummond on March 08, 2024, 03:28:04 PM
Our Ajax taxi driver, and a  technician at the airport were delighted with a draw! And admitted it was a massive night for them playing Aston Villa!

You know, this is part of what's wrong with modern football. A side like Ajax being over the moon to get a 0-0 draw, at home, against an Aston Villa side that have qualified for European football for the first time in 15 years after finishing 7th in the league.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on March 08, 2024, 03:35:19 PM
I thought you were going to say that's what's wrong with modern Dutch society - a man having to hold down two jobs just to earn an Amsterdam living.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: usav on March 08, 2024, 04:20:09 PM
Does Konsa miss PL games for the red card?

No and it was a second yellow not a straight red.

Wouldn't have mattered what way he got the red card, it wouldn't have an affect on League games. (or other domestic cup games we would have been in if we treated those seriously).

Note the use of "and", which I used because Tony asked about "games" as in multiple.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithe on March 08, 2024, 04:39:50 PM
Our Ajax taxi driver, and a  technician at the airport were delighted with a draw! And admitted it was a massive night for them playing Aston Villa!

You know, this is part of what's wrong with modern football. A side like Ajax being over the moon to get a 0-0 draw, at home, against an Aston Villa side that have qualified for European football for the first time in 15 years after finishing 7th in the league.

Yes the lap of honour was more than a bit undignified, it was all a bit 'Albion'.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on March 08, 2024, 04:53:16 PM
Does Konsa miss PL games for the red card?

No and it was a second yellow not a straight red.

Wouldn't have mattered what way he got the red card, it wouldn't have an affect on League games. (or other domestic cup games we would have been in if we treated those seriously).

Note the use of "and", which I used because Tony asked about "games" as in multiple.

Ok, just looked to me like the qualifier on why not missing PL games was because it wasn't a straight red, hence my post. Cleared up now.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: j66acd on March 08, 2024, 05:24:28 PM
How crap was the ball, noticed in quite a few games how difficult it is to control. Mad everyone playing look like a distant relative of Nigel Reo-Coker
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Paul.S on March 08, 2024, 05:54:58 PM
These early flights after Euro aways can fuck right off.

Enjoy mate! Would have loved to have been there in Amsterdam.

Have tentatively checked Tokyo-Athens flights!!

Up the Villa

I’m quite envious of those who’ve gone for the pricier later flights but have the luxury of a lie in. The bastards.
.

I’m one of those, got up at 11 this morning for a flight at 20:45.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Nii Lamptey on March 08, 2024, 06:31:53 PM
Few lads I know were on that ridiculously early flight - Don't envy you at all! I caught the 10:40 back to Bristol, so had time to grab some breakfast then take a leisurely journey back to the airport.

My first European away day. The actual football wasn't great, but the whole day spent with the Villa family along that canal was something special that will live with me forever.... And as I mentioned elsewhere about our stadium atmospheres being flat, THAT was how you do it last night. Ajax were class!
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 08, 2024, 06:57:22 PM
Few lads I know were on that ridiculously early flight - Don't envy you at all! I caught the 10:40 back to Bristol, so had time to grab some breakfast then take a leisurely journey back to the airport.

My first European away day. The actual football wasn't great, but the whole day spent with the Villa family along that canal was something special that will live with me forever.... And as I mentioned elsewhere about our stadium atmospheres being flat, THAT was how you do it last night. Ajax were class!

Said this before, but their fans were brilliant (in an 80s throwback way) at our place in 2008 too.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: pablo_picasso on March 08, 2024, 07:09:20 PM
Few lads I know were on that ridiculously early flight - Don't envy you at all! I caught the 10:40 back to Bristol, so had time to grab some breakfast then take a leisurely journey back to the airport.

My first European away day. The actual football wasn't great, but the whole day spent with the Villa family along that canal was something special that will live with me forever.... And as I mentioned elsewhere about our stadium atmospheres being flat, THAT was how you do it last night. Ajax were class!

Said this before, but their fans were brilliant (in an 80s throwback way) at our place in 2008 too.

Ajax are my favourite fans from my experience with some of them in 2008.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on March 08, 2024, 07:26:02 PM
How crap was the ball, noticed in quite a few games how difficult it is to control. Mad everyone playing look like a distant relative of Nigel Reo-Coker
I mentioned this in the match thread.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on March 08, 2024, 09:15:56 PM
Few lads I know were on that ridiculously early flight - Don't envy you at all! I caught the 10:40 back to Bristol, so had time to grab some breakfast then take a leisurely journey back to the airport.

My first European away day. The actual football wasn't great, but the whole day spent with the Villa family along that canal was something special that will live with me forever.... And as I mentioned elsewhere about our stadium atmospheres being flat, THAT was how you do it last night. Ajax were class!

Said this before, but their fans were brilliant (in an 80s throwback way) at our place in 2008 too.

Yeah but do they do it on a wet Tuesday night while their players underwhelm at home to Go Ahead Eagles or Fortuna Sittard or some shi'?
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: V1lla on March 08, 2024, 10:09:43 PM
Few lads I know were on that ridiculously early flight - Don't envy you at all! I caught the 10:40 back to Bristol, so had time to grab some breakfast then take a leisurely journey back to the airport.

My first European away day. The actual football wasn't great, but the whole day spent with the Villa family along that canal was something special that will live with me forever.... And as I mentioned elsewhere about our stadium atmospheres being flat, THAT was how you do it last night. Ajax were class!

0705 from Ams to LHR here. Ouch!  Was back at work at 11am UK time.

My first European away trip too, and loved it. Someone asked earlier whether the ground was as big as it looked on the telly. Yes, it felt huge.  And very, very noisy. Those fireworks! 
And THAT, Fulham fans, is how you use white flags! 

Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Dogtanian on March 09, 2024, 10:52:09 AM
I just want to express my thanks to stewards at the gate before the match.

I’d been walking all day, I was tired and aching - and they took the time to give me a sensual massage in the guise of a security frisk.

What a place!
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: V1lla on March 09, 2024, 04:18:51 PM
Kind of them to turn us around to avoid any embarrassing mid-rub eye contact too!  😂
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: dcdavecollett on March 09, 2024, 07:55:08 PM
The ref was truly hopeless and out of his depth.

This has led to a few comments about Prem refs not being so bad after all!

In fact, this ref was better than Oliver last weekend, as he gave batshit mental decisions against BOTH sides.
Title: Re: Ajax v Aston Villa Post-Match Thread
Post by: Dogtanian on March 09, 2024, 11:23:14 PM
Kind of them to turn us around to avoid any embarrassing mid-rub eye contact too!  😂

Lucky he did or I could have had his eye out!
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