Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Toronto Villa on January 25, 2026, 04:01:46 PM
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That’s a magnificent win. Ollie Watkins could and should have had a hat trick. A week removed from the gloom of the transfer window and the loss to Everton and we can smile again and look forward. Cracking result. MOM for me Onana for command of the middle and Ollie for always being in good positions to keep the Newcastle back line honest.
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Superb.
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That's a fucking great win.
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Perfect gameplan perfectly executed.
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Glorious, violent triumph over the forces of darkness.
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Utterly brilliant.
So many excellent performances all over the pitch.
Bailey offered so much more than any other wide men we have.
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Last time we won up there and they didn't have a player sent off Platt and Stuart Gray scored.
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Onana my MOTM as well.
I know his crossing was shit but I'm not sure why Howe took Gordon off, his pace was killing Cash.
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Brilliant win. We were the better team by a fucking mile(y).
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Up to double figures in GD. After the doom and gloom of last Sunday, and the two teams we had to play against, this looked like it might have been a bad week. But a win and clean sheet in those two are tremendous.
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Easy work.
A clean sheet and all three points up there is a great result. Big goals for Emi and Ollie.
Unai, the genius.
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Classy,classy win that. And a clean sheet,which I celebrate like a hat-trick.
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Superb. Ive been a Villa fan since 1988. We have finished in higher league positions and won two league cups but i honestly think this could be the best Villa side ive seen in that time. Phenomenal times.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
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Extended the gap by 3 points on top 5 this weekend, maybe top 4 if Arsenal beat Man United
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Hahahaha.
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A truly top win.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Give him the 95th minute as well with the megs.
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Absolute bossman performance.
We have been each other's alter egos these past 3 or 4 years, us and the Jaudis, as we have see-sawed in and out of the Champions League.
But we look decisively superior now.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Imagine that being your reaction to a cracking win.
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Sob on the Tyne.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Haha!
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That’s two huge performances from Villa this week. That’s every player who been on the pitch in both games. That is a massive achievement. Our team has some amazing resilience. Well done Emery for rallying them.
Nobody at all over those two games should be getting any criticism.
UTV
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Two great away performances.
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I said earlier in the week that we’d lose badly to Fenerbahce and Newcastle. I was convinced that without Kamara and SJM we’d get overrun in both games.
I am officially an absolute weapon……and will contribute handsomely to the inevitable statue that we will have of Unai. Where should we put it?
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That's a fucking great win.
What else can we say?
Very happy.
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Outstanding. Maybe our best win of the decade.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Imagine that being your reaction to a cracking win.
He is in a massive huff BECAUSE a Villa player scored.
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I enjoyed that.
A nice change from going there and getting nothing.
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Jingle Bells
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I feel another winning streak coming up.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Imagine that being your reaction to a cracking win.
He's like a heel in wrestling at this point.
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fantastic result - 2 big away wins welll done to the whole team. These feel like 3 very big points
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2 of the best away performances by Villa, back to back, that we've enjoyed for a long time. It was really impressive and the players showed a strong collectiveness and control that will serve us well going into the final 4 months. Add another striking option and another reliable midfielder and we're in great shape.
Amazing stuff.
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Ladies and Gentlemen of H&V, we have a great fu*king team.
Well done lads. You dug deep and put Geordies in a hole.
Fantastic.
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Was fully expecting us to get pumped in the last two games with Kamara and McGinn out.
Shows what I know.
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Shows how much they miss Guimaraes and how we can cope without Kamara.
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Very good performance from Watkins for the full 98 mins. Never gave the centre backs a minutes rest. Was isolated on many punts upfield. No need for 88th-88th minute sarcastic shit.
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Brilliant. Go'on Ollie, and what a goal by Little Emi 🙌
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Shows how much they miss Guimaraes and how we can cope without Kamara.
As long as Onana and Tielemans stay fit...
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Unai Emery is a fucking genius.
Look at the reaction he has got over the last week following the Everton game.
That is the work of an absolute maestro.
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Very good performance from Watkins for the full 98 mins. Never gave the centre backs a minutes rest. Was isolated on many punts upfield. No need for 88th-88th minute sarcastic shit.
Haha!
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Last time we won up there and they didn't have a player sent off Platt and Stuart Gray scored.
Great stat. Any idea as to the last time we won back to back away games with clean sheets?
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Howe is still in the reception class at coaching school, whereas Unai’s the head teacher.
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Just like Thursday I didn't see that coming. Brilliant away performance. I had to check the last time we won there because I couldn't remember - the 3-0 under O'Leary when Bowyer and Dyer had the punch up and Taylor handled the ball on the line and went down holding his face - April 2005 apparently.
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Outstanding performance.
Reckon we will have added two more players by the time we play in the Premier League again. We keep Onana fit and we'll walk a top four place.
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Very good performance. We were by far the better team.
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Unai Emery is a fucking genius.
Look at the reaction he has got over the last week following the Everton game.
That is the work of an absolute maestro.
His mind is definitely on the title.
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Post-Everton, I was anticipating two more defeats. Two victories on the road is outstanding. UTV
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We keep on rolling along thanks to Emery's brilliance.
Not an easy watch at times. Our touch and decision making in the final third during the 2nd half was criminal.
Defensively rock solid.
C'mon me babbies.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
What sort of attention seeking dweeb do you have to be?
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Last time we won up there and they didn't have a player sent off Platt and Stuart Gray scored.
Great stat. Any idea as to the last time we won back to back away games with clean sheets?
I think it's 1-0 wins at Saints and Spurs Jan 2023.
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Brilliant win. Who would have thought we would lose at home to Everton and then win away at Newcastle? Special mention to Sky Sports who got away to their coverage of Arsenal V ManUre in light speed. Wankers.
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And to add Jarrod Gillett is a really appalling referee even by Premier League standards.
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Newcastle set up for us playing out from the back-great to see us play it different and put them under pressure from long balls. Also had our high back line and decent forward pressing back. Great performance.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Oh, you!
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Superb! Great performance and result. Yeeeessss...
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Back 5 were outstanding
Onana superb
Watkins to be fair never gives up.
Bailey looked really sharp
Everton games happen to all teams, to recover by winning with clean sheets within 4 days against Fenerbache and this rough mob at home is truly exceptional .
Emery is a genius
Rest key players on Thursday and batter Brentford
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We keep on rolling along thanks to Emery's brilliance.
Not an easy watch at times. Our touch and decision making in the final third during the 2nd half was criminal.
Defensively rock solid.
C'mon me babbies.
Bringing Ty on for the last 20 was genius.
He was brilliant, as was Konsa.
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Very good performance from Watkins for the full 98 mins. Never gave the centre backs a minutes rest. Was isolated on many punts upfield. No need for 88th-88th minute sarcastic shit.
I was moaning about Ollie's poor display - he seemed to be lacking in commitment and looked to be slow physically and mentally.
But fair play to him, he kept on keeping on and got his reward.
My letter of apology is in the post.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
I'm no Watkins fanboy, but 7 in 10. Find me better current form in the Premier League please.
Superb performance. I love the defence and midfield. I think we need Barkley and McGinnis back, Abraham through the door and a wide player if I'm being fussy, but maybe Bailey can be that man, to maybe, just maybe, offset the loss of Kamara.
Oh, and Onana and Tielemans have to stay fit. Non-negotiable. Bench looked strong today. I'd be happy with that.
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Newcastle set up for us playing out from the back-great to see us play it different and put them under pressure from long balls. Also had our high back line and decent forward pressing back. Great performance.
Second half, was a little reminiscent of that glorious 3-0 win over them in April '23 at Villa Park. Long kick-outs to bypass their press. We didn't have McGinn's arse this time to help us but thankfully we didn't need him.
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And to add Jarrod Gillett is a really appalling referee even by Premier League standards.
I think he is absolutely par for course with the rest of them.
Compare to the ref on Thursday who was superb.
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Post-Everton, I was anticipating two more defeats. Two victories on the road is outstanding. UTV
We've all got to start changing our mindset. We will of course lose games. Sometimes ones we don't expect loike last week. But this is Unai Emery's Villa now. We bounce back fast because we have the master in charge of us. Two wins, clean sheets in very tough environments shows just how much character we have.
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No SJM and Kamara, two away games, two clean sheets, two fairly dominant displays in tough arenas. Good to know we can go and compete like that without talisman type players.
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For many seasons now I have been critical of our shooting at goal. What a transformation this season. It has to be down to practice, I reckon.
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Two tough as fuck away games.
Two clean sheets.
Superb
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Brilliant result
Any news on Youri?
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What a great away performance. Excellent performance. What a team and what a squad. After the final whistle; comentators said "They are not going away .. . Aston villa ...are they?" and then over to the stuido that shortly told - before going to advertisements; "after the break we turn to the (Arse - MU) game ... Not that I care what they do or say.
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Superb result.
A very mature and disciplined performance.
Well done the Villa boys!
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Absolutely brilliant Villa, one of the hardest places to go and we totally outplayed them, could easily have been more.
UP THE VILLA
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Brilliant result
Any news on Youri?
Wednesday afternoon in the pre-match presser before you will hear anything definitive.
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What a great week, 2 wins and 2 clean sheets at very hard teams
Some of the tactics that Unai has shown in both games are just superb, the game management today was next level.
Not scared to swap Pau and Ty over so that Wooltemade didn’t have a sniff, also Lindelof into midfield as a calming solid influence too
Great week, great wins and 2 great performances from the team and also Unai
UTV!
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Brilliant result
Any news on Youri?
Wednesday afternoon in the pre-match presser before you will hear anything definitive.
Cheers mate
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Brilliant result
Any news on Youri?
Slapped palms with Unai this time, looked amicable, low risk of injury.
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Brilliant result
Any news on Youri?
Slapped palms with Unai this time, looked amicable, low risk of injury.
Ta - good news
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Give him the 95th minute as well with the megs.
He controlled a ball late on in the 96th minute. Glad he scored as this thread would have been full of comments of how shit he is. He's extremely frustrating but nobody, not even Smirker are going to blame him when he scores such a decisive goal. Those earlier in the week slagging off Martinez will no doubt be enjoying their humble pie. He was brilliant and kept us in the game.
Emi B, Onana, Youri, Konsa, all great, that was a big shift by all but we do love to play after our European travels. Credit to Unai for the subs, Digne making the cross for Watkins to simply nod it.
Sob on Tyne indeed. A tough place to go but we were so organised, created so many chances, we really should have been out of sight by half time. Next!
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What was the hardest few days of the season has turned out to be the best as well.
What a fantastic group of players we have and of course we have the best coach in world football.
UTFV
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Word for our centre halves. All four of them. You can play any of them without a noticeable drop in quality. Top level.
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Very good performance from Watkins for the full 98 mins. Never gave the centre backs a minutes rest. Was isolated on many punts upfield. No need for 88th-88th minute sarcastic shit.
Absolutely this. Yes, a couple of poor first touches, but he was always a threat, and kept their back four working. Other strikers might give us more goals, but his work rate and intelligent running are so important to us.
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Can't wait to read Louise Taylor's tears. Sob, sob, sob.
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Unai Emery is a fucking genius.
Look at the reaction he has got over the last week following the Everton game.
That is the work of an absolute maestro.
This
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Word for our centre halves. All four of them. You can play any of them without a noticeable drop in quality. Too level.
Absolutely.
Even when Lindy came on in midfield, he was excellent.
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I thought all 16 players contributed today. Lindelof has been a revelation this season. Shows what working for a top manager can do for your game.
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Brilliant result
Any news on Youri?
Youri seemed to be running along the touchline ok after recovering before he was subbed. Probably just 8 months out or so
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Can't wait to read Louise Taylor's tears. Sob, sob, sob.
Was thinking something similar after this morning's bleat-in on behalf of Steady Eddie.
But fair play to her, she does a great job in the Graun to promote north east footie.
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Feels like we've evolved this season again, were better than we've ever been. We seem to have a game for any situation and the players can identify and implement when needed, they're all in the groove.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Give him the 95th minute as well with the megs.
He controlled a ball late on in the 96th minute. Glad he scored as this thread would have been full of comments of how shit he is. He's extremely frustrating but nobody, not even Smirker are going to blame him when he scores such a decisive goal. Those earlier in the week slagging off Martinez will no doubt be enjoying their humble pie. He was brilliant and kept us in the game.
Emi B, Onana, Youri, Konsa, all great, that was a big shift by all but we do love to play after our European travels. Credit to Unai for the subs, Digne making the cross for Watkins to simply nod it.
Sob on Tyne indeed. A tough place to go but we were so organised, created so many chances, we really should have been out of sight by half time. Next!
Sorry but thats just unfair to Ollie..you think he doesn’t want to score?? Look at the work he puts in which creates time and space for others. Yes his decision making sometimes frustrates but I think he’s bloody good…and it wasn’t a nod in he had to come from a long way to make the header
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Very good performance from Watkins for the full 98 mins. Never gave the centre backs a minutes rest. Was isolated on many punts upfield. No need for 88th-88th minute sarcastic shit.
Absolutely this. Yes, a couple of poor first touches, but he was always a threat, and kept their back four working. Other strikers might give us more goals, but his work rate and intelligent running are so important to us.
Agreed. He's not an ABSOLUTELY top class striker but he's a very very good one and an unbelievable servant to Aston Villa. We need someone to help him out, not replace him. Hopefully that will happen this window, whether Tammy or someone else.
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Maatsen and Onana are really beginning to perform for us. It seems to take players a good while to come good under Emery.
IF - and it's a reasonable IF Guessand can show the same level of uplift in his game next season then ... ... ...
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That is a truly brilliant result and to bounce in the way we have after the Everton game is remarkable. I had us down for two defeats this week, really brilliant from all involved.
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That’s probably one of our best performances of this season. Felt we were in control of the whole game and, Newcastle never really looked like scoring. If Ollie could have found his shooting boots today, that could have been 4-0 easily. Onwards!!
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I think after the setback last Sunday, and the horrible injury news, this week will have given the team a huge lift in belief.
We seemed to be very, very determined and businesslike in the 2 games this week, like some steeliness has come to the fore.
All down to the manager.
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What a lovely lad:
Aston Villa's first goalscorer Emiliano Buendia, speaking to BBC Match of the Day: "I think mainly really to compete well, be strong and fight in every duel for the ball. We haven't had success in this stadium for a while and we knew how difficult they make it for opponents. We fought for every ball and had the patience with the ball.
"It's a tough schedule for us but it is what we want to do, play in European competitions and fight for these places in the Premier League so we have to adapt, fight and play and recover and go again. I am really proud of this team. we made a huge effort on Thursday and again today.
"We have to look to be there and fight until the end. We know what we want to achieve, fighting for the Champions League spots. To score is always a nice feeling but the main thing is to help the team. To open the game with that kind of goal helps the momentum of the game turn in our favour. I am really happy and we deserved the three points"
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Very good performance from Watkins for the full 98 mins. Never gave the centre backs a minutes rest. Was isolated on many punts upfield. No need for 88th-88th minute sarcastic shit.
Absolutely this. Yes, a couple of poor first touches, but he was always a threat, and kept their back four working. Other strikers might give us more goals, but his work rate and intelligent running are so important to us.
Worth remembering he was on his own against Botman and Thiaw today which is a very good CB pairing, both big, strong and have decent pace and the only time one or other of them wasn't right on him was if he drifted out wide. Yes he could've done better with his earlier chances but he scored the one that mattered.
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An absolutely brilliant win. And I can unashamedly say "come on united" We're in this title race.
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Absolutely brilliant result. I was expecting the worst here but how wrong was I. Some of our play was top class, if Arsenal for instance had scored the first goal, we would never hear end of it. Some great performances but I thought Onana was immense today just fantastic
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What a difference a week makes.
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Fantastic win. Looked really good and didn't really give them a peep at goal. This manager aye bad is he?
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Ollie is a likeable, hard-working member of one of the best Villa teams I have ever seen with a superb manager. I always love the Villa but don't always like them - this group fills me with joy and pride
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Maatsen and Onana are really beginning to perform for us. It seems to take players a good while to come good under Emery.
IF - and it's a reasonable IF Guessand can show the same level of uplift in his game next season then ... ... ...
Yeah - I was thinking about Matty Cash today - hes been excellent for a while now but took him longer than some to get to that level
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2 brilliant away performances, after the doom of Malen leaving seemed to put everyone on a downer. We look as good atm as 2 seasons ago when we were flying. Lots of negativity around Bailey coming back, but he showed today he is way better than Sancho and Guessand, just need to get him motivated...not easy I admit. Martinez at his best, phenomenal today. Tammy plus another decent addition in the middle and anythings possible this season.
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An eye for a why-aye.
There'll be some horse punching in the Bigg Market tonight.
A cousin was the victim of a carbombing in KSA 25 years ago, and to say that I dislike them is quite an understatement.
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Joelinton bottled it and left early
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Very good performance from Watkins for the full 98 mins. Never gave the centre backs a minutes rest. Was isolated on many punts upfield. No need for 88th-88th minute sarcastic shit.
I was moaning about Ollie's poor display - he seemed to be lacking in commitment and looked to be slow physically and mentally.
But fair play to him, he kept on keeping on and got his reward.
My letter of apology is in the post.
I thought he was excellent….obviously the ball to Sancho apart lol. He ran their centre backs all over and created soo much room for others to play in…top centre forward play and deserved to be in that place (with a great run) to finish it off
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Such an impressive win.
Years of PTSD from following Villa had me thinking we were wobbling after the Everton result/injuries/Malen sale.
But we’re just a different beast now aren’t we? Just takes time to get used to it.
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That is a great win and especially in terms of the league positioning. Thought we defended really well and didn't really give them too many chances. Like others have said, I thought Onana was MoM and he dud some great defensive work at times.
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Can't wait to read Louise Taylor's tears. Sob, sob, sob.
Was thinking something similar after this morning's bleat-in on behalf of Steady Eddie.
But fair play to her, she does a great job in the Graun to promote north east footie.
And extra fair play for the intro to her match report:
Some wins are a little bit lucky and others downright fluky or simply ground out, but this Aston Villa victory belonged to a different category.
It was the sort of triumph that can be filed under “thoroughly deserved”. Indeed, much of Villa’s attacking play was so fluid, fluent and gloriously improvisational that, by comparison, Newcastle looked as if they were engaged in a footballing equivalent of painting by numbers.
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Two impressive away performances within days of each other. Great stuff.
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Everyone worked hard today . Onana was immense and Sancho even worked hard defensely . Watkins touch had deserted him all game but worked hard and got rewarded with his goal and what a ball Luca. Martinez was good too .We go to Turkey and win in that hostile place , all the travel back and up to the brown place away and get another win and two beautiful clean sheets .
Oh the ref was bloody awful . . fouls on Rogers outsie the box and a penalty . Even thought Tiemans was fouled , they are giving subs a yellow with the first foul yet not giving players who start the game a yellow if the foul is early in the game ,what the actual fuck..
have a great sunday evening villains and enjoy MOTD.
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Good to have Leon back.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Give him the 95th minute as well with the megs.
He controlled a ball late on in the 96th minute. Glad he scored as this thread would have been full of comments of how shit he is. He's extremely frustrating but nobody, not even Smirker are going to blame him when he scores such a decisive goal. Those earlier in the week slagging off Martinez will no doubt be enjoying their humble pie. He was brilliant and kept us in the game.
Emi B, Onana, Youri, Konsa, all great, that was a big shift by all but we do love to play after our European travels. Credit to Unai for the subs, Digne making the cross for Watkins to simply nod it.
Sob on Tyne indeed. A tough place to go but we were so organised, created so many chances, we really should have been out of sight by half time. Next!
Sorry but thats just unfair to Ollie..you think he doesn’t want to score?? Look at the work he puts in which creates time and space for others. Yes his decision making sometimes frustrates but I think he’s bloody good…and it wasn’t a nod in he had to come from a long way to make the header
It was his run that was the decisive part, Digne saw it and put it on a plate for him. Of course he wants to score, nobody is saying otherwise, this is his most important season for obvious reasons. For all the running he does, well that's part of his game. Should we pay him extra for it? As I've long maintained, his greatest talent is getting in the right positions, few are better. Even by his standards he was poor when it counted today. Credit to him for never giving up, it would destroy others. In the end it finally paid off. I'm happy for him.
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First visit to St.James….. 2-0 win, 3 points. Dunno what all the fuss was about. Easy! 😉
ps. Shoutout to Amadou Onana. He was prime Viera today…. Just needs to stay fit!
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Imagine that being your reaction to a cracking win.
He is in a massive huff BECAUSE a Villa player scored.
Mad innit.
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Outstanding performance & result. Everyone played their part, but special mention to Martinez & particularly Onana.
I feared for us this week, with the loss to Everton & two really tough games. But we were brilliant, even if we were a bit wasteful.
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Excellent performance, keeping up the pressure on 1st and 2nd.
Watkins is one of the best in Europe off-the-ball, however he struggles when he has the ball at his feet (and worse, time to over-think). He is still a very important player for us despite at times not being able to hit the proverbial cow's arse with a banjo. Nice to see Leon back...and working his nuts off too :)
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i am sure Smirker was joking
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Im so proud of this team. To go to turkey win there then four days later go to Newcastle 4 days later and win at one of our worst bogey grounds - incredible.
I would genuinely be happy giving emery a 9 year contract thats how much faith i have in him.
Maatsen MOTM for me, onana superb. Thought bailey worked hard as well. Martinez more than made up for last week. Was superb.
Ramsey looked shit. looks like unai made the right decision flogging him.
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Ollie is more frustrated with himself than we are with him, he did so many things right today but the last touch always seem to desert him, still he played an important role for us. Brilliant win.
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Game isn’t officially won until we hear this.
https://x.com/avfcofficial/status/2015465939870040432?s=46
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Post-Everton, I was anticipating two more defeats. Two victories on the road is outstanding. UTV
We've all got to start changing our mindset. We will of course lose games. Sometimes ones we don't expect loike last week. But this is Unai Emery's Villa now. We bounce back fast because we have the master in charge of us. Two wins, clean sheets in very tough environments shows just how much character we have.
Nice to see you haven’t lost your accent.
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A word for the Jawdie crowd today. If you got points for booing and jeering they'd be top of the league. Every single decision that didn't go their way was met with howling derision. When Youri was down and clearly hurt he got a right round of fucks. Once big Emi realised what they were like he shit housed his way through the game.
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Villa only win because Rogers scores. Villa only win because they score long range goals. Villa only win when Rogers dominates opposition. Villa only win a match by one goal. Villa will drop off when injuries hit them. Well, fuck them.
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Youri’s injury is only a contact injury I think as he was moving okay after treatment. I think he’ll be okay against Brentford.
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Im so proud of this team. To go to turkey win there then four days later go to Newcastle 4 days later and win at one of our worst bogey grounds - incredible.
2 days and just over 18 hours actually. With a fair bit of travel in between.
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Villa only win because Rogers scores. Villa only win because they score long range goals. Villa only win when Rogers dominates opposition. Villa only win a match by one goal. Villa will drop off when injuries hit them. Well, fuck them.
Yes.
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Villa only win because Rogers scores. Villa only win because they score long range goals. Villa only win when Rogers dominates opposition. Villa only win a match by one goal. Villa will drop off when injuries hit them. Well, fuck them.
Yes.
Keep it coming they are right 🤔
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Villa only win because Rogers scores. Villa only win because they score long range goals. Villa only win when Rogers dominates opposition. Villa only win a match by one goal. Villa will drop off when injuries hit them. Well, fuck them.
Win when we want!
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They'll still be saying it's unsustainable while we're parading 4 trophies arounf VP before the opening home game next season.
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Youri’s injury is only a contact injury I think as he was moving okay after treatment. I think he’ll be okay against Brentford.
It looked like a nasty twist as he went down.
It will probably hurt more tomorrow when the adrenaline has worn off.
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Villa only win because Rogers scores. Villa only win because they score long range goals. Villa only win when Rogers dominates opposition. Villa only win a match by one goal. Villa will drop off when injuries hit them. Well, fuck them.
This with bells on. Have they used the mid week game yet? Villa won because Emery is a god damn genius
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Ignoring the goals for and against column, our record is exactly the same as two years ago but i feel we are a much better side this season. Anyone else agree?
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Fantastic win. Looked really good and didn't really give them a peep at goal. This manager aye bad is he?
I agree to the naked eye but their xG was higher than our apparently.
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A word for the Jawdie crowd today. If you got points for booing and jeering they'd be top of the league. Every single decision that didn't go their way was met with howling derision. When Youri was down and clearly hurt he got a right round of fucks. Once big Emi realised what they were like he shit housed his way through the game.
The worst fan base in league.booing when players are genuinely injured. Disgrace
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Looked similar to the one Ollie got on Thursday. At least that was a booking.
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Villa only win because Rogers scores. Villa only win because they score long range goals. Villa only win when Rogers dominates opposition. Villa only win a match by one goal. Villa will drop off when injuries hit them. Well, fuck them.
I'd forgotten that one today. What's that now, three?
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Special mention to the TV cameras. I feel i know Guimares family well enough to visit at Christmas the amount of times we looked at them . I think he was injured but i can’t be sure 🤔
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Remember the pathetic Geordie reaction when Mings went down with a season ending injury....
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Special mention to the TV cameras. I feel i know Guimares family well enough to visit at Christmas the amount of times we looked at them . I think he was injured but i can’t be sure 🤔
I bet the sponging bastards didn't even pay for those seats.
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Villa only win because Rogers scores. Villa only win because they score long range goals. Villa only win when Rogers dominates opposition. Villa only win a match by one goal. Villa will drop off when injuries hit them. Well, fuck them.
Rogers was decidedly average today, for the most part. No problem, he still occupied a space in their heads.
We've copied admirably whilst missing 2 important midfielders, rock on!!
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Im so proud of this team. To go to turkey win there then four days later go to Newcastle 4 days later and win at one of our worst bogey grounds - incredible.
2 days and just over 18 hours actually. With a fair bit of travel in between.
Even mor impressive eamonn!
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Remember the pathetic Geordie reaction when Mings went down with a season ending injury....
Exactly. And it's poignant that he came on for 20 minutes and was imperious. Well done Ty you bloody legend.
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Villa only win because Rogers scores. Villa only win because they score long range goals. Villa only win when Rogers dominates opposition. Villa only win a match by one goal. Villa will drop off when injuries hit them. Well, fuck them.
Rogers was decidedly average today, for the most part. No problem, he still occupied a space in their heads.
We've copied admirably whilst missing 2 important midfielders, rock on!!
Average maybe but gets an assist for the Buendia goal and played a world class ball out to Digne for the 2nd. I don't mind a player being a little off it if they keep going and make sure they have an impact, it's the same reason I defend Ollie so much. In setup like ours we can afford to carry players at times so long as they're pressing, pulling defenders around and then making a difference when it really matters. It's the same reason why Buendia this year is so much better than he has been for us in the past because he's keeping his head better and making sure he keeps going and has an impact.
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Feels like we've evolved this season again, were better than we've ever been. We seem to have a game for any situation and the players can identify and implement when needed, they're all in the groove.
I know what you mean, it’s like we’ve rolled the last three seasons together and can combine a slow game with a quick burst of energy, to bossing the midfield and also pinging it long when necessary. At anytime in a game we can look like nicking a goal and we’re far more secure in defence.
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Special mention to the TV cameras. I feel i know Guimares family well enough to visit at Christmas the amount of times we looked at them . I think he was injured but i can’t be sure 🤔
Yeah, where were the shots of Ginny looking-on? No spotlight just cos he doesn't have kids. Feckin' anti-centering-your-own-life media cretins.
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With the injuries, being away at SJP and after an away game in Europe I didn't honestly expect much today, but we were superb. Played some lovely stuff at times but also stood up to their physicality too.
That win is absolutely massive for the title race / CL places, and there's no way Newcastle will catch us now.
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Youri’s injury is only a contact injury I think as he was moving okay after treatment. I think he’ll be okay against Brentford.
So just under 4 weeks?
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That was a fantastic performance. Watkins very poor in the first half but came good with his goal. Rogers average? Wow. Really? To a man, they worked really hard and fully deserved the win. Yes Martinez made two outstanding saves, but that's what he's there for. Two great goals, clean sheet, no more injuries collected. 9 points clear of 4th place. Cracking win.
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Youri’s injury is only a contact injury I think as he was moving okay after treatment. I think he’ll be okay against Brentford.
Can't see the league agreeing to postpone the Brentford game until July.
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Indeed we aren’t spurs.
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Absolutely fantastic. I am a very happy chap.
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Given the circumstances and our record there, the most pleasing result of the season.
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2 days and just over 18 hours actually. With a fair bit of travel in between.
Even mor impressive eamonn!
I didn't know you spoke Geordie.
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Given the circumstances and our record there, the most pleasing result of the season.
That and Chelsea away.
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Given the circumstances and our record there, the most pleasing result of the season.
and the manner of it
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Given the circumstances and our record there, the most pleasing result of the season.
and the manner of it
Yeah the performance here and on Thursday were very strong.
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Pfft I mean today was decent but better than not losing at Palace?
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Magnificent win and performance. What a couple of away games it’s been. Massive in the league to cement our a potential champions league place next season.
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Palace, Newcastle and Fenerbarche all away and all clean sheets. Not only has Emery solved the defensive situation from the last few seasons he's navigated our lack of reinforcements perfectly. The continuity and team spirit from years of playing together is working in our favour. I can't believe how good a team we are.
Others have better individuals but we have some team who know what to do and are drilled in what Emery wants. This lot are fast approaching my favourite Villa team ever. If we can secure a trophy then move over Little's 96 team.
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Remember the pathetic Geordie reaction when Mings went down with a season ending injury....
Exactly. And it's poignant that he came on for 20 minutes and was imperious. Well done Ty you bloody legend.
"Revenge is a dish best served cold"- The Godfather.
What a difference a week makes, everyone!
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Onana's going to be our most vital player between now and the season.
Really hope he can stay fit. I love him.
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Celebrating today. Today would’ve been my brothers 58th birthday. Passed too soon 16 months ago. Would’ve been so proud. I’m four Guinness down!
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Onana's going to be our most vital player between now and the season.
Really hope he can stay fit. I love him.
Me too. He’s a fantastic athlete, he’s ace to watch.
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Celebrating today. Today would’ve been my brothers 58th birthday. Passed too soon 16 months ago. Would’ve been so proud. I’m four Guinness down!
Great stuff.
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two wins from 2 horrible away games.
Cleans sheets.
Bloody hell - Unai, you're making me believe.
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Haha an old one but funny. Fuck off Matt Targett
https://x.com/villajg_/status/2015456642964283859?s=46
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I know it’s TS, but some recognition and credit given to us and Emery here.
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Haha an old one but funny. Fuck off Matt Targett
https://x.com/villajg_/status/2015456642964283859?s=46
That is really funny to be fair!
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Celebrating today. Today would’ve been my brothers 58th birthday. Passed too soon 16 months ago. Would’ve been so proud. I’m four Guinness down!
Sorry to hear about your brother. Lost my brother just before the start of the 10 game winning streak in 2019. Makes it very emotional when we get really good wins. UTV
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Phenomenal win, UTFV
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My eternal optimism is working for a change.
To produce 2 clean sheets along with brilliant away displays, with injuries to key players inside 3 days is a magnificent effort.
Well done to the players and staff.
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Brilliant result and brilliant away day.
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Awesome result, it was as if we never missed SJM and Kamara.
I love JR , but I think we really picked the Jawdies pockets
Onwards and Upwards
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Onana's going to be our most vital player between now and the season.
Really hope he can stay fit. I love him.
Me too. He’s a fantastic athlete, he’s ace to watch.
He is just an absolute fucking Juggernaut.
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Awesome result, it was as if we never missed SJM and Kamara.
I love JR , but I think we really picked the Jawdies pockets
Onwards and Upwards
Regarding Ramsey - I just don’t think you can understand estimate how good Unai can mould the players into meeting their ability. Alas we had to sell him for PSR/FFP/SCR/WTF but his anonymous performance today was more Newcastle tactic is to get it wide and cross it in and little else.
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A win I didn't think we'd get, following Everton were I never thought we'd lose. It's a funny old game.
Everyone involved was imperious - Onana in particular. Bailey knucked down & Lindelof could be an emergency late CDM in the making.
Proves money isn't everything when it's spent poorly.
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"Revenge is a dish best served cold"- The Godfather.
That’s not a quote from the Godfather film but in the book is says “Revenge is a dish that tastes best when it is cold,”
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Top to bottom class performance. All 16 of them on the pitch and the main man off the pitch.
In all the excitement that was a high quality game but a few of their biggies were below par - Gordon, Joelinton and Tonali whereas ours were on top form.
2 brilliant away wins after Everton set back.
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"Revenge is a dish best served cold"- The Godfather.
That’s not a quote from the Godfather film but in the book is says “Revenge is a dish that tastes best when it is cold,”
It was definitely in Star Trek: Wrath of Khan though. Klingon proverb apparently...
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Fantastic win, got over the curse of St James and Newcastle, we know how to beat them at their place now, to many good individual performances so sufficient to say all did really well.
Well done the lads must be up there as one of the best wins of the season if not the best, taking everything into consideration.
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Celebrating today. Today would’ve been my brothers 58th birthday. Passed too soon 16 months ago. Would’ve been so proud. I’m four Guinness down!
Glad you can enjoy it.
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https://www.skysports.com/football/video/12606/13498893/newcastle-0-2-aston-villa-premier-league-highlights
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One of the most pleasing things about today’s game is we managed to win a match by more than 1 goal
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I think Unai got the subs right - bringing on Mings, Digne and Bogarde seemed to give us that control. They never really looked like scoring in the second half.
Hope that Youri's is nothing serious. Also well done to both Emis - great saves and goal. Emi M is still a world class keeper, and they will be difficult gloves to fill. Maybe, if we get CL, combined with all the other bits we wont need to sell players this summer.
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This squad has so much resilience it’s a pleasure to see.
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Celebrating today. Today would’ve been my brothers 58th birthday. Passed too soon 16 months ago. Would’ve been so proud. I’m four Guinness down!
Glad you can enjoy it.
Guinness - from St Janes Gate brewery.
Appropriate
Enjoy.
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"Revenge is a dish best served cold"- The Godfather.
That’s not a quote from the Godfather film but in the book is says “Revenge is a dish that tastes best when it is cold,”
It was definitely in Star Trek: Wrath of Khan though. Klingon proverb apparently...
I stand corrected, folks: I knew the quote was Godfather-related somewhere along the line. Learn something new everyday etc, etc!
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This will cause annoyance, but typical ESPN FC reaction to the result is to talk about the other team and mostly dismiss us. Dan Thomas the host, bloke on the left, never really has a good word to say about us or Emery and if he does it’s in a snide, almost condescending way. You’ll see when you get to that bit.
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This will cause annoyance, but typical ESPN FC reaction to the result is to talk about the other team and mostly dismiss us. Dan Thomas the host, bloke on the left, never really has a good word to say about us or Emery and if he does it’s in a snide, almost condescending way. You’ll see when you get to that bit.
Yea smug twat alert
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"Revenge is a dish best served cold"- The Godfather.
That’s not a quote from the Godfather film but in the book is says “Revenge is a dish that tastes best when it is cold,”
It was definitely in Star Trek: Wrath of Khan though. Klingon proverb apparently...
I stand corrected, folks: I knew the quote was Godfather-related somewhere along the line. Learn something new everyday etc, etc!
Oh, you were probably right, there were lots of jokes in Star Trek about Klingon or Vulcan proverbs stolen from English literature or pop culture.
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This will cause annoyance, but typical ESPN FC reaction to the result is to talk about the other team and mostly dismiss us. Dan Thomas the host, bloke on the left, never really has a good word to say about us or Emery and if he does it’s in a snide, almost condescending way. You’ll see when you get to that bit.
Yea smug twat alert
What a cock womble , Anyone would think they battered us and Martinez kept us in it . Then the main chat about Villa is why Unai should take the Man u job
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Intended to watch it but it took me 85 minutes to sort out a car light bulb out 🤬
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Good to have Leon back.
Didn't see the game, how was he
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Good to have Leon back.
Didn't see the game, how was he
Good.Looked sharp.
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This will cause annoyance, but typical ESPN FC reaction to the result is to talk about the other team and mostly dismiss us. Dan Thomas the host, bloke on the left, never really has a good word to say about us or Emery and if he does it’s in a snide, almost condescending way. You’ll see when you get to that bit.
Yea smug twat alert
What a cock womble , Anyone would think they battered us and Martinez kept us in it . Then the main chat about Villa is why Unai should take the Man u job
The other guy, the Janusz fella, no problem. Thomas is a fool.
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Good to have Leon back.
Didn't see the game, how was he
Was up for it, worked hard, caused them some problems but kept gifting the ball to them.
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Good to have Leon back.
Didn't see the game, how was he
Was up for it, worked hard, caused them some problems but kept gifting the ball to them.
Looked rusty when he first came on and gradually grew into the game. He gave them a different set of problems which they could of done without.
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I thought Lewis Miley looked a class act for them. Good technique, plays forward passes in good areas, usually picks the right one. Surprisingly decent in the air for someone so slight looking. But in a team of brutes, he stands out.
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I thought Lewis Miley looked a class act for them. Good technique, plays forward passes in good areas, usually picks the right one. Surprisingly decent in the air for someone so slight looking. But in a team of brutes, he stands out.
Slight, but 6’4”-ish I think.
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Only watched it back there now. Statement win and performance. Some week put down after losing to Everton. Credit to Emery, whatever defeatist talk he came out with last Sunday was obviously only a momentary blip. Team were superbly organised and I thought dominated Newcastle physically which was a surprise. Stunning goal from Buendia. We tired a bit in second half but the subs helped to get it done. Brave subs too, Bailey back from a flopped loan on before the hour. Another redemption arch perhaps
Martinez 8 - outstanding save in first minute, I expect him to save the other one, most PL keepers wouldn't. Took safe option to clear set pieces.
Cash 7 - solid as a rock as per usual, Gordon hooked early
Konsa 8 - composed as ever and two excellent clearances in the air. Previously a weakness in the air but has improved on it
Torres 6 - a bit meh. Beaten in air for that header and the other early chance. Did ok
Maatsen 8 - has improved hugely this season. Competitive in the tackle too.
Onana 8 - Joelinton has caused us problems before but he got stuck into it from the off. Tidy play on the ball too but we needed a presence in there today and he gave it
Tielemans 7 - we routed them in midfield in the first half and Tielemans was at centre of it. No surprise he tired a bit in second before limping off
Sancho 6 - thought he did ok first half. Watkins butchered that pass to put him through. Worked pretty hard on right. Not everything came off but wasn't bad
Buendia 9 - outstanding first half, even before that memorable goal. Worked like a trooper in second too. Season of dreams for him.
Rogers 7 - combines really well with Buendia. A bit sloppy at times in second half but still dug out the pass to Digne. Tough as nails
Watkins 7 - movement was really sharp but unfortunately brought the mahogany boots today. Did force two great saves and butchered quite a few other moves. But kept at it and got his reward.
Bailey certainly tried hard though lost the ball a bit. Digne got the assist. The rest were all fine.
Emery 10 - one of his very best weeks in the job.
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Imagine that being your reaction to a cracking win.
He ain’t half wrong though…….awful apart from his goal
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Great performance from Watkins.
From the 88th minute to the 88th minute he was excellent.
Imagine that being your reaction to a cracking win.
He ain’t half wrong though…….awful apart from his goal
Pretty sure you meant something different.
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I think brontebilly's been on the sherry.
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I thought Lewis Miley looked a class act for them. Good technique, plays forward passes in good areas, usually picks the right one. Surprisingly decent in the air for someone so slight looking. But in a team of brutes, he stands out.
Agreed, he caused us problems. Their best player today.
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"Hate Emery, the greasy bastard, his animated antics on the sidelines, trying to influence the officials. I hate his teams, how Villa are encouraged to be dirty, diving bastards one minute, then chopping into out players the next, neither being punished by the incompetent, useful ref. The officiating is just a joke, allows for the sort of shit peddled by Villa. Scumbags, the lot of them"
Beautiful.
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"Hate Emery, the greasy bastard, his animated antics on the sidelines, trying to influence the officials. I hate his teams, how Villa are encouraged to be dirty, diving bastards one minute, then chopping into out players the next, neither being punished by the incompetent, useful ref. The officiating is just a joke, allows for the sort of shit peddled by Villa. Scumbags, the lot of them"
Beautiful.
Poetry
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"Hate Emery, the greasy bastard, his animated antics on the sidelines, trying to influence the officials. I hate his teams, how Villa are encouraged to be dirty, diving bastards one minute, then chopping into out players the next, neither being punished by the incompetent, useful ref. The officiating is just a joke, allows for the sort of shit peddled by Villa. Scumbags, the lot of them"
Beautiful.
Poetry
Starting with some nice xenophobia is always a winner
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I thought Lewis Miley looked a class act for them. Good technique, plays forward passes in good areas, usually picks the right one. Surprisingly decent in the air for someone so slight looking. But in a team of brutes, he stands out.
Put me in mind of a young Gareth Barry.
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Only watched it back there now ...
... Emery 10 - one of his very best weeks in the job.
"I believe he's got it!"
Nice work, Bronte: You've absolutely nailed it in this summary.
And for the Watkins-deniers: you won't know what you've got till it's gone - all his endeavour and focus is what gives players like Rogers and Buendia the space to weave their magic.
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So much sobbing into the local river that there's now a flood warning in Tynemouth.
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One thing I noticed during the game was that Martinez went long about 10x more often that he usually would and it caused them no end of bother, we picked up all of the second balls.
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Only watched it back there now. Statement win and performance. Some week put down after losing to Everton. Credit to Emery, whatever defeatist talk he came out with last Sunday was obviously only a momentary blip. Team were superbly organised and I thought dominated Newcastle physically which was a surprise. Stunning goal from Buendia. We tired a bit in second half but the subs helped to get it done. Brave subs too, Bailey back from a flopped loan on before the hour. Another redemption arch perhaps
Martinez 8 - outstanding save in first minute, I expect him to save the other one, most PL keepers wouldn't. Took safe option to clear set pieces.
Cash 7 - solid as a rock as per usual, Gordon hooked early
Konsa 8 - composed as ever and two excellent clearances in the air. Previously a weakness in the air but has improved on it
Torres 6 - a bit meh. Beaten in air for that header and the other early chance. Did ok
Maatsen 8 - has improved hugely this season. Competitive in the tackle too.
Onana 8 - Joelinton has caused us problems before but he got stuck into it from the off. Tidy play on the ball too but we needed a presence in there today and he gave it
Tielemans 7 - we routed them in midfield in the first half and Tielemans was at centre of it. No surprise he tired a bit in second before limping off
Sancho 6 - thought he did ok first half. Watkins butchered that pass to put him through. Worked pretty hard on right. Not everything came off but wasn't bad
Buendia 9 - outstanding first half, even before that memorable goal. Worked like a trooper in second too. Season of dreams for him.
Rogers 7 - combines really well with Buendia. A bit sloppy at times in second half but still dug out the pass to Digne. Tough as nails
Watkins 7 - movement was really sharp but unfortunately brought the mahogany boots today. Did force two great saves and butchered quite a few other moves. But kept at it and got his reward.
Bailey certainly tried hard though lost the ball a bit. Digne got the assist. The rest were all fine.
Emery 10 - one of his very best weeks in the job.
Agreed 100%. Spot on. Great analysis.
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One thing I noticed during the game was that Martinez went long about 10x more often that he usually would and it caused them no end of bother, we picked up all of the second balls.
Yeah, we do that a lot against the Jaudis. It's worked well in the past, too.
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Watched a bit of a Toon podcast of some sort, where they were very nice about us and expressed hurt and confusion about our attitude to them, going back to Sob-gate. Got me wondering, is there a kind of culture clash here? Do Brummies value humility where Geordies value passion? Does our desire to bring this misty-eyed self-serious bunch down a humorous peg or two just seem like unnecessary meanness to them? I wonder.
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What a time to be a Villa fan, this team has got so many qualities, what I love is that each player seems to be stepping up when we need something, whether it's Buendia, Malen, Bogarde or one of the stars like Rogers.
Had a good night up in Newcastle on the Saturday with my 2 lads, even if it was MOTD in the hotel room at 10.30, just about recovered from the walk up to the seats, the journey home wasn't a problem after watching that performance either.
Unai Emery is an absolute genius.
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Watched a bit of a Toon podcast of some sort, where they were very nice about us and expressed hurt and confusion about our attitude to them, going back to Sob-gate. Got me wondering, is there a kind of culture clash here? Do Brummies value humility where Geordies value passion? Does our desire to bring this misty-eyed self-serious bunch down a humorous peg or two just seem like unnecessary meanness to them? I wonder.
Nah. It was 'everyone's second favourite club', 'Geordie Nation', thinking they are more important and successful than they are.
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Watched a bit of a Toon podcast of some sort, where they were very nice about us and expressed hurt and confusion about our attitude to them, going back to Sob-gate. Got me wondering, is there a kind of culture clash here? Do Brummies value humility where Geordies value passion? Does our desire to bring this misty-eyed self-serious bunch down a humorous peg or two just seem like unnecessary meanness to them? I wonder.
Always felt they were a bit thin skinned before that reaction to the flag, surely they realise everyone loves it when a big club gets in the relegation shit as we know only too well. I put it down to them, a bit like Leeds, being a one club town and them never having to fend off barbs in the playground growing up from fans of rival teams.
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2 games inna row where we've increased the use of the long ball from the back rather than repeated passing from the back.
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From The Athletic - Analysis
RIGOROUS DEFENSIVE ORGANISATION HELPS ASTON VILLA BUCKS ST JAMES ’ PARK TREND
By Jacob Tanswell
Lyrics from Herman’s Hermits echoed. “Something tells me I’m into something good,” sang those positioned high and overlooking Newcastle’s city centre.
The final minutes of an enthralling, combative contest were played out in relative serenity. Aston Villa were toying with an increasingly disheartened Newcastle United, keeping the ball and, like a singer’s encore, bathing in all its glory.
Empty seats appeared around St James’ Park. Villa supporters were not used to this. Their team had not won at this stadium since 2005, in the infamous game when Lee Bowyer and Kieran Dyer squared up and Steven Taylor handballed a shot off the line, only to collapse to the floor as if he was badly wounded.
It was a period of famine on Tyneside. Even this iteration of Unai Emery’s Villa suffered, in his words, “horrible” experiences. A 5-1 and 3-0 defeat in successive campaigns failed to cauterise scars and illuminated particular themes: Villa would invariably be overrun, routinely broke upon, and outgunned physically.
They would concede early and never recover. Something similar threatened to transpire once again inside the opening 40 seconds, with Emiliano Martinez’s legs saving from Sandro Tonali.
Yet unlike nearly every match in recent memory where they have been swept away, Villa bucked the trend. The 2-0 victory was a lesson in executing an overall game plan and delivering in each facet. Most impressively, though, was the level of defensive organisation.
Two clean sheets inside 66 hours away to Fenerbahce and then Newcastle displays an obvious mental fortitude. More acutely, it speaks of how well-oiled and prepared Villa now are defensively.
The fire and brimstone nature of both fixtures, played in potentially imposing and intimidating stadiums, carries the risk of heightening the level of a player’s tension, in turn hindering their concentration or ability to follow a plan. However, there is a distinct savviness to this Villa side, one that only comes through learning lessons from past experiences and the habit of winning.
Take before kick-off. Captain Ezri Konsa won the toss and asked to swap ends. The Gallowgate End booed, yet it was all part of Villa’s meticulous and unwavering approach.
Even when bodies were tiring towards the end, minds did not. Villa’s second goal came from a sensible decision by Morgan Rogers after an attacking corner was cleared.
Rather than hold onto the ball, knowing there was a lack of cover behind him and a chance for Newcastle to break provided they regained possession, Rogers played the odds in Villa’s favour. He swept a diagonal pass back to where the corner came from, picking out Lucas Digne, who in turn crossed for Ollie Watkins to head in.
At the other end, Martinez exclusively went long from goal kicks, unwilling to allow Newcastle to press and build momentum. This suited Villa; Emery’s box midfield ensured that they were all in conducive positions to win the second ball and progress upfield that way. In trademark fashion on the road, every Martinez kick carried a long pause beforehand, much to home supporters’ ire.
“Today here, they are so so strong in their high press,” said Emery. “They are jumping always. We planned to avoid giving them confidence and being comfortable doing the press against us. We were doing long balls for the second action.”
Resilience has been the overarching theme of Villa’s campaign. They have enduring and lasting traits, rarely buckling under pressure.
The outright defensive numbers epitomise this. Villa made 19 blocks to Newcastle’s four. Demonstrating the effectiveness of their tactical setup without the ball, Villa have only made more interceptions and ball recoveries in one other match this season.
Afterwards, Emery singled out every defensive player for praise, as well as the intelligence of “fantastic” Amadou Onana, who sat just in front.
Villa had one low-intensity training session after flying home from Turkey in the early hours of Friday morning, mainly consisting of tactical walkthroughs. Set pieces and rest defence are critical areas of preparation before any match.
Here, Emery would bark relentlessly when Villa had possession. He demanded that Onana and Youri Tielemans stayed behind the ball, with the two central defenders and Matty Cash behind them, avoiding counter-attack opportunities centrally.
Out of possession, Villa’s organisation was evident. Only 28 per cent of Newcastle’s first-half attacks came down the middle, with Villa forcing the hosts into wide areas and, aside from one Lewis Miley header that drew an exceptional save from Martinez, mostly aimless crosses.
Villa crouched in a 4-4-2 shape. During regular stoppages that broke Newcastle’s rhythm, Tielemans gestured and shouted at the rest of the midfield four, comprising of Onana, Emiliano Buendia, and Jadon Sancho, to continue shuffling from one side of the pitch to another, remaining compact in their distances and refusing passes being played through them.
What makes Villa so astute is how well-versed they are in recognising defensive triggers. When Newcastle had the ball out-wide, for instance, Sancho would drop into right-back as Villa moved into a 5-3-2. Emery would invariably yell, “Show inside!”
If a cross did come in, one of the midfielders would drop into the back line, helping with Villa’s capacity to clear danger.
Villa’s full-backs, Ian Maatsen and Matty Cash, were intense and aggressive. Cash cajoled Leon Bailey into positions ahead of him, either shuffling backwards to mark Newcastle’s left-winger or shifting inside to track Lewis Hall, who was inverting from left back.
This was a defensive performance that took away Newcastle’s best strengths and made them predictable. “We defended, high, middle and low,” said Emery after.
Knowing Eddie Howe’s side has struggled to break down low blocks, Villa ceded space in midfield and defended deeper in the second half. Newcastle’s only solution was more crosses into the box — 34 of them dwarfed Villa’s 10 — so the additional aerial presence of Tyrone Mings was introduced with a quarter of an hour to play.
Victor Lindelof came on in midfield during the final throes to shut the match down. He replaced Onana, who was understandably gasping for air after a dominating performance. Even when the locals lost faith, Villa remained focused, forever shuffling side to side and defending with the same urgency.
It was the first time Newcastle had failed to score at home this season, contributing to Villa managing to break a cycle stretching two decades without victory here. Emery animatedly explained that he would wait “until day 35” before delivering a true assessment of Villa’s credentials, but this was a defensively resolute performance worthy of Champions League football.
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One thing I noticed during the game was that Martinez went long about 10x more often that he usually would and it caused them no end of bother, we picked up all of the second balls.
It was exactly the same in the 4-1 home game last season.
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Best away win of the season?
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We seem to go on about the 'rivalry' more than they do, what with singing "sob on the Tyne olé olé" yesterday.
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It obviously didn’t matter but did anyone else think that was a stonewall penalty on Maatsen towards the end? The defender put his leg in front of him to stop him striking the ball and was nowhere near it. Those always seemed to get given as far as I can recall.
The suggestion Maatsen initiated the contact made no sense to me given he was shooting.
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We seem to go on about the 'rivalry' more than they do, what with singing "sob on the Tyne olé olé" yesterday.
The PSR derby apparently
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"Hate Emery, the greasy bastard, his animated antics on the sidelines, trying to influence the officials. I hate his teams, how Villa are encouraged to be dirty, diving bastards one minute, then chopping into out players the next, neither being punished by the incompetent, useful ref. The officiating is just a joke, allows for the sort of shit peddled by Villa. Scumbags, the lot of them"
Beautiful.
Poetry
Starting with some nice xenophobia is always a winner
Eh?
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It obviously didn’t matter but did anyone else think that was a stonewall penalty on Maatsen towards the end? The defender put his leg in front of him to stop him striking the ball and was nowhere near it. Those always seemed to get given as far as I can recall.
The suggestion Maatsen initiated the contact made no sense to me given he was shooting.
Yep, I think you se those given more often than not. The ref let them get away with a lot in the 2nd half though, I can think of 4-5 where we should've had a foul at least that he ignored.
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Best away win of the season?
My thoughts too.
Spurs, Brighton, Leeds, Fernabace, on top of City and Arsenal at home, we keep raising the bar, and in the process raise our ceiling.
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Best away win of the season?
My thoughts too.
Spurs, Brighton, Leeds, Fernabace, on top of City and Arsenal at home, we keep raising the bar, and in the process raise our ceiling.
Given the totality of the circumstances, yes. Just lost Kamara, McGinn, sold Malen, long journey to/from Turkey, long journey to Newcastle - Wolves away would have been a trap game, this was a nailed-on home win.
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Best away win of the season?
My thoughts too.
Spurs, Brighton, Leeds, Fernabace, on top of City and Arsenal at home, we keep raising the bar, and in the process raise our ceiling.
Best away win since the one at Arsenal season before last, and very much in the 'didn't think we'd have that in us' mould.
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Best away win of the season?
My thoughts too.
Spurs, Brighton, Leeds, Fernabace, on top of City and Arsenal at home, we keep raising the bar, and in the process raise our ceiling.
Raising our levels, collectively and individually.
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It obviously didn’t matter but did anyone else think that was a stonewall penalty on Maatsen towards the end? The defender put his leg in front of him to stop him striking the ball and was nowhere near it. Those always seemed to get given as far as I can recall.
The suggestion Maatsen initiated the contact made no sense to me given he was shooting.
Yep, I think you se those given more often than not. The ref let them get away with a lot in the 2nd half though, I can think of 4-5 where we should've had a foul at least that he ignored.
Fernandes got a pen against us for something similar a couple of years ago, but they've been trying to eradicate those type of decisions, where an attacker kicks a defender's leg (rather than vice versa). I thought it was a pen in real-time, but when I saw the replay and him kicking the back of the defenders leg I knew it was never going to be awarded.
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We seem to go on about the 'rivalry' more than they do, what with singing "sob on the Tyne olé olé" yesterday.
Also why don’t we sing sob on the Tyne to the tune of Fog on the Tyne? Given that’s where the play on words comes from. Weird to then use it to a different tune!
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Best away win of the season?
My thoughts too.
Spurs, Brighton, Leeds, Fernabace, on top of City and Arsenal at home, we keep raising the bar, and in the process raise our ceiling.
Raising our levels, collectively and individually.
With our supporters.
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Best away win of the season?
My thoughts too.
Spurs, Brighton, Leeds, Fernabace, on top of City and Arsenal at home, we keep raising the bar, and in the process raise our ceiling.
Raising our levels, collectively and individually.
With our supporters.
They transmit the energy.
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Good to see the fans giving JJ a good welcome when he came on, singing his song, sadly his move has not gone well so far, looking on the Newcastle site, they don't rate him.
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It obviously didn’t matter but did anyone else think that was a stonewall penalty on Maatsen towards the end? The defender put his leg in front of him to stop him striking the ball and was nowhere near it. Those always seemed to get given as far as I can recall.
The suggestion Maatsen initiated the contact made no sense to me given he was shooting.
Yep, I think you se those given more often than not. The ref let them get away with a lot in the 2nd half though, I can think of 4-5 where we should've had a foul at least that he ignored.
Fernandes got a pen against us for something similar a couple of years ago, but they've been trying to eradicate those type of decisions, where an attacker kicks a defender's leg (rather than vice versa). I thought it was a pen in real-time, but when I saw the replay and him kicking the back of the defenders leg I knew it was never going to be awarded.
I thought exactly the same.
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It obviously didn’t matter but did anyone else think that was a stonewall penalty on Maatsen towards the end? The defender put his leg in front of him to stop him striking the ball and was nowhere near it. Those always seemed to get given as far as I can recall.
The suggestion Maatsen initiated the contact made no sense to me given he was shooting.
Yep, I think you se those given more often than not. The ref let them get away with a lot in the 2nd half though, I can think of 4-5 where we should've had a foul at least that he ignored.
Fernandes got a pen against us for something similar a couple of years ago, but they've been trying to eradicate those type of decisions, where an attacker kicks a defender's leg (rather than vice versa). I thought it was a pen in real-time, but when I saw the replay and him kicking the back of the defenders leg I knew it was never going to be awarded.
I thought exactly the same.
Quite a few of these were given last season - which I thought was madness at the time, but seemed to become jurisprudence.
I suppose it's good that that's been corrected. But it makes a mockery of the contemporary explanations backing up the decision, which had the commentators all agreeing that it was surely a penalty...
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Good to see the fans giving JJ a good welcome when he came on, singing his song, sadly his move has not gone well so far, looking on the Newcastle site, they don't rate him.
Thought he was decent when he came on. Some nice passes. They have too many options in the wide areas.
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"Hate Emery, the greasy bastard, his animated antics on the sidelines, trying to influence the officials. I hate his teams, how Villa are encouraged to be dirty, diving bastards one minute, then chopping into out players the next, neither being punished by the incompetent, useful ref. The officiating is just a joke, allows for the sort of shit peddled by Villa. Scumbags, the lot of them"
Beautiful.
Poetry
Starting with some nice xenophobia is always a winner
Eh?
"Emery, the greasy bastard"
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One thing I noticed during the game was that Martinez went long about 10x more often that he usually would and it caused them no end of bother, we picked up all of the second balls.
It was exactly the same in the 4-1 home game last season.
And the 3-0 two years before.
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"Hate Emery, the greasy bastard, his animated antics on the sidelines, trying to influence the officials. I hate his teams, how Villa are encouraged to be dirty, diving bastards one minute, then chopping into out players the next, neither being punished by the incompetent, useful ref. The officiating is just a joke, allows for the sort of shit peddled by Villa. Scumbags, the lot of them"
Beautiful.
Poetry
Starting with some nice xenophobia is always a winner
Eh?
"Emery, the greasy bastard"
Yes but xenophobic, it’s just an observation!
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Not getting involved after the Fenerbahçe post game, but I see the point being raised.
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One thing I noticed during the game was that Martinez went long about 10x more often that he usually would and it caused them no end of bother, we picked up all of the second balls.
It was exactly the same in the 4-1 home game last season.
And the 3-0 two years before.
Oh that 3-0 was one of my favourites that season. McGinn had Burn on toast. Targett got a run out near the end too which was definitely a waving the white flag moment.
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I think brontebilly's been on the sherry.
Sherry, more like homemade, 90% poitín. ;)
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One thing I noticed during the game was that Martinez went long about 10x more often that he usually would and it caused them no end of bother, we picked up all of the second balls.
It was exactly the same in the 4-1 home game last season.
And the 3-0 two years before.
Pity about all the times they've whipped our arses in the same period.
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One thing I noticed during the game was that Martinez went long about 10x more often that he usually would and it caused them no end of bother, we picked up all of the second balls.
It was exactly the same in the 4-1 home game last season.
And the 3-0 two years before.
Pity about all the times they've whipped our arses in the same period.
For some reason, In between each match we forget the tactic that works and then we balls it up.
But then again, against Palace, I think we've tried every style, formation and tactic going and still get a pasting.
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I thought Lewis Miley looked a class act for them. Good technique, plays forward passes in good areas, usually picks the right one. Surprisingly decent in the air for someone so slight looking. But in a team of brutes, he stands out.
Slight, but 6’4”-ish I think.
Blimey, you're right - welll 6'1 to 6'2 apparently but still, quite surprised.
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And he was punching horses when he was still a toddler!
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Is there a thread for growers Vs show-ers (the hyphen annoys me)?
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Is there a thread for growers Vs show-ers (the hyphen annoys me)?
Sorry. This was meant to be a PM to eastie.
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I thought Lewis Miley looked a class act for them. Good technique, plays forward passes in good areas, usually picks the right one. Surprisingly decent in the air for someone so slight looking. But in a team of brutes, he stands out.
Slight, but 6’4”-ish I think.
Blimey, you're right - welll 6'1 to 6'2 apparently but still, quite surprised.
the Gareth Barry comparison is apt in that he looks like he doesn't want to get his shorts dirty.
i think he needs a bit more aggression and to cover a lot more ground than he did against us, Tidy but not threatening.
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Only watched it back there now ...
... Emery 10 - one of his very best weeks in the job.
"I believe he's got it!"
Nice work, Bronte: You've absolutely nailed it in this summary.
And for the Watkins-deniers: you won't know what you've got till it's gone - all his endeavour and focus is what gives players like Rogers and Buendia the space to weave their magic.
Listening to 5 Live tonight and they were saying Watkins is crucial in our shots from outside the box. He shows for a ball behind the defence which stops defenders pushing out, giving more time for Buendía, Rogers and co to line up their shot.