Post by: olaftab on April 28, 2024, 04:27:35 PM
Date: Thursday 2 May 2024
Kick off: 20:00 BST, 22:00 Greece time.
So onwards on our relentless journey to conquer Europe again we welcome the great Olympiacos FC to Villa Park. 47 time Greek champions are currently 3rd in the League 5 points behind AEK. They are good but we should win this and hopefully with some margin.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 28, 2024, 04:28:39 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 28, 2024, 04:29:39 PM
Post by: London Villan on April 28, 2024, 04:29:42 PM
Our midfield is very short of (defensive) options. Might need something imaginative…
Post by: RamboandBruno on April 28, 2024, 04:54:18 PM
Other than Ajax, we’ve only won our home games by a single goal, might be the case again for a nervy 2nd leg.
2-1 (Watkins, Bailey)
Post by: LeeB on April 28, 2024, 04:57:06 PM
I know nothing about them, so in the dark really.
Other than Ajax, we’ve only won our home games by a single goal, might be the case again for a nervy 2nd leg.
2-1 (Watkins, Bailey)
I agree, I think we'll take a slim lead and will probably end up shitting ourselves for 120 mins in Greece before Emi takes over.
Post by: Demitri_C on April 28, 2024, 05:39:35 PM
They have two key players banned so hopwfully we see a much improved performance. This really is our best chance at a trophy we need to take this seriously
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 28, 2024, 06:03:09 PM
Post by: PhilVill on April 28, 2024, 08:46:19 PM
Post by: Tayls_7 on April 28, 2024, 09:11:38 PM
Its gonna be very hostile over in greece thats for sure so we need a healthy lead. However their form at home has been abit sketchy in this competition
They have two key players banned so hopwfully we see a much improved performance. This really is our best chance at a trophy we need to take this seriously
For this season I'd largely agree with that.
Post by: Demitri_C on April 28, 2024, 09:23:15 PM
They do have a ultra hooligan aspect like legia but are mostly ok with you if you dont go antagonist them and disrespect the country (something our fans havent done) so i dont think there will be any issues for any that are travelling to 2nd leg
As for the game itself, on paper this teams nit as good as lille but as we know it doesnt always work out that way in european competition. They are desperate to get to final as its in greece. I think the refs will baised towards them 2nd leg too so we have to stay calm and composed
Post by: darren woolley on April 28, 2024, 09:43:21 PM
Post by: VillaTim on April 28, 2024, 09:47:08 PM
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on April 28, 2024, 10:02:39 PM
Quote
In 1940, Fascist Italy invaded Greece, and several Olympiacos players joined the Hellenic Army to fight against the Axis invaders.... after the subsequent German occupation of Greece, Olympiacos players joined the Greek Resistance and fought fiercely against the Nazis. Olympiacos player Nikos Godas, an emblematic figure for the club, was captain of the Greek People's Liberation Army (ELAS) and fought against the Germans in many fronts. He was executed wearing Olympiacos shirt and shorts, as was his last wish: "Shoot me and kill me with my Olympiacos shirt on, and do not blindfold me, I want to see the colours of my team before the final shot."
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olympiacos_F.C.
Post by: PaulWinch again on April 28, 2024, 10:11:20 PM
Post by: Nev on April 29, 2024, 07:27:00 AM
2-1
Post by: Axl Rose on April 29, 2024, 08:12:41 AM
Post by: algy on April 29, 2024, 08:21:57 AM
This is it. Nice comfortable win please, Villa.
Post by: Vegas on April 29, 2024, 08:31:32 AM
Post by: AV82EC on April 29, 2024, 09:34:36 AM
Post by: VillaTim on April 29, 2024, 11:48:17 AM
Cash Konsa Torres Digne
--- Luiz -- McGinn -----
Bailey ----------- Rogers
--- Duran ---- Watkins --
Post by: Drummond on April 29, 2024, 11:50:55 AM
Post by: Ads on April 29, 2024, 11:52:37 AM
Post by: Legion on April 29, 2024, 11:55:44 AM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on April 29, 2024, 12:31:45 PM
We'll put a score on these.
A 4-0 home win would do me. I don't want us having to go there to defend a small lead, not that we can't but more for my health. They'll come to defend in numbers so we'll need to take every shooting opportunity we get. We have midfielders that can all hit a ball from outside the box, Thursday would be a great time to remind us of these special talents.
EDIT: A couple of these would do the trick. Both goals were their first for the club and there was me expecting these type of goals every week.
Post by: eamonn on April 29, 2024, 12:41:09 PM
QuoteIn 1940, Fascist Italy invaded Greece, and several Olympiacos players joined the Hellenic Army to fight against the Axis invaders.... after the subsequent German occupation of Greece, Olympiacos players joined the Greek Resistance and fought fiercely against the Nazis. Olympiacos player Nikos Godas, an emblematic figure for the club, was captain of the Greek People's Liberation Army (ELAS) and fought against the Germans in many fronts. He was executed wearing Olympiacos shirt and shorts, as was his last wish: "Shoot me and kill me with my Olympiacos shirt on, and do not blindfold me, I want to see the colours of my team before the final shot."
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olympiacos_F.C.
Cor, I can't see Prince Willy doing any of that.
Post by: tomd2103 on April 29, 2024, 01:05:30 PM
No idea what sort of line-up we’ll go with…
Our midfield is very short of (defensive) options. Might need something imaginative…
I imagine it will be Bailey on the right, McGinn and Luiz in central midfield, with Rogers on the left. Decent enough if they are fit and firing, but we will have very few options on the bench now.
Post by: Richard E on April 29, 2024, 01:22:34 PM
We'll put a score on these.
Yeah, I think we might, too.
Post by: Smirker on April 29, 2024, 01:42:44 PM
4-1 Villa.
FTF 8)
Post by: brontebilly on April 29, 2024, 02:31:02 PM
No idea what sort of line-up we’ll go with…
Our midfield is very short of (defensive) options. Might need something imaginative…
I imagine it will be Bailey on the right, McGinn and Luiz in central midfield, with Rogers on the left. Decent enough if they are fit and firing, but we will have very few options on the bench now.
I'd prefer Rogers centre and Diaby on the left wing.
Is Zaniolo definitely out?
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 29, 2024, 02:32:30 PM
We'll blow them away in the first half.
4-1 Villa.
FTF 8)
Hope you're right, it would be nice not to have an eye on the second leg as we face into Brighton.
Post by: Hookeysmith on April 29, 2024, 03:45:09 PM
Really hope they can continue to surprise us with their determination
UTV
Post by: Demitri_C on April 29, 2024, 03:53:05 PM
We may now need to throw them in deep end with minimal experience
Post by: Somniloquism on April 29, 2024, 04:03:20 PM
Is Zaniolo definitely out?
No idea but he hasn't played since his injury in the second Lille match and normally Emery mentions their closeness to availability in the weekend matches in his press conferences, yet just instantly ruled out Moreno and Zani.
Post by: Risso on April 29, 2024, 04:19:35 PM
This is why i wish we gave abit more game time to some of the kids in case this scenario. Kesler has played what 10 mins at most and i think kellyman less
We may now need to throw them in deep end with minimal experience
We've got a maximum of 6 games left. Without wishing to anger the already clearly miffed gods of Premier League squad fitness, the one position we've got good cover in is defence. It's going to take both Cash and Konsa being injured at the same time for us to need to throw Kesler in there.
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 29, 2024, 04:44:20 PM
This is why i wish we gave abit more game time to some of the kids in case this scenario. Kesler has played what 10 mins at most and i think kellyman less
We may now need to throw them in deep end with minimal experience
We've got a maximum of 6 games left. Without wishing to anger the already clearly miffed gods of Premier League squad fitness, the one position we've got good cover in is defence. It's going to take both Cash and Konsa being injured at the same time for us to need to throw Kesler in there.
cue them running into each other in training this week. Nice work...
Post by: Cliftonville Villlain on April 29, 2024, 04:54:01 PM
Post by: Villafirst on April 29, 2024, 06:07:25 PM
This game will be tough with so many injuries now, especially no Martinez. A nervy 2-1 to Villa.......
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 29, 2024, 08:24:46 PM
Olsen
Cash, Carlos, Lenglet, Pau
Diaby, Luiz, Iroegbunam, McGinn
Duran, Watkins
Something like this with Bailey ,Konsa and Digne rested.
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 29, 2024, 08:25:56 PM
Just have a feeling Olsen gets injured and Gaucci comes on for his debut!
Post by: VillaTim on April 29, 2024, 08:26:53 PM
I wonder if Carlos and Lenglet will play as centre backs with Pau left sideNo Rogers ?
Olsen
Cash, Carlos, Lenglet, Pau
Diaby, Luiz, Iroegbunam, McGinn
Duran, Watkins
Something like this with Bailey ,Konsa and Digne rested.
Post by: Demitri_C on April 29, 2024, 09:01:49 PM
Post by: eamonn on April 29, 2024, 09:16:01 PM
Post by: RamboandBruno on April 29, 2024, 09:22:49 PM
I wonder if Carlos and Lenglet will play as centre backs with Pau left sideWhy would we rest players in the clubs first European semi final in 42 years
Olsen
Cash, Carlos, Lenglet, Pau
Diaby, Luiz, Iroegbunam, McGinn
Duran, Watkins
Something like this with Bailey ,Konsa and Digne rested.
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 29, 2024, 09:24:51 PM
I just hope dream of champion league 4th place and that Europa trophy happens
Up The Villa.
Post by: Steve67 on April 29, 2024, 09:25:14 PM
I wonder if Carlos and Lenglet will play as centre backs with Pau left side
Olsen
Cash, Carlos, Lenglet, Pau
Diaby, Luiz, Iroegbunam, McGinn
Duran, Watkins
Something like this with Bailey ,Konsa and Digne rested.
You DO NOT rest players in a semi-final. Pick the strongest team we have available.
Post by: Steve67 on April 29, 2024, 09:25:51 PM
I don't want to write or discuss anymore here.
I just hope dream of champion league 4th place and that Europa trophy happens
Up The Villa.
are you taking another break?
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on April 29, 2024, 09:50:00 PM
Interestingly the 12 person boxes in the Holte are only about two grand, which is not as much as I thought it would be. Might book a few of those next season as can write it off as entertaining. No chance for this game though, my naughty American customer is a month late with a £300k bill and things are tight.
Think evebn with Olsen in goal we win this comfortably 4-1 Watkins, Rogers, McGinn and Duran.
Post by: aj2k77 on April 29, 2024, 10:58:59 PM
Post by: DrGonzo on April 29, 2024, 10:59:54 PM
Post by: TopDeck113 on April 30, 2024, 06:29:28 AM
Post by: Villafirst on April 30, 2024, 06:46:38 AM
Post by: SamTheMouse on April 30, 2024, 06:58:34 AM
It's going to be tough and may not be pretty, but I'm hopeful we can sneak a narrow win. Suspect it'll be like Lille again.
Post by: Axl Rose on April 30, 2024, 08:03:46 AM
Watch bloody Daniel Podence go and score for them! That would delight the Dogheads! This isn't going to be easy at all.
Fortunately for us, Daniel Podence or no Daniel Podence, Olympiakos are nowhere near as good as Lille.
I think we've already beaten the best opposition in the competition.
Post by: London Villan on April 30, 2024, 08:25:42 AM
Post by: PaulTheVillan on April 30, 2024, 08:38:05 AM
Get the advantage in and half a foot in the final.
Post by: Jon Crofts on April 30, 2024, 09:07:08 AM
3-1.
Post by: Drummond on April 30, 2024, 09:25:23 AM
Post by: olaftab on April 30, 2024, 09:30:56 AM
But from Villafirst's post it's obvious that we have not exorcised our inner demons.Watch bloody Daniel Podence go and score for them! That would delight the Dogheads! This isn't going to be easy at all.Fortunately for us, Daniel Podence or no Daniel Podence, Olympiakos are nowhere near as good as Lille.
I think we've already beaten the best opposition in the competition.
Post by: rob_bridge on April 30, 2024, 09:36:48 AM
Post by: Duncan Shaw on April 30, 2024, 10:22:02 AM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on April 30, 2024, 11:04:53 AM
5.1 - biggest home game in years, many years
It really isn't. It's important in our plight to win a trophy after so long but if you asked the club which was more important, CL qualification or 1st leg of the semi final of the 3rd rated European competition? I think you'd find it's level of bigness would be way, way down.
Post by: Ads on April 30, 2024, 11:08:40 AM
Post by: Risso on April 30, 2024, 11:10:22 AM
Why are we talking down a European semi-final? Why do we come up with these weird and/ors?
Natural Brummie pessimism and/or years of being Villa fans and not having nice things.
Post by: Ads on April 30, 2024, 11:12:48 AM
Why are we talking down a European semi-final? Why do we come up with these weird and/ors?
Natural Brummie pessimism and/or years of being Villa fans and not having nice things.
That was my thinking too. Makes more of a mockery of the Nose myth of us not being Brummies. Bring on the success and the non-Brummie gloryhunters.
Post by: Demitri_C on April 30, 2024, 11:24:04 AM
5.1 - biggest home game in years, many years
I would disagree with that brent tbh. Our first potential European final in my life time. Huge game !
It really isn't. It's important in our plight to win a trophy after so long but if you asked the club which was more important, CL qualification or 1st leg of the semi final of the 3rd rated European competition? I think you'd find it's level of bigness would be way, way down.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on April 30, 2024, 11:36:12 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 30, 2024, 11:47:52 AM
Post by: jon collett on April 30, 2024, 11:54:43 AM
And I don’t remember the winning the trophy brigade during zenith data systems cup!
Post by: Risso on April 30, 2024, 11:58:56 AM
But it’s pretty much the continuation of the Intertoto which we’ve won.
And I don’t remember the winning the trophy brigade during zenith data systems cup!
It's nothing of the sort. It's a major European trophy. Sure, it's the third most important of the three, but then so was the old Cup Winners Cup. It's simiar to the League Cup being the third trophy behind the league and FA Cup in domestic football.
Post by: jon collett on April 30, 2024, 12:00:46 PM
Interesting matches and travel experiences but that’s what it is !
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 30, 2024, 12:03:57 PM
It’s one below the old UEFA Cup which used to be the Intertoto.
Interesting matches and travel experiences but that’s what it is !
It really isn't.
Post by: Risso on April 30, 2024, 12:05:11 PM
I actually find it a bit sad that two days before an important semi-final for our first shot at a proper trophy in nearly 30 years, that somebody's actually suggesting it's not a real competition and isn't worth winning. They're the sorts of arguments they're making over on smallknuckledragger.com
Post by: coreyfeldman on April 30, 2024, 12:08:30 PM
Post by: danno on April 30, 2024, 12:11:53 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 30, 2024, 12:18:27 PM
Never inviting you lot to a party I swear
Just need to invite Risso, lovejoy and me. You can never have too many accountants at a party.
Post by: AV82EC on April 30, 2024, 12:19:28 PM
It’s one below the old UEFA Cup which used to be the Intertoto.
Interesting matches and travel experiences but that’s what it is !
It really isn't.
I agree with Sexual Ealing.
Post by: Somniloquism on April 30, 2024, 12:19:57 PM
It’s one below the old UEFA Cup which used to be the Intertoto.
Interesting matches and travel experiences but that’s what it is !
Traditionally the setup was European Cup, Uefa Cup and Cup Winners Cup with the winners of the European and Cup Winners having a competition then for overall European Champions.
The Intertoto was an early season qualifying tournament for people who didn't get into Europe via league or winning something. It actually existed alongside the CWC for several years of UEFA involvement.
Post by: jon collett on April 30, 2024, 12:27:23 PM
The cup winners cup actually used to take precedence over UEFA Cup if sides qualified for both.
I’m not being a party pooper just being realistic, if we win it great but then what have we won? West Ham have experienced this.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 30, 2024, 12:29:33 PM
I’m not being a party pooper just being realistic, if we win it great but then what have we won? West Ham have experienced this.
It's a season long European trophy, I'd rather win it than the League Cup.
Post by: coreyfeldman on April 30, 2024, 12:34:12 PM
Yes but for sides who finished lower on the league and principally as a competition to qualify for UEFA Cup,
The cup winners cup actually used to take precedence over UEFA Cup if sides qualified for both.
I’m not being a party pooper just being realistic, if we win it great but then what have we won? West Ham have experienced this.
Is this deliberate nihilism?
Post by: Ads on April 30, 2024, 12:34:37 PM
Yes but for sides who finished lower on the league and principally as a competition to qualify for UEFA Cup,
The cup winners cup actually used to take precedence over UEFA Cup if sides qualified for both.
I’m not being a party pooper just being realistic, if we win it great but then what have we won? West Ham have experienced this.
We will have won our 2nd major European trophy, when not many clubs in England have a single trophy in Europe to their name. Its not the Inter-Toto, what a bizarre reductionist comment. Some weird opinions being splurged on this thread.
Not hungry for success is another because 30 years ago we won our penultimate trophy.
Fucking Brummies for you.
Post by: Risso on April 30, 2024, 12:43:13 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 30, 2024, 12:44:45 PM
I don't get why anyone would knock the competition, just about every club in the country would give their left nut to be playing the semi final on Thursday. It's a world apart from the Intertoto.
Post by: Risso on April 30, 2024, 12:48:22 PM
In fairness after 1 bad result you thought we'd finish 8th and be out of Europe :P
I don't get why anyone would knock the competition, just about every club in the country would give their left nut to be playing the semi final on Thursday. It's a world apart from the Intertoto.
So did uber-optimist Ads to be fair! ;)
There's a difference though between thinking we've blown something, which to be fair is a finely honed skill over many years of lived experience, and feeling blasé about our first possible trophy in three decades. I want us to win everything, and I get annoyed when I think we won't. That's very different I reckon to not wanting to win the Conference League.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 30, 2024, 12:49:31 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on April 30, 2024, 12:52:39 PM
Post by: DrGonzo on April 30, 2024, 12:54:53 PM
Post by: Ads on April 30, 2024, 12:57:34 PM
There's no way this trophy should be talked down. Comparing the absolute gut wrenching bricks everybody was collectively shitting the other week in the penalty shootout, to a pre-season qualifying tournament for tennis players, is that sort of bollocks you'd read on SHA. Along with Villa aren't a Birmingham club coincidentally.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 30, 2024, 01:02:23 PM
Post by: Risso on April 30, 2024, 01:04:32 PM
All the European competitions are devalued these days compared to what they once were, for me at least. I still really want to win them though and will love it if we win the Conference this season.
You could argue the same about the domestic cup competitions as well, and I want to win those too.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 30, 2024, 01:09:45 PM
Post by: Nev on April 30, 2024, 01:11:56 PM
Post by: Richard E on April 30, 2024, 01:17:15 PM
Post by: AV82EC on April 30, 2024, 01:25:22 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 30, 2024, 01:26:03 PM
Yes but for sides who finished lower on the league and principally as a competition to qualify for UEFA Cup,
The cup winners cup actually used to take precedence over UEFA Cup if sides qualified for both.
I’m not being a party pooper just being realistic, if we win it great but then what have we won? West Ham have experienced this.
Is this deliberate nihilism?
I think it's Jacob Ramsey posting here under an assumed name.
Post by: Richard E on April 30, 2024, 01:28:42 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on April 30, 2024, 01:28:55 PM
I went to the last Cup Winners Cup Final at Villa Park, I thought at the time "I'd love a bit of this". I still would.
I was at the 1992 European Cup Winners' Cup Final between Werner Bremen and Arsène Wenger's Monaco at Benfica's old Luz (I could have sworn it was at Sporting). I almost outnumbered the Monaco fans. I thought at the time "They don't deserve this" but we do.
Post by: RamboandBruno on April 30, 2024, 01:42:37 PM
I'm not talking down anything. Maybe it's an age thing, I've seen us win stuff over many years so I am not as hungry for this newish competition as say fans 20 or 30 years younger who are starved of a trophy and I get that. If we were two or three places lower in the league then yes, it would be of the utmost importance. We're not, we've already qualified for the Europa next season, guaranteed 4th or at worst 5th in the league. Winning this trophy would be the cherry on top of the icing already on the cake and I hope I am lucky enough to get a ticket for the final should we get there.We’re not that much difference age wise Bren, but have to disagree. This feels massive to me, i have that weird mix of excitement and nervous energy already. A semi final of European competition, huge
Post by: Drummond on April 30, 2024, 02:04:47 PM
This club hasn’t played like it really believes it can win trophies, even in cup finals, for way too long now. Getting that first trophy in the cabinet is essential to breaking that mentality.
I think that goes for pretty much everyone, including supporters. That's why the new ownership and management team have made such a difference.
Post by: Olneythelonely on April 30, 2024, 02:32:02 PM
It’s one below the old UEFA Cup which used to be the Intertoto.
Interesting matches and travel experiences but that’s what it is !
Utterly bizarre.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on April 30, 2024, 03:39:20 PM
I'm not talking down anything. Maybe it's an age thing, I've seen us win stuff over many years so I am not as hungry for this newish competition as say fans 20 or 30 years younger who are starved of a trophy and I get that. If we were two or three places lower in the league then yes, it would be of the utmost importance. We're not, we've already qualified for the Europa next season, guaranteed 4th or at worst 5th in the league. Winning this trophy would be the cherry on top of the icing already on the cake and I hope I am lucky enough to get a ticket for the final should we get there.We’re not that much difference age wise Bren, but have to disagree. This feels massive to me, i have that weird mix of excitement and nervous energy already. A semi final of European competition, huge
Thanks Andy, I take your comparison in years as a compliment, I was responding to rob_Bridge's initial comment that it's 'our first big game in many, many years'. We've had loads that were far more important or bigger for varying reasons in recent years, play offs, relegation clashes etc which trump it. Even Bradford in the League Cup semi final seemed/seems bigger to me. it's importance or bigness further diminished because of what we've achieved even with 3 remaining games left in the league as I said earlier. If our current league position wasn't as high I'd see it's bigness much higher. Furthermore, it isn't a major European trophy ( someone mentioned it as one), there's only one of those, the other two are less in value. We can dress it up to be one but that doesn't make it one. Anyway, I'll be cheering the team on to win Thursday night and hope the 2nd leg is a formality and we go on to win the thing to end our trophy hoodoo and bring some happiness into the lives of the 30 somethings and younger.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on April 30, 2024, 03:47:07 PM
We haven’t won a trophy this century. Let’s put that right first and then we can be sniffy about how highly we rate the next ten that we win under Unai.
That's a good point. If/when that transpires I think this one will barely get a mention and will in all likelihood be absorbed into the Europa in a new format.
Post by: tomd2103 on April 30, 2024, 04:24:48 PM
I'd take winning anything. This is a step up in terms of prestige from the League Cup, it will raise our profile across Europe and the wider region. Let's go to a final and have some fun. Greece is great to visit.
Me too. The final will be a big occasion if we get there and it would be great to win it. I remember reading a book about Brian Clough and he used to put a lot of value in Forest initially winning the Anglo-Scottish Cup when he first took over because he said it gave players a taste of winning things. Wouldn't mind us doing what they did after that!
Post by: eamonn on April 30, 2024, 04:30:32 PM
I went to the last Cup Winners Cup Final at Villa Park, I thought at the time "I'd love a bit of this". I still would.
I was at the 1992 European Cup Winners' Cup Final between Werner Bremen and Arsène Wenger's Monaco at Benfica's old Luz (I could have sworn it was at Sporting). I almost outnumbered the Monaco fans. I thought at the time "They don't deserve this" but we do.
How did it go?
Post by: Bad English on April 30, 2024, 04:33:49 PM
Quote from: I got this off Wikipedia and want you to know that I am not actually passing it off as my own encyclopaedic knowledge
Olympiacos, throughout its European history, has eliminated (in either knockout matches or group stages) clubs like Milan, Arsenal, Ajax, Benfica, Porto, Borussia Dortmund, Lazio, Celtic, Werder Bremen, Anderlecht, Monaco, Deportivo La Coruña, Hertha BSC, Cagliari, PSV Eindhoven and Standard Liège among others. They have spent most of their European history in the UEFA Champions League, where they are widely known for being a very strong home side, having run some long-standing sequences, such as the 15 straight UEFA Champions League unbeaten home matches since their debut in the tournament under its new format, when Manchester United stopped their record in their fifth consecutive participation, and their 15 wins in 19 UEFA Champions League home matches between 2009–10 and 2014–15. They have a vast record of home wins over traditional European powerhouses and UEFA Champions League winners, such as Real Madrid, Milan, Liverpool, Manchester United, Ajax, Juventus, Borussia Dortmund, Benfica, Porto, Marseille, PSV Eindhoven, and Celtic among many other major European clubs.
This is why we're in Europe: to take on other European teams, many of whom have European pedigrees and experience, and to beat them, ultimately adding silverware to our cabinet.
I'm leaving a function early on Thursday because there is no way I am not going to see us FTF on our way to the final. This tournament will have been valuable experience for our future Champions League or Europa* League games and beating Bruges or Fiorentina will be massive for the fans, the players and all connected with the club.
It is neither the Leyland DAF nor the Intertoto in my eyes. I bet Unai feels the same way.
*Not that we'll be in the the Europa, of course. Fack Spurs!
Post by: itbrvilla on April 30, 2024, 04:34:54 PM
People in the media and on social media have been talking about us none stop this season. Add a trophy and a top 4 finish and they'll keep doing it. This is how we boost and project our name and reputation and grow the revenue and commercial side of the business.Up up and away!I'm not talking down anything. Maybe it's an age thing, I've seen us win stuff over many years so I am not as hungry for this newish competition as say fans 20 or 30 years younger who are starved of a trophy and I get that. If we were two or three places lower in the league then yes, it would be of the utmost importance. We're not, we've already qualified for the Europa next season, guaranteed 4th or at worst 5th in the league. Winning this trophy would be the cherry on top of the icing already on the cake and I hope I am lucky enough to get a ticket for the final should we get there.We’re not that much difference age wise Bren, but have to disagree. This feels massive to me, i have that weird mix of excitement and nervous energy already. A semi final of European competition, huge
Post by: eamonn on April 30, 2024, 05:31:11 PM
Quote from: I got this off Wikipedia and want you to know that I am not actually passing it off as my own encyclopaedic knowledgeOlympiacos, throughout its European history, has eliminated (in either knockout matches or group stages) clubs like Milan, Arsenal, Ajax, Benfica, Porto, Borussia Dortmund, Lazio, Celtic, Werder Bremen, Anderlecht, Monaco, Deportivo La Coruña, Hertha BSC, Cagliari, PSV Eindhoven and Standard Liège among others. They have spent most of their European history in the UEFA Champions League, where they are widely known for being a very strong home side, having run some long-standing sequences, such as the 15 straight UEFA Champions League unbeaten home matches since their debut in the tournament under its new format, when Manchester United stopped their record in their fifth consecutive participation, and their 15 wins in 19 UEFA Champions League home matches between 2009–10 and 2014–15. They have a vast record of home wins over traditional European powerhouses and UEFA Champions League winners, such as Real Madrid, Milan, Liverpool, Manchester United, Ajax, Juventus, Borussia Dortmund, Benfica, Porto, Marseille, PSV Eindhoven, and Celtic among many other major European clubs.
This is why we're in Europe: to take on other European teams, many of whom have European pedigrees and experience, and to beat them, ultimately adding silverware to our cabinet.
I'm leaving a function early on Thursday because there is no way I am not going to see us FTF on our way to the final. This tournament will have been valuable experience for our future Champions League or Europa* League games and beating Bruges or Fiorentina will be massive for the fans, the players and all connected with the club.
It is neither the Leyland DAF nor the Intertoto in my eyes. I bet Unai feels the same way.
*Not that we'll be in the the Europa, of course. Fack Spurs!
Hear, hear! (What do the French say for that?)
Post by: Bad English on April 30, 2024, 06:05:34 PM
Post by: eamonn on April 30, 2024, 06:09:44 PM
Post by: Pete3206 on April 30, 2024, 06:14:08 PM
It’s one below the old UEFA Cup which used to be the Intertoto.
Interesting matches and travel experiences but that’s what it is !
What a load of absolute tosh.
Post by: trinityoap on April 30, 2024, 07:19:37 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on April 30, 2024, 07:21:03 PM
It’s one below the old UEFA Cup which used to be the Intertoto.
Interesting matches and travel experiences but that’s what it is !
What a load of absolute tosh.
I think you are selling it short there mate
Post by: trinityoap on April 30, 2024, 07:25:51 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 30, 2024, 07:41:54 PM
I know what I meant to type!
You do know you can edit your posts. :)
Post by: AV84 on April 30, 2024, 07:47:51 PM
Is chambers in the euro squad?
I don't think he is. If I remember correctly it was submitted a few days before the window closed and he was supposed to leave, but obviously didn't, so he wasn't included on the submitted squad list.
Post by: VillaTim on April 30, 2024, 09:48:45 PM
We haven’t won a trophy this century. Let’s put that right first and then we can be sniffy about how highly we rate the next ten that we win under Unai.We won the intertoto in 2001 didn't we ?
Post by: Lastfootstamper on April 30, 2024, 09:56:58 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on April 30, 2024, 10:28:12 PM
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on April 30, 2024, 11:37:05 PM
Not saying it was our greatest achievement, but it wasn't the Peace Cup either.
Anyways the Conference League is a proper competition. If we win it we will have faced Ajax, Lille, Olympiakos and we should be proud of it.
People playing down the League Cup boils my piss too, I love that competition and we have done better than most in it.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 30, 2024, 11:42:42 PM
At worst, it's a new Cup Winners Cup.
We haven't won a single thing in this century, and it's already a quarter of the way through. Anyone turning their nose up at this title needs to sit down and reflect on their grotesque stupidity.
Post by: eamonn on April 30, 2024, 11:51:07 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/dvWEOHC.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/gtK2qZd/intertoto.png) (https://ibb.co/gtK2qZd)
Post by: Martyn Smith on May 01, 2024, 12:31:51 AM
Post by: PaulWinch again on May 01, 2024, 03:10:39 AM
We haven’t won a trophy this century. Let’s put that right first and then we can be sniffy about how highly we rate the next ten that we win under Unai.We won the intertoto in 2001 didn't we ?
The intertoto was a glorified qualifying competition, this is an actual trophy.
Post by: sid1964 on May 01, 2024, 05:54:29 AM
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2024, 09:08:48 AM
I can't remember the Intertwobob format at all, pretty sure i was at the final but i don't remember that either .We haven’t won a trophy this century. Let’s put that right first and then we can be sniffy about how highly we rate the next ten that we win under Unai.We won the intertoto in 2001 didn't we ?
The intertoto was a glorified qualifying competition, this is an actual trophy.
Post by: tomd2103 on May 01, 2024, 10:06:28 AM
Post by: Malandro on May 01, 2024, 10:16:57 AM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 01, 2024, 10:28:36 AM
Dream next few days would be a big win tomorrow night and then results going our way over the weekend, meaning we've effectively wrapped up 4th spot by Sunday night. We then finish the job over in Greece and then have a few weeks to get players fit and ready for the final.
The race for third place is ON!
Post by: Lastfootstamper on May 01, 2024, 10:32:54 AM
I can't remember the Intertwobob format at all, pretty sure i was at the final but i don't remember that either .We haven’t won a trophy this century. Let’s put that right first and then we can be sniffy about how highly we rate the next ten that we win under Unai.We won the intertoto in 2001 didn't we ?
The intertoto was a glorified qualifying competition, this is an actual trophy.
I don't think I went to a single game. Obviously none that stick in the mind, anyway.
Like PWa says, it was a qualifying competition with a trophy tacked on. Like the playoffs.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 01, 2024, 10:34:39 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 01, 2024, 10:36:47 AM
Newcastle lost of course, because even a shit trophy is beyond them.
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 01, 2024, 10:41:05 AM
Post by: eamonn on May 01, 2024, 10:48:56 AM
The '82 pictures of our heroes in sweaty Bayern Munich tops still pisses me off.
Thank fuck some of them had the brains not to do it before the medal-awarding and lifting of the cup including our captain, most importantly.
That we were in lesser-spotted away white shirts for that triumph added to the confusion or it certainly did when I first saw post-match photos of the game as a kid. Who was who? Where's the claret and blue? I thought it was a wind-up and that it couldn't be Villa. Don't know if neutrals since have had similar thoughts. F**k them, sure, but just to be on the safe side, please win all our future finals in claret and blue. Like the last time with Saint Savo et al.
Post by: PaulTheVillan on May 01, 2024, 10:54:14 AM
Post by: Somniloquism on May 01, 2024, 10:59:49 AM
its the 6th most important competition we play in.
I would put it joint 3rd with the League Cup although I'm not sure what other two you are putting ahead to come to 6th. You can't mean the other Euro competition as we can only play in one a season now.
Post by: Somniloquism on May 01, 2024, 11:02:38 AM
Is it only me that really enjoyed winning the Intertoto?
Not saying it was our greatest achievement, but it wasn't the Peace Cup either.
Anyways the Conference League is a proper competition. If we win it we will have faced Ajax, Lille, Olympiakos and we should be proud of it.
It got us into that season Europa so yes, winning it was fun.
You can also add one of Brugge or Fiorentina in the final as well as big teams if we win it.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 01, 2024, 11:09:17 AM
its the 6th most important competition we play in.
I would put it joint 3rd with the League Cup although I'm not sure what other two you are putting ahead to come to 6th. You can't mean the other Euro competition as we can only play in one a season now.
Maybe he's including the FA Youth Cup and Birmingham Senior Cup, and thinks beating Racing Club Warwick will be a bigger deal than winning a European trophy in Athens.
Post by: Lsvilla on May 01, 2024, 11:23:22 AM
Post by: coreyfeldman on May 01, 2024, 11:29:54 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 01, 2024, 11:54:50 AM
It's on par with finding 2 quid in the car or doing a very long wee.
I do embarrassingly long wees, I’m happy to trade one in if it would translate to some sort of on-field success.
That’s right, I’m a selfless bastard.
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 01, 2024, 12:02:26 PM
Steady on I have played against Warwick.its the 6th most important competition we play in.
I would put it joint 3rd with the League Cup although I'm not sure what other two you are putting ahead to come to 6th. You can't mean the other Euro competition as we can only play in one a season now.
Maybe he's including the FA Youth Cup and Birmingham Senior Cup, and thinks beating Racing Club Warwick will be a bigger deal than winning a European trophy in Athens.
My preference
Champions League
Premier League
FA Cup
Europa League
League Cup
Conference League.
Post by: Drummond on May 01, 2024, 12:08:17 PM
Steady on I have played against Warwick.its the 6th most important competition we play in.
I would put it joint 3rd with the League Cup although I'm not sure what other two you are putting ahead to come to 6th. You can't mean the other Euro competition as we can only play in one a season now.
Maybe he's including the FA Youth Cup and Birmingham Senior Cup, and thinks beating Racing Club Warwick will be a bigger deal than winning a European trophy in Athens.
My preference
Champions League
Premier League
FA Cup
Europa League
League Cup
Conference League.
That's a reasonable list and there won't be many differing greatly I'd have thought. The FA Cup is the holy grail for some, the Premier League over Champions League for others, but what it doesn't do is take anything away from each competition. Win one and you're ahead of a club that wins nothing.
What would be interesting/contentious would be how 2nd, 3rd and 4th in the Premier League would fare in that list.
Post by: Risso on May 01, 2024, 12:12:25 PM
Post by: claret+blue ed on May 01, 2024, 12:20:32 PM
Any European Competition, whatever they are called are a big deal to me
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2024, 12:23:56 PM
Surely it's on a par with the FA Cup as the prize for winning it is the same.I know the FA Cup has been devalued down the years but for me the Conference isn't anywhere near it . It's 4th in the pecking order after the League Cup .
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 01, 2024, 12:24:21 PM
Well you obviously can't play in all of the 6 competitions at once, so that's a bit daft. I'd put the Conference League ahead of the League Cup, and probably on a par with with the FA Cup. Given how we've treated the competitions, I'd guess Emery ranks it slightly ahead of both of them. Also, being in the Conference League means you've done quite well to qualify for it; you get entered into the domestic cups automatically.But they are all competitions we could play in and would feature in most clubs lists of trophy's.
So not daft at all.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 01, 2024, 12:34:06 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on May 01, 2024, 12:36:15 PM
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2024, 12:39:14 PM
I thought the reason lots of people were prioritising 4th place over the Conference League was the financial reward on offer? If so then the Conference League is far more important than either the FA or League Cups, as we will have earned 9 or 10 times as much from it as we would have from either of those.The Champions League is a game changer in terms of sponsors deals etc .
None of the others are .
Post by: simboy on May 01, 2024, 12:47:03 PM
I thought the reason lots of people were prioritising 4th place over the Conference League was the financial reward on offer? If so then the Conference League is far more important than either the FA or League Cups, as we will have earned 9 or 10 times as much from it as we would have from either of those.The Champions League is a game changer in terms of sponsors deals etc .
None of the others are .
We have done our business regarding sponsorship for this year, and done it well if the figures quoted are to be believed. The deals all look like two or three year deals on shirt and kit. A regular run in the Chumps League will of course increase the profile further.
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2024, 12:49:31 PM
We aren't done yet by far. If we qualify Heck can go to town with other sponsorship deals / new partners etc .I thought the reason lots of people were prioritising 4th place over the Conference League was the financial reward on offer? If so then the Conference League is far more important than either the FA or League Cups, as we will have earned 9 or 10 times as much from it as we would have from either of those.The Champions League is a game changer in terms of sponsors deals etc .
None of the others are .
We have done our business regarding sponsorship for this year, and done it well if the figures quoted are to be believed. The deals all look like two or three year deals on shirt and kit. A regular run in the Chumps League will of course increase the profile further.
Post by: Somniloquism on May 01, 2024, 01:05:32 PM
Well you obviously can't play in all of the 6 competitions at once, so that's a bit daft. I'd put the Conference League ahead of the League Cup, and probably on a par with with the FA Cup. Given how we've treated the competitions, I'd guess Emery ranks it slightly ahead of both of them. Also, being in the Conference League means you've done quite well to qualify for it; you get entered into the domestic cups automatically.But they are all competitions we could play in and would feature in most clubs lists of trophy's.
So not daft at all.
What Risso and myself were getting at is that only 4 of those competitions can be played in each year (especially now UEFA doesn't offer consolation prizes for being slightly bad).
So shouldn't the numbering of importance be in which the competitions we can enter each year rather then just generic. For example on your list, last August you would have seen it as fourth most important. This summer you would see the CL as 1st most important and the LC as fourth most important.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 01, 2024, 01:11:36 PM
In the last 15 years the league cup has been won by Swansea, Birmingham City, and even eternal losers Spurs. Basically, if those lot can win it then we should be setting our sites higher.
Post by: Risso on May 01, 2024, 01:12:05 PM
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2024, 01:15:26 PM
I wouldn’t consider the League Cup to be on the same level as the Conference League. I think it’s much harder to win the conference league, and getting into it is an achievement most English clubs would relish.Nice spin but that landscape has changed now . The League Cup is harder to win. In the last 10 years the League Cup has only been won by Stockport115 (6) Newton Heath (2) Liverpool (2) Chelsea (1) .
In the last 15 years the league cup has been won by Swansea, Birmingham City, and even eternal losers Spurs. Basically, if those lot can win it then we should be setting our sites higher.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 01, 2024, 01:21:02 PM
Also, whatever order you have say, the League Cup or Europa Conference League in, I'd still like us to win both and would be delighted with either. When we secured 7th place by beating Brighton last season, was there anybody who wasn't absolutely delighted to qualify for Europe again? I mean, there's not a huge difference between 7th and 8th ordinarily, but the European thing made it absolutely huge, surely?
Absolutely agree with this. It's the chance to win another European trophy - to go alongside that other one that we sing that song about every 3 minutes without fail.
I want us to win every competition we enter, but the Conference League is more prestigious than the League Cup, without a doubt, even if you just look at European level, it raises the club's profile, and will do even more if we win it.It also gets you into the Europa League, which I know we've already qualified for (at the worst)
Again, we're a club that hasn't won anything for 28 years, and even then, the last two trophies we won were the one lots and lots of people (inc coaches) don't give a shit about any more, so if you go beyond there, it's over 40 years since we won anything of note.
There are Villa fans in their 30s who have never seen us winning anything at all, but there are a load of us here - let's be honest, we're an older demographic than most - who remember winning league cups, league titles, and the European Cup casually consigning a UEFA cup competition to the dustbin alongside the Intertoto and the Peace Cup, because we've seen us win really big things. What about the poor fuckers who have seen us win bollock all?
We're not about to win the Champions League next season, but we need to start winning stuff at some point - we're now in the semi finals now with a real chance of doing exactly that. That's surely got to mean a lot.
Post by: Pat Mustard on May 01, 2024, 01:32:02 PM
I thought the reason lots of people were prioritising 4th place over the Conference League was the financial reward on offer? If so then the Conference League is far more important than either the FA or League Cups, as we will have earned 9 or 10 times as much from it as we would have from either of those.The Champions League is a game changer in terms of sponsors deals etc .
None of the others are .
That's not really true though - the massive financial advantage from the Champions League for a club like Villa is the revenue from broadcasting and prize money. The mega sponsorship deals come down to much wider perceptions of a particular club (hence Man Utd keep increasing revenue from these areas despite to all intents and purposes not being a contender to win the CL for 10 years now), or if you are playing the system like Stockport.
Post by: Holte L2 on May 01, 2024, 01:35:35 PM
Please Villa. Don't Let me Down!
Post by: Paul.S on May 01, 2024, 01:37:30 PM
Football is about winning trophies and many of our support haven’t seen us win anything. Winning a trophy in Europe is on another level.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 01, 2024, 01:47:32 PM
I thought the reason lots of people were prioritising 4th place over the Conference League was the financial reward on offer? If so then the Conference League is far more important than either the FA or League Cups, as we will have earned 9 or 10 times as much from it as we would have from either of those.The Champions League is a game changer in terms of sponsors deals etc .
None of the others are .
That's not really true though - the massive financial advantage from the Champions League for a club like Villa is the revenue from broadcasting and prize money. The mega sponsorship deals come down to much wider perceptions of a particular club (hence Man Utd keep increasing revenue from these areas despite to all intents and purposes not being a contender to win the CL for 10 years now), or if you are playing the system like Stockport.
Winning any of the three UEFA competitions would add to our profile / improve perceptions of us. Which in turn feeds into *does dry heave* our brand and allows us to look for money through sponsorship.
I was thinking the other day, and I don't know the answer to this, but what contributes more to the overall profile of a club like us - is it getting into the Champions League, earning lots more television money, but then having a run like Newcastle did (ie getting drawn into a group of death and not getting out of it, basically, getting to play six matches), or is it going much deeper in the Europa League?
I think it's the latter tbh, esp winning it. I also think getting into the top competition for the first time in decades is great, but you really need to do something once you're there as there's no guarantee you'll be in it the next season - almost certainly in a few seasons, nobody is going to remember Newcastle playing in it - you have to consistently qualify for it, ideally, or even the Europa or Conference League, to get seen as a club who are expected to compete in Europe.
Great example - Spurs, who we were talking about the other day, and saying they've got their high profile partly through that new stadium, but also via the fact they've played in Europe for over ten seasons in a row (or whatever it is). That's what we need to do.
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2024, 01:58:31 PM
I'm 40 in September. I've seen us win two league cups. I'm absolutely desperate to see us win the Conference League. I've had the time of my life this season having done four out of six European Ties. Flights and hotel booked for Athens regardless.worth going just for the city break .
Please Villa. Don't Let me Down!
Post by: tomd2103 on May 01, 2024, 02:15:38 PM
I'm 40 in September. I've seen us win two league cups. I'm absolutely desperate to see us win the Conference League. I've had the time of my life this season having done four out of six European Ties. Flights and hotel booked for Athens regardless.
Please Villa. Don't Let me Down!
I'm in the same boat. The two winning League Cup finals were two of the best days I've had following the club. Winning any of the competitions that we enter would be a great achievement and would live long in the memory.
Post by: SamTheMouse on May 01, 2024, 02:30:29 PM
Post by: eamonn on May 01, 2024, 02:44:05 PM
Post by: langleylions on May 01, 2024, 02:47:13 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 01, 2024, 03:14:21 PM
Post by: PaulWinch again on May 01, 2024, 03:31:39 PM
Post by: Axl Rose on May 01, 2024, 03:46:42 PM
We are 7 points ahead of Tottenham. They have a miserable run in to try and bridge that gap. We should more than capable at this point of focusing on winning the Conf League and securing 4th. We’ve made it to the SF for a real trophy. Not a pre season accolade. It would be fucking pathetic not to do everything possible in what remains of the season to go all out to succeed in both objectives.
We've got Unai.
He'll get us over that line.
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2024, 03:48:21 PM
We are 7 points ahead of Tottenham. They have a miserable run in to try and bridge that gap. We should more than capable at this point of focusing on winning the Conf League and securing 4th. We’ve made it to the SF for a real trophy. Not a pre season accolade. It would be fucking pathetic not to do everything possible in what remains of the season to go all out to succeed in both objectives.Spurs last 2 games look like 6 points . We need another win at the least .
Post by: Ads on May 01, 2024, 03:59:42 PM
Post by: coreyfeldman on May 01, 2024, 04:42:53 PM
Post by: Dave on May 01, 2024, 04:44:12 PM
I honestly think burnley is now not easy at all, they've only lost 1 in last 8 and very much be still fighting for their lives. Very tricky run in for them with us playing teams who are all playing for nothing now really
Plus they're playing Forest last game of the season. I imagine they'll be going all out to give themselves a chance on the last day.
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2024, 04:53:04 PM
Spurs last two games include Man City likely winning the title against them.Burnley & Sheff Utd games .
Post by: Drummond on May 01, 2024, 04:55:15 PM
Spurs last two games include Man City likely winning the title against them.Burnley & Sheff Utd games .
Check again.
Post by: john2710 on May 01, 2024, 04:55:57 PM
Spurs last two games include Man City likely winning the title against them.Burnley & Sheff Utd games .
They play Man City at home in between those 2 games.
Post by: algy on May 01, 2024, 05:02:34 PM
* Personally - if it's still mathematically possible to win the league then it goes league, whatever European trophy we're in, FA Cup, League Cup. As soon as we can't win the league, it goes Europe, FA Cup, League Cup, League. But we should try to do our best in all of them regardless.
Post by: Nelly on May 01, 2024, 05:15:17 PM
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2024, 05:17:12 PM
Yeah it got rescheduled finally. My point remains they have 2 easier games in the last 3 and the last day is a certain 3 points so we need it done before then .Spurs last two games include Man City likely winning the title against them.Burnley & Sheff Utd games .
They play Man City at home in between those 2 games.
Post by: Mister E on May 01, 2024, 05:53:24 PM
Winning any of the three UEFA competitions would add to our profile / improve perceptions of us. Which in turn feeds into *does dry heave* our brand and allows us to look for money through sponsorship.In terms of profile, there are three factors that I think increase a team's global image (over and above what may have been developed previously, like with ManU, L'pool, Leeds):
I was thinking the other day, and I don't know the answer to this, but what contributes more to the overall profile of a club like us - is it getting into the Champions League, earning lots more television money, but then having a run like Newcastle did (ie getting drawn into a group of death and not getting out of it, basically, getting to play six matches), or is it going much deeper in the Europa League?
I think it's the latter tbh, esp winning it. I also think getting into the top competition for the first time in decades is great, but you really need to do something once you're there as there's no guarantee you'll be in it the next season - almost certainly in a few seasons, nobody is going to remember Newcastle playing in it - you have to consistently qualify for it, ideally, or even the Europa or Conference League, to get seen as a club who are expected to compete in Europe.
Great example - Spurs, who we were talking about the other day, and saying they've got their high profile partly through that new stadium, but also via the fact they've played in Europe for over ten seasons in a row (or whatever it is). That's what we need to do.
1. winning some silverware, and being regular top 4 / top 6 finisher in the Premier League
2. having internationally-recognised players (like Son at Spuds, Salah at L'pool)
3. having internationally-recognised long-term shirt sponsors (UNICEF at Barca, for example).
The third factor may seem a little odd but I think it adds credibility to the club to be partnered with a 'proper' brand.
Post by: wince on May 01, 2024, 06:02:27 PM
Post by: The Man With A Stick on May 01, 2024, 06:26:40 PM
I'd much rather win a European trophy then the League Cup. I have no idea who the previous winners of the LC are apart from us. I can't even remember who won it last year.
They probably can't remember it either.
ECL > LC all day long for me.
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on May 01, 2024, 06:28:56 PM
A big win at Villa Park and we can have one foot in a European final.
If Chelsea (23 points in the last 10 at home ) beat Spurs (10 points in their last 10 away) we are 7 points ahead and they have just 1 game in hand.
I cannot remember in my time a day when we could make major progress on two fronts simultaneously.
You probably have to go right back to 1897 when Bury beat Derby for us to secure the league then later the same day we won the FA Cup beating Everton.
Come on you Lions !
Post by: Malandro on May 01, 2024, 06:31:30 PM
Post by: LeeB on May 01, 2024, 06:32:57 PM
I'd much rather win a European trophy then the League Cup. I have no idea who the previous winners of the LC are apart from us. I can't even remember who won it last year.
They probably can't remember it either.
ECL > LC all day long for me.
You qualify for one as a reward for wining the other, so it's pretty obvious which is more significant.
Post by: jon collett on May 01, 2024, 06:39:09 PM
I'd much rather win a European trophy then the League Cup. I have no idea who the previous winners of the LC are apart from us. I can't even remember who won it last year.
They probably can't remember it either.
ECL > LC all day long for me.
You qualify for one as a reward for wining the other, so it's pretty obvious which is more significant.
Winning the EFL Cup qualifies for Europa League.
Only one team from major nations can go into ECL. It was designed like this to give smaller nations more chance.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 01, 2024, 06:42:28 PM
What a big big double bubble day tomorrow could be.
A big win at Villa Park and we can have one foot in a European final.
If Chelsea (23 points in the last 10 at home ) beat Spurs (10 points in their last 10 away) we are 7 points ahead and they have just 1 game in hand.
I cannot remember in my time a day when we could make major progress on two fronts simultaneously.
You probably have to go right back to 1897 when Bury beat Derby for us to secure the league then later the same day we won the FA Cup beating Everton.
Come on you Lions !
Great post!
Post by: LeeB on May 01, 2024, 06:45:26 PM
I'd much rather win a European trophy then the League Cup. I have no idea who the previous winners of the LC are apart from us. I can't even remember who won it last year.
They probably can't remember it either.
ECL > LC all day long for me.
You qualify for one as a reward for wining the other, so it's pretty obvious which is more significant.
Winning the EFL Cup qualifies for Europa League.
Only one team from major nations can go into ECL. It was designed like this to give smaller nations more chance.
I'd much rather win a European trophy then the League Cup. I have no idea who the previous winners of the LC are apart from us. I can't even remember who won it last year.
They probably can't remember it either.
ECL > LC all day long for me.
You qualify for one as a reward for wining the other, so it's pretty obvious which is more significant.
Winning the EFL Cup qualifies for Europa League.
Only one team from major nations can go into ECL. It was designed like this to give smaller nations more chance.
Not only are you wrong in general, you're wrong about the issue you've tried to pull me up on.
Post by: jon collett on May 01, 2024, 06:47:56 PM
I'd much rather win a European trophy then the League Cup. I have no idea who the previous winners of the LC are apart from us. I can't even remember who won it last year.
They probably can't remember it either.
ECL > LC all day long for me.
You qualify for one as a reward for wining the other, so it's pretty obvious which is more significant.
Winning the EFL Cup qualifies for Europa League.
Only one team from major nations can go into ECL. It was designed like this to give smaller nations more chance.I'd much rather win a European trophy then the League Cup. I have no idea who the previous winners of the LC are apart from us. I can't even remember who won it last year.
They probably can't remember it either.
ECL > LC all day long for me.
You qualify for one as a reward for wining the other, so it's pretty obvious which is more significant.
Winning the EFL Cup qualifies for Europa League.
Only one team from major nations can go into ECL. It was designed like this to give smaller nations more chance.
Not only are you wrong in general, you're wrong about the issue you've tried to pull me up on.
https://efl.com/competitions/carabao-cup/about-the-carabao-cup
Post by: Tony Daleys Shorts on May 01, 2024, 06:51:58 PM
What a big big double bubble day tomorrow could be.
A big win at Villa Park and we can have one foot in a European final.
If Chelsea (23 points in the last 10 at home ) beat Spurs (10 points in their last 10 away) we are 7 points ahead and they have just 1 game in hand.
I cannot remember in my time a day when we could make major progress on two fronts simultaneously.
You probably have to go right back to 1897 when Bury beat Derby for us to secure the league then later the same day we won the FA Cup beating Everton.
Come on you Lions !
Great post!
Fucking marvellous post! Can’t wait for tomorrow, could be a massive day in our club’s history. The mighty Aston Villa are prowling and ready to roar again.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 01, 2024, 06:55:48 PM
What a big big double bubble day tomorrow could be.
A big win at Villa Park and we can have one foot in a European final.
If Chelsea (23 points in the last 10 at home ) beat Spurs (10 points in their last 10 away) we are 7 points ahead and they have just 1 game in hand.
I cannot remember in my time a day when we could make major progress on two fronts simultaneously.
You probably have to go right back to 1897 when Bury beat Derby for us to secure the league then later the same day we won the FA Cup beating Everton.
Come on you Lions !
Heart: YES! COME ON YOU FUCKING VILLA BOYS, LET'S FUNERAL THESE MOTHERFUCKERS! THIS IS OUR DAY!
Head: Uncontrollable weeping.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 01, 2024, 06:57:22 PM
If they insist on having a sponsors name on it, then they should at least try to partner with a brand that helps set them apart.
I’d love to see as the Durex Cup, the Anusol Cup, or even the Peek Freans Trotsky Assortment Cup.
Post by: LeeB on May 01, 2024, 06:58:03 PM
I'd much rather win a European trophy then the League Cup. I have no idea who the previous winners of the LC are apart from us. I can't even remember who won it last year.
They probably can't remember it either.
ECL > LC all day long for me.
You qualify for one as a reward for wining the other, so it's pretty obvious which is more significant.
Winning the EFL Cup qualifies for Europa League.
Only one team from major nations can go into ECL. It was designed like this to give smaller nations more chance.I'd much rather win a European trophy then the League Cup. I have no idea who the previous winners of the LC are apart from us. I can't even remember who won it last year.
They probably can't remember it either.
ECL > LC all day long for me.
You qualify for one as a reward for wining the other, so it's pretty obvious which is more significant.
Winning the EFL Cup qualifies for Europa League.
Only one team from major nations can go into ECL. It was designed like this to give smaller nations more chance.
Not only are you wrong in general, you're wrong about the issue you've tried to pull me up on.
https://efl.com/competitions/carabao-cup/about-the-carabao-cup
Out of date info, soz. The reason we're in it is because Man Utd qualified for the Champs League and the place dropped to league positions.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 01, 2024, 06:58:19 PM
Post by: trinityoap on May 01, 2024, 06:59:36 PM
Post by: jon collett on May 01, 2024, 07:02:09 PM
I'd much rather win a European trophy then the League Cup. I have no idea who the previous winners of the LC are apart from us. I can't even remember who won it last year.
They probably can't remember it either.
ECL > LC all day long for me.
You qualify for one as a reward for wining the other, so it's pretty obvious which is more significant.
Winning the EFL Cup qualifies for Europa League.
Only one team from major nations can go into ECL. It was designed like this to give smaller nations more chance.I'd much rather win a European trophy then the League Cup. I have no idea who the previous winners of the LC are apart from us. I can't even remember who won it last year.
They probably can't remember it either.
ECL > LC all day long for me.
You qualify for one as a reward for wining the other, so it's pretty obvious which is more significant.
Winning the EFL Cup qualifies for Europa League.
Only one team from major nations can go into ECL. It was designed like this to give smaller nations more chance.
Not only are you wrong in general, you're wrong about the issue you've tried to pull me up on.
https://efl.com/competitions/carabao-cup/about-the-carabao-cup
Out of date info, soz. The reason we're in it is because Man Utd qualified for the Champs League and the place dropped to league positions.
No worries!
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 01, 2024, 07:09:37 PM
Yeah it got rescheduled finally. My point remains they have 2 easier games in the last 3 and the last day is a certain 3 points so we need it done before then .Spurs last two games include Man City likely winning the title against them.Burnley & Sheff Utd games .
They play Man City at home in between those 2 games.
Have you not learned anything about Spurs? The team that followed up a 4-0 win at Villa Park by a battering at Fulham. I would much rather points in the bag than the run in they have coming up.
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2024, 07:22:39 PM
It's years of following Villa that has made me like this. All the false dawns. Must be PTSD .Yeah it got rescheduled finally. My point remains they have 2 easier games in the last 3 and the last day is a certain 3 points so we need it done before then .Spurs last two games include Man City likely winning the title against them.Burnley & Sheff Utd games .
They play Man City at home in between those 2 games.
Have you not learned anything about Spurs? The team that followed up a 4-0 win at Villa Park by a battering at Fulham. I would much rather points in the bag than the run in they have coming up.
Post by: wince on May 01, 2024, 07:51:58 PM
What a big big double bubble day tomorrow could be.Fuck yes. Get the job done!
A big win at Villa Park and we can have one foot in a European final.
If Chelsea (23 points in the last 10 at home ) beat Spurs (10 points in their last 10 away) we are 7 points ahead and they have just 1 game in hand.
I cannot remember in my time a day when we could make major progress on two fronts simultaneously.
You probably have to go right back to 1897 when Bury beat Derby for us to secure the league then later the same day we won the FA Cup beating Everton.
Come on you Lions !
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 01, 2024, 08:09:39 PM
It's years of following Villa that has made me like this. All the false dawns. Must be PTSD .Yeah it got rescheduled finally. My point remains they have 2 easier games in the last 3 and the last day is a certain 3 points so we need it done before then .Spurs last two games include Man City likely winning the title against them.Burnley & Sheff Utd games .
They play Man City at home in between those 2 games.
Have you not learned anything about Spurs? The team that followed up a 4-0 win at Villa Park by a battering at Fulham. I would much rather points in the bag than the run in they have coming up.
Burnley are battling like fuck, with something to play for.
Brighton, on the other hand, are on the (conveniently handily located) beach. I'd much rather be playing Brighton than Burnley in the run-in.
Post by: Monty on May 01, 2024, 08:10:45 PM
What a big big double bubble day tomorrow could be.
A big win at Villa Park and we can have one foot in a European final.
If Chelsea (23 points in the last 10 at home ) beat Spurs (10 points in their last 10 away) we are 7 points ahead and they have just 1 game in hand.
I cannot remember in my time a day when we could make major progress on two fronts simultaneously.
You probably have to go right back to 1897 when Bury beat Derby for us to secure the league then later the same day we won the FA Cup beating Everton.
Come on you Lions !
Heart: YES! COME ON YOU FUCKING VILLA BOYS, LET'S FUNERAL THESE MOTHERFUCKERS! THIS IS OUR DAY!
Head: Uncontrollable weeping.
This is an unbelievable percentage of my life.
Post by: LeeB on May 01, 2024, 08:12:47 PM
Post by: Astnor on May 01, 2024, 09:06:07 PM
Zaniolo looks likely to be available tomorrow.Get him in on the left (he had a good game there holding the ball up last time out), Rogers behind Watkins, Bailey on right and Mcginn Luiz in middle. Diaby from the bench at one point.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 01, 2024, 09:13:21 PM
Post by: Forge10 on May 01, 2024, 09:48:13 PM
Post by: LeeB on May 01, 2024, 10:13:22 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on May 01, 2024, 10:20:57 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 01, 2024, 10:21:37 PM
Yes, humble is important, I like to think I'm the most humble person in the world.
I've told you a million times, DO NOT EXAGGERATE
*rik face*
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 01, 2024, 10:24:43 PM
Seen the Olympiacos team coach with 2 other tour busses about 45mins ago around the entrance to the Belfry. I guess that’s their base.
Did you take some fireworks 👀
Post by: Dave on May 01, 2024, 10:25:16 PM
Yes, humble is important, I like to think I'm the most humble person in the world.
Quote
Bar none, I am the most humble-est
Number one at the top of the humble list
My apple crumble is by far the most crumble-est
But I act like it tastes bad outta humbleness
The thing about me that's so impressive
Is how infrequently I mention all of my successes
I pooh-pooh it when girls say that I should model
My belly's full from all the pride I swallow
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 01, 2024, 10:26:39 PM
Seen the Olympiacos team coach with 2 other tour busses about 45mins ago around the entrance to the Belfry. I guess that’s their base.
I hope you immediately PM'd Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 01, 2024, 11:09:02 PM
Yes, humble is important, I like to think I'm the most humble person in the world.
In fairness, you've got a lot to be humble about, Lee.
Post by: Hillbilly on May 02, 2024, 12:41:36 AM
when you're perfect in every way.
I can't wait to look in the mirror
cause I get better looking each day.
To know me is to love me
I must be a hell of a man.
Oh Lord it's hard to be humble
but I'm doing the best that I can.
Mac Davis I believe.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 03:04:15 AM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GMg5m4fWIAAyrWe?format=jpg&name=medium)
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GMg5m4gWMAEl8wt?format=jpg&name=medium)
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GMhcnu6W0AA6q76?format=jpg&name=large)
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 03:08:41 AM
https://twitter.com/SportalgrG/status/1785756432295498073/video/3
Post by: nick harper on May 02, 2024, 05:58:49 AM
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on May 02, 2024, 06:20:06 AM
Are they closing Witton Lane tonight like other European games does anyone know? Can’t see anything on the website unless I’ve missed something.
Did see that they had opened some areas of the ground for extra ticket sales.
Post by: N'ZMAV on May 02, 2024, 06:49:47 AM
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on May 02, 2024, 07:11:37 AM
Seen the Olympiacos team coach with 2 other tour busses about 45mins ago around the entrance to the Belfry. I guess that’s their base.
I hope you immediately PM'd Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air.
Top spot. I'm jealous. :)
https://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=64250.0
Post by: Allan C on May 02, 2024, 07:43:35 AM
Post by: Demitri_C on May 02, 2024, 08:15:31 AM
And VP in a vid from a Greek channel
https://twitter.com/SportalgrG/status/1785756432295498073/video/3
Basically complimentary towards us and say will be a tough game. Great to see for me 😁
Post by: Nev on May 02, 2024, 08:48:14 AM
Nah, fuck it, we'll do 'em.
Post by: Axl Rose on May 02, 2024, 08:49:14 AM
And VP in a vid from a Greek channel
https://twitter.com/SportalgrG/status/1785756432295498073/video/3
Basically complimentary towards us and say will be a tough game. Great to see for me 😁
Do you support a Greek team as well then, mate?
When I lived on Kos back in 2003/04, I met a lot of Olympiakos fans, but there were more Panathinaikos, and a good serving of AEK. At work, everyone was AEK apart from one PAOK nutter.
I loved him to be fair, and watched our 5-2 Carling Cup defeat to Bolton with him. He threw a mini palm tree type plant over the bar at the Man Utd (cheering for Bolton) supporting barman.
We weren't allowed back in for the second leg
Post by: PaulWinch again on May 02, 2024, 10:11:48 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 02, 2024, 10:20:29 AM
I like the cut of his Jib.And VP in a vid from a Greek channel
https://twitter.com/SportalgrG/status/1785756432295498073/video/3
Basically complimentary towards us and say will be a tough game. Great to see for me 😁
Do you support a Greek team as well then, mate?
When I lived on Kos back in 2003/04, I met a lot of Olympiakos fans, but there were more Panathinaikos, and a good serving of AEK. At work, everyone was AEK apart from one PAOK nutter.
I loved him to be fair, and watched our 5-2 Carling Cup defeat to Bolton with him. He threw a mini palm tree type plant over the bar at the Man Utd (cheering for Bolton) supporting barman.
We weren't allowed back in for the second leg
Post by: Axl Rose on May 02, 2024, 10:29:29 AM
I like the cut of his Jib.And VP in a vid from a Greek channel
https://twitter.com/SportalgrG/status/1785756432295498073/video/3
Basically complimentary towards us and say will be a tough game. Great to see for me 😁
Do you support a Greek team as well then, mate?
When I lived on Kos back in 2003/04, I met a lot of Olympiakos fans, but there were more Panathinaikos, and a good serving of AEK. At work, everyone was AEK apart from one PAOK nutter.
I loved him to be fair, and watched our 5-2 Carling Cup defeat to Bolton with him. He threw a mini palm tree type plant over the bar at the Man Utd (cheering for Bolton) supporting barman.
We weren't allowed back in for the second leg
He was superb mate.
Our collective behaviour was appalling. I look back and chuckle.
Post by: saunders_heroes on May 02, 2024, 10:31:48 AM
Post by: Demitri_C on May 02, 2024, 11:43:00 AM
And VP in a vid from a Greek channel
https://twitter.com/SportalgrG/status/1785756432295498073/video/3
Basically complimentary towards us and say will be a tough game. Great to see for me 😁
Do you support a Greek team as well then, mate?
When I lived on Kos back in 2003/04, I met a lot of Olympiakos fans, but there were more Panathinaikos, and a good serving of AEK. At work, everyone was AEK apart from one PAOK nutter.
I loved him to be fair, and watched our 5-2 Carling Cup defeat to Bolton with him. He threw a mini palm tree type plant over the bar at the Man Utd (cheering for Bolton) supporting barman.
We weren't allowed back in for the second leg
Yeah pal. I follow olympiakos funny enough but i want villa to win tonight =)
Kos i havent been yet butvim planning to go for sure. Im more greek from cyprus but have greek in greece relatives too.
As you may have noticed when you live there, they love their football and basketball. They are a nutty bunch but generally very good despite the few hooligans they have like most clubs.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 02, 2024, 11:46:40 AM
Do you support a Greek team as well then, mate?
When I lived on Kos back in 2003/04, I met a lot of Olympiakos fans, but there were more Panathinaikos, and a good serving of AEK. At work, everyone was AEK apart from one PAOK nutter.
I loved him to be fair, and watched our 5-2 Carling Cup defeat to Bolton with him. He threw a mini palm tree type plant over the bar at the Man Utd (cheering for Bolton) supporting barman.
We weren't allowed back in for the second leg
Yeah pal. I follow olympiakos funny enough but i want villa to win tonight =)
Panathinaikos for me, love a bit of Horto Magiko.
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 02, 2024, 11:58:20 AM
We really are struggling player wise now.
Hope Youri is back for Brighton and especially P.lop
Post by: Rigadon on May 02, 2024, 12:01:29 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 12:17:52 PM
That and other match day info is here
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/may/01/Matchday-Guide--Aston-Villa-v-Olympiacos/
Post by: Demitri_C on May 02, 2024, 12:32:32 PM
Huge game tonight
Post by: Olneythelonely on May 02, 2024, 12:34:40 PM
Has been confirmed that Youri and Moreno is out but not heard anything about Zaniolo
We really are struggling player wise now.
Hope Youri is back for Brighton and especially P.lop
He said Zaniolo could be available.
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on May 02, 2024, 12:41:41 PM
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/sport/football/aston-villa-train-ahead-of-uefa-conference-league-semi-final/vi-AA1o1MrR?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=HCTS&cvid=5051ecba8eae4805c38b5e8857738d00&ei=22#details
Post by: Ads on May 02, 2024, 12:45:55 PM
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on May 02, 2024, 12:50:43 PM
The club are encouraging a welcoming committee again for the team arriving at approx 6.30.
That and other match day info is here
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/may/01/Matchday-Guide--Aston-Villa-v-Olympiacos/
"The club would kindly ask that supporters refrain from bringing flares/pyrotechnics to Villa Park on Thursday.
The support for the team arrival and atmosphere created by fans at the previous two games has been outstanding and greatly appreciated by the players, management and everyone at Aston Villa.
However, smoke dispersing from the pyrotechnic devices has caused visibility issues for the team bus approaching the stadium and there have been multiple instances of breathing difficulties amongst fans and club staff.
We very much hope together we can create another memorable atmosphere for the players' arrival on Thursday, but we encourage you to please consider the safety and well-being of others so that everyone can enjoy the experience."
[/youtube]
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 12:51:19 PM
Let's run them over tonight Villa. Absolutely blugen them out the tie. We're more than capable of doing it. Nothing to fear.
Is that like the NextGen?
Post by: eamonn on May 02, 2024, 12:59:54 PM
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on May 02, 2024, 01:05:16 PM
Did the Greek FA give Olympiacos the weekend off like France did Lille?
They played Sunday just gone, don't play again until after the 2nd leg.
Don't know if games were put off to accomodate this.
Post by: LeeS on May 02, 2024, 01:23:42 PM
Did the Greek FA give Olympiacos the weekend off like France did Lille?
They played Sunday just gone, don't play again until after the 2nd leg.
Don't know if games were put off to accomodate this.
If it has, I hope they dont make the final. They will have a backlog to make up. Just like we would have done.
Post by: Skerra on May 02, 2024, 01:33:42 PM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on May 02, 2024, 02:20:20 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 02, 2024, 02:21:19 PM
Heading home now from work in 'uddersfield. I'M TOO EXCITED!!
Just imagine how us youngsters are feeling.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 02, 2024, 02:22:10 PM
Post by: VillaTim on May 02, 2024, 02:25:03 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 02, 2024, 02:33:28 PM
Is the Villa match still on tonight? BBC sport and Talksport sound like there’s only one important game and that’s Chelsea v Spurs!
Virgin Media had our game listed with a photo of a Liverpool player. They've now replaced it with the station's logo, despite being able to find a photo for pretty much all their other shows tonight. https://www.virginmediatelevision.ie/tv-guide
Post by: Somniloquism on May 02, 2024, 02:42:21 PM
Did the Greek FA give Olympiacos the weekend off like France did Lille?
The greeks are in the Champions / Relegations phase of their season now where they split the table and the top teams play only other teams in their own half. So potentially less games which allows them certain times off.
Post by: Duncan Shaw on May 02, 2024, 02:53:01 PM
Post by: MorrisNielson on May 02, 2024, 03:34:04 PM
Post by: olaftab on May 02, 2024, 03:35:24 PM
Post by: Dave on May 02, 2024, 03:39:11 PM
The bias is inbred. SSN Premier League news says "Tottenham can cut gap to Aston Villa in 4th place to just 4 points with a win" that shows emphasis of course on Tottenham to get 4th.
It shows emphasis on Tottenham, because it's being said in the context of them talking about the game Tottenham are playing in tonight.
If it were us playing, they'd say something like "Villa can extend the gap over fifth placed Tottenham to seven points". Sometimes these things aren't conspiracies.
Post by: Nev on May 02, 2024, 04:02:54 PM
The bias is inbred. SSN Premier League news says "Tottenham can cut gap to Aston Villa in 4th place to just 4 points with a win" that shows emphasis of course on Tottenham to get 4th.
They also don't have the rights to European Football and are showing the Spurs game, as a promotional channel and not a news channel they are naturally going to focus on that one and what the result means.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 04:06:25 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on May 02, 2024, 04:09:49 PM
There other thread for that let's stick to our match here shall we!!!!! That's what people want to read and discuss here!
Post by: PaulWinch again on May 02, 2024, 04:14:41 PM
The bias is inbred. SSN Premier League news says "Tottenham can cut gap to Aston Villa in 4th place to just 4 points with a win" that shows emphasis of course on Tottenham to get 4th.
It shows emphasis on Tottenham, because it's being said in the context of them talking about the game Tottenham are playing in tonight.
If it were us playing, they'd say something like "Villa can extend the gap over fifth placed Tottenham to seven points". Sometimes these things aren't conspiracies.
Indeed, feels like this is being a bit precious.
Post by: VillaTim on May 02, 2024, 04:16:09 PM
Post by: Nev on May 02, 2024, 04:30:09 PM
Well, walking along drinking sugar free Red Bull, sensible given their portly stature. The potential flashpoint outside the Turkish Barbers failed to ignite....
Post by: olaftab on May 02, 2024, 04:30:16 PM
The point is they say just 4 ignoring that at this stage of the season it's massive 4.The bias is inbred. SSN Premier League news says "Tottenham can cut gap to Aston Villa in 4th place to just 4 points with a win" that shows emphasis of course on Tottenham to get 4th.
It shows emphasis on Tottenham, because it's being said in the context of them talking about the game Tottenham are playing in tonight.
If it were us playing, they'd say something like "Villa can extend the gap over fifth placed Tottenham to seven points". Sometimes these things aren't conspiracies.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 02, 2024, 04:42:03 PM
Just seen two Olympiacos fans rampaging down Navigation Street.
Well, walking along drinking sugar free Red Bull, sensible given their portly stature. The potential flashpoint outside the Turkish Barbers failed to ignite....
That's probably because there's never anyone in them.
Post by: Dave on May 02, 2024, 04:43:58 PM
The point is they say just 4 ignoring that at this stage of the season it's massive 4.The bias is inbred. SSN Premier League news says "Tottenham can cut gap to Aston Villa in 4th place to just 4 points with a win" that shows emphasis of course on Tottenham to get 4th.
It shows emphasis on Tottenham, because it's being said in the context of them talking about the game Tottenham are playing in tonight.
If it were us playing, they'd say something like "Villa can extend the gap over fifth placed Tottenham to seven points". Sometimes these things aren't conspiracies.
They're also trying to sell the idea of watching Chelsea vs Spurs to people tuned into their channel.
"Spurs play Chelsea live on Sky tonight, but given neither really has much to play for anymore probably go and watch the Villa on the other side?" isn't going to keep their advertisers happy.
Post by: Footy-Vill on May 02, 2024, 04:55:00 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on May 02, 2024, 04:55:46 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 04:57:36 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 05:02:15 PM
https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1785748019906031828
Post by: olaftab on May 02, 2024, 05:28:13 PM
"Spurs play Chelsea live on Sky tonight, but given neither really has much to play for anymore probably go and watch the Villa on the other side?" isn't going to keep their advertisers happy.Your obsession with balance and reason is very unhealthy, please stop it.
Post by: Footy-Vill on May 02, 2024, 05:30:38 PM
Let's hope there's all the positive result today and excellent game Emery knows.
Good wishes all ! Up the Villa!
Post by: olaftab on May 02, 2024, 05:30:57 PM
Just seen two Olympiacos fans rampaging down Navigation Street.I take it their clips don’t need winging?
Well, walking along drinking sugar free Red Bull, sensible given their portly stature. The potential flashpoint outside the Turkish Barbers failed to ignite....
Post by: itbrvilla on May 02, 2024, 05:31:05 PM
Post by: itbrvilla on May 02, 2024, 05:33:04 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 05:43:46 PM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on May 02, 2024, 05:44:54 PM
Post by: olaftab on May 02, 2024, 05:47:55 PM
Anyone having a drink in town before hand? I'm the sad loner enjoying a flight in Somar...I am just around the corner.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 06:08:46 PM
Post by: olaftab on May 02, 2024, 06:10:37 PM
Post by: wince on May 02, 2024, 06:11:35 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 06:12:47 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 02, 2024, 06:14:58 PM
Post by: wince on May 02, 2024, 06:16:21 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 06:18:47 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 02, 2024, 06:23:11 PM
Post by: Baldy on May 02, 2024, 06:25:20 PM
I'm excited as fuck, can't wait.
I hope your typing finger goes wild tonight.
P.S. scorchio appeared on Countdown a few days ago, it's in the dictionary!!
Post by: eamonn on May 02, 2024, 06:25:44 PM
Can anyone un-paywall this column on us? Not sure how it works on archive.org
Post by: Nev on May 02, 2024, 06:27:46 PM
"Tom Brady is a shareholder, I'm a shareholder".
Shaaaaat aaaap.
Post by: wince on May 02, 2024, 06:29:16 PM
There's a 'Nose in this pub pontificating fucking nonsense.Tom Brady’s a ****** I’m a ****** works though
"Tom Brady is a shareholder, I'm a shareholder".
Shaaaaat aaaap.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 06:30:15 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 02, 2024, 06:30:57 PM
https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport-columnists/arid-41386384.html
Can anyone un-paywall this column on us? Not sure how it works on archive.org
It's a long one, Eamonn, just keep pressing Esc as it loads.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 02, 2024, 06:31:50 PM
Confidence is going a bit now. Don’t fuck this up villa
Still feeling confident, but it's only hitting home now that we're in a European semi-final. Yeah Baby! Yeah!!
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 02, 2024, 06:33:43 PM
https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport-columnists/arid-41386384.html
Can anyone un-paywall this column on us? Not sure how it works on archive.org
It's a long one, Eamonn,
Not a phrase he hears often.
Post by: Steve67 on May 02, 2024, 06:38:16 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 02, 2024, 06:38:19 PM
Quote
Tommy Martin: Aston Villa fans walk among us. This is their time
These are heady days for Aston Villa fans, that small but statistically significant section of society who are preparing for their first European semi-final since 1982.
They walk among us.
You may be looking at one now and you don’t know it. They dress like us, act like us and appear just like the rest of us, aside from the wistful look of those who dream often of Gordon Cowans in his prime.
These are heady days for Aston Villa fans, that small but statistically significant section of society who are preparing for their first European semi-final since 1982. That was the year Villa won the European Cup, their title-winning manager Ron Saunders having left mid-season over a contract dispute, chief scout Tony Barton the caretaker with his name etched in history.
This time around it is the Europa Conference League that offers Villa a glimpse of glory. The tournament is UEFA’s version of the welfare state, a vessel for redistribution to those less fortunate while the petrostates and hedge funds blast off into the distance.
So far it has allowed Roma and West Ham the taste of European silverware, demonstrating a knack for giving storied but trophy-shy outfits a share of the end-of-season wealth. Enter Aston Villa.
You know Aston Villa fans – you probably have to think about it for a few seconds, but you do. Here in Ireland, they bear the greying temples and telltale dadbods of 1990s kids who fell in love with Ron Atkinson’s green-tinged team of the era. They came for Paul McGrath, Steve Staunton and Ray Houghton but stayed for the wing wizard Tony Daley, the goals of Dean Saunders and the hint of the dissolute already apparent in a young Dwight Yorke.
Villa were tremendous fun back then, finishing second in 1990 under Graham Taylor, 17th a season later under Jozef Venglos, before taking a ride on the Big Ron rollercoaster. Ron had them runners-up again in 1992-93 and League Cup winners a year later but was sacked in November 1994 with Villa on the way to 18th, one spot above the relegation zone.
After that came Brian Little and another League Cup, the zeitgeisty back three of McGrath, Gareth Southgate and Ugo Ehiogu, the club transfer record smashed for an eye-watering £3.5million on Savo Milosevic, Yorke dazzling all the while. Then it was John Gregory, fast-talking Cockney hardman who presided over a cup final appearance, regular UEFA Cup runs and a squad that featured the mercurial talents of Stan Collymore, Paul Merson and David Ginola at one stage or another.
How different, when compared to the wage-bill bound certainties of today, the idea of supporting a football club must be for Villa fans formed in that era, when any upcoming season for a middle-ranking club could as easily bring an unlikely title challenge or a nail-biting relegation struggle? What would the Opta supercomputer have made of Deadly Doug Ellis?
Think wider than your immediate circle and there are the famous Villa fans, from minor media personalities to actual royalty. Superstar violinist Nigel Kennedy loves McGrath more than Vivaldi; Tom Hanks has been known to pop into Villa Park when on location in the UK; on the posher end, there’s Prince William and former prime minister David Cameron, whose support of the club was not at all a cynical manoeuvre to curry favour with the proles, even though he once got them mixed up with West Ham in a campaign speech.
Prince William claims to support Villa because all his chums at Eton followed either Manchester United or Chelsea (Liverpool presumably being a little to sedition-adjacent for the future rulers of Britain) and it is within the outsider mindset that the soul of Irish Villa supporters also lies.
As a child growing up in Ireland you have life-defining and character-revealing decision to make. Most Irish playgrounds are divided between the red armies of Manchester and Merseyside, with Arsenal and latterly Chelsea offering alternative caucuses in which to assemble.
But there are those who choose to stand alone and pick from that subset of middle-ranking English giants – the quirky Spurs fan, the Everton oddball, the Leeds kid loyal to his poor old dad and, always, one seduced by the lovely claret and blue. In these increasingly stratified times in elite football, these youngsters are often dooming themselves to a lifetime of association with on-field underachievement, boardroom shenanigans and solitary misery.
And it is amazing how enduring that association is. I can picture in my head now a guy I met in college nearly 30 years ago. I don’t remember his name or anything else about him other than the fact that he was a Sheffield Wednesday fan. If his face appeared on the news tonight as that of the leader of a terrorist organisation that had committed a mass atrocity costing the lives of thousands, I would point at the screen and say, “he’s a Sheffield Wednesday fan!”
For their part, Villa fans have chosen quite well. If you are going to be indelibly tied to something beyond the glory-hunting mainstream, it may as well be Villa, constantly either challenging for Europe or hurtling towards relegation. Things are never dull, and if all else fails you have the gorgeous Archibald Leitch-designed environs of Villa Park to enjoy, a proper football ground in a fast-dwindling list of them.
And now, one of their periodic highs, heading for the Champions League and in a European semi-final. Unai Emery suits Villa, in that his successes are bite-sized and neatly presented, like footballing tapas, but don’t necessarily mean sustained eras of prolonged glory. Emery’s Europa League victories with Sevilla and Villarreal showed him as a master of the two-legged struggle, able to tweak and squeeze and nudge and shimmy his teams through European ties even against seemingly stronger opposition.
Therefore, you’d fancy Villa to end a 28-year wait for a trophy, given that they face Olympiacos in their Conference League semi-final and potentially Fiorentina or Club Brugge in the final. But having been relegated five years after winning the European Cup 1982, their supporters won’t be getting carried away.
If you pass someone today with just the merest hint of a smile, beware, it might be a Villa fan.
I observe with interest he makes that relatively common Leitch mistake.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 02, 2024, 06:38:37 PM
https://twitter.com/europacnfleague/status/1786087370221035594
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 02, 2024, 06:39:54 PM
This is the more interesting part..
Think wider than your immediate circle and there are the famous Villa fans, from minor media personalities to actual royalty. Superstar violinist Nigel Kennedy loves McGrath more than Vivaldi; Tom Hanks has been known to pop into Villa Park when on location in the UK; on the posher end, there’s Prince William and former prime minister David Cameron, whose support of the club was not at all a cynical manoeuvre to curry favour with the proles, even though he once got them mixed up with West Ham in a campaign speech.
Prince William claims to support Villa because all his chums at Eton followed either Manchester United or Chelsea (Liverpool presumably being a little to sedition-adjacent for the future rulers of Britain) and it is within the outsider mindset that the soul of Irish Villa supporters also lies.
As a child growing up in Ireland you have life-defining and character-revealing decision to make. Most Irish playgrounds are divided between the red armies of Manchester and Merseyside, with Arsenal and latterly Chelsea offering alternative caucuses in which to assemble.
But there are those who choose to stand alone and pick from that subset of middle-ranking English giants – the quirky Spurs fan, the Everton oddball, the Leeds kid loyal to his poor old dad and, always, one seduced by the lovely claret and blue. In these increasingly stratified times in elite football, these youngsters are often dooming themselves to a lifetime of association with on-field underachievement, boardroom shenanigans and solitary misery.
And it is amazing how enduring that association is. I can picture in my head now a guy I met in college nearly 30 years ago. I don’t remember his name or anything else about him other than the fact that he was a Sheffield Wednesday fan. If his face appeared on the news tonight as that of the leader of a terrorist organisation that had committed a mass atrocity costing the lives of thousands, I would point at the screen and say, “he’s a Sheffield Wednesday fan!”
For their part, Villa fans have chosen quite well. If you are going to be indelibly tied to something beyond the glory-hunting mainstream, it may as well be Villa, constantly either challenging for Europe or hurtling towards relegation. Things are never dull, and if all else fails you have the gorgeous Archibald Leitch-designed environs of Villa Park to enjoy, a proper football ground in a fast-dwindling list of them.
And now, one of their periodic highs, heading for the Champions League and in a European semi-final. Unai Emery suits Villa, in that his successes are bite-sized and neatly presented, like footballing tapas, but don’t necessarily mean sustained eras of prolonged glory. Emery’s Europa League victories with Sevilla and Villarreal showed him as a master of the two-legged struggle, able to tweak and squeeze and nudge and shimmy his teams through European ties even against seemingly stronger opposition.
Therefore, you’d fancy Villa to end a 28-year wait for a trophy, given that they face Olympiacos in their Conference League semi-final and potentially Fiorentina or Club Brugge in the final. But having been relegated five years after winning the European Cup 1982, their supporters won’t be getting carried away.
If you pass someone today with just the merest hint of a smile, beware, it might be a Villa fan.
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 02, 2024, 06:39:58 PM
https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport-columnists/arid-41386384.html
Can anyone un-paywall this column on us? Not sure how it works on archive.org
It's a long one, Eamonn, just keep pressing Esc as it loads.
Copy the URL, go to archive.ph, paste and search.
Post by: Steve67 on May 02, 2024, 06:47:24 PM
COME ON YOU VILLA BOYS.
Post by: eamonn on May 02, 2024, 06:49:30 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 02, 2024, 06:58:29 PM
Thanks, all!
He sounds like a Man United fan. Wish I hadn't bothered now! Oh well, bollocks to him.