Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Martyn Smith on September 28, 2025, 09:31:40 PM

Title: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Martyn Smith on September 28, 2025, 09:31:40 PM
Thu 2 Oct - De Kuip, Rotterdam

What's our record like in this stadium?

0-1 Watkins (67). Off his shin and the post, will hit the back of the net before the ball does. Assist Rogers from a cross

Ok, that's all that done

I'm pretty sure that this will be the first time we've played a team in competition for the first time, having already played in their stadium, won't it?
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 28, 2025, 09:39:22 PM
Win please.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Smirker on September 28, 2025, 09:40:00 PM
Would take a draw. Want a win.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on September 28, 2025, 09:59:04 PM
Just looked and Feyenoord sit top of the league after 7 games having won 6 of them so I’d expect a tough game.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: waynejames on September 28, 2025, 10:05:20 PM
Thu 2 Oct - De Kuip, Rotterdam

What's our record like in this stadium?

0-1 Watkins (67). Off his shin and the post, will hit the back of the net before the ball does. Assist Rogers from a cross

Ok, that's all that done

I'm pretty sure that this will be the first time we've played a team in competition for the first time, having already played in their stadium, won't it?


Doesn’t count but we played them in 1998 pre season. I can’t for the life of me remember any of it but I was there…..I think it ended none none
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Legion on September 28, 2025, 10:09:07 PM
Desmond.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: waynejames on September 28, 2025, 10:14:25 PM
There are a couple of licensed images of the game on t’internet if you google it.
Also I found a nice overhead shot of the ground during the 1982 final
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on September 28, 2025, 10:16:46 PM
Thu 2 Oct - De Kuip, Rotterdam

What's our record like in this stadium?

0-1 Watkins (67). Off his shin and the post, will hit the back of the net before the ball does. Assist Rogers from a cross

Ok, that's all that done

I'm pretty sure that this will be the first time we've played a team in competition for the first time, having already played in their stadium, won't it?


Doesn’t count but we played them in 1998 pre season. I can’t for the life of me remember any of it but I was there…..I think it ended none none

It was 0-0, an uncomfortable boiling hot day and a total non event on the pitch. I went there purely on the basis of revisiting 1982. On the coach pretty well straight there and back, absolutely knackering.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: waynejames on September 28, 2025, 10:32:06 PM
Yes the ground was like a bloomin green house with perspex windows at the back of the upper tier amplifying the heat onto us.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Martyn Smith on September 28, 2025, 10:47:08 PM
Yes the ground was like a bloomin green house with perspex windows at the back of the upper tier amplifying the heat onto us.

That's for the tulips

Something like that, anyway
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ads on September 28, 2025, 10:47:50 PM
We always win here. Going to the game with a mate who hasn't missed a match, anywhere, home/away/Europe/friendlies since before we last played here competitively.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on September 28, 2025, 11:49:44 PM
I went there once.
It was a good experience 😉😉😉

I went back with the old man on the 30th anniversary to the day in 2012 to revisit Rotterdam. Had a great few days but never bumped into any Villa fans which surprised me.
We went to the ground on the 26th and went into the reception and asked the person if we could have a look at the pitch given the auspicious date. She looked nonplussed and never knew that they had ever hosted the game. It was a bit awkward. But bless her she came back a couple of minutes later (must have either googled it or talked to someone) and took us on mini tour.  It was was great .
The ground hadn’t changed that much.  It’s still a shell with most of the outside open.
We struggled to see where you could go to get beer/food. Bit like back then. It’s open to elements.  But it’s definitely better than ‘82. It was a bloody awful stadium.
But hey ho - it was ace.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on September 29, 2025, 12:21:05 AM
I wonder will there be much media reportage in the build-up with the 1982 narrative. It was the 1st anniversary of Gary Shaw's death a couple of weeks ago.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on September 29, 2025, 06:42:35 PM
Desmond.

No, 0-2
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: itbrvilla on September 29, 2025, 07:05:12 PM
I went there once.
It was a good experience 😉😉😉

I went back with the old man on the 30th anniversary to the day in 2012 to revisit Rotterdam. Had a great few days but never bumped into any Villa fans which surprised me.
We went to the ground on the 26th and went into the reception and asked the person if we could have a look at the pitch given the auspicious date. She looked nonplussed and never knew that they had ever hosted the game. It was a bit awkward. But bless her she came back a couple of minutes later (must have either googled it or talked to someone) and took us on mini tour.  It was was great .
The ground hadn’t changed that much.  It’s still a shell with most of the outside open.
We struggled to see where you could go to get beer/food. Bit like back then. It’s open to elements.  But it’s definitely better than ‘82. It was a bloody awful stadium.
But hey ho - it was ace.
the "concourse" is ridiculously shit. Worse than Wigan.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Crown Hill on September 29, 2025, 08:27:53 PM
Is the end we’ve got the same one we had in 82?
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Demitri_C on September 29, 2025, 08:56:12 PM
Probably  a toss up between this and fenebache away as our toughtest game. Wont be easy. Would be happy with a point tbh
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: itbrvilla on September 29, 2025, 10:09:02 PM
Is the end we’ve got the same one we had in 82?
we'll be in the south east side behind the goal on the top tier in a perspex box. We'll barely be heard even if we score a goal
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Pete3206 on September 29, 2025, 10:26:42 PM
1-1
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: purpletrousers on September 29, 2025, 10:51:03 PM
Is the end we’ve got the same one we had in 82?
we'll be in the south east side behind the goal on the top tier in a perspex box. We'll barely be heard even if we score a goal

So presumably it is the same end and they haven’t reversed the away end behind the goal?
Sounds like we’ll be much higher up than we were then. Perspex sounds a bit…well like some of the other ones recently :/
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 29, 2025, 11:11:58 PM
The treatment and facilities for away fans at European grounds is truly awful. It’s always high up in a corner with nettings all around and total isolation from general crowd. Compare that to how we treated say Bologna fans with pitch side seating etc and full access to all UK fried chicken and kebab shops in Witton Road🤷🏽‍♂️
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: AV82EC on September 30, 2025, 12:12:52 AM
The treatment and facilities for away fans at European grounds is truly awful. It’s always high up in a corner with nettings all around and total isolation from general crowd. Compare that to how we treated say Bologna fans with pitch side seating etc and full access to all UK fried chicken and kebab shops in Witton Road🤷🏽‍♂️

Which is why it’s best to ensure you’re fed and watered before you get there. Some of the ground we’ve been to have been ok, Leipzig was fine, Bruges a total shithole, Bern ok, Alkmaar ok for watching but shite out of town bullshit. I thought Ajax was a bit shite as well with that net. PSG was average but more because of that arsehole bloke on the PA. All in all the European football experience is ok but the way you get treated is disgraceful. Oh and Monaco, a god forsaken shithole and the ground wasn’t great either.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 30, 2025, 12:27:48 AM
3-1 win for Villa (Watkins, McGinn, Buendia).
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Louzie0 on September 30, 2025, 12:38:06 AM
Exactly. Don’t mess with a winning formula.
( And don’t let any in.)
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 30, 2025, 12:59:01 AM
The treatment and facilities for away fans at European grounds is truly awful. It’s always high up in a corner with nettings all around and total isolation from general crowd. Compare that to how we treated say Bologna fans with pitch side seating etc and full access to all UK fried chicken and kebab shops in Witton Road🤷🏽‍♂️

Which is why it’s best to ensure you’re fed and watered before you get there. Some of the ground we’ve been to have been ok, Leipzig was fine, Bruges a total shithole, Bern ok, Alkmaar ok for watching but shite out of town bullshit. I thought Ajax was a bit shite as well with that net. PSG was average but more because of that arsehole bloke on the PA. All in all the European football experience is ok but the way you get treated is disgraceful. Oh and Monaco, a god forsaken shithole and the ground wasn’t great either.

A god forsaken shithole you say? The home of F1 drivers and UK millionaire/billionaire exiles leaving the UK in their droves we’re told. Maybe they’ve got it wrong….apart from the F1 bit and they’re hardly ever there due to work commitments.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: AV82EC on September 30, 2025, 01:09:09 AM
The treatment and facilities for away fans at European grounds is truly awful. It’s always high up in a corner with nettings all around and total isolation from general crowd. Compare that to how we treated say Bologna fans with pitch side seating etc and full access to all UK fried chicken and kebab shops in Witton Road🤷🏽‍♂️

Which is why it’s best to ensure you’re fed and watered before you get there. Some of the ground we’ve been to have been ok, Leipzig was fine, Bruges a total shithole, Bern ok, Alkmaar ok for watching but shite out of town bullshit. I thought Ajax was a bit shite as well with that net. PSG was average but more because of that arsehole bloke on the PA. All in all the European football experience is ok but the way you get treated is disgraceful. Oh and Monaco, a god forsaken shithole and the ground wasn’t great either.

A god forsaken shithole you say? The home of F1 drivers and UK millionaire/billionaire exiles leaving the UK in their droves we’re told. Maybe they’ve got it wrong….apart from the F1 bit and they’re hardly ever there due to work commitments.

Just because a bunch of selfish tax dodgers live there doesn’t make it any good.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VancouverLion on September 30, 2025, 01:53:47 AM
The treatment and facilities for away fans at European grounds is truly awful. It’s always high up in a corner with nettings all around and total isolation from general crowd. Compare that to how we treated say Bologna fans with pitch side seating etc and full access to all UK fried chicken and kebab shops in Witton Road🤷🏽‍♂️

Which is why it’s best to ensure you’re fed and watered before you get there. Some of the ground we’ve been to have been ok, Leipzig was fine, Bruges a total shithole, Bern ok, Alkmaar ok for watching but shite out of town bullshit. I thought Ajax was a bit shite as well with that net. PSG was average but more because of that arsehole bloke on the PA. All in all the European football experience is ok but the way you get treated is disgraceful. Oh and Monaco, a god forsaken shithole and the ground wasn’t great either.
If Monaco is a god forsaken shithole, I’m dreading my Christmas vacation to Castle Brom!
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Villafirst on September 30, 2025, 05:44:11 AM
This game won't be easy. Feyenoord are flying at the top of the Erevidise. I think it'll be 1-1.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on September 30, 2025, 06:20:08 AM
I thought Monaco was pretty dull tbh, just full of casinos. Doesn't appeal to me, but neither does Vegas.

People only live there to avoid paying taxes.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Nev on September 30, 2025, 08:48:59 AM
One of my oldest friends Dad passed a few weeks ago and it's his funeral on Thursday. He used to take us all in his classic old Land Rover to the games, in the days when I stood on a beer crate on the Holte. He was in Rotterdam in '82 so the fixture is rather more emotive than we first imagined, once the wake is done and dusted we will all sit down to watch the match together. My mate still has the bowler hat that Reg wore at the final so we'll all end up sporting that at some point.

The result doesn't seem that important given the context but I'll take another one nil.

RIP Reg Browne.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Crown Hill on September 30, 2025, 09:24:49 AM
Is the end we’ve got the same one we had in 82?
we'll be in the south east side behind the goal on the top tier in a perspex box. We'll barely be heard even if we score a goal

So presumably it is the same end and they haven’t reversed the away end behind the goal?
Sounds like we’ll be much higher up than we were then. Perspex sounds a bit…well like some of the other ones recently :/

I think he’s may have replied to the wrong post? Still none the wiser. We weren’t necessarily in the away end in 82 as neutral venue. Our fans were to the right of the camera.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Crown Hill on September 30, 2025, 09:30:08 AM
The treatment and facilities for away fans at European grounds is truly awful. It’s always high up in a corner with nettings all around and total isolation from general crowd. Compare that to how we treated say Bologna fans with pitch side seating etc and full access to all UK fried chicken and kebab shops in Witton Road🤷🏽‍♂️

Which is why it’s best to ensure you’re fed and watered before you get there. Some of the ground we’ve been to have been ok, Leipzig was fine, Bruges a total shithole, Bern ok, Alkmaar ok for watching but shite out of town bullshit. I thought Ajax was a bit shite as well with that net. PSG was average but more because of that arsehole bloke on the PA. All in all the European football experience is ok but the way you get treated is disgraceful. Oh and Monaco, a god forsaken shithole and the ground wasn’t great either.

A god forsaken shithole you say? The home of F1 drivers and UK millionaire/billionaire exiles leaving the UK in their droves we’re told. Maybe they’ve got it wrong….apart from the F1 bit and they’re hardly ever there due to work commitments.

Monaco was lovely. Castle, Church, cliff top walks, niche shops, bars and cafes in narrow cobbled streets. One Casino in a scenic square with Belle Epoque architecture. On match day they made sure Villa supporters didn’t see any of that and escorted them straight in and out and back to Nice.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on September 30, 2025, 09:58:12 AM
Just looked and Feyenoord sit top of the league after 7 games having won 6 of them so I’d expect a tough game.

Already lost one in Euros though TBH, this and Fenerbache are the only two games I'm expecting dropped points in.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: NeilH on September 30, 2025, 10:07:39 AM
Dutch Lion here and former contributor here. Just a few tips for those coming over here for the game. First and foremost, this is unlike any crappy European stadium you will have been to before, yes there is a net in front of the away end, but De Kuip has an atmosphere unparalleled in Dutch football and the stadium oozes history. Away fans are housed behind the goal to the right-hand side, but not in the corner and close enough to enjoy the atmosphere. Don't get freaked out when the ground shakes, it's been built this way, and it literally vibrates under your feet when everyone is jumping.

Getting to the stadium is pretty easy from the centre, either take the bus or take the train to the stadium station which opens for matches. Post-match there will be regular trains back to Rotterdam Centraal and ditto buses.

Facilities in the stadium are not amazing, it may be atmospheric, but its pretty dated for a Dutch stadium and getting a drink or going to the loo will require some patience.

For those planning on drinking in town pre-game, I can't give any tips apart from be conscience of your surroundings. Feyenoord fans are passionate, but some of them have a terrible reputation and in fact Dutch hooligans in general have been especially troublesome of late, even orchestrating a nasty anti-immigration riot in Den Haag a couple of weeks ago.

Any specific queries, feel free to PM me
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on September 30, 2025, 10:36:24 AM
I think the only other question is the away end the same end as Villa had 82?}

(And nice to see you about NeilH)
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ads on September 30, 2025, 10:41:56 AM
The treatment and facilities for away fans at European grounds is truly awful. It’s always high up in a corner with nettings all around and total isolation from general crowd. Compare that to how we treated say Bologna fans with pitch side seating etc and full access to all UK fried chicken and kebab shops in Witton Road🤷🏽‍♂️

The only ones with really awful facilities was Brugge and Mostar, although the later was more part of the charm.

Hibs- behind the goal. Standard stuff
Warsaw - same position effectively, just with two tiers. Netting to stop errant mayonnaise.
Alkmaar- in the corner a bit like a smaller Leicester albeit it didn't go to the front.
Mostar- in a box, but there was 1 stand for the entire stadium. Serving ale when they shouldn't have. Netting people with home tickets into the away end. A glorious throw back.
Ajax - high up in the gods, a bit like Newcastle only not as high but way steeper.
Lille - similar to Newcastle, but again not as high. Plenty of netting. Given its this and Paris where its actually gone off, probably fair enough.
Olympiacos- standard corner away end.

Young Boys - two tier job in the corner. Like Loftus Road only with more room at the back, more crushing at the bar and the biggest log you've ever seen in the bogs. Very wet floor.
Brugge- this is a hole. Poor facilities, in the corner, roof doesn't cover it, seats are bolted- not ideal.
Leipzig- the Goodisoon side position but you can see. No issues.
Monaco- felt lile a 1970s leisure centre. Running track puts you a distance away.
Brugge- done
PSG - like a smaller West Ham. Netting to the side is not strong enough to support a grown man jumping on it...

Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: itbrvilla on September 30, 2025, 10:42:58 AM
Is the end we’ve got the same one we had in 82?
we'll be in the south east side behind the goal on the top tier in a perspex box. We'll barely be heard even if we score a goal

So presumably it is the same end and they haven’t reversed the away end behind the goal?
Sounds like we’ll be much higher up than we were then. Perspex sounds a bit…well like some of the other ones recently :/

I think he’s may have replied to the wrong post? Still none the wiser. We weren’t necessarily in the away end in 82 as neutral venue. Our fans were to the right of the camera.
At present the player tunnel is to the right of the away fans and bench to the left. May have changed over the last 40 years
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: JUAN PABLO on September 30, 2025, 10:52:16 AM
Id love to go to this after being there with dad and grandad back in 82 , My dad being 80 now , would have been a dream to go together . . As a 16 year old at the time , I only have so much memories of it , seemed to all fly so fast , and would have loved to see if I remember more visiting again.
the thing is I thought at the time there would be so many more being so naive at the time . 

Anyway 1 - 0 Villa . . .  and a dutchman to score it .
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on September 30, 2025, 11:12:50 AM
One of my oldest friends Dad passed a few weeks ago and it's his funeral on Thursday. He used to take us all in his classic old Land Rover to the games, in the days when I stood on a beer crate on the Holte. He was in Rotterdam in '82 so the fixture is rather more emotive than we first imagined, once the wake is done and dusted we will all sit down to watch the match together. My mate still has the bowler hat that Reg wore at the final so we'll all end up sporting that at some point.

The result doesn't seem that important given the context but I'll take another one nil.

RIP Reg Browne.

Hope we get the right result for Reg. All the best Nev.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ads on September 30, 2025, 11:37:45 AM
We're upper tier behind the goal on the right in HH. William something or other stand.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on September 30, 2025, 11:48:24 AM
This is the Leverkusen fans away guide. Can't see it being any different a year later.

Quote
STADIUM
Away entrance: Entrances 61-64
Away blocks: GG, FF, HH, JJ
On entering the stadium (see F there will be strict checks (pre-ticket check, ticket scan & body searches)
Alcohol checks are possible – people under the influence of alcohol may be refused entry.
There are no storage facilities.
Payment for food and drink is exclusively cashless
There is a strict smoking ban throughout the stadium and non-compliance can lead to ejection from the stadium.
By purchasing a ticket, the currently valid stadium regulations for the De Kuip stadium and the General Ticket Terms and Conditions (ATGB) at Feyenoord are recognised.

Prohibited items
Bags and rucksacks larger than A4
Far-right ideology and associated symbols
Cannabis and other drugs
Brought-in food and drink
Professional cameras
Tube scarfs, ski masks etc.
Aerosol containers (e.g. deodorants or hairspray)
Umbrellas
Walking sticks (even if required medically)

https://www.bayer04.de/en-us/news/fans/fan-information-for-away-game-at-feyenoord
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Crown Hill on September 30, 2025, 11:59:11 AM

(https://i.ibb.co/RkM2dk69/IMG-5071.jpg) (https://ibb.co/RkM2dk69)


Here’s an aerial view of 82. We are to the right. I think we’ve got the same end. I’m in GG behind the goal!
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 30, 2025, 12:02:39 PM
Thanks for that info Somni...  I better leave my BNP flag at home.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: purpletrousers on September 30, 2025, 12:09:37 PM
One of my oldest friends Dad passed a few weeks ago and it's his funeral on Thursday. He used to take us all in his classic old Land Rover to the games, in the days when I stood on a beer crate on the Holte. He was in Rotterdam in '82 so the fixture is rather more emotive than we first imagined, once the wake is done and dusted we will all sit down to watch the match together. My mate still has the bowler hat that Reg wore at the final so we'll all end up sporting that at some point.

The result doesn't seem that important given the context but I'll take another one nil.

RIP Reg Browne.

Is anyone putting out a flag for him? Can it be done in time?
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Richard on September 30, 2025, 12:15:02 PM

(https://i.ibb.co/RkM2dk69/IMG-5071.jpg) (https://ibb.co/RkM2dk69)


Here’s an aerial view of 82. We are to the right. I think we’ve got the same end. I’m in GG behind the goal!

I wasn't there in 82, I'd been to Highbury but Rotterdam was deemed a step too far. Anyone know why it wasn't sold out or were those gaps segregated zones?
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: purpletrousers on September 30, 2025, 12:16:04 PM
Is the end we’ve got the same one we had in 82?
we'll be in the south east side behind the goal on the top tier in a perspex box. We'll barely be heard even if we score a goal

So presumably it is the same end and they haven’t reversed the away end behind the goal?
Sounds like we’ll be much higher up than we were then. Perspex sounds a bit…well like some of the other ones recently :/

I think he’s may have replied to the wrong post? Still none the wiser. We weren’t necessarily in the away end in 82 as neutral venue. Our fans were to the right of the camera.

The penny just dropped that we weren’t “the away team” last time I was there doh.

So yes Neil H, are we the same end as we were in 82?!

Also I saw some blurb about away going in via a tunnel so not seeing much of the ground.

I recreated some outside pics from my childhood a couple of years ago on Rotterdam day when I happened to be driving through the Netherlands, had hoped to do the same but maybe won’t be able?
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: purpletrousers on September 30, 2025, 12:17:56 PM

(https://i.ibb.co/RkM2dk69/IMG-5071.jpg) (https://ibb.co/RkM2dk69)


Here’s an aerial view of 82. We are to the right. I think we’ve got the same end. I’m in GG behind the goal!

Lovely to see. Hoping you are right?!
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: itbrvilla on September 30, 2025, 12:22:18 PM

(https://i.ibb.co/RkM2dk69/IMG-5071.jpg) (https://ibb.co/RkM2dk69)


Here’s an aerial view of 82. We are to the right. I think we’ve got the same end. I’m in GG behind the goal!
I think you are right as the Away end is to the right as you exit the train station. The railway lines are behind the stand with the roof  which makes sense
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 30, 2025, 12:46:09 PM
Getting to the Stadium

Aston Villa supporters will be required to travel on designated shuttle train services from the Old Harbour Area (Oude Haven) to the Stadium (Rotterdam Stadion Station)

The primary reserved Aston Villa train will be the 19:03 departure with an additional service running at 19:23 if required.

Travel on the train will be FREE for Aston Villa supporters with match tickets. Wristbands will be issued for crowd management on the train services.

Ticketless fans will not be permitted to board the trains.

The same arrangements will apply on the return trip.

A hold back of approximately 45 minutes will take place to allow Feyenoord supporters to clear the station prior to Aston Villa supporters boarding train services.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 30, 2025, 12:47:38 PM
They dreaded hold back ....and 45 minutes as well.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 30, 2025, 01:23:10 PM
Hope we get the right result for Reg. All the best Nev.

Seconded.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Martyn Smith on September 30, 2025, 01:31:42 PM
This is the Leverkusen fans away guide. Can't see it being any different a year later.

Quote
STADIUM
Away entrance: Entrances 61-64
Away blocks: GG, FF, HH, JJ
On entering the stadium (see F there will be strict checks (pre-ticket check, ticket scan & body searches)
Alcohol checks are possible – people under the influence of alcohol may be refused entry.
There are no storage facilities.
Payment for food and drink is exclusively cashless
There is a strict smoking ban throughout the stadium and non-compliance can lead to ejection from the stadium.
By purchasing a ticket, the currently valid stadium regulations for the De Kuip stadium and the General Ticket Terms and Conditions (ATGB) at Feyenoord are recognised.

Prohibited items
Bags and rucksacks larger than A4
Far-right ideology and associated symbols
Cannabis and other drugs
Brought-in food and drink
Professional cameras
Tube scarfs, ski masks etc.
Aerosol containers (e.g. deodorants or hairspray)
Umbrellas
Walking sticks (even if required medically)

https://www.bayer04.de/en-us/news/fans/fan-information-for-away-game-at-feyenoord

That last line made me shudder. How can they get away with being so disablist in a UEFA recognised competition?
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Martyn Smith on September 30, 2025, 01:33:30 PM
Hope we get the right result for Reg. All the best Nev.

Seconded.

HEITS
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: NeilH on September 30, 2025, 02:31:05 PM
They dreaded hold back ....and 45 minutes as well.
Anyone staying up in Amsterdam will still be ok as the trains run late. Given problems with Feyenoord of late, especially the rioting in Den Haag two weeks ago that Feyenoord ultra were right in the thick of, the police are clearly taking no chances. 
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 30, 2025, 02:41:50 PM
RIP Reg.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: darren woolley on September 30, 2025, 02:59:42 PM
I can see us beating them 2-1.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on September 30, 2025, 03:04:39 PM
Any hope of Tielemans, Barkley, Onana or Garcia returning to even the squad? Mings likely out and McGinn carrying a knock too after the weekend.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on September 30, 2025, 03:13:33 PM
Any hope of Tielemans, Barkley, Onana or Garcia returning to even the squad? Mings likely out and McGinn carrying a knock too after the weekend.

Garcia was on the bench the other day.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Dave on September 30, 2025, 03:13:33 PM
Barkley's not even in our submitted UEFA list.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VancouverLion on September 30, 2025, 04:28:28 PM
Players should wear that retro 82 shirt, thing of beauty it is.

1-1 Watkins for us.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: lennythekad on September 30, 2025, 07:30:46 PM

(https://i.ibb.co/9kZ0RBHq/IMG-9729.png) (https://ibb.co/9kZ0RBHq)
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on October 01, 2025, 06:46:26 AM
Any hope of Tielemans, Barkley, Onana or Garcia returning to even the squad? Mings likely out and McGinn carrying a knock too after the weekend.

Garcia was on the bench the other day.

Good stuff, might get a run so.

Are we expecting likes of Maatsen, Sancho, Malen to start? Think we should keep Ollie in the team after his goal.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: dorsetvillian on October 01, 2025, 10:42:16 AM
Early flight out for me from Bristol tomorrow morning. Meeting the other Bournemouth Lions out in Amsterdam. It's almost our second home now. Looking forward to going back to Rotterdam after all these years. Difficult game so need a strong team. We can rest players for the home games.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on October 01, 2025, 10:51:17 AM
Any hope of Tielemans, Barkley, Onana or Garcia returning to even the squad? Mings likely out and McGinn carrying a knock too after the weekend.

Garcia was on the bench the other day.

Good stuff, might get a run so.

Are we expecting likes of Maatsen, Sancho, Malen to start? Think we should keep Ollie in the team after his goal.

So far he has only made the Europa bench as more people can be named. He wasn't in any of the domestic games benches.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: RamboandBruno on October 01, 2025, 02:06:09 PM
Not sure whose fit, but as it seems to stand, I’d go with

Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Pau
Maatsen
Kamara
McGinn
Guessand
Watkins
Rogers
Sancho
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on October 01, 2025, 06:36:50 PM
Sancho didn't travel to Rotterdam as he's still unwell/ https://x.com/johntownley11/status/1973439321781969047

Onana, Tielemans, Mings, and Garcia are also unavailable.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: RamboandBruno on October 01, 2025, 07:08:17 PM
Ah ok, maybe Beundia then, with Malen coming on.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: tomd2103 on October 01, 2025, 07:54:12 PM
Not sure whose fit, but as it seems to stand, I’d go with

Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Pau
Maatsen
Kamara
McGinn
Guessand
Watkins
Rogers
Sancho

Think we've got to go close to full strength as this will be a tough game. 
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Ads on October 01, 2025, 08:02:44 PM
Some plant pots being lobbed by Rotterdam youth types. Little rats.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: VancouverLion on October 01, 2025, 09:35:15 PM
Onana has now missed 118 days and counting since joining, made of popadoms that boy.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on October 01, 2025, 10:30:55 PM
Send some Rotterdam pictures guys!!!
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on October 01, 2025, 10:31:49 PM
Send some Rotterdam pictures guys!!!

They're in Rotterdam not Amsterdam.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on October 01, 2025, 10:33:13 PM
Some plant pots being lobbed by Rotterdam youth types. Little rats.
Not what you need Ads. 
Do they know who are we are? 😎
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 01, 2025, 10:55:47 PM
Some plant pots being lobbed by Rotterdam youth types. Little rats.
My memory is not the best these days, but I thought it was Tulips From Amsterdam....not Plant Pots in Rotterdam?
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on October 01, 2025, 11:45:45 PM
Send some Rotterdam pictures guys!!!

They're in Rotterdam not Amsterdam.
Surely some fans are in Rotterdam tonight?
Great place.
The train back tomorrow night after the match to Amsterdam will be bloody fun/packed !!
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Villafirst on October 02, 2025, 04:23:34 AM
I wish UE would give a bit more detail on the injured players and likely return dates, especially Onana - he got his hamstring injury against Brentford in the opening game of the season. I'm sure Emery said he was close to fitness 2 or 3 weeks ago? Tielemans injury at Everton was said to be minor? Garcia was on the bench a week ago for the Bologna game - now he's out again? Will we ever see Barkley play again? I think Mings has an ankle issue? Hopefully McGinn is ok? Sancho is still unwell and unavailable.
With European games kicking in, the squad is looking a bit thin with rotation options limited.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on October 02, 2025, 08:43:55 AM
Send some Rotterdam pictures guys!!!

They're in Rotterdam not Amsterdam.
Surely some fans are in Rotterdam tonight?
Great place.
The train back tomorrow night after the match to Amsterdam will be bloody fun/packed !!
I think BV is alluding to particular type of pictures only available in Amsterdam😊
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: 144 Hard Boiled Eggs on October 02, 2025, 08:58:15 AM
Send some Rotterdam pictures guys!!!

They're in Rotterdam not Amsterdam.
Surely some fans are in Rotterdam tonight?
Great place.
The train back tomorrow night after the match to Amsterdam will be bloody fun/packed !!
Yes, a fair few of us around last night enjoying the local watering holes. Great bars and friendly locals who say the local media keep reminding them of the historical importance of Rotterdam to us.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: itbrvilla on October 02, 2025, 10:21:00 AM
Send some Rotterdam pictures guys!!!

They're in Rotterdam not Amsterdam.
Surely some fans are in Rotterdam tonight?
Great place.
The train back tomorrow night after the match to Amsterdam will be bloody fun/packed !!
Yes, a fair few of us around last night enjoying the local watering holes. Great bars and friendly locals who say the local media keep reminding them of the historical importance of Rotterdam to us.
Went to watch Feyenoord last season.  Rotterdam is a superb city.  One of my favourite cities in Europe to visit.  Check out Café de Oude Sluis and Stadtbrauerei De Pelgrim in Delfshaven if you get a chance.

I was talking to 3 young Feyenoord Ultras in Café de Oude Sluis who were desperate for an away day at Villa Park.  They are avid watcher of Villa On Tour and big fans of Max.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on October 02, 2025, 12:58:14 PM
Didn't realise Van Persie was their manager. Our only win against him was in 2008, in the famous "why didn’t Barry take the penalty" game.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on October 02, 2025, 12:59:35 PM
I was talking to 3 young Feyenoord Ultras in Café de Oude Sluis who were desperate for an away day at Villa Park.  They are avid watcher of Villa On Tour and big fans of Max.

Were they out looking for him?
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on October 02, 2025, 01:01:52 PM
Some stats from the BBC page.

Quote
John McGinn and Ollie Watkins have both made 23 appearances in major UEFA competition for Aston Villa, with only Gordon Cowans (28) and Dennis Mortimer (27) making more. Indeed, McGinn has seven goals and Watkins six in those games – with only Peter Withe (9) and Gary Shaw (8 ) netting more for the Villans in major European competitions.

Both Watkins and McGinn will be beating the appearance records this season, and maybe the goals ones as well. (Unfortunately?)
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on October 02, 2025, 01:23:53 PM
Didn't realise Van Persie was their manager. Our only win against him was in 2008, in the famous "why didn’t Barry take the penalty" game.

Pretty sure RVP played for Arse in the 2-2, when Zat Knight equalised late on. Think he hit the woodwork.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Richard E on October 02, 2025, 01:35:08 PM
Didn't realise Van Persie was their manager. Our only win against him was in 2008, in the famous "why didn’t Barry take the penalty" game.

It winds me up every time they show that volley he scored against us at Old Trafford because I shall be convinced until the day I die that he was offside.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: simboy on October 02, 2025, 01:55:38 PM
Didn't realise Van Persie was their manager. Our only win against him was in 2008, in the famous "why didn’t Barry take the penalty" game.

Pretty sure RVP played for Arse in the 2-2, when Zat Knight equalised late on. Think he hit the woodwork.


RVP scored in the 2-1 - Daren Bent double - at Emerites 2011. I must have been the only Villa fan in the crowd hoping he scored that penalty - had a 2-1 Villa win with Bent first and last goal scorer - RVP buggered a bit of the bet but I had quite a good night … and a few days following. Even funnier, driven down and back by a mad keen Arse fan.

Happy days.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: cdbearsfan on October 02, 2025, 02:21:00 PM
FFS, you can't trust Transfermarkt after all.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on October 02, 2025, 02:26:56 PM
How do you mean?
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on October 02, 2025, 02:35:03 PM
(I think CD is trying to throw the blame for his bad stats onto something else).
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on October 02, 2025, 03:06:09 PM
I was talking to 3 young Feyenoord Ultras in Café de Oude Sluis who were desperate for an away day at Villa Park.  They are avid watcher of Villa On Tour and big fans of Max.

Were they out looking for him?

It's quite fascinating the psychology of voyeurism in interest-adjacent things like this. Imagine a decade ago the idea of one random set of fans watching regular videos of another club's fans and their match-going rituals.

Max's videos are really well-produced which no doubt helps. He's a likeable chap too and that thing where he gets kids to predict the score and give an "Up the Villa" never fails to raise a smile.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: rob_bridge on October 02, 2025, 03:35:00 PM
1.3 SJM, Ollie and Malen late
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on October 02, 2025, 04:14:51 PM
What are we expecting as the starting team? Squad already looks very light. McGinn might have recovered from the knock but no harm to let him sit one out from the start. Emery often gives guys a quick chance to redeem a poor performance so I think Elliot will start. Malen maybe off left for a change.

Bizot, Cash, Konsa, Torres, Maatsen, Kamara, Bogarde, Elliot, Malen, Buendia, Watkins

Subs from Martinez, Lindelof, McGinn, Guessand, Rogers, Digne
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on October 02, 2025, 04:33:59 PM
Nigel Spink and Kenny Swain in attendance tonight. https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1973769909999112266
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: itbrvilla on October 02, 2025, 04:42:01 PM
I was talking to 3 young Feyenoord Ultras in Café de Oude Sluis who were desperate for an away day at Villa Park.  They are avid watcher of Villa On Tour and big fans of Max.

Were they out looking for him?

It's quite fascinating the psychology of voyeurism in interest-adjacent things like this. Imagine a decade ago the idea of one random set of fans watching regular videos of another club's fans and their match-going rituals.

Max's videos are really well-produced which no doubt helps. He's a likeable chap too and that thing where he gets kids to predict the score and give an "Up the Villa" never fails to raise a smile.
They really want to see The Holte End and mosaics
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Behind Bluenose Lines on October 02, 2025, 05:15:10 PM
Nigel Spink and Kenny Swain in attendance tonight. https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1973769909999112266
Just watched the whole film of them on Villa TV on YouTube revisiting the stadium and reminiscing about That Game.  Lovely!
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 02, 2025, 05:17:15 PM
Nigel Spink and Kenny Swain in attendance tonight. https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1973769909999112266
Beautiful
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: itbrvilla on October 02, 2025, 05:20:07 PM
https://x.com/DannyJamieson/status/1973766805945774352?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: andyh on October 02, 2025, 05:25:19 PM
Nigel Spink and Kenny Swain in attendance tonight. https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1973769909999112266
Just watched the whole film of them on Villa TV on YouTube revisiting the stadium and reminiscing about That Game.  Lovely!
It was a lovely piece to watch.

Watching that and seeing snippets of action, one thing really struck me.
The little bit of play from Shaw, when he sat the defender down and put through the most sublime ball to Morley, which led to the goal.
I have seen that a thousand times, but seeing it again today, from that angle, really struck a chord.
Magical.

Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Stu82 on October 02, 2025, 05:59:20 PM
Nigel Spink and Kenny Swain in attendance tonight. https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1973769909999112266
Beautiful


You can really see the emotion of returning to Rotterdam, brilliant.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: HK Villan on October 02, 2025, 06:33:46 PM
I watched that clip of ‘the’ goal today at least a dozen times… Shaw’s work on the left was superb, very Shaw-esque brilliance.
Title: Re: EL R2 Feyenoord v Aston Villa Pre-Match Thread
Post by: Witton Warrior on October 02, 2025, 06:47:12 PM
Just it again with my lad and I still tear up to this day - always think Peter will miss it!
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