Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Dave on January 06, 2025, 09:41:36 AM

Title: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave on January 06, 2025, 09:41:36 AM
Friday 10th January, 8pm

Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Mings
Maatsen

Onana
Kamara
Ramsey

Bailey
Rogers
Watkins

0-1
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 06, 2025, 09:48:22 AM
Draw? There's no replays any more.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 06, 2025, 09:52:55 AM
Please can we play well in the Cup.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TaxDodger on January 06, 2025, 09:55:44 AM
Please can we not piss about picking Olsen or Gauci.

I'm certainly fine with giving Buendia/Maatsen etc. a start, but our odds of winning drop so dramatically if we change the goalkeeper that it really isn't worth the minimal benefits of giving Emi a rest and someone else a run out.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave on January 06, 2025, 09:56:07 AM
Draw? There's no replays any more.

Could still be a draw in ninety minutes.

*nods sagely*
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on January 06, 2025, 10:10:07 AM
Similar to Leicester. Rubbish game, scrape through by a single goal.


Martinez
Cash Konsa Mings Maatsen
 Onana Kamara
Bailey Barkley Ramsey
Watkins
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on January 06, 2025, 10:32:35 AM
Is this durans last banned game  for us?

Wouldnt mind having barry on bench for this one

But start maatsen and maybe bogarde with mings give him some game time keep everything  else same
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: dcdavecollett on January 06, 2025, 10:33:31 AM
No Rogers?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: simboy on January 06, 2025, 10:41:12 AM
Is this durans last banned game  for us?

Wouldnt mind having barry on bench for this one

But start maatsen and maybe bogarde with mings give him some game time keep everything  else same



i'd be surprised if Barry is anywhere near this or any other game until the window closes, at least for us. They are working out what to do with him and, as i think has been said a number of times before, he cannot play for three clubs in one season.

if Buendia starts I think we can assume Emery has taken the same view of the FA Cup as he did of the League Cup - nice if we get through but not a priority.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on January 06, 2025, 10:41:42 AM
No Rogers?

Id have him on bench and save him for everton personally
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 06, 2025, 10:42:20 AM
Rogers will be available and should play, probably at the expense of Ramsey. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Nev on January 06, 2025, 10:56:12 AM
Firstly the negatives:

The KO day and time.
The uncomfortable feeling that the 150 years thing has been used just to sell more tickets.
6k West Ham fans in the ground.
Emery doesn't see this glorious trophy as a priority.

The positives:

It's the FA Cup

The verdict:

We will undoubtedly field a weakened side and bow out meekly but the romantic in me still harbours dreams of us lifting the Cup. It's probably me but this fixture just doesn't feel right in any way.

1-3
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: devilla on January 06, 2025, 11:47:31 AM
A Friday night FA Cup KO, live on terrestrial telly and an opponent struggling for results. What could possibly go wrong?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2025, 12:22:51 PM
                     Olson
Nedelijkovic Bogarde Swinkels Maatsen
Ramsey Onana Barkley Rogers
                 Buendia
                  Watkins
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: tomd2103 on January 06, 2025, 12:23:45 PM
Hate to say this (and I genuinely do hate to say it), but I think the fixtures in the remainder of January will mean we will field a very weakened side on Friday night.

The decision to put midweek Premier League fixtures on after the FA Cup 3rd round weekend is a baffling one and probably gaurantees many teams will be feeling weakened sides this weekend.

We looked jaded again at the weekend and with injuries mounting up a bit, I think having to play 6 games in 3 weeks could really take it's toll.  Therefore, I can see a very weakened side being fielded on Friday.
 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 06, 2025, 12:31:46 PM
                     Olson
Nedelijkovic Bogarde Swinkels Maatsen
Ramsey Onana Barkley Rogers
                 Buendia
                  Watkins

If we play that back 5 we’ll get smashed.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2025, 12:34:25 PM
Hate to say this (and I genuinely do haye to say it), but I think the fixtures in the remainder of January will mean we will field a very weakened side on Friday night.

The decision to put midweek Premier League fixtures on after the FA Cup 3rd round weekend is a baffling one and probably gaurantees many teams will be feeling weakened sides this weekend.

We look jaded again at the weekend and with injuries mounting up a bit, I think having to play 6 games in 3 weeks could really take it's toll.  Therefore, I can see a very weakened side being fielded on Friday.

Of course we will, anyone expecting to turn up and watch our best available team is going to be dissapointed.
Everton Arsenal Monaco will be the priority.
3 very tough away games.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2025, 12:36:25 PM
                     Olson
Nedelijkovic Bogarde Swinkels Maatsen
Ramsey Onana Barkley Rogers
                 Buendia
                  Watkins

If we play that back 5 we’ll get smashed.
I think that he might play Diego or Konsa but expect him to rest Mings as our only left sided CH.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: tomd2103 on January 06, 2025, 12:39:57 PM
                     Olson
Nedelijkovic Bogarde Swinkels Maatsen
Ramsey Onana Barkley Rogers
                 Buendia
                  Watkins

If we play that back 5 we’ll get smashed.

I think that's pretty much what the side will be though (except I think Philogene would replace Ramsey in the above line up). 

With Carlos and Torres out, I very much doubt we will risk playing Konsa or Mings.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 06, 2025, 12:42:19 PM
Yeah I’m not saying it won’t happen, but that is very callow and weak. We definitely need some defensive cover.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on January 06, 2025, 01:01:35 PM
                     Olson
Nedelijkovic Bogarde Swinkels Maatsen
Ramsey Onana Barkley Rogers
                 Buendia
                  Watkins
NO, NO and THRICE NO. This is most important match of the season. Play the best available XI, the great and glorious FA cup is not to be messed about with.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on January 06, 2025, 01:03:22 PM
With Carlos and Torres out, I very much doubt we will risk playing Konsa or Mings.
What's he going to save them for, another mundane League match against Everton?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on January 06, 2025, 01:14:37 PM
Rogers will be available and should play, probably at the expense of Ramsey.

Ramsey needs the minutes a lot more than Rogers. We can't afford for Cash to get injured with our upcoming schedule so Kosta will need to play. Konsa can take time to reflect on his recent performances and attitude from the bench. The real issue from the Palace defeat was not the starting team really but the subs effectively were Emery throwing the tie.

Martinez
Kosta, Carlos, Mings, Maatsen
Onana, Barkley
Bailey, Buendia, Ramsey
Watkins

Likes of Cash, Tielemans, Konsa, Rogers in reserve and Emery needs to use the bench properly this time.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 06, 2025, 01:14:41 PM
                     Olson
Nedelijkovic Bogarde Swinkels Maatsen
Ramsey Onana Barkley Rogers
                 Buendia
                  Watkins
NO, NO and THRICE NO. This is most important match of the season. Play the best available XI, the great and glorious FA cup is not to be messed about with.

It’s not in the managers eyes (or mine to be honest, although I value it higher than Unai).
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on January 06, 2025, 01:19:19 PM
With Carlos and Torres out, I very much doubt we will risk playing Konsa or Mings.
What's he going to save them for, another mundane League match against Everton?

Whilst I dont think he will drop both of them, it's not always about the next game.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Hookeysmith on January 06, 2025, 01:32:52 PM
Definately rest a few

Mings
Digne
Cash
Tielemans
Kamara

and replace with

Swinkels
Maatsen (especially as they have no Bowen)
Ned
Buendia
Onana - surely he will want to play his way back in for the Everton game

I think Wet Spam will not go strong as they are certainly not in a great place in the league and have a derby with Fulham mid week and another against Palace on sat after
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: rob_bridge on January 06, 2025, 01:47:25 PM
Martinez
Ned
Carlos
Mings
Maatsen

Onana
Barkley
Ramsey

Bailey
Rogers
Watkins


1-2 (if Spam give a shit) otherwise we win on penalties

It is the lowest priority left for us. Sad but true.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 06, 2025, 02:06:12 PM
Why wasn't this game on last weekend? I thought the first weekend of January was always Round Three time. Is it because there was one less league game between Christmas and New Year than usual?

Also, what happened to the mid-season break where one set of league fixtures are spread-across two weekends? There's no Euros/World Cup next summer so no need to worry about finishing in late May. Or has that World Club Cup condensed things?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Nii Lamptey on January 06, 2025, 02:21:57 PM
Bollocks to all this resting of players malarkey..... The FA Cup is our best chance of silverware (*and long overdue). 5 day break before Everton away should be plenty of recovery time.

What an absolute shitshow Friday is going to be if it's a skeleton crew. Less home fans than any other game, lots of season ticket holders not taking up their seats due to inflated prices/christmas/extortionate CL tickets, you couldn't write how much of a fuck up this Heck guy is for our club.

WIN THIS BLOODY CUP. PLEASE VILLA!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: tomd2103 on January 06, 2025, 02:24:49 PM
 ???
With Carlos and Torres out, I very much doubt we will risk playing Konsa or Mings.
What's he going to save them for, another mundane League match against Everton?

Unai Emery has been quoted a number of times saying that the league is the priority, followed by the Champions League. 

I agree with your sentiments as I would love to see us win the FA Cup, but the additional midweek league game plus back-to-back Champions League games is a very tough schedule for an already stretched squad.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on January 06, 2025, 02:28:16 PM
Rogers will be available and should play, probably at the expense of Ramsey.

Wouldn't it perfect  game time to give ramsey  must needed minutes though?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2025, 02:43:31 PM
Rogers will be available and should play, probably at the expense of Ramsey.

Wouldn't it perfect  game time to give ramsey  must needed minutes though?
I think both play as both will need some match fitness.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Steve67 on January 06, 2025, 02:53:24 PM
Play our strongest side available and no messing about.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2025, 02:54:05 PM
Play our strongest side available and no messing about.
We won’t though.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on January 06, 2025, 02:57:56 PM
Rogers will be available and should play, probably at the expense of Ramsey.

Wouldn't it perfect  game time to give ramsey  must needed minutes though?
I think both play as both will need some match fitness.

Yeah could do i guess if malen is coming in soon too that gives us a extra fresh body to use as well next week vs everton.

I still think giving bogarde a start or at least minutes is vital as he may be needed at some point this season with torres injury
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on January 06, 2025, 03:37:11 PM
Julen Lopetegui looks like has got the chop with Potter favourite to come in...great.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on January 06, 2025, 03:51:03 PM
0-2
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on January 06, 2025, 03:53:23 PM
Julen Lopetegui looks like has got the chop with Potter favourite to come in...great.
.fantastic

We could have to face two new managers in a week
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaTim on January 06, 2025, 03:53:47 PM
Think he will play a strongish team with a smattering of players like Maatsen / Buendia . Unsure if he will rest Martinez I'd say it's 50/50.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Tuscans on January 06, 2025, 03:53:50 PM
Julen Lopetegui looks like has got the chop with Potter favourite to come in...great.
Would love to know what club has faced the most new managers after they sacked the last...sounds like we would be up there.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 06, 2025, 03:58:14 PM
Julen Lopetegui looks like has got the chop with Potter favourite to come in...great.
.fantastic

We could have to face two new managers in a week

Why, is Seán for the chop too ?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 06, 2025, 03:59:42 PM
I don't give a shit about new manager bounce, if you're facing a new manager it's usually because the team are shite. Remember that and funeral them.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on January 06, 2025, 04:03:19 PM
Julen Lopetegui looks like has got the chop with Potter favourite to come in...great.
.fantastic

We could have to face two new managers in a week

Why, is Seán for the chop too ?

Apparently  so mate
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on January 06, 2025, 04:06:29 PM
Weirdly, with the strength of the Premier League, it's probably harder to win the FA cup than it is to win the CL (once you're in it).  So, I don't think the FA cup is our best chance of silverware anymore and so I'm more in the 'rest some players' camp than the 'go strong as possible' one. 

Do we know why has the club allowed West Ham to have so many tickets?  Because they didn't think we'd sell out?   
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 06, 2025, 04:11:35 PM
Cup games always give more allocation to away fans than league games.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 06, 2025, 04:12:11 PM
Weirdly, with the strength of the Premier League, it's probably harder to win the FA cup than it is to win the CL (once you're in it).  So, I don't think the FA cup is our best chance of silverware anymore and so I'm more in the 'rest some players' camp than the 'go strong as possible' one. 

Do we know why has the club allowed West Ham to have so many tickets?  Because they didn't think we'd sell out?   

You have to in the FA Cup don't you, if the visiting club request it? I think it's about 15%.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on January 06, 2025, 04:14:13 PM
Ah right - another thing I didn't know, but now do! 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Behind Bluenose Lines on January 06, 2025, 04:25:01 PM
 West Ham manager sacked. Replacement lined up apparently.

New manager bounce: that's us out in the third round yet again!  :'(
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: HolteL4 on January 06, 2025, 04:28:03 PM
Bollocks to all this resting of players malarkey..... The FA Cup is our best chance of silverware (*and long overdue). 5 day break before Everton away should be plenty of recovery time.

What an absolute shitshow Friday is going to be if it's a skeleton crew. Less home fans than any other game, lots of season ticket holders not taking up their seats due to inflated prices/christmas/extortionate CL tickets, you couldn't write how much of a fuck up this Heck guy is for our club.

WIN THIS BLOODY CUP. PLEASE VILLA!!

Surely it after selecting this as our 151st Anniversary (sorry 150th) celebration game we have to play our full strength team,  you can't do that and not take the game seriously as that will be confirmation that we only decided on the celebrations just to trick people into buying tickets and it'll also look a bit stupid.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Villan82 on January 06, 2025, 04:31:15 PM
Bollocks to all this resting of players malarkey..... The FA Cup is our best chance of silverware (*and long overdue). 5 day break before Everton away should be plenty of recovery time.

What an absolute shitshow Friday is going to be if it's a skeleton crew. Less home fans than any other game, lots of season ticket holders not taking up their seats due to inflated prices/christmas/extortionate CL tickets, you couldn't write how much of a fuck up this Heck guy is for our club.

WIN THIS BLOODY CUP. PLEASE VILLA!!

Surely it after selecting this as our 151st Anniversary (sorry 150th) celebration game we have to play our full strength team,  you can't do that and not take the game seriously as that will be confirmation that we only decided on the celebrations just to trick people into buying tickets and it'll also look a bit stupid.

Emery runs the team. If he wants to rest players for this game that should be his call. I personally believe it is wrong for Heck to select this game for the celebration for many reasons, not least because it puts pressure on the manager to maybe select a stronger side than he would want to. It was such a bad decision to select this game.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on January 06, 2025, 04:33:07 PM
West Ham manager sacked. Replacement lined up apparently.

New manager bounce: that's us out in the third round yet again!  :'(

Too slow. Winky.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 06, 2025, 04:49:36 PM
I reckon we must probably have a decent record against Graham Potter, at least. I'd imagine a new manager makes them much less likely to rest players, though.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 06, 2025, 04:57:08 PM
I reckon we must probably have a decent record against Graham Potter, at least. I'd imagine a new manager makes them much less likely to rest players, though.

Gerrard beat Potter's Brighton in his first game.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 06, 2025, 05:00:14 PM
Bring him back!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 06, 2025, 05:00:25 PM
Do NOT bring him back, really...
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on January 06, 2025, 05:19:16 PM
He'll tweak the side a bit for this, especially with 3 away games coming up. It would make a sense.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaTim on January 06, 2025, 05:22:50 PM
--------- Olsen----------
Cash Konsa Mings Maatsen
--- onana -- barkley-----
Rogers ---------- Buendia
--- Bailey -- Watkins ----
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2025, 05:55:35 PM
--------- Olsen----------
Cash Konsa Mings Maatsen
--- onana -- barkley-----
Rogers ---------- Buendia
--- Bailey -- Watkins ----
with only 1 LCB, he will not be risking Mings.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on January 06, 2025, 07:03:04 PM
The very first Villa v Kit Stealers fixture was an FA Cup 2nd round game at VP on 1st February 1913. We won 5-0.

https://www.avfchistory.co.uk/game/923

We went on to beat Sunderland 1-0 in the final lifting the trophy for the 5th time.





Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 07, 2025, 05:08:32 AM
^^ Looks like our keeper had a good game. It was quite hard to follow - spotted our goal celebrations but not the missed penalty.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: darren woolley on January 07, 2025, 09:23:30 AM
I'm going for a 2-1 Villa win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 07, 2025, 11:51:49 AM
^^ Looks like our keeper had a good game. It was quite hard to follow - spotted our goal celebrations but not the missed penalty.

Did Barry take it?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 07, 2025, 12:22:24 PM
We’ve got a new kit for this one.  Surely we have to take it seriously.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Hookeysmith on January 07, 2025, 01:03:14 PM
And apart from one brilliant save Emi could of read a book during the game so no need to rest him
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 07, 2025, 01:04:11 PM
Where's this new kit?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 07, 2025, 01:05:40 PM
Never mind, found it. I like it, though I hope it doesn't mean West Ham get to play in claret and blue.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 07, 2025, 03:43:26 PM
Never mind, found it. I like it, though I hope it doesn't mean West Ham get to play in claret and blue.

Well that's bound to happen isn't it?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: waynejames on January 07, 2025, 04:06:45 PM
I hope the ref for Friday's game turns up in his 150 year kit, then we will be on to a winner.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 07, 2025, 04:07:25 PM
Those kit-stealing scoundrels mean we have to go back to black*


*Winehouse was Villa wasn't she? Or was it her dumb lover?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: waynejames on January 07, 2025, 04:11:19 PM
Los Brovos may get an airing on the PA if we are super lucky
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Drummond on January 07, 2025, 04:15:22 PM
Do we get to.use an old fashioned football too?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 07, 2025, 04:16:41 PM
We should install a temporary cinder track.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on January 07, 2025, 04:37:11 PM
Do we get to.use an old fashioned football too?


With all the squad growing big fat taches.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on January 07, 2025, 05:32:42 PM
Do we get to.use an old fashioned football too?


With all the squad growing big fat taches.

How about those old rattles for the fans? That would be tremendous fun.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Smirker on January 07, 2025, 08:53:41 PM
Win.

FTJEMF.  8)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 07, 2025, 08:59:45 PM
There can only be one choice for the entrance music on Friday. https://youtu.be/9vWNauaZAgg
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Drummond on January 07, 2025, 09:01:35 PM
Not many tickets left. Odd ones here and there and still a few GA+
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on January 07, 2025, 10:27:09 PM
Those kit-stealing scoundrels mean we have to go back to black*


*Winehouse was Villa wasn't she? Or was it her dumb lover?

Former boyfriend.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on January 07, 2025, 10:43:20 PM
Those kit-stealing scoundrels mean we have to go back to black*


*Winehouse was Villa wasn't she? Or was it her dumb lover?

Former boyfriend.

I prefer if we said, Back in Black.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 07, 2025, 10:45:44 PM
Those kit-stealing scoundrels mean we have to go back to black*


*Winehouse was Villa wasn't she? Or was it her dumb lover?

Former boyfriend.

Cold
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: john e on January 07, 2025, 11:44:40 PM
Not many tickets left. Odd ones here and there and still a few GA+

well the fans are turning up again let’s hope the team do the same
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 08, 2025, 01:25:26 AM
Have Wham sacked JLo or not then? A lot of news outlets seemed to jump the gun on it. Thank goodness for Auntie Beeb being slow and careful.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on January 08, 2025, 02:28:47 AM
No, not yet, but it's just being heavily reported that Potter is being lined up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 08, 2025, 07:41:03 AM
Dead man walking, he will be playing his strongest team,he has no reason to save the players for anything.
Shocking conduct from Spam “but what do you expect from people who sell Dildos for a living”.
Jordan.s.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: jon collett on January 08, 2025, 08:20:12 AM
He’s supposed to be sacked today and they’ve cancelled his press conference this afternoon.

Not sure if this means a caretaker in charge in Friday before Potter of alternative takes over.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 08, 2025, 08:47:20 AM
Seems like just corporate spots left, unless I am reading it wrong. Should be close to or above 40,000, I'd have thought, which suggests maybe the club were right to have it as the anniversary game. 5,674 West Ham tickets all sold out, decent effort for a Friday night.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on January 08, 2025, 08:51:02 AM
Its abit of shit show why havent they sacked him yet with 48 hours until game?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on January 08, 2025, 09:24:11 AM
Just heard an advert on absolute radio for the match, normal and corporate seats available.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: AV82EC on January 08, 2025, 09:45:37 AM
So a GA sell out and only Hecks overpriced Hospitality and GA+ left.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on January 08, 2025, 11:38:42 AM
There can only be one choice for the entrance music on Friday. https://youtu.be/9vWNauaZAgg
Surely this
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on January 08, 2025, 12:00:26 PM
We can always do a Dave Chance commemoration and do one of these.



Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 08, 2025, 12:18:29 PM
We can always do a Dave Chance commemoration and do one of these.

Or this, inevitably followed by SOTC.

Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave4471 on January 08, 2025, 12:34:53 PM
Just a quick question, has anyone got their tickets for this match yet? Said on my confirmation email they will be distributed today, but nothing in my inbox or on my Villa app so far.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: john2710 on January 08, 2025, 12:54:32 PM
Just a quick question, has anyone got their tickets for this match yet? Said on my confirmation email they will be distributed today, but nothing in my inbox or on my Villa app so far.

They have appeared in the app today.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 08, 2025, 12:57:26 PM
I haven't got them yet.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave4471 on January 08, 2025, 01:04:11 PM
Ok thanks, so not just me then, I'll check again in a bit to see if they appear on my app
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on January 08, 2025, 01:08:28 PM
Got mine, came in about 30mins ago.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 08, 2025, 01:37:25 PM
They've just sent me one of my two tickets. It's standing so I guess one of us stands on the seat and the other stands in front?

Sorry, people behind.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 08, 2025, 01:44:20 PM
Have sorted it now. This does mean that jinx AD will be attending, unfortunately. Though, tbf, it would be difficult to find an alive Villa supporter who wasn't an FA Cup jinx.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on January 08, 2025, 03:17:01 PM
Lopsided gone. Potter in charge.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on January 08, 2025, 03:26:25 PM
It's really disgraceful the way they have treated a very decent man. And a shame that another very decent man has gone there.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: AV84 on January 08, 2025, 03:51:20 PM
Are they going to have the new manager bounce now and ruin our anniversary?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Olneythelonely on January 08, 2025, 03:51:53 PM
New manager bounce doesn’t exist, so no. Think we’ll manage to fuck it up ourselves though.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: UK Redsox on January 08, 2025, 04:25:49 PM
New manager bounce doesn’t exist, so no. Think we’ll manage to fuck it up ourselves though.

Whatever gives you that idea ?


(https://i.ibb.co/mTrMhmy/Screenshot-2025-01-08-162440.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mTrMhmy)

Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: rob_bridge on January 08, 2025, 04:46:27 PM
New manager bounce doesn’t exist, so no. Think we’ll manage to fuck it up ourselves though.

Whatever gives you that idea ?


(https://i.ibb.co/mTrMhmy/Screenshot-2025-01-08-162440.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mTrMhmy)


I was at the Posh one - Bruce Ball Backfired. Woeful
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 08, 2025, 08:05:26 PM
It's really disgraceful the way they have treated a very decent man. And a shame that another very decent man has gone there.

I didn't think decent men existed anymore. It's what I hear women say every day.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 08, 2025, 08:31:29 PM
It's really disgraceful the way they have treated a very decent man. And a shame that another very decent man has gone there.

I didn't think decent men existed anymore. It's what I hear women say every day.

Oh eamonn, I always had you down as one of the good guys.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaTim on January 08, 2025, 09:20:06 PM
Potter is a villa fan , he won't want to be in the dugout for this one .
My guess is he starts in anger Monday morning next week .
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Mellin on January 08, 2025, 09:27:42 PM
Peterborough and Stevenage are obviously poor, but we've had shocking luck over the years in the early rounds. That list is all without getting United in the third round every year for what felt like about 20 years.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 08, 2025, 10:02:50 PM
Did I imagine us being forced to play in our white strip at home to West Ham once?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: AV82EC on January 08, 2025, 11:04:24 PM
Did I imagine us being forced to play in our white strip at home to West Ham once?

That was a league game when that officious prick Rob Stiles decided on the day that WHUs change strip was too similar to our home kit and as they hadn’t bought third kit we had to change. From recollection it was a typical MoN performance and ended 1-1.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 08, 2025, 11:06:17 PM
I can't remember much other than the kit (which, annoyingly, isn't pictured), but West Ham snatched a "barely deserved" draw according to the BBC.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7990146.stm
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 08, 2025, 11:13:36 PM
It's really disgraceful the way they have treated a very decent man. And a shame that another very decent man has gone there.

I didn't think decent men existed anymore. It's what I hear women say every day.

Oh eamonn, I always had you down as one of the good guys.

Only messin'  ;)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: adrenachrome on January 09, 2025, 06:35:21 AM
I'll be very surprised if we play a strong team in this game.

Olaftab will park his car and text: I wish I hadn't bothered.

So it goes.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: frank black on January 09, 2025, 09:39:30 AM
I think we’ll go relatively strong, with a smattering of 2nd choice players
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on January 09, 2025, 09:40:43 AM
Potter is a villa fan , he won't want to be in the dugout for this one .
My guess is he starts in anger Monday morning next week .

That will have zero impact to why he will be in the dugout or not.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaTim on January 09, 2025, 10:52:37 AM
Confirmed Potter in charge for Friday .
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Olneythelonely on January 09, 2025, 10:55:12 AM
Confirmed Potter in charge for Friday .

LOL
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Beard82 on January 09, 2025, 10:59:27 AM
I take it Duran is suspended for this one too?  Or is it just League.

If so, shame as he would be guarenteed a goal
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 09, 2025, 11:01:16 AM
He's suspended. Suspensions for accumulating yellow cards only cause bans in the same competition, but red card suspensions affect any domestic games. Likewise, if we get a player sent off tomorrow, he could miss (a) league game(s).

If a player gets two yellow cards in the FA Cup he misses the next FA Cup game, but existing yellow cards get wiped after the quarter-finals, so you can only miss the final through suspension if you get a red card beforehand.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 09, 2025, 11:03:02 AM
He's suspended. Suspensions for accumulating yellow cards only cause bans in the same competition, but red card suspensions affect any domestic games. Likewise, if we get a player sent off tomorrow, he could miss (a) league game(s).

TIL about the difference in suspensions above.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 09, 2025, 11:04:36 AM
It never used to be the case, I distinctly remember Staunton and one other (possibly Ehiogu) deliberately getting themselves booked at Anfield so they'd miss the upcoming league game and be guaranteed to be available for the League Cup Final.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paul_e on January 09, 2025, 02:38:26 PM
I wouldn't be shocked to see a couple of changes in the defence but not much else, something like:

Martinez
Cash Konsa Swinkels Maatsen
Onana Barkley
Bailey Rogers Ramsey
Watkins

Maybe Buendia instead of Bailey but I think it'll be something along those lines, we have a big month and I can't see us playing Mings, Kamara and Tielemans in every game because the risk of injuries for those 3 is just too high I think.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: rob_bridge on January 09, 2025, 02:44:13 PM
I wouldn't be shocked to see a couple of changes in the defence but not much else, something like:

Martinez
Cash Konsa Swinkels Maatsen
Onana Barkley
Bailey Rogers Ramsey
Watkins

Maybe Buendia instead of Bailey but I think it'll be something along those lines, we have a big month and I can't see us playing Mings, Kamara and Tielemans in every game because the risk of injuries for those 3 is just too high I think.

Depends on how 'fit' Ramsey is

So maybe Buendia for him. Still think Mings will play. Is Carlos out? If not can see him playing ahead of Konsa
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paul_e on January 09, 2025, 02:48:25 PM
I wouldn't be shocked to see a couple of changes in the defence but not much else, something like:

Martinez
Cash Konsa Swinkels Maatsen
Onana Barkley
Bailey Rogers Ramsey
Watkins

Maybe Buendia instead of Bailey but I think it'll be something along those lines, we have a big month and I can't see us playing Mings, Kamara and Tielemans in every game because the risk of injuries for those 3 is just too high I think.

Depends on how 'fit' Ramsey is

So maybe Buendia for him. Still think Mings will play. Is Carlos out? If not can see him playing ahead of Konsa

Carlos is supposedly injured. Yeah, I'm not sure about Buendia, I don't think he did himself many favours the other day, Emery seemed fucking livid with him. Ramsey probably needs a run of 45-60 minutes for a few games to get himself back to proper fitness and seems a good fit for this, not just because it's probably gonig to be a bit less intense but also because he's pretty much the poster boy for celebrating the anniversary, local lad, been here since he was a little kid and has worked his tits off to be part of the squad.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 09, 2025, 02:55:13 PM
I wouldn't be shocked to see a couple of changes in the defence but not much else, something like:

Martinez
Cash Konsa Swinkels Maatsen
Onana Barkley
Bailey Rogers Ramsey
Watkins

Maybe Buendia instead of Bailey but I think it'll be something along those lines, we have a big month and I can't see us playing Mings, Kamara and Tielemans in every game because the risk of injuries for those 3 is just too high I think.

Depends on how 'fit' Ramsey is

So maybe Buendia for him. Still think Mings will play. Is Carlos out? If not can see him playing ahead of Konsa

Carlos is supposedly injured. Yeah, I'm not sure about Buendia, I don't think he did himself many favours the other day, Emery seemed fucking livid with him. Ramsey probably needs a run of 45-60 minutes for a few games to get himself back to proper fitness and seems a good fit for this, not just because it's probably gonig to be a bit less intense but also because he's pretty much the poster boy for celebrating the anniversary, local lad, been here since he was a little kid and has worked his tits off to be part of the squad.

Carlos is injured should be the first line on his eventual headstone
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: usav on January 09, 2025, 03:27:30 PM
Buendia should be nowhere near this team anymore, sorry.

Full strength team - no excuses.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on January 09, 2025, 03:55:27 PM
Buendia should be nowhere near this team anymore, sorry.

Full strength team - no excuses.

He wasn't quite good enough before, and now he's miles off it (not his fault, injury + our evolution). 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 09, 2025, 04:15:48 PM
I wouldn't be letting Emi leave unless we get in someone who can unlock defences like he can/could/should.

Worth bringing Coots back for one last crack? We're paying him anyway. He's probably one of those 1% multi-millionaires on the other thread, let's make him work for his winter soup with Waitrose croutons.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on January 09, 2025, 04:21:02 PM
Yep add me to the buendia  goes with my blessing camp
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 09, 2025, 04:48:43 PM
You're all a bit hard on Emi coming back from such a long injury. I think he still has something to offer once he gets up to speed.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 09, 2025, 05:00:51 PM
I still hope this'll happen. Was gutted that he missed his chances against Lesta, it would have put extra pep in his pencil.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TelfordVilla on January 09, 2025, 05:04:17 PM
I'm still a little Emi fan. I hope he can save his Villa career
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaTim on January 09, 2025, 06:05:47 PM
Thought Buendia looked quite lively when he came on v Leicester . Just a bit rusty . I'd start him.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 09, 2025, 08:06:05 PM
I know we have really important champions league and premier league games coming up and they will be more of a priority than this for Unai, understandably so. I also realise me being 50, means Im the demographic who cares about the cup more than younger generations.
However, I do think a sell out crowd, on mainstream TV, however much its marketing bullshit, the whole 150 year thang, Unai will put himself under unnecessary scrutiny if he makes 5 or 6 changes, including the goalie and we lose.

For me, Onana hasnt played a full 90 for weeks, so no reason for him not to start, Ramsey needs to get a full 90 in, Barklay can come on for Tielemans at some point and Rogers had a rest at the weekend.

Ive always like the tenacious little fecker that is Emi B, but at the moment he’s sub at best standard.

I hope this is the team:

Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Mings
Maatsen
Kamara
Onana
Rogers
Watkins
Tielemans
Ramsey
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on January 09, 2025, 08:14:46 PM
I know we have really important champions league and premier league games coming up and they will be more of a priority than this for Unai, understandably so. I also realise me being 50, means Im the demographic who cares about the cup more than younger generations.
However, I do think a sell out crowd, on mainstream TV, however much its marketing bullshit, the whole 150 year thang, Unai will put himself under unnecessary scrutiny if he makes 5 or 6 changes, including the goalie and we lose.

For me, Onana hasnt played a full 90 for weeks, so no reason for him not to start, Ramsey needs to get a full 90 in, Barklay can come on for Tielemans at some point and Rogers had a rest at the weekend.

Ive always like the tenacious little fecker that is Emi B, but at the moment he’s sub at best standard.

I hope this is the team:

Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Mings
Maatsen
Kamara
Onana
Rogers
Watkins
Tielemans
Ramsey

You’re reasoning makes sense and that would be a good strong team to field but I just can’t see it with the Everton / Arsenal / Monaco games in quick succession then 4 days rest and another 3 games in a short space. Something has got to give in some of those games. I suppose if we can get a few players in that line up might be more likely.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: villadelph on January 09, 2025, 11:55:53 PM
Cheap beer, praise Heck!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 10, 2025, 12:15:28 AM
Cheap beer, praise Heck!

People have been praised for less.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Martyn Smith on January 10, 2025, 04:18:19 AM
It never used to be the case, I distinctly remember Staunton and one other (possibly Ehiogu) deliberately getting themselves booked at Anfield so they'd miss the upcoming league game and be guaranteed to be available for the League Cup Final.

And I have a feeling that it was precisely this kind of tactic that caused the rule change. Beckham did the same a little later IIRC
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: tomd2103 on January 10, 2025, 05:27:32 AM
I know we have really important champions league and premier league games coming up and they will be more of a priority than this for Unai, understandably so. I also realise me being 50, means Im the demographic who cares about the cup more than younger generations.
However, I do think a sell out crowd, on mainstream TV, however much its marketing bullshit, the whole 150 year thang, Unai will put himself under unnecessary scrutiny if he makes 5 or 6 changes, including the goalie and we lose.

Sadly (and I mean that as I feel the same as you), I doubt there are many at the club who share that opinion.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: lovejoy on January 10, 2025, 06:31:39 AM
Have those predicting a full strength team ever seen an Emery cup selection before?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on January 10, 2025, 07:05:30 AM
The pecking order is clearly league then CL then everything else.  I’d be amazed if he doesn’t rest some of the key players with the games we have coming up.  If this wasn’t on the telly and wasn’t being badges as the 150 year thing, it probably wouldn’t cause so much of a stir. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 10, 2025, 07:23:25 AM
The pecking order is clearly league then CL then everything else.  I’d be amazed if he doesn’t rest some of the key players with the games we have coming up.  If this wasn’t on the telly and wasn’t being badges as the 150 year thing, it probably wouldn’t cause so much of a stir.
The last couple of lines are exactly my point. Because of those things, the boss will inevitably come under more scrutiny than he would normally, if he does make loads of changes and we lose.
Anyway, its going to be a cold one tonight on the Holte.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rigadon on January 10, 2025, 07:47:00 AM
Agreed Rambo.  Wrap up warm!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 10, 2025, 08:10:02 AM
Have those predicting a full strength team ever seen an Emery cup selection before?

Martinez, Cash, Carlos, Lenglet, Moreno, Kamara, Luiz, Bailey, Tielemans, McGinn, Watkins.

That was the last FA Cup team he put out. Pretty strong.

Still lost, of course. It's Aston Villa in the FA Cup. But I wouldn't say he chucked it like he did the League Cup.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Nev on January 10, 2025, 08:35:40 AM
Have those predicting a full strength team ever seen an Emery cup selection before?

Martinez, Cash, Carlos, Lenglet, Moreno, Kamara, Luiz, Bailey, Tielemans, McGinn, Watkins.

That was the last FA Cup team he put out. Pretty strong.

Still lost, of course. It's Aston Villa in the FA Cup. But I wouldn't say he chucked it like he did the League Cup.

With the Cups I find that the team plays almost within itself, reflecting the attitude of the Manager. We've never put in any sort of performance that would be worthy of his time with us, and it will be starkly different when we go to Monaco and host Celtic.

It's churlish to criticise Emery looking at where we are, and the Club itself will prioritise the PL and CL because of the revenue it creates but I'm an old fashioned football romantic at heart and just feel a great sadness about both our domestic Cup competitions.

I'm not relishing tonight, as I said in my prediction, the 150 thing, too many away fans to ignore if they prevail, Friday night and freezing cold. It has all the makings of a furious march up the Whitehead Road, head down, hands thrust into pockets, furrowed browed profane mutterings and the whole 3rd Round weekend rendered unwatchable.

God, I hope I'm way off the mark.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Astnor on January 10, 2025, 08:42:43 AM
If the Fa cup is not top priority for us/Emery and they come with a new manager and give it their best we will loose. They have Bowen out I think which will help if we want to win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: john e on January 10, 2025, 09:15:04 AM
Competing in the premier league and as of now trying to get into the major European competitions are the priority for Villa now

no matter what they say winning trophies hasn’t been a priority for 28 years, actions speak louder than words
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on January 10, 2025, 09:15:09 AM
Surely onana needs to be starting tonight along with maatsen?

Dont know whats going on with onana but 50m and cant even get a sniff of game time recently.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on January 10, 2025, 09:28:03 AM
Any chance it will be postponed? Not for the pitch but for the surrounding areas with the ice etc?
I am travelling for 2 hours so want to get up there and find it’s off.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paul_e on January 10, 2025, 09:33:52 AM
Any chance it will be postponed? Not for the pitch but for the surrounding areas with the ice etc?
I am travelling for 2 hours so want to get up there and find it’s off.

I seriously doubt it. If it was wet as well then maybe.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on January 10, 2025, 09:40:39 AM
Any chance it will be postponed? Not for the pitch but for the surrounding areas with the ice etc?
I am travelling for 2 hours so want to get up there and find it’s off.

I seriously doubt it. If it was wet as well then maybe.

Cheers.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: sid1964 on January 10, 2025, 10:17:05 AM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Olneythelonely on January 10, 2025, 10:41:46 AM
Any chance it will be postponed? Not for the pitch but for the surrounding areas with the ice etc?
I am travelling for 2 hours so want to get up there and find it’s off.

I can’t see any reason it’ll be called off. It’s very cold but dry.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Nev on January 10, 2025, 10:45:39 AM
No chance of a postponement.

It's always colder when the place is half empty so shouldn't be too bad. I find the concourse colder than the stand tbh.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 10, 2025, 10:53:16 AM
Try watching a Bears game in January.
It will be tropical in B6 tonight in comparison.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on January 10, 2025, 11:01:28 AM
Any chance it will be postponed? Not for the pitch but for the surrounding areas with the ice etc?
I am travelling for 2 hours so want to get up there and find it’s off.

I can’t see any reason it’ll be called off. It’s very cold but dry.

Sound like my ex.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on January 10, 2025, 11:03:36 AM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!

I remember we played Liverpool in the LC 1/4 final in the 90s. Got delayed for ages as a larger than expected crowd turned up. We were frozen  by the time k.o. came, I think it finished at 3am.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Holte L2 on January 10, 2025, 11:07:31 AM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!

I remember we played Liverpool in the LC 1/4 final in the 90s. Got delayed for ages as a larger than expected crowd turned up. We were frozen  by the time k.o. came, I think it finished at 3am.

December 2002.  It was freezing.

I was looking forward to tonight.  Until I went flying on the ice whilst walking the dog this morning.  I can't even blame the dog. She was very gentle! Now I'm bruised and my enthusiasm is dampened.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: DB on January 10, 2025, 11:11:58 AM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!

I remember we played Liverpool in the LC 1/4 final in the 90s. Got delayed for ages as a larger than expected crowd turned up. We were frozen  by the time k.o. came, I think it finished at 3am.

December 2002.  It was freezing.

I was looking forward to tonight.  Until I went flying on the ice whilst walking the dog this morning.  I can't even blame the dog. She was very gentle! Now I'm bruised and my enthusiasm is dampened.

2002!  am losing years as I get older.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: nordenvillain on January 10, 2025, 11:19:33 AM
Cheap beer, praise Heck!
Even I can't be persuaded to drink Carlsberg at £1.50, the initial PR convinced me that all beer was to be £1.50 - better than firing Heck, let's all pay £1.50 and make him drink it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Charlie8182 on January 10, 2025, 11:21:23 AM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!

For me the Villarreal friendly from a couple of winters ago, I'm still thawing out now!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 10, 2025, 11:22:52 AM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!

There's a thread in the memories section that deals with this very subject. Oldham or Wimbledon 1990 seemed to be the consensus although they may have been away games.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 10, 2025, 11:23:39 AM
Try watching a Bears game in January.
It will be tropical in B6 tonight in comparison.

Must be why they've gone out of their way to avoid playing in January for the last 35 years. ☹️
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on January 10, 2025, 11:28:38 AM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!

I remember we played Liverpool in the LC 1/4 final in the 90s. Got delayed for ages as a larger than expected crowd turned up. We were frozen  by the time k.o. came, I think it finished at 3am.

2002. That was because ticketmaster wouldn’t post the tickets out to fans as it was too close to Christmas so everyone had to collect tickets on the evening of the game from the ticket office. Utter chaos outside the ground.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Reuben on January 10, 2025, 11:47:35 AM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!

I remember we played Liverpool in the LC 1/4 final in the 90s. Got delayed for ages as a larger than expected crowd turned up. We were frozen  by the time k.o. came, I think it finished at 3am.

2002. That was because ticketmaster wouldn’t post the tickets out to fans as it was too close to Christmas so everyone had to collect tickets on the evening of the game from the ticket office. Utter chaos outside the ground.

That game added another reason to despise Danny Murphy - don't remember it being that cold though!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 10, 2025, 12:22:18 PM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!

I remember we played Liverpool in the LC 1/4 final in the 90s. Got delayed for ages as a larger than expected crowd turned up. We were frozen  by the time k.o. came, I think it finished at 3am.

December 2002.  It was freezing.

That''s the coldest game I've been at, not helped by the lengthy delay and the fact I was wearing a t-shirt and a long-sleeved Villa shirt.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 10, 2025, 12:52:10 PM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!

I remember we played Liverpool in the LC 1/4 final in the 90s. Got delayed for ages as a larger than expected crowd turned up. We were frozen  by the time k.o. came, I think it finished at 3am.

December 2002.  It was freezing.

That''s the coldest game I've been at, not helped by the lengthy delay and the fact I was wearing a t-shirt and a long-sleeved Villa shirt.

You think you had it bad? I was at an Oasis gig.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: HolteL4 on January 10, 2025, 12:56:34 PM
Cheap beer, praise Heck!

£1.50 is still more than I'm willing to pay for Carlsberg. I might have considered it if it was free with emphasis on the word Might 😂
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: itbrvilla on January 10, 2025, 01:04:02 PM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!

I remember we played Liverpool in the LC 1/4 final in the 90s. Got delayed for ages as a larger than expected crowd turned up. We were frozen  by the time k.o. came, I think it finished at 3am.

December 2002.  It was freezing.

That''s the coldest game I've been at, not helped by the lengthy delay and the fact I was wearing a t-shirt and a long-sleeved Villa shirt.
Doncaster Rovers in the FA cup for me, bout 10-15 years ago.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on January 10, 2025, 01:07:21 PM
If you mean Doncaster away in the FA Cup, I was there. I think we drew.

Two cold games that stand out for me are Bolton away under Bruce where we seem to have every kind of weather all in one day and Gillingham away in the Cup.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on January 10, 2025, 01:09:21 PM
Was it cold at Oldham in the cup? I remember feeling numb at the time but not sure if that was down to the result.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Marlon From Bearwood on January 10, 2025, 01:14:37 PM
Gillingham away and Hamburg away are my coldest games.

Is it straight to pens if it’s a draw tonight? Or extra time first?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: simboy on January 10, 2025, 01:16:06 PM
I went to a few of the ones mentioned above but, could i add Southampton this season? Cold enough to have brass monkeys refusing use of the Lower Grounds despite free entrance, free booze and a few ladies of the night paid for by Heck
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: itbrvilla on January 10, 2025, 01:17:31 PM
If you mean Doncaster away in the FA Cup, I was there. I think we drew.

Two cold games that stand out for me are Bolton away under Bruce where we seem to have every kind of weather all in one day and Gillingham away in the Cup.
Just double checked it was 3-1 at VP on the 2nd Feb 2009. them temp was -3.5c according to historic weather data.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Holte L2 on January 10, 2025, 01:23:23 PM
If you mean Doncaster away in the FA Cup, I was there. I think we drew.

Two cold games that stand out for me are Bolton away under Bruce where we seem to have every kind of weather all in one day and Gillingham away in the Cup.
Just double checked it was 3-1 at VP on the 2nd Feb 2009. them temp was -3.5c according to historic weather data.

I was there but don't remember it being that cold!  Man City at home in 1993-94 was mine.  But I was 9 at the time.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: steamer on January 10, 2025, 01:37:02 PM
Portsmouth away in the mid 70,s
Some jolly jack tars put the windows through on the coach, sleet and rain were unwelcome visitors.
Everyone was huddled up for a long drive, in the front section of the coach.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: The Man With A Stick on January 10, 2025, 01:46:00 PM
I remember a Leeds game in the mid 90s, possibly SBL's first season, when it was fucking baltic.  It wasn't even a night game either.  Was sat on the front row of the upper Holte and the wind was cutting across the park, game finished 0-0, Brian Deane was playing on the left wing for them and I don't think i've ever wanted a final whistle to blow so much so I could get back to a nice warm pub.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: saint13 on January 10, 2025, 01:48:34 PM
1st January Man City 0-1.

I dont feel the cold, but all I remember of that day, was that I was stood on the Holte, it was awful & it was freezing.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: The Man With A Stick on January 10, 2025, 01:49:25 PM
If you mean Doncaster away in the FA Cup, I was there. I think we drew.

Two cold games that stand out for me are Bolton away under Bruce where we seem to have every kind of weather all in one day and Gillingham away in the Cup.
Just double checked it was 3-1 at VP on the 2nd Feb 2009. them temp was -3.5c according to historic weather data.

I was there but don't remember it being that cold!  Man City at home in 1993-94 was mine.  But I was 9 at the time.

Remember that one well, Saunders was on the bench (during his "goal drought and hitting the woodwork at every possible opportunity" phase) and kept throwing snowballs at the linesman while warming up.  He then came on and missed a penalty.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: saint13 on January 10, 2025, 01:50:00 PM
1st January Man City 0-1.

I dont feel the cold, but all I remember of that day, was that I was stood on the Holte, it was awful & it was freezing.

Sorry, meant to say 1st January 1986!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Exeter 77 on January 10, 2025, 01:56:39 PM
I remember a Leeds game in the mid 90s, possibly SBL's first season, when it was fucking baltic.  It wasn't even a night game either.  Was sat on the front row of the upper Holte and the wind was cutting across the park, game finished 0-0, Brian Deane was playing on the left wing for them and I don't think i've ever wanted a final whistle to blow so much so I could get back to a nice warm pub.
I remember that because one of the girls we were with was particularly feeling the cold and her lips started turning blue.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 10, 2025, 01:59:22 PM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!
It was about -10 for the villareal friendly a couple of years ago
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 10, 2025, 02:14:32 PM
It was - 6 on the video screen away to Hamburg under O'Neill, that was fucking cold, though that Boxing Day disaster at Highfield Rd in '92 is the coldest I can remember being, thought my toes would drop off.

And now I think of it there was a home match with Arsenal following where Doug had hired some heaters to thaw the pitch as it was on the telly, that was bloody cold too.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Nev on January 10, 2025, 02:16:22 PM
Cold? You bits of kids don't know the meaning of the word.

Notts County (a) League Cup tie when Stan and Richardson both dummied the same free kick.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 10, 2025, 02:18:39 PM
Cold? You bits of kids don't know the meaning of the word.

Notts County (a) League Cup tie when Stan and Richardson both dummied the same free kick.

Yeah, I was at that too, though the sheer boredom of the game probably made it feel worse.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 10, 2025, 02:22:53 PM
Chelsea at home in the fa cup 3rd 87, 2-2, with Steve Hunt equalising with a diving header in the last min or so. Dunno what temperature it was but the Holte end was an ice rink and the few thousand of us there were lucky to get out without broken limbs…the days!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 10, 2025, 02:25:28 PM
Try watching a Bears game in January.
It will be tropical in B6 tonight in comparison.

Must be why they've gone out of their way to avoid playing in January for the last 35 years. ☹️
Must have been Feb then. :(
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 10, 2025, 02:35:13 PM
Chelsea at home in the fa cup 3rd 87, 2-2, with Steve Hunt equalising with a diving header in the last min or so. Dunno what temperature it was but the Holte end was an ice rink and the few thousand of us there were lucky to get out without broken limbs…the days!

I was there too, but we left just before the end and heard our equaliser just as we were walking past the Holte pub.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 10, 2025, 02:51:56 PM
Chelsea at home in the fa cup 3rd 87, 2-2, with Steve Hunt equalising with a diving header in the last min or so. Dunno what temperature it was but the Holte end was an ice rink and the few thousand of us there were lucky to get out without broken limbs…the days!

I was there too, but we left just before the end and heard our equaliser just as we were walking past the Holte pub.
It was a month before my 13th birthday and to my young eyes, Mark Walters worked magic on the wing to get the cross into Hunt, i think if there is a you tube clip somewhere, it was probably just a cross. Either way I was so excited we equalised and believed like every year we could have a run at it. We lost the replay obviously.
Thats why Ill be gutted if Swinkels and Bogarde play at the back tonight, with rumours of Louie Barry up front.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Charlie8182 on January 10, 2025, 02:53:27 PM
I remember a Leeds game in the mid 90s, possibly SBL's first season, when it was fucking baltic.  It wasn't even a night game either.  Was sat on the front row of the upper Holte and the wind was cutting across the park, game finished 0-0, Brian Deane was playing on the left wing for them and I don't think i've ever wanted a final whistle to blow so much so I could get back to a nice warm pub.

I actually remember being at that game, 2nd January 1995 and Brian Deane in particular was an absolute donkey for them; the game was so forgettable that it was unforgettable as being one of the worst games between 2 sides I've ever seen!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 10, 2025, 02:54:01 PM
Christ we were shite that season, but so were Chelsea. They went down the next season as we came up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 10, 2025, 02:59:22 PM
Have those predicting a full strength team ever seen an Emery cup selection before?

every team he has picked should have been more than good enough to beat the sides we lost to.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Nev on January 10, 2025, 03:05:54 PM
I remember a Leeds game in the mid 90s, possibly SBL's first season, when it was fucking baltic.  It wasn't even a night game either.  Was sat on the front row of the upper Holte and the wind was cutting across the park, game finished 0-0, Brian Deane was playing on the left wing for them and I don't think i've ever wanted a final whistle to blow so much so I could get back to a nice warm pub.

I actually remember being at that game, 2nd January 1995 and Brian Deane in particular was an absolute donkey for them; the game was so forgettable that it was unforgettable as being one of the worst games between 2 sides I've ever seen!

It was memorable for the fact that mid rant at the aforesaid Deane from the second row of the Upper Witton Lane I inadvertently hocked up a pavement oyster of considerable size. We all watched and as if in slow motion this accidental gob span through the air and landed in the hair of the girl sitting in front. Instinctively I reached out to wipe it off but Nodge off of H+V grabbed my wrist to save my embarrassment because she hadn't noticed.

It sat there through the rest of the game, and I stared at that more than I looked at the pitch. Given the weather I hoped it eventually froze and dropped off in transit as she made her way home and she lived the rest of her life in ignorant bliss.....

Of course every time someone mentions Brian Deane.....
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: waynejames on January 10, 2025, 03:13:34 PM
Liverpool at home Friday night on BBC that was cold
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: AGRIPPA on January 10, 2025, 03:17:21 PM
Went to a mid week game against forest ( I think) in one of them old Micky mouse competitions….stood on the holte with no one within 10 yards of me and my mate….never been so sold in my life and I did 20 years on markets and building sites….
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 10, 2025, 03:21:01 PM
Went to a mid week game against forest ( I think) in one of them old Micky mouse competitions….stood on the holte with no one within 10 yards of me and my mate….never been so sold in my life and I did 20 years on markets and building sites….

The Zennith Data Systems Cup!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on January 10, 2025, 03:23:13 PM
I remember a Leeds game in the mid 90s, possibly SBL's first season, when it was fucking baltic.  It wasn't even a night game either.  Was sat on the front row of the upper Holte and the wind was cutting across the park, game finished 0-0, Brian Deane was playing on the left wing for them and I don't think i've ever wanted a final whistle to blow so much so I could get back to a nice warm pub.

I actually remember being at that game, 2nd January 1995 and Brian Deane in particular was an absolute donkey for them; the game was so forgettable that it was unforgettable as being one of the worst games between 2 sides I've ever seen!

It was memorable for the fact that mid rant at the aforesaid Deane from the second row of the Upper Witton Lane I inadvertently hocked up a pavement oyster of considerable size. We all watched and as if in slow motion this accidental gob span through the air and landed in the hair of the girl sitting in front. Instinctively I reached out to wipe it off but Nodge off of H+V grabbed my wrist to save my embarrassment because she hadn't noticed.

It sat there through the rest of the game, and I stared at that more than I looked at the pitch. Given the weather I hoped it eventually froze and dropped off in transit as she made her way home and she lived the rest of her life in ignorant bliss.....

Of course every time someone mentions Brian Deane.....


(https://i.ibb.co/SQMQYbM/download-9.jpg) (https://ibb.co/SQMQYbM)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: jon collett on January 10, 2025, 03:41:16 PM
Liverpool at home Friday night on BBC that was cold

Yes that game shouldn’t have been played. I think the players wore trainers the pitch was so hard. Early 80s
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: paul_e on January 10, 2025, 03:51:44 PM
It's clearly cheating but the coldest game I've ever been to was a game at Brann when I was living over there, was in March and went down to something like -8 and finished well after midnight. Thankfully I lived a 5minute walk from the stadium.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 10, 2025, 03:58:52 PM
Does anyone know which game at home was the coldest to watch in our history?

My wife has just told me that I must be mad to go to the game tonight, putting on a few layers tonight!

I remember we played Liverpool in the LC 1/4 final in the 90s. Got delayed for ages as a larger than expected crowd turned up. We were frozen  by the time k.o. came, I think it finished at 3am.

December 2002.  It was freezing.

That''s the coldest game I've been at, not helped by the lengthy delay and the fact I was wearing a t-shirt and a long-sleeved Villa shirt.

You were young, dumb and Brazilian. How could you have known any better?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on January 10, 2025, 04:01:27 PM
I saw SK Brann's ground from the top of Mount Floyen.

Bergen was lovely, if a tad wet.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Villa in Denmark on January 10, 2025, 04:11:11 PM
I saw SK Brann's ground from the top of Mount Floyen.

Bergen was lovely, if a tad wet.

The old town in particular is charming. Visited several times over the years when my employer was Norwegian owned.  I think I managed one sunny day in about an accumulated 14 days.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 10, 2025, 04:15:02 PM
Christ we were shite that season, but so were Chelsea. They went down the next season as we came up.
Yep. Kerry Dixon and David Speedie scored for them. Think Dorigo ended up playing for them in the year they went back up with Man City, the year after we’d gone back up. How times have changed.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: waynejames on January 10, 2025, 04:34:04 PM
Went to a mid week game against forest ( I think) in one of them old Micky mouse competitions….stood on the holte with no one within 10 yards of me and my mate….never been so sold in my life and I did 20 years on markets and building sites….

Yes i remember that game i got the number 8 bus from Saltley, i remember it was the coldest i've ever been at the Villa
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Allan C on January 10, 2025, 04:37:50 PM
Liverpool at home Friday night on BBC that was cold

Yes that game shouldn’t have been played. I think the players wore trainers the pitch was so hard. Early 80s
Yes  the game clearly should have been postponed. I didn’t go because I was convinced it would get chopped and was staggered to see it survived
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on January 10, 2025, 04:55:17 PM
Does anyone known what time the fesivities start tonight and how early it's worth getting down for?
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaTim on January 10, 2025, 05:15:35 PM
That Liverpool game in the league cup was cold , the night the floodlights failed and the game got delayed . Hitz scored a standard Hitz sort of goal
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Meanwood Villa on January 10, 2025, 05:23:54 PM
It wasn't a floodlight failure, it was a ticketing fuck up
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 10, 2025, 05:26:21 PM
Traffic is absolutely shite. The West Midlands shouldn't have midweek games.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Meanwood Villa on January 10, 2025, 05:27:05 PM
Oh shit, we always lose when I post on the pre match thread. I lost track of where I was.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 10, 2025, 05:29:02 PM
I reckon we've probably exhausted every feasible "lucky" routine in the FA Cup by now, anyway mate, so you're probably fine.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 10, 2025, 05:29:59 PM
Traffic is absolutely shite. The West Midlands shouldn't have midweek games.

It's okay again now. Just as well, didn't fancy walking in this weather.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 10, 2025, 05:33:29 PM
That''s the coldest game I've been at, not helped by the lengthy delay and the fact I was wearing a t-shirt and a long-sleeved Villa shirt.

You were young, dumb and Brazilian. How could you have known any better?

Erm, I wasn't young.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 10, 2025, 05:42:06 PM
Liverpool at home Friday night on BBC that was cold

Yes that game shouldn’t have been played. I think the players wore trainers the pitch was so hard. Early 80s

Jan 20, 1984? If so, I think it was the first time I had seen us live on TV in the league, and Ian 'bastid' Rush got a hat-trick.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 10, 2025, 05:51:29 PM
Jesus, the queue for the shop is mad!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on January 10, 2025, 05:51:59 PM
What was the temp for the Bradford game, I remember having a snowball fight on the walk back towards Star City? That was about the only redeeming feature of that night!
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: waynejames on January 10, 2025, 05:54:24 PM
From memory it was the 1st live Division 1 game on the box  As metioned before it should have been called off but that would have meant another repeat of the Two Ronnies
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 10, 2025, 05:57:48 PM
Jesus, the queue for the shop is mad!

Ker-ching! Chris Heck's a merchandising genius.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 10, 2025, 05:59:41 PM
Liverpool at home Friday night on BBC that was cold

Yes that game shouldn’t have been played. I think the players wore trainers the pitch was so hard. Early 80s

Jan 20, 1984? If so, I think it was the first time I had seen us live on TV in the league, and Ian 'bastid' Rush got a hat-trick.

I went to that. I was in the Trinity so I must have jibbed in. A few of us for a fiver in turnstiles D or E.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 10, 2025, 06:09:48 PM
Queued for ages to get into the shop, more massive queues when we got in to get served, so we sacked it and went to Tesco for sweets. I was more bothered about getting something than the kids anyway. Even the lines for the programmes are massive. Little Chris Heck is loving this.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VillaTim on January 10, 2025, 06:19:18 PM
We played Albion in the league cup in a blizzard in Sandwell that was a cold one at least we won
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: charlatan on January 10, 2025, 06:28:36 PM
Try watching a Bears game in January.
It will be tropical in B6 tonight in comparison.
They don't play many in January
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 10, 2025, 06:31:26 PM
Try watching a Bears game in January.
It will be tropical in B6 tonight in comparison.
They don't play many in January
CD pointed that out mate, Chicago regularly hits temperatures exceeding the lowest ever in the UK since records began.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: charlatan on January 10, 2025, 06:33:42 PM
I know. I used to live in Cleveland. That was more than bad enough.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 10, 2025, 06:34:54 PM
Try watching a Bears game in January.
It will be tropical in B6 tonight in comparison.

They don't play many in January

:D

However, CL's point still stands. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1967_NFL_Championship_Game
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 10, 2025, 06:37:18 PM
I remember a Leeds game in the mid 90s, possibly SBL's first season, when it was fucking baltic.  It wasn't even a night game either.  Was sat on the front row of the upper Holte and the wind was cutting across the park, game finished 0-0, Brian Deane was playing on the left wing for them and I don't think i've ever wanted a final whistle to blow so much so I could get back to a nice warm pub.

I actually remember being at that game, 2nd January 1995 and Brian Deane in particular was an absolute donkey for them; the game was so forgettable that it was unforgettable as being one of the worst games between 2 sides I've ever seen!

It was memorable for the fact that mid rant at the aforesaid Deane from the second row of the Upper Witton Lane I inadvertently hocked up a pavement oyster of considerable size. We all watched and as if in slow motion this accidental gob span through the air and landed in the hair of the girl sitting in front. Instinctively I reached out to wipe it off but Nodge off of H+V grabbed my wrist to save my embarrassment because she hadn't noticed.

It sat there through the rest of the game, and I stared at that more than I looked at the pitch. Given the weather I hoped it eventually froze and dropped off in transit as she made her way home and she lived the rest of her life in ignorant bliss.....

Of course every time someone mentions Brian Deane.....

There was a bluenose couple in front of us in the Holte on ****** night. She had a Brian May hairstyle and there was so much chewing gum in it by the end of the match she probably had to go to the barbers for a skinhead the next day.
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on January 10, 2025, 06:43:20 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/hMZJ6Zt/2ab195fa7546a36bc246b565cc6ca437.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hMZJ6Zt)
Title: Re: Aston Villa v West Ham - Pre-Match Thread
Post by: AGRIPPA on January 10, 2025, 06:47:31 PM
Went to a mid week game against forest ( I think) in one of them old Micky mouse competitions….stood on the holte with no one within 10 yards of me and my mate….never been so sold in my life and I did 20 years on markets and building sites….

Yes i remember that game i got the number 8 bus from Saltley, i remember it was the coldest i've ever been at the Villa

Ha…me as well…Arden Road
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