Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Toronto Villa on January 03, 2026, 09:54:07 PM

Title: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 03, 2026, 09:54:07 PM
Arguably the one fixture each season we have come to dread the most. It is time again for Palace away. Even though they are missing some players for AFCON I still expect Sarr to score. But hopefully we can dig deep and get something from this game and stay in touch of Arsenal. Palace don’t seem as good as recent seasons as they are also stretched through European competition so maybe, just maybe we can get something.

Game is Wednesday at 7.30pm.

I’ll go with a miraculous Villa win. 2-1 Ollie and Malen.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Legion on January 03, 2026, 09:56:13 PM
0-4.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 03, 2026, 09:56:46 PM
Them 1 Us 4

They're shit and knackered, we aren't. Time to stop being scared of playing shite sides.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 03, 2026, 10:02:25 PM
Draw, 1-1. If we can sneak a win at soulless Selhurst, then anything's possible.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: walsall villain on January 03, 2026, 10:06:03 PM
Them 1 Us 4

They're shit and knackered, we aren't. Time to stop being scared of playing shite sides.
Hope you are right. They always sit deep against us like Forest today first half and wolves recently and normally tear us to bits on the break. Fingers crossed from me.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 03, 2026, 10:06:24 PM
Much will depend on how Unai sets us up. We have been battered in our last three games against them. Outplayed, out-coached, out anything else you care to mention. At their place, at Wembley, at Villa Park. Something significant has to change for us to improve the outcome.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 03, 2026, 10:10:32 PM
Let's not be ridiculous here, and let's keep the score down.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 03, 2026, 10:11:06 PM
No Sarr gives us a chance of a more respectable defeat than the last few meetings, hopefully. That said, I'm still not entirely convinced that he won't find a way to score against us from Morocco.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Legion on January 03, 2026, 10:12:25 PM
Time to stop being scared of playing shite sides.

This.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Smirker on January 03, 2026, 11:07:19 PM
They can't keep winning. We are due one eventually.

I don't like the running joke among Villa fans how it's definitely going to be a loss every time we play them.

It's just defeatist.

They won't know what's hit them on Wednesday.

3-0 Villa and we take another step toward our 8th league title.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: andyh on January 03, 2026, 11:24:19 PM
This game needs no team talk.
The players know there are wrongs to be righted.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: rob_bridge on January 03, 2026, 11:24:37 PM
1.4

Time's up
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: eye digress on January 04, 2026, 01:34:47 AM
It's the karma from that outrageous (but slightly undeserved) Duran winner at VP a few years back.

But it's wearing off, so Villa to win by two clear goals.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: usav on January 04, 2026, 01:59:54 AM
Much will depend on how Unai sets us up. We have been battered in our last three games against them. Outplayed, out-coached, out anything else you care to mention. At their place, at Wembley, at Villa Park. Something significant has to change for us to improve the outcome.

This. He needs to change something and surely he knows that by now.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Crown Hill on January 04, 2026, 02:10:57 AM
Much will depend on how Unai sets us up. We have been battered in our last three games against them. Outplayed, out-coached, out anything else you care to mention. At their place, at Wembley, at Villa Park. Something significant has to change for us to improve the outcome.

This. He needs to change something and surely he knows that by now.

Well he knows which change didn’t work as we tried 3 at the back with wing backs the last time we played at Palace!!
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: eamonn on January 04, 2026, 02:51:26 AM
They looked spent at home to Fulham the other night and should have lost. They also have one less day to recover than us. It's now or never for Emery to show he can beat Glasner. If not, I'd lose faith and hope we have Ollie at the wheel when his contract at Palace expires at the end of the season.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 04, 2026, 05:40:24 AM
It’s about time.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Mister E on January 04, 2026, 07:34:47 AM
Newbie Brennan Johnson will give them some new legs and perhaps a little inspiration: logic says we should win this, but ... can we lift the hex they have on us?
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Smithy on January 04, 2026, 08:58:58 AM
If we beat Palace, AT Palace, I will believe anything is possible this season...
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Dave on January 04, 2026, 09:07:34 AM
It's the karma from that outrageous (but slightly undeserved) Duran winner at VP a few years back.

Equaliser I think. DL then scored an injury-time penalty and Bailey finished them off.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: eye digress on January 04, 2026, 09:31:22 AM
It's the karma from that outrageous (but slightly undeserved) Duran winner at VP a few years back.

Equaliser I think. DL then scored an injury-time penalty and Bailey finished them off.
That's right. A mad remontada. It was like all our birthdays and Christmases coming at once.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 04, 2026, 10:19:28 AM
Do we have to!
Be good to have Onana back.
Feck it
1-3 us (Watkins, Rogers, Malen from the bench)
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Dave on January 04, 2026, 10:20:41 AM
Do we have to!
Be good to have Onana back.

Wasn't the talk that he was going to be out longer than Mings and Pau, and that we won't be seeing them until mid-January?
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 04, 2026, 10:37:36 AM
Do we have to!
Be good to have Onana back.

Wasn't the talk that he was going to be out longer than Mings and Pau, and that we won't be seeing them until mid-January?
Ah ok, I hadn’t heard that! Same team as yesterday then potentially. Might be tempted to start Bogarde instead of Beundia
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Pete3206 on January 04, 2026, 10:52:51 AM
1-1
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: TopDeck113 on January 04, 2026, 11:04:45 AM
This will see the Palace curse laid to rest.  1 (because we don't keep clean sheets) - 3
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Rigadon on January 04, 2026, 11:24:19 AM
I’m strangely confident about this game.  A low scoring defeat it is. 
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: eye digress on January 04, 2026, 11:39:58 AM
Do we have to!
Be good to have Onana back.

Wasn't the talk that he was going to be out longer than Mings and Pau, and that we won't be seeing them until mid-January?
Think it was something like a week to 10 days for Mings and Pau. Onana was just "longer".

On the post match tunnel clips yesterday, Onana didn't seem to be carrying an    obvious injury, so let's hope it isn't much "longer".
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: rob_bridge on January 04, 2026, 12:24:13 PM
This is the day when Wr Fuck Them Over. 2 fewer games than then in last 3 weeks and extra day rest.

Ollie at the double. Malen to bag a late un

1.3
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: JUAN PABLO on January 04, 2026, 02:17:02 PM
0   3    villa

watkins   rogers   sancho
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 04, 2026, 02:41:21 PM
2 fewer games than then in last 3 weeks and extra day rest.

Also helps that they're away at Newcastle. The Jaudis are a physical team and it's a longish trip back.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Jane on January 04, 2026, 03:50:38 PM
Palace win. Let's pretend it never happened.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: manic-road on January 04, 2026, 05:14:32 PM
Lose 3-0.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 04, 2026, 05:18:59 PM
Palace lost 2-0. Hopefully they carry this form on into our game.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 04, 2026, 05:21:06 PM
We have to think about how we get at them. We’re in better form clearly, but they’ve had our number in part due to their tactical approach. They don’t have Sarr, but we need to shut them down better.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 04, 2026, 05:26:40 PM
W0 D3 L4 is their current run, as expected their constant fixtures and not much of a squad is screwing them up.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Goldenballs on January 04, 2026, 05:31:59 PM
I prefer not to speak. If I speak, I am in big trouble. In big trouble. And I don't want to be in big trouble
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on January 04, 2026, 08:08:58 PM
Surely it's time we beat this rabble.....Crystal Palace..sounds like a Chinese restaurant ffs...I think we'll takeaway 3 points
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 04, 2026, 08:49:22 PM
Surely it's time we beat this rabble.....Crystal Palace..sounds like a Chinese restaurant ffs...I think we'll takeaway 3 points

The problem is they have our number.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 04, 2026, 09:12:17 PM
Surely it's time we beat this rabble.....Crystal Palace..sounds like a Chinese restaurant ffs...I think we'll takeaway 3 points

The problem is they have our number.

They do, and it’s time we deal with that.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 04, 2026, 09:13:17 PM
Good luck to everyone setting off tonight to get there on time.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithe on January 04, 2026, 11:11:40 PM
I'd like to declare at 0-0 and hope they agree
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: eamonn on January 05, 2026, 12:42:27 AM
No way, this is the best chance we'll ever get to beat them. No Sarr, no form, no set-piece prowess. It's time to burn the Eagles.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ExclDawg on January 05, 2026, 01:00:01 AM
I was feeling confident about possibly getting a 1-1 draw with our current run of form, but then we lost bad to Arsenal.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: dorsetvillian on January 05, 2026, 09:49:42 AM
I think Clyne got injured at Newcastle and a centre back had a concussion injury so an even smaller Palace squad...
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 05, 2026, 09:52:19 AM
For this think I’d go with

Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Lindelof
Digne
Kamara
Bogarde
McGinn
Watkins
Rogers
Tielemans
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 05, 2026, 09:54:51 AM
For this think I’d go with

Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Lindelof
Digne
Kamara
Bogarde
McGinn
Watkins
Rogers
Tielemans
So would I.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: LeeB on January 05, 2026, 09:59:33 AM
For this think I’d go with

Martinez
Cash
Konsa
Lindelof
Digne
Kamara
Bogarde
McGinn
Watkins
Rogers
Tielemans
So would I.

Me too, their poor form and thin squad makes them ripe for a 'keep it tight for an hour then blow them away' approach with Buendia and Malen offering the fresh impetus.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Dave on January 05, 2026, 10:00:22 AM
Hadn't realised how poor their form was, seven matches without a win now.

Dropped from fifth to fourteenth and from a quick glance of one of their forums, they all seem pretty keen to bin Glasner off now rather than waiting until the end of the season.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: LeeB on January 05, 2026, 10:09:39 AM
Hadn't realised how poor their form was, seven matches without a win now.

Dropped from fifth to fourteenth and from a quick glance of one of their forums, they all seem pretty keen to bin Glasner off now rather than waiting until the end of the season.

He gives off big 'I'm doing you a favour being here' vibes, which in fairness is probably true. They're well overdue a spell renewing their rivalry with other nothing London club neighbours Charlton and Millwall.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: VILLA MOLE on January 05, 2026, 10:10:33 AM
Hadn't realised how poor their form was, seven matches without a win now.

Dropped from fifth to fourteenth and from a quick glance of one of their forums, they all seem pretty keen to bin Glasner off now rather than waiting until the end of the season.

He gives off big 'I'm doing you a favour being here' vibes, which in fairness is probably true. They're well overdue a spell renewing their rivalry with other nothing London club neighbours Charlton and Millwall.

Brighton
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: LeeB on January 05, 2026, 10:12:19 AM
Well he'll probably piss off to Man Utd now anyway.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Nev on January 05, 2026, 01:51:31 PM
Ah, here we are again. The land of many memories and all of them horrible. Easter Monday '87, Gary Thompson and The Firm 1990, losing on penalties in the fog and journeys, oh those endless journeys. What about Dalian in '92? Yes, I conspired to miss that one bright spot, the only game I missed in that entire season.

I haven't been for years, and let's face it don't intend to ever go back at my age - so good fortune and fortitude to those that are.

Everything, in our little world on here at least, points to a loss whereas the outside world will see us as favourites and rightly they should.

We will have too much, the joy on here will be unconfined until we realise the next fixture is in THE Cup, and we revert to type of course.

0-2
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: LeeB on January 05, 2026, 01:54:17 PM
It's almost a scandal that they get away with that away stand in this day and age. They deserve relegation for that alone.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: aj2k77 on January 05, 2026, 02:38:48 PM
I remember losing to these muppets back in 92 going for the title. The bloke who scored never scored a single goal before or after for Palace. It was also his only ever goal in the top flight.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Drummond on January 05, 2026, 02:57:13 PM
It's almost a scandal that they get away with that away stand in this day and age. They deserve relegation for that alone.

I'd have thought Ted would have convinced her to sort it.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: rougegorge on January 05, 2026, 03:07:52 PM
It's almost a scandal that they get away with that away stand in this day and age. They deserve relegation for that alone.
Yes, excluding any criteria around stadium capacity, I think the ground is the worst in the Premier League (and most Championship grounds are better) , and looks more like a prison in parts. They have done little to improve it, despite all the Premier League money.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 05, 2026, 03:10:59 PM
They're intending to build a new stand taking capacity to 34k.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: LeeB on January 05, 2026, 03:11:36 PM
They're intending to build a new stand taking capacity to 34k.

Isn't the new stand on the other side?
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 05, 2026, 03:13:09 PM
I think so but it was a reply to rouge saying they're doing nothing.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: LeeB on January 05, 2026, 03:13:34 PM
I think so but it was a reply to George saying they're doing nothing.

Ah right so.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 05, 2026, 03:14:10 PM
After 3 attempts I got the name right!
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: eamonn on January 05, 2026, 04:06:19 PM
"Looks more like a prison in parts"   :D You'd go down a storm with the Croydon tourist board!
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Rigadon on January 05, 2026, 05:02:50 PM
It's almost a scandal that they get away with that away stand in this day and age. They deserve relegation for that alone.

Don't forget the drums. 
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: geolex on January 05, 2026, 05:16:21 PM
I remember losing to these muppets back in 92 going for the title. The bloke who scored never scored a single goal before or after for Palace. It was also his only ever goal in the top flight.
Think you've mixed the years up mate, it was 1993 when we lost 1-0 some bloke called Bowry scored ,you are right about it being his only goal though,,, the 91/92 season we also lost 1-0 some bloke called Ian Wright scored  i only remember this as its was my dad's 60th year attending games at VP
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: aj2k77 on January 05, 2026, 05:41:43 PM
Yeah that's right 92/93. Shite game, our usual shite performance against them. Seem to recall around the same era losing at home and the ref robbing perhaps Mark Bright of a goal by blowing the whistle and saving us another goal.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: The Edge on January 05, 2026, 06:50:16 PM
We are going to smash these. We owe em big time. 1-4
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on January 05, 2026, 06:58:42 PM
Feel strangely confident again. Reckon we will get at least a point.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 05, 2026, 08:05:57 PM
Glasner has really had Unai’s number, so it would be great if we can deal with them this time.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: DB on January 05, 2026, 10:03:37 PM
They have a few players out don’t they?
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: brontebilly on January 05, 2026, 10:13:20 PM
No better time to be playing them. Bogarde deserves a start, Buendia likely one to drop out with Tielemans pushing forward. Don't think Buendia has been playing badly in recent games in fairness to him. Any sign of Torres or Mings coming back?
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: astonvilla82 on January 05, 2026, 11:23:43 PM
Play absolutely 💩 and score a last minute winner
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: john e on January 05, 2026, 11:30:04 PM
It's almost a scandal that they get away with that away stand in this day and age. They deserve relegation for that alone.
Yes, excluding any criteria around stadium capacity, I think the ground is the worst in the Premier League (and most Championship grounds are better) , and looks more like a prison in parts. They have done little to improve it, despite all the Premier League money.

I got a decent Kebab after the game one time
we did lose 5 something but we didn’t care as champions league had already been secured
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: tomd2103 on January 06, 2026, 04:02:26 AM
Just got the feeling that this might be a key round of fixtures over the next couple of days.  If we can win tomorrow night then the pressure is back on Arsenal on Thursday. 
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: stevo_st on January 06, 2026, 07:59:00 AM
Ollie to cement his goal scoring form with a goal worthy of a brolly
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2026, 08:00:33 AM
Just got the feeling that this might be a key round of fixtures over the next couple of days.  If we can win tomorrow night then the pressure is back on Arsenal on Thursday.
Do we want Arsenal further away or Liverpool nearer?
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Somniloquism on January 06, 2026, 08:34:23 AM
Well he is stating after a win for us isn't he so we would be closing on Arse and keeping the same distance from Liverpool.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Dave on January 06, 2026, 08:42:00 AM
They have a few players out don’t they?

Most of them.

Sarr is still at AFCON, Munoz, Kamada, Doucoure are all definitely injured and Richards, Clyne and Lerma are all doubtful.

A slip on the ice on the way to the ground for Guehi, Mateta and Wharton and I might start feeling confident.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Skipper_The_Eyechild on January 06, 2026, 08:42:28 AM
Obviously want a Liverpool win. What's the point in it all if you can't dream? I can't believe you'd want anything else. I get people worry about CL but we're in a really good position for top 5, let's keep Arsenal in reach for as long as possible and enjoy the ride.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: stevo_st on January 06, 2026, 08:48:50 AM
I’d prefer a draw in the Arse Liverpool game
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2026, 09:05:31 AM
Well he is stating after a win for us isn't he so we would be closing on Arse and keeping the same distance from Liverpool.
They play each other Thursday, please try and keep up.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: eye digress on January 06, 2026, 09:07:21 AM
Obviously want a Liverpool win. What's the point in it all if you can't dream? I can't believe you'd want anything else. I get people worry about CL but we're in a really good position for top 5, let's keep Arsenal in reach for as long as possible and enjoy the ride.
That's got to be the right thinking at this stage - strain every sinew and pull every lever to stay within 6 points of Arsenal, or improve on that position.

Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: andyh on January 06, 2026, 09:10:34 AM
I’d prefer a draw in the Arse Liverpool game
Agreed, only after a Villa win, of course.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Drummond on January 06, 2026, 09:55:41 AM
I’d prefer a draw in the Arse Liverpool game
Agreed, only after a Villa win, of course.

0-0, three players each, plus their managers, sent off.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Duncan Shaw on January 06, 2026, 10:32:43 AM
Sorry fellas, just got a ticket for this one, which will only mean one thing I'm afraid.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Somniloquism on January 06, 2026, 10:59:34 AM
Well he is stating after a win for us isn't he so we would be closing on Arse and keeping the same distance from Liverpool.
They play each other Thursday, please try and keep up.

The only way I can keep up with you is to walk backwards.

As of today we are 6 points behind Arse and 8 ahead of Liverpool. If we win then we are 3 points behind Arse and 11 ahead of the Redscouse. But after they play we would either be closer to Arse and the same distance from Liverpool, the same distance from Arse but further away from Liverpool or gained two points towards Arse, two further away from plop depending on their results. There is no point we would be further away from Arse or Liverpool closer after a win for us at the end of the game week.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 06, 2026, 11:01:22 AM
Liverpool to win, dream big or go home.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2026, 11:53:43 AM
Well he is stating after a win for us isn't he so we would be closing on Arse and keeping the same distance from Liverpool.
They play each other Thursday, please try and keep up.

The only way I can keep up with you is to walk backwards.


I don’t think so.
Don’t try it whilst chewing gum.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Somniloquism on January 06, 2026, 12:24:08 PM
I see you ignored how you think Arse will finish this week further from us if we win.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Mellin on January 06, 2026, 12:31:22 PM
Liverpool to win, dream big or go home.

Yep. Top five is enough. That is done barring a catastrophe. Let's go for it.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: jwarry on January 06, 2026, 02:18:07 PM
Mings and Torres both fit apparently
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Somniloquism on January 06, 2026, 02:45:48 PM
Meanwhile

Quote
Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner confirmed Jefferson Lerma is out with concussion and Nathaniel Clyne with an adductor issue.

"Chris Richards is back, he will not be able to start but he was confident so he will be available on the bench tomorrow," he added.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: simon ward 50 on January 06, 2026, 02:50:41 PM
Just win Villa, please!
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Somniloquism on January 06, 2026, 02:55:10 PM
Mings and Torres both fit apparently

Not that is how I would interprete Unai's words. "Maybe" fit is probably closer.

Quote
“We’re training now, after the press conference,” said Unai Emery, previewing Wednesday’s trip to Selhurst Park.

“We’ll see how they are doing, the players, after the match we played on Saturday.

“Tyrone and Pau are close but we are going to train now, I don’t know if for tomorrow they’ll be available or not.

“And other players – no Barkley, no Guessand, no Amadou.

“But we have enough players; after training we’re going to decide if someone is close, like Pau and Tyrone Mings.”
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 06, 2026, 03:19:10 PM
Mings and Torres both fit apparently

Not how I would interprete that. Maybe fit is probably closer.

Quote
“We’re training now, after the press conference,” said Unai Emery, previewing Wednesday’s trip to Selhurst Park.

“We’ll see how they are doing, the players, after the match we played on Saturday.

“Tyrone and Pau are close but we are going to train now, I don’t know if for tomorrow they’ll be available or not.

“And other players – no Barkley, no Guessand, no Amadou.

“But we have enough players; after training we’re going to decide if someone is close, like Pau and Tyrone Mings.”

Yea on the bench at best I’d say.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: paul_e on January 06, 2026, 03:19:47 PM
We'll probably see 1 of them on the bench I'd guess.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Somniloquism on January 06, 2026, 03:21:57 PM
Well we know neither Mings or Torres know how to stop Palace from scoring so Lindelof should still have the chance even if one is fit.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Dave on January 06, 2026, 03:55:11 PM
They have a few players out don’t they?

Most of them.

Sarr is still at AFCON, Munoz, Kamada, Doucoure are all definitely injured and Richards, Clyne and Lerma are all doubtful.

A slip on the ice on the way to the ground for Guehi, Mateta and Wharton and I might start feeling confident.

Quote
Oliver Glasner: ‘Jefferson Lerma is out due to concussion protocol and returns against Sunderland. Nathaniel Clyne will return for Chelsea. Chris Richards is back, not able to start but will be on the bench.’

I think they have four fit defenders (Canvot / Guehi / Lacroix / Mitchell)
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 06, 2026, 03:59:03 PM
Christ, they've even got a spare defender. We're fucked.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 06, 2026, 04:12:38 PM
I doubt they’ll make the game but good to hear on Pau and Ty.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: john e on January 06, 2026, 05:02:38 PM
Meanwhile

Quote
Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner confirmed Jefferson Lerma is out with concussion and Nathaniel Clyne with an adductor issue.

"Chris Richards is back, he will not be able to start but he was confident so he will be available on the bench tomorrow," he added.

about 3 seasons ago I was on the train with my teenage kids and one of their mates going into London for a Villa game can’t remember which one but probably Chelsea

Anyway we got table seats opposite this attractive looking young lady and got chatting to her
she said she did content work on the line and I didn’t have a clue so kept asking stupid questions until my kids who were pissing themselves laughing told me to shut up
They later told me she would be on something called ‘Only Fans’ which I have now heard of but not back then

Why am I telling you this totally irrelevant story well she had been an ex girlfriend off Nathaniel Clyne and didn’t have a good word to say about him and was a big entitled twat apparently, so no shocks there

I hope you all feel enriched by me sharing this life experience moment



Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: VILLA MOLE on January 06, 2026, 05:18:58 PM
Meanwhile

Quote
Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner confirmed Jefferson Lerma is out with concussion and Nathaniel Clyne with an adductor issue.

"Chris Richards is back, he will not be able to start but he was confident so he will be available on the bench tomorrow," he added.

about 3 seasons ago I was on the train with my teenage kids and one of their mates going into London for a Villa game can’t remember which one but probably Chelsea

Anyway we got table seats opposite this attractive looking young lady and got chatting to her
she said she did content work on the line and I didn’t have a clue so kept asking stupid questions until my kids who were pissing themselves laughing told me to shut up
They later told me she would be on something called ‘Only Fans’ which I have now heard of but not back then

Why am I telling you this totally irrelevant story well she had been an ex girlfriend off Nathaniel Clyne and didn’t have a good word to say about him and was a big entitled twat apparently, so no shocks there

I hope you all feel enriched by me sharing this life experience moment





' Please dont follow her Dad '    :D
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: usav on January 06, 2026, 05:33:21 PM
This would be my lineup:

             Martinzez

Cash  Konsa  Lindelof  Maatsen

        Kamara   Bogarde

McGinn  Tielemans  Rogers

             Watkins
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: eamonn on January 06, 2026, 05:35:07 PM
Glasner on da Villa from Crystal Pravda:

Quote
On Villa’s strengths…
There's consistency in their team, as you said, and I spoke about it. I think consistency in the squad is crucial for being successful.

We watched the semi-final of the FA Cup back, and then we went through it. We expect tomorrow [Victor] Lindelof [to play instead of] Pau Torres, and maybe Emiliano Buendia for Marco Asensio – all others should be or will be the same. And that shows that, first of all, Unai Emery is doing an incredible job there, and they are always progressing.

But their group is together now for many, many months and playing in the same system. They've been doing really well. I think also the data shows they are very, very efficient in scoring goals, with many goals from outside the box.

They have the confidence now. At the beginning, I think they didn't score for the first four games, and now it looks like whenever they shoot, they score. This is part of the confidence they have right now, and this is what we will face tomorrow.

But the structure, the way they are playing, is very similar. Again, it's the same group, it's the same manager, doing an incredible job there.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: usav on January 06, 2026, 05:45:35 PM
He's basically saying we are predictable.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Jon Crofts on January 06, 2026, 05:46:53 PM
Hateful town, hateful football club, hateful fans and a hateful ground.

Who was Arthur Waite anyway? Was he a local postman in Thornton Heath and the club thought let's make the away end view like looking through a fucking letter box, Arthur would like that.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: TonyD on January 06, 2026, 05:47:07 PM
When is Onana coming back?
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 06, 2026, 05:58:03 PM
He's said that before. I guess we are to him.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Small Rodent on January 06, 2026, 06:22:20 PM
Hateful town, hateful football club, hateful fans and a hateful ground.

Who was Arthur Waite anyway? Was he a local postman in Thornton Heath and the club thought let's make the away end view like looking through a fucking letter box, Arthur would like that.

Their local derby should be against any team in Kent, not London.

And that stand is totally crap. There must have been at least 200 seats left still for sale yesterday. The whole of the back row in one block.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: trinityoap on January 06, 2026, 06:43:22 PM
It was always the worst away trip for me. Live between Kidderminster and Ludlow. Drive to Sutton Coldfield to pick up my uncle. Shit journey on whatever motorway we chose. Crap parking and crap pubs. Shit ground, shit stand. Play like shit, get beaten ,crap journey back. Likely as not lane closures on motorway particularly for midweek games. Get home about 2.30 am. Wouldn't have missed it for the world!. Best of luck to all who are going. Wish I  could join you. We will win tomorrow.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: trinityoap on January 06, 2026, 06:44:51 PM
Fully appreciate others have far worse journeys. Not playing the martyr.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Pete3206 on January 06, 2026, 06:49:06 PM
Wembley aside, my first away game since Preston. I could only get a ticket for that and Wycombe last season, so really looking forward to it. I'll probably be plonked behind some big fuck off stantion but hey, happy days.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Hillbilly on January 06, 2026, 11:20:15 PM
Used to live in Brighton so this was the 'nearest' match. Absolute pain to get to. Worst ground, terrible views, always seemed to get rained on.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Beard82 on January 06, 2026, 11:36:32 PM
Only been there once - 9 May 1993.  I was 11 and was at the Villa Oldham game the week before.

I went with the football team I played for, and my only memory is people climbing on the first aid room or similar, and the tannoy announcer said "please stop climbing on the first aid room, otherwise you may need first aid" of something like that

At the time I found it funny - though probably completely mis-remembering it
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 07, 2026, 07:51:56 AM
He's basically saying we are predictable.
I think we probably are quite predictable, but most teams still can’t stop us. Palace under Glasner have been one of the few to have our number. Hopefully that changes tonight.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Rigadon on January 07, 2026, 08:18:37 AM
I think he comes across as an arrogant twat with a permanent half smirk on his face.  But maybe that’s unfair and he’s just like that because they always fucking beat us.  Anyway, everyone knows our structure but we’re third in the league for a reason: you might know it, but can you stop it? 

It really REALLY is time we beat this lot. 
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Rigadon on January 07, 2026, 08:19:44 AM
By the way, having a structured way of playing is much better than not (see the shite served up in the game last night - Gerrard esque). 
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 07, 2026, 08:34:07 AM
He's basically saying we are predictable.
Yes and you are seeing teams copy Palace in the way they try to exploit our system,we are vulnerable when we push up to the fast counter attack, Palace have exploited our lack of pace at the back, look at Forest goal on Saturday.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on January 07, 2026, 09:02:22 AM
Pretty chuffed that Muñoz is out, he causes us no end of problems.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: dorsetvillian on January 07, 2026, 09:22:07 AM
It's the Unai structure and control in games that has made an average squad be competitive pon the Prem. Hopefully the curse against    Palace away ends tonight.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Somniloquism on January 07, 2026, 09:40:39 AM
It isn't Palace, it is Selhurst Park. But if Unai does get the win tonight, I think we will be getting silverware this season as most of our usual curses have been broken.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: astonvilla82 on January 07, 2026, 09:45:57 AM
Put eleven men in defence and we should get a point at least,it will probably baffle Palace and their support as well
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Demitri_C on January 07, 2026, 09:46:06 AM
The three away games i hate, newcastle, manure and this one.
Im hoping this season that changes with a hatrick of victories  at grounds we struggle
Palace are nothing at all why we always get spanked  against them i just do not get it
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: itbrvilla on January 07, 2026, 10:21:52 AM
Apparently is the first time since 1989-90 season that we've had 4 consecutive away trips to London.  Back then we managed 3 wins and 1 draw....
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: martin o`who?? on January 07, 2026, 10:24:18 AM
Put eleven men in defence and we should get a point at least,it will probably baffle Palace and their support as well
It would baffle me as well. Fuck em - play to our strengths and tear em a new one, we've got it in us.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on January 07, 2026, 10:25:27 AM
Easy one for me to get to tonight. The 75 buz from Lewisham to Croydon stops outside the ground. Spurs on Saturday will be the 5th London game in a month. I’ve had a great time! Sorry for everyone else of course, but I’m alright Jack!
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Demitri_C on January 07, 2026, 10:32:12 AM
Easy one for me to get to tonight. The 75 buz from Lewisham to Croydon stops outside the ground. Spurs on Saturday will be the 5th London game in a month. I’ve had a great time! Sorry for everyone else of course, but I’m alright Jack!

Nice one. My ex use to live in Lewisham  so was there quite reguarly.

Enjoy the game !
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: eamonn on January 07, 2026, 11:03:39 AM
Only been there once - 9 May 1993.  I was 11 and was at the Villa Oldham game the week before.

I went with the football team I played for, and my only memory is people climbing on the first aid room or similar, and the tannoy announcer said "please stop climbing on the first aid room, otherwise you may need first aid" of something like that

At the time I found it funny - though probably completely mis-remembering it

Men were such beasts in '93.

(https://i.ibb.co/MygmnN4N/Screenshot-20260107-110023-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/MygmnN4N)

(https://i.ibb.co/v6sQGxS2/Screenshot-20260107-105956-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/v6sQGxS2)

(https://i.ibb.co/0pz8Fjxd/Screenshot-20260107-105937-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/0pz8Fjxd)

(https://i.ibb.co/9k6tNd15/Screenshot-20260107-105909-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/9k6tNd15)
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 07, 2026, 11:14:36 AM
That's Newcastle when they had a few in the Holte.

Edit: Doh, it says it on one of the pics
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PhilVill on January 07, 2026, 11:15:20 AM
This isn't the Palace of even three months ago so we'll win comfortably, Ollie will score and Rogers will chip in too 0-2.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 07, 2026, 11:16:11 AM
Following year we played them a couple of days after Inter and there were a load in the Upper Trinity and it got a tad interesting.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Somniloquism on January 07, 2026, 11:32:19 AM
Apparently is the first time since 1989-90 season that we've had 4 consecutive away trips to London.  Back then we managed 3 wins and 1 draw....

Loss followed by three wins. (Millwall, Chelsea, Charlton and Spurs).
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 07, 2026, 11:37:59 AM
Spurs was the 7th win in a row and made us think we were going to win the league. Then Wimbledon rolled up to VP, Platt missed a pen and we never recovered.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: eamonn on January 07, 2026, 11:39:34 AM
That's Newcastle when they had a few in the Holte.

Edit: Doh, it says it on one of the pics

Aye, thought it were worth a share from the same era though.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Somniloquism on January 07, 2026, 11:44:23 AM
Spurs was the 7th win in a row and made us think we were going to win the league. Then Wimbledon rolled up to VP, Platt missed a pen and we never recovered.

We also had a start similar to this seasons with no wins in the first four games.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 07, 2026, 11:50:41 AM
Fortunately Saunders did what he did best and missed a load of chances, we won 1-0 and went on a bonkers run. Rumours at the time was SGT wasn't far off losing his job by that Derby game.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: andyh on January 07, 2026, 11:57:35 AM
I really don’t care if we smash them or scrape a horrible 1-0 win.
I just want to win tonight.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: eamonn on January 07, 2026, 01:09:09 PM
Interesting that we started the '90, '93 and '26 seasons terribly, had an incredible mid and then tailed-off at the end (2026 still pending, obvs).
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: jwarry on January 07, 2026, 01:42:53 PM
The three away games i hate, newcastle, manure and this one.
Im hoping this season that changes with a hatrick of victories  at grounds we struggle
Palace are nothing at all why we always get spanked  against them i just do not get it

It's simple really, Glasner has Unai's measure.  The thing is this time he doesn't necessarily have the tools to carry out his plan - well that's what I'm hoping anyway!
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Demitri_C on January 07, 2026, 01:51:33 PM
The three away games i hate, newcastle, manure and this one.
Im hoping this season that changes with a hatrick of victories  at grounds we struggle
Palace are nothing at all why we always get spanked  against them i just do not get it

It's simple really, Glasner has Unai's measure.  The thing is this time he doesn't necessarily have the tools to carry out his plan - well that's what I'm hoping anyway!

Hoping so jwarry. I mean i still am unhappy about that cup semi last season we really need to avenge that
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: BoVillan esq on January 07, 2026, 02:11:45 PM
Here we go.

The Hill

Nemesis.

The Unavoidable.

Demons from the dark side.

We put all this to rest.

Villa to win, 2-1.

Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: RamboandBruno on January 07, 2026, 02:11:59 PM
Spurs was the 7th win in a row and made us think we were going to win the league. Then Wimbledon rolled up to VP, Platt missed a pen and we never recovered.
Standing at the back of the Holte that Wimbledon game, about to turn 16, believing we were going to win the league, when Platt stepped up on about 5 mins….the rest is history
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on January 07, 2026, 02:25:20 PM
Fortunately Saunders did what he did best and missed a load of chances, we won 1-0 and went on a bonkers run. Rumours at the time was SGT wasn't far off losing his job by that Derby game.

Weirdly, my Dad was just on about this match yesterday. He managed to confuse our 1990 Title Challenge, with our 1981 win though.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 07, 2026, 02:30:49 PM
We're wearing the third kit tonight, so that's a start.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: john e on January 07, 2026, 02:51:27 PM
one of the bleakest games of my life was at Selhurst when Wimbledon were tenants there
Memory fades so can’t remember the year but almost sure it was a night match in the league cup and we lost 1-0, shit hole of a ground and terrible journey back

It was one of those games where…. And we’ve all been here…. you’re standing/sitting there thinking ‘what the fuck am I doing here’

it was Grim
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: dorsetvillian on January 07, 2026, 03:38:12 PM
There have been a lot of those moments at Selhurst Park. Didn't matter if it was Palace, Charlton or Wimbledon...
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Duncan Shaw on January 07, 2026, 03:41:10 PM
one of the bleakest games of my life was at Selhurst when Wimbledon were tenants there
Memory fades so can’t remember the year but almost sure it was a night match in the league cup and we lost 1-0, shit hole of a ground and terrible journey back

It was one of those games where…. And we’ve all been here…. you’re standing/sitting there thinking ‘what the fuck am I doing here’

it was Grim

Was that when it was really foggy and we couldn't see the other end?
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: john e on January 07, 2026, 03:52:20 PM
one of the bleakest games of my life was at Selhurst when Wimbledon were tenants there
Memory fades so can’t remember the year but almost sure it was a night match in the league cup and we lost 1-0, shit hole of a ground and terrible journey back

It was one of those games where…. And we’ve all been here…. you’re standing/sitting there thinking ‘what the fuck am I doing here’

it was Grim

Was that when it was really foggy and we couldn't see the other end?

Could well have been but can’t remember fully
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Duncan Shaw on January 07, 2026, 03:58:17 PM
I hate it there, I really do, yet still, putting myself through it again tonight.  Even though not going with any hope at all, would be gutting to miss it if the unlikely happens!!
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 07, 2026, 04:04:53 PM
one of the bleakest games of my life was at Selhurst when Wimbledon were tenants there
Memory fades so can’t remember the year but almost sure it was a night match in the league cup and we lost 1-0, shit hole of a ground and terrible journey back

It was one of those games where…. And we’ve all been here…. you’re standing/sitting there thinking ‘what the fuck am I doing here’

it was Grim

Was that when it was really foggy and we couldn't see the other end?

Could well have been but can’t remember fully
That went to penalties
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: AV82EC on January 07, 2026, 04:06:15 PM
I’ve been twice.

1st time v Wimbledon in 92/93, Dalians goal of the century, the umbrella and only arriving 1 minute before KO because of the traffic.

2nd time v Palace in Dec 14, Benteke scores in a 1-0 win. I was working in London so just a short hop on the train.

I don’t know what you’re all moaning about😜
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on January 07, 2026, 05:02:11 PM
Saw us draw there with Wimbledon. Think we took the lead and was their last top flight season. Lost each time I've seen us play Palace there.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: usav on January 07, 2026, 05:13:15 PM
I’ve been twice.

1st time v Wimbledon in 92/93, Dalians goal of the century, the umbrella and only arriving 1 minute before KO because of the traffic.

2nd time v Palace in Dec 14, Benteke scores in a 1-0 win. I was working in London so just a short hop on the train.

I don’t know what you’re all moaning about😜

Get in a helicopter now!
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Clampy on January 07, 2026, 05:18:29 PM
Been there a few times. Stood behind the goal one time yonks ago and spotted Wolfie ambling about not really watching the game.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: trinityoap on January 07, 2026, 05:31:00 PM
Cannot remember which time but I was once explaining to a particularly humourless policeman that Wolfie  in his policeman's helmet was not really trying to impersonate a police officer. DW might have been there.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: lovejoy on January 07, 2026, 05:41:04 PM
It was there we were denied a Lansbury an late equaliser because of no reason whatsoever other than Grealish got clattered in laying it on?
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: oldtimernow on January 07, 2026, 05:43:53 PM
Wasn't Madley the Ref then ?
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: lovejoy on January 07, 2026, 05:53:48 PM
Kevin "no" friend "of mine".

"It also prompted angry scenes off the pitch, with TV footage showing punches being thrown at security staff by spectactors in the away end. Police with batons eventually intervened, making one arrest, with video footage under review to assess if further action is necessary."
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: oldtimernow on January 07, 2026, 05:56:35 PM
Thanks, my memory isn't what it should be
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Somniloquism on January 07, 2026, 06:02:02 PM
Been there a few times. Stood behind the goal one time yonks ago and spotted Wolfie ambling about not really watching the game.

TBF, that was the same at a lot of the old standing matches. I remember the old Corner Shop Bolton ground where most people were standing where you could see at least 75% of the pitch and he was ambling around the empty terrace entertaining himself and us with his different head wear and his Mary Poppins type shopping bags.

Cannot remember which time but I was once explaining to a particularly humourless policeman that Wolfie  in his policeman's helmet was not really trying to impersonate a police officer. DW might have been there.

Happened in the new Holte a year or two after it was built where some WPC had drawn the short straw of asking him to lift his mask for the police crowd control cameras.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: trinityoap on January 07, 2026, 06:26:13 PM
I remember rocking up at Barnsley, I think, to find that I was sitting next to him. It was an unusual experience to say the least. We often use to sing at away games "Villa's got a werewolf".
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Martyn Smith on January 07, 2026, 06:38:44 PM
Am a little surprised that Digne is in for Maatsen because, if the Palace fans self-reported weakness down their right is true, I would have thought Maatsen's greater attacking chops would have been the first choice. I guess he'll probably make an appearance at some point, though
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: frank on January 07, 2026, 06:39:17 PM
Living in Croydon since 1973, then in Sussex, I've seen few Villa wins against Palace at Selhurst Park and some horrible defeats. My best and worst memories of that dreadful ground are both Wimbledon games. Dalian's goal of the season in 1992 was the best. The worst was in November 1994. Despite Townsend being sent off, we were 3-2 up into the last 10 minutes. Then Garry Parker charged forward on his own, lost the ball, Wimbledon swept upfield and Jones scored the equaliser. After that it was all Wimbledon and they scored the winner in the final minute.
Ron Atkinson was sacked the next day.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 07, 2026, 06:40:23 PM
That was almost certainly for the best.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Martyn Smith on January 07, 2026, 06:47:01 PM
Saw us draw there with Wimbledon. Think we took the lead and was their last top flight season. Lost each time I've seen us play Palace there.

Selhurst Park is by a long way my most visited ground as an away fan. First visit '88, as a 19 year old student nearby. First ever visit to a London ground (excluding Wembley for the '81 Charity Shield, as it was called back then),  for a 2-2 draw against Charlton (who were tenants whilst The Valley was being rebuilt IIRC)
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 07, 2026, 06:48:28 PM
You only beat these and their repugnant five at the back with width. No surprise last time we actually beat them, Bailey and Diaby were on the pitch. Need Sancho to have a good game.
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Martyn Smith on January 07, 2026, 06:56:12 PM
Living in Croydon since 1973, then in Sussex, I've seen few Villa wins against Palace at Selhurst Park and some horrible defeats. My best and worst memories of that dreadful ground are both Wimbledon games. Dalian's goal of the season in 1992 was the best. The worst was in November 1994. Despite Townsend being sent off, we were 3-2 up into the last 10 minutes. Then Garry Parker charged forward on his own, lost the ball, Wimbledon swept upfield and Jones scored the equaliser. After that it was all Wimbledon and they scored the winner in the final minute.
Ron Atkinson was sacked the next day.

I was there for that one and it felt like the bitter relief of putting a sick animal to sleep. BFR's Villa were totally lost by then. My other memory is of eating a portion of Selhurst Park chips and being tempted to take bite out the cardboard container to see if *that* actually tasted of something
Title: Re: Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa pre match soul searching
Post by: Tuscans on January 07, 2026, 07:49:22 PM
Need that away end to be sat together at home, might create some noise then.
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