Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: Liam_Baggies on January 22, 2014, 08:12:19 PM

Title: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 22, 2014, 08:12:19 PM
Hi, folks.

Again, if you could complete the questionnaire beneath it would be much appreciated - the finished article will then be provided in this topic early next week.

1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

10. And finally, score predictions.

Thank you.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: SheffieldVillain on January 22, 2014, 08:23:55 PM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?
We lulled you into a false sense of security with our second team and showed our superiority when the real players came on.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?
Harsh. Who?

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?
Yes, but needs a good second half of the season in terms of playing style.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?
Holt - adequate cover. Bertrand - good signing in a position which really needed it. Hope we can keep him next season.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?
Attacking midfield.

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?
Yes. Even if he was just sticking up for a friend, the friend was a comedian accused of anti-semitism. He was a prat for doing it. 5 games minimum.

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?
Guzan, Lowton, Bertrand, Vlaar, Okore/Clark, Westwood, Delph, Bacuna, Benteke, Gabby, Albrighton. Berahino and Foster can be subs if they behave.

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?
Chelsea. Palace, Cardiff, West Ham.

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?
See 7. Clark obviously rather than Okore. Probably Weimann instead of Albrighton.

10. And finally, score predictions.
4-0 Villa.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Richard on January 22, 2014, 08:46:01 PM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game? The first 20 mins or so reflected the confidence of the 2 teams going into the game, but I thought after that we got to grips and in the second half should have pushed on to win as you were there for the taking !

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel? Harsh, no idea as not heard of him

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC? I hope so but needs to learn quicker from mistakes and be less stubborn

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions? Holt indifferent though will bring some experience, Bertrand delighted !

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January? Centre half and midfield

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long? Yes a definite suspension sorry but maybe not for 5 games

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be? I'd only have one of your centre mids, Mulumbu or other guy (sorry forgot his name), the rest would be Villa

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated? Man City, Sunderland, Norwich, Fulham (but tbh it could be any of another 3 or 4 including WBA

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter? As per the Liverpool game unless Gabby is out in which case I hope Lowton plays right back and Bacuna plays behind Benteke and Weimann

10. And finally, score predictions. We should win 3-1 but hey this is normally a draw so 2 2 again
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: frank black on January 22, 2014, 08:47:01 PM

1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

Game of two halves.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

Harsh but fine as you had a better one lined up..........?.?.? Eh?

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

Jury is still out for me.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

Holt, good emergency cover. Bertrand is a good player.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?

Midfield

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?

Plonker and yes for a few games.

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

I'd have Shane long on the bench........whoops he's gone ;-)

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?

Man city
Sunderland, Cardiff and Palace.

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

The usual names.

10. And finally, score predictions.

1 - 1

Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Louzie0 on January 22, 2014, 08:49:07 PM
Hi, folks.

Again, if you could complete the questionnaire beneath it would be much appreciated - the finished article will then be provided in this topic early next week.

1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?
we wuz robbed

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?
his novels are on my bedside table

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?
Absolutely

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?
Bertrand was brilliant in a Villa shirt and Holt, who arrived later, will be brilliant in a Villa shirt.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?
Absolutely

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?
Yes; and 100 years

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?
All Villa  - except for Ridgewell.  I really like him, sorry he left.

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?
Man City - relegated
Not really, MC for the title

And Cardiff, Wet Ham and Everton for the drop.

I know, I know. But I think Everton are about to implode.

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

Whoever is fit. They will still do the job!

10. And finally, score predictions.

Villa 3 WB 0

Thank you.
No probs, thank you for asking.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: danlanza on January 22, 2014, 08:54:45 PM
As usual, a complete class response from our Louzie0 there.
Class girly, complete class. 8) 8)
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 22, 2014, 08:55:02 PM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

You were the better side in the first half, we were the better side in the second. It was quite a good game, it has to be said. I doubt Long will ever score goals better than his two that night. That also showed one way we've improved this year, we are more resilient.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

Sacking was harsh. I like Mel's determination to answer press questions in English.

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

He's going to have to be, frankly, because starting all over again doesn't bear thinking about. I also suspect the major (though not only) constraining factor is money, in particular the need to not spend too much of it.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

Holt - massively unimpressed, will turn out a waste of money. Bertrand, much more impressive. Thank God no more Luna.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?

Creative midfielder, possibly another midfield option.

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?

I think he knew what he was doing, and deserves a suspension.

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

Mediocre.

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?

Man City win league, Norwich, Sunderland, West Ham doomed.

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

Guzan

Bertrand Vlaar Clark Bacuna
KEA Delph Westwood
Weimann Benteke Agbonlahor

10. And finally, score predictions.

0-0
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Michel Sibble on January 22, 2014, 08:58:35 PM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?
Poor start, but improved and got back in the game.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?
Initially thought sacking was harsh, but MOTD flashed up his recent record, which was something like eight wins in 30-odd. Maybe he could have turned the corner? Who knows.
Pepe Mel, know very little about, but does show up the lack of quality British managers available and competent in the EPL.

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?
Yes, because of the Liverpool game. We play our full-strength players in, we perform much better.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?
Very surprised to get Bertrand in, hope we got a first-dibs clause (doubt it). Had doubts over Holt, whether he still had the form he showed at Norwich, but showing every bit the door-picker we need in order to create attacking chances.
It also showed that when Lambert wanted experience, it didn't necessarily meant going back on his youth-first policy, or going after the high wage-low interest bleeders we have largely got rid of.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?
Midfield mainly. With Hoolahan possibly.

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?
The FA need to set an example in charging Anelka, it's less about what constitutes a reverse Nazi signal, rather any such action needs to be nipped in the bud before it becomes a big problem. We can do without racists in the game and we can do without cocks like Anelka and Suarez.

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?
Would take Sessegnon and Mulumbu, everyone else Villa.

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?
Couldn't care less, and Norwich, Cardiff, Fulham

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?
Guzan, Vlaa-rke, Bacuna, Bertrand -  KEA, Westwood, Delph, Gabby - Weimann, Benteke

10. And finally, score predictions.
3-2 with Holt setting up the winner.

Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: KevinGage on January 22, 2014, 09:08:33 PM


1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?  
Was that rarest of games: We made subs that actually came on and changed the game.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?
  Clarke sacking didn't make sense, unless he 'lost the dressing room'  or any other dial-a-cliche.

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC? 
We'll have a better idea by the end of the season. It's not a given, but we should stay up.  The home form needs serious improvement.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?  
Holt: meh.  Bertrand: better. 

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?
Central midfield, centre defence and wide cover/attacking midfield too, ideally.

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long? He was an arse to do that and to think that -as one of France's most recognised players- he'd get away with it.  Throw the book at him.

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be? Guzan, Lowton, Vlaar, Olsson, Bertrand, Mulumbu, Brunt, Delph, Gabby, Benteke, Behranio

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated? 
Chelsea.   Slumberland, Palarse and Norwich   I expect West Ham and yourselves to be heavily involved though.  We might be fighting it out too, if the home form in the second half of the campaign mirrors the first

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?
Guzan, Bacuna, Vlaar, Clark, Bertrand, Westwood, KEA, Delph, Hoolahan, Benteke, Gabby

10. And finally, score predictions.

2-1 Villa
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Louzie0 on January 22, 2014, 09:32:38 PM
As usual, a complete class response from our Louzie0 there.
Class girly, complete class. 8) 8)

It's always nice to be appreciated. Thanks, DanL!
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Sam Smith on January 22, 2014, 09:33:38 PM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

We were poor first half and got what we deserved in the second after we introduced our more effective players and could have won it. I don't know why Albion don't go for our jugular when it's exposed.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

You had been appalling for 12 months and I doubt he would have improved you. Interesting appointment and could go either way. I would imagine he will be better than Clarke.

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?
 
Yes as any other Gaffa would be working under the same constraints. He really has to improve the home form and the quality of play as it has been genuinely shocking at times.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

Sensible in the case of Holt, superb in the case of Bertrand. Time will tell of course.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?

Centre Half and Creative midfielders!

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?

It's meaning appears to be ambiguous but it's ill advised at best and anti Semitic at worst. It should be treated like any other of the cases of this nature. Appropriate suspension following investigation assuming his guilt is proven.

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

Either Keeper - Lowton - Vlaar - Mcauley (Okore in time) - Bertrand - Westwood - Mulumbu - Brunt - Agbonlahor - Benteke - Berahinio

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated? Man City, Cardiff, Palace and any one of 7

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter? Guzan / Bacuna / Vlaar / Clarke / Bertrand / Westwood / Delph / El hamadi / Gabby / Weiman / Benteke

10. And finally, score predictions.

Big Villa win or a Narrow Albion win. If we start like you did at the Hawthorns I think we will make you pay but our home form is so bad Albion must surely fancy it. It's gonna be a cracker!
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: silhillvilla on January 22, 2014, 09:40:00 PM
1. We deserved the points
2. Madness
3. Assess in the summer
4. Good signings
5. Nr 10
6. Don't care
7. The villa 80/81 league winning 14
8. Chelsea / Cardiff west ham WBA
9. Pass
10. 2-1 home win
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Sam Smith on January 22, 2014, 09:40:33 PM
7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

Mediocre.


On reflection this is of course the correct answer!

I am of course quoting above but have knackered the insert quote thing!
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: TheSandman on January 22, 2014, 09:47:20 PM
Quote
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

We were utterly dire in the first half, but played really well in the second and fought back fantastically. All in all, I was pleased with the point.

Quote
2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

I thought the Clarke sacking was somewhat harsh. The managerial hunt seemed a bit protracted to me too, it was almost as if the WBA hierarchy were unsure what to do once they had sacked him. As for Mel, I know nothing about him. His record in Spain isn't brilliant but I have no idea what kind of constraints he worked under there. Seeing what Spanish football experts have to say about him he actually seems to be a good appointment and something of a character. However, I'd really be going with their opinions rather than mine if I said that, considering how little I follow continental football.

Quote
3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

I think yes. We've put in some poor performances recently but were much better on Saturday against Liverpool. I definitely think he is a step forward compared to our last manager and has performed respectably given the financial constraints in place and the level of rebuilding the club has required. If the Liverpool performance is a sign of what is to come and we finish the season strongly then he remains the right man for me.

Quote
4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

I think the Holt signing was a bit of a WTF? moment but having actually watched him on Saturday he didn't look out of place. At the end of the day he is a short term loan to cover for Kozak who is injured and gives us another senior person in the dressing room. My only disappointment with Bertrand is that it is only a loan. He is a good, young player who will fill in in a position we have two players who are not particularly great.

Quote
5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?

Yes, I think we need at least one new midfielder to provide a better link between the mid and the strikers. A quality defensive midfielder might also be a useful addition as Westwood isn't playing as well as last season and I'm really not sure about El Ahmadi. Experience defensive cover is also a must. Vlaar is injury prone and without him we are very weak in central defence.

Quote
6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?

I really don't know the background of the gesture he made in France but if it is something offensive then he has to be punished. I mean it is not as if Anelka hasn't got a record for bad behaviour.

Quote
7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

I don't really watch Albion too much so I'm not really sure, I'd definitely put Yacob in midfield. None of your defensive options appeal and whilst I rate James Morrison he seems too similar to Delph who is simply a better player. So it'll be mostly Villa.

Quote
8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?

Man City to win the league. West Ham, Fulham and Cardiff to go down.

Quote
9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

Guzan

Lowton
Vlaar
Clark
Bertrand

Westwood
Sylla
Delph

Weimann
Benteke
Gabby

Quote
10. And finally, score predictions.

2-1 to us.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 22, 2014, 10:19:16 PM
Hi, folks.

Again, if you could complete the questionnaire beneath it would be much appreciated - the finished article will then be provided in this topic early next week.

1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game? Horrible Kit you were wearing.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel? Obviously Peel Me is not English so an obvious improvement on Steve what a stupid name Clarke

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC? WE will see.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions? Holt is a substantial addition.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January? The fence around West Bromwich.

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long? It was an Old Black Country gesture, like thaputapigonthawalltawatchthabandguboy

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be? Lakaku would be good- titter

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated? Boring

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter? What is this Encounter you speak of?

10. And finally, score predictions. Have a tener on a draw.

Thank you.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Ad@m on January 22, 2014, 10:47:50 PM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

We were awful first half and while Long's touch for his first goal was world class we just didn't turn up.  Second half was a completely different story however and Steve Clarke looked like he didn't have a clue what to do when Lambert made the triple substitution.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

Harsh on Clarke but there were signs (like the Villa game) that he was being found lacking.  I thought he deserved more time though.  I'd literally never heard of Pepe Mel.  He seems to have picked up English quickly?  Best I can offer you.

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

Yep, but only because no one can think of anyone better! (oh, and changing managers every season is hardly a recipe for success)

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

Bertrand looked good on his debut but it's early days.  Holt looked mediocre on his debut but it's early days.  I can understand the logic for both but we still haven't got the creative midfielder we've needed since Milner left.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?

See above.  We're genuinely desperate!

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?

The guy's a prick.  Always has been and always will be.  This is just another in a long line of selfish and moronic acts.

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

Villa strikers, mostly Olbiyun midfield, mix of both in defence and Guzan in goal.

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?

Man City.  Don't care as long as it's not the Villa.

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

There are some certs - Guzan, Vlaar, Delph, Westwood, Benteke, Wiemann, Agbonlahor.  The others will be a mix of Bacuna, Lowton, Bertrand, Luna, Sylla, El Ahmadi, and Albrighton.

10. And finally, score predictions.

1-1
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Matt Collins on January 22, 2014, 11:16:17 PM
The west brom players id have would be, in order: Morrison, berahino, mulumbu, olsson, amalfitano. Morrison most likely to be first choice. Maybe mulumbu too

Foster is good but we don't  need him. I'd have had Shane long at villa too.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on January 22, 2014, 11:20:37 PM
1.) Great game. The three at once subs was risky but fun. Lambert taking his shirt off at the same time was a great moment. I thought in the first half you lot would destroy us. At the end it was a fair draw.

2.) I thought Clarke did a decent job, but Mel seems like a clear upgrade in my opinion. If we end up changing manager I hope we get a similar manager to mel. Good job.

3.) Yes he is. Miserable bastard at times but he is tactically smart and has an eye for a bargain. I wish he boosted our midfield though.

4.) TBD. We shall see. Both had decent starts. Lambert seems to like to collect strikers like Pokemon though.

5.) Midfield, midfield, midfield.

6.) No opinion really, I dont understand it tbh. Just happy one of your players is no longer an option for our game.

7.) I would take Lugano, Yacob and maybe Mulumbu from you lot. The rest I wold have our squad.

8.) Dont care, and dont care so long as its not Villa.

9.) The team will be our usual suspects. The formation though could be a surprise. He might even go with 3/5 at the back again.

10.) Dont know. Beauty of derby games, everything goes out the window.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Monty on January 23, 2014, 12:44:13 AM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

Horrifying first half where you got Zlatan Ibrahimovic to where an impressive Shane Long mask. Second half we came back and you wilted. Great Westwood goal.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

Maybe harsh, but I'm impressed with Mel P and his previous records, and the change in the way you played against Everton was really instantaneous. Annoyingly.

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

Well, people say he needs to be given time, but see above for how quickly you can see the signs of a new manager stamping their way of playing on teams. If he really was going to be the guy to get us playing top stuff, we'd have seen a f**k of a lot more evidence by now IMO. However, as Paulie said, we don't really have a choice but to hope he is the right man.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

No problems with the signings there. Holt is short term Benteke-cover while Kozak is injured and I'm sure he'll do fine, while Bertrand is clearly a step up on the other left backs available.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?

It's attacking midfield, stoopid.

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?

This is a weird one. I don't like the French way of banning someone like Dieudonné, no matter how reprehensible their views are, because banning things like racism only gives them a horrible underground glamour, whereas it's much better to humiliate them in the open. However, football is perfectly entitled to disallow its participants from expressing apparent sympathy with such views on the pitch, as Zoopla are entitled to end a sponsorship deal they don't feel comfortable with (providing, of course, that they break no contracts). They can suspend him for as long as they want.


7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

Aston Villa Football Club.

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?

I'd love Arsenal to win, but the dictator-owned oil arseholes at City will probably get it in the end. As for relegation, who the hell knows, though if West Ham keep Allardyce for too long I'd be stunned if they stay up.

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

Guzan; Bacuna, Vlaar, Clark, Bertrand; Delph, Westwood, Hoolahan (obvs); Weimann, Benteke, Agbonlahor.

10. And finally, score predictions.

One fucking million - nil. To Villa.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: peter w on January 23, 2014, 08:18:40 AM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

Youi went to pieces

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

Haven't given it a thought.

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

Yes

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

Holt was an odd one but gives us a different option up top. Bertrand is a definite improvement on what we have at left-back.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?

Yes

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?

Not really bothered.

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

Don't really know many of your players. Amalfitano seems decent. Berhaino is a prospect. Is Morrison still playing for you?

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?

Man City

Cardiff
West Ham
Sunderland

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

Guzan

Lowton
Vlaar
Clark
Bertrand

KEA
Westwood
Delph

Gabby
Benteke
Weimann

10. And finally, score predictions.

1-1
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on January 23, 2014, 09:13:23 AM
Hi, folks.

Again, if you could complete the questionnaire beneath it would be much appreciated - the finished article will then be provided in this topic early next week.

1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?
Missed the first goal as the stewards took so long searching us. We were crap until we made the double substitution, then all us until the last 10 minutes.
2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?
Seemed harsh sacking Clarke, he'd done a pretty good job. Think your chairman needs to actually spend some money for once. Pepe Mel did well with Betis, will see if he can work well in a different country.
3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?
Hmm, hopefully. Did well getting rid of the dead wood from our squad (Ireland in particular). Think we need more experience, particularly in midfield and a centre-back would be useful.
4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?
Bertrand should be good, have liked him for a while. Holt, adds cheating and experience, but not amazed by him.
5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?
Centre-Back, defensive midfield and an attacking midfielder. I'm hopeful that our full-backs will look better with some cover in defensive midfield.
6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?
I think he definitely deserves a suspension, if only to prove to him that he has done something wrong. I think more than 5 games would be harsh though.
7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?
Guzan, Olsson, Vlaar, Bertrand, Lowton, Mulumbu, Delph, Bacuna, Agbonlahor, Amalfitano, Benteke
8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?
Man City probably, with Chelsea in second. Christ, anyone of about 12 crap sides. Palace always go down, Cardiff and Norwich. No idea how Swansea are below us.
9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?
Guzan, Vlaar, Clark, Bertrand, Lowton or Bacuna, Delph, Westwood, El Ahmadi, Agbonlahor, Weimann, Benteke
10. And finally, score predictions.
I'll go for 1-1, as we're shite at home
Thank you.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Ads on January 23, 2014, 09:42:08 AM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

I thought we were desperately poor right up until we brought on three subs. You could almost hear the collective filling of the pants going around the ground and I think that fear transferred to your players too. You got a little deeper and it almost became inevitable that we would pull it back.


2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

I think it’s a poor decision to sack Clarke. I don't think you had being doing too badly given the quality of squad and level of outlay. It's pretty tight in the bottom half and a win can move you clear. The length of time it took to appoint a successor was something of a shambles.

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

Yes he is. Things are not great, especially at home, but the club has a plan and by hook or crook, it appears to be working. If the home form was as good as the away form, we would be above Man United. It's got to be sorted out as it's been poor for way too long.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

Holt is cover for Kozak who has broken his leg. He is not the player I would have signed, but I think a lot of it is down to his presence and experience. We're far too nice a side and Holt will hopefully inject some much needed nastiness into our young squad.

Bertrand looks a quality player. Early days, but I hope we sign him permanently.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?

Our midfield is in desperate need of one or two more players. A proper ball winning midfielder and a play maker are a must. I think this would have a real positive impact on our home form.

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?

I think so yes. There is no place in football for any of that anti-Semitic nonsense. The anti-establishment line does not wash with me, coming from a millionaire who drives a £250,000 sports car.

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

If all our players were fit, then I would probably include Mulumbu and Morrison in our midfield and I would take Olsen into the squad too.

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?

I will be very surprised if Man City do not win the league. I think Sunderland, Cardiff and Palace will go down.

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

Fitness of Gabby permitting, the same one he picked at Liverpool, unless we sign some new players in between now and the game.

10. And finally, score predictions.

I think we will win this one, by how many is anybody's guess though.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Dr Butler on January 23, 2014, 10:49:45 AM
As usual, a complete class response from our Louzie0 there.
Class girly, complete class. 8) 8)

It's always nice to be appreciated. Thanks, DanL!

ahh..get a room you two...;)
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: supertom on January 23, 2014, 11:00:12 AM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?
I thought we were getting murdered in the first half and were lucky to get in at half time at 2-0. We made it far too easy for you though and Shane Long looked as good as he'll ever look. Second half we were resolute and came back well.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?
I felt he deserved more time, though results throughout 2013 were poor. The new guy? No idea. He's either going to do very well or be a complete disaster. I'd not be surprised to see the Baggies fighting for their lives come the final game.
3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?
Not sure to be honest. We've been mostly very poor this season but we're sitting reasonably comfortably despite that. Much depends on what happens in the remainder of the season. We need to make a couple more decent signings and start playing more like we did against Liverpool.
4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?
Holt seemed a strange signing but he's just a loan to cover the injured Kozak. He's got a bit of nous which we've been lacking. Bertrand is a decent young player and his debut was promising. I'd love to see him here next season.
5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?
Midfield. It's been our problem area for years now. We never replaced Milner sufficiently, or later, Stan Petrov. We keep debating about the mythical number 10 playmaker we need, but just as much we need quality players in the middle who can pass the ball and influence games better.
6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?
He's well past it. It was a ridiculous signing to bring him in. He's come purely for a last pay day and has been trouble ever since. Aside from a couple of games he's delivered chuff all on the pitch. You should cut your losses on Le Sulk.
7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?
Guzan, Bertrand, Vlaar, Olssen, Lowton, Delph, Malumbu, Brunt, Gabby, Benteke, Amalfitano.
8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?
I'd prefer Arsenal, but I think City will have the legs. West Ham, Cardiff, Sunderland.
9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?
If possible the same 11 that started against Liverpool. Although he may put Holt in there for some additional physical presence.
10. And finally, score predictions.
2-0 Villa.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Bad English on January 23, 2014, 11:02:46 AM

tl;dr version = Anelka. c***!


Otherwise, read on for more about the gesture.


I can understand people not really understanding the Anelka gesture but peter w, maybe you should be bothered because anyone who manipulates people, words, objects and gestures the way Dieudonné does is sinister at least and potentially dangerous. What happens in France can affect what happens in the UK, as history as often shown.


The "quenelle" gesture is particularly pernicious because it is named after an innocent delicacy famous in French gastronomy. He could have named it "the Nazi salute revisited so we won't get nicked for doing it". It's akin to Jim Davidson sticking his arm out and calling it the Spotted Dick. Doing "the Spotted Dick" catches on among the EDL-inclined and it becomes a subversive de facto anti-Semitic gesture. Then, ol' Nick Nick writes a song called "ShoahPapaya" and sings it at every gig holding a papaya. The songs becomes an anti-Jew anthem, but you can't be done for it because you are actually singing about a piece of fruit, aren't you (Dieudonné was singing Shoananas which is a portmanteau word mad of Shoah and ananas (pineapple in French).


This might seem funny but since Dieudonné has been doing all this if I were to wander around in public holding a pineapple today, I would probably get all sorts of looks (or a kicking) because it would probably be interpreted as racist/anti-Semitic. Dieudonné has taken common nouns such as "pineapple" and "quenelle" (a fancy type of dumpling speciality, if you like) and infused them with a new sinister meaning.


Montbert, the French government often piles in and manages things their "way". I'm not sure banning his shows are the best response (and the legal arguments are of the "potential breach of the peace, blah, blah type. And, I'm sure not everybody who goes to see Dieudonné's shows are raving neo-nazis. Nevertheless, those who defend Dieudonné, saying it's just a bit of a laugh should have a look at the photos on the site I link to below. I certainly believe the "quenelle" and the "pineapple" should not be encouraged.


Have a look at the website, see a) who is doing the quenelle and b) where they are doing it* and ask yourself this: should Anelka have done it on his particular stage?


Website: for those who think the quenelle is not anti-semitic (http://k00ls.overblog.com/2013/12/pour-ceux-qui-pr%C3%A9tendent-que-la-quenelle-n-est-pas-un-geste-antis%C3%A9mite.html) (in French but you only need to know that the words juif, juive, juiverie mean Jew, Jewess and Jewish quarter and "four" means oven).


* The one taken in front of the school in Toulouse where Mohammed Merah gunned down a father and his three kids is particularly distasteful (well, actually there are loads, take your pick).


Sorry for hijacking the Smethwick questionnaire.


3-1 to Aston Villa.







Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: john e on January 23, 2014, 11:13:51 AM
Those photo's seem pretty convincing to me what the arm gesture means
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: rob_bridge on January 23, 2014, 12:12:02 PM
Hi, folks.

Again, if you could complete the questionnaire beneath it would be much appreciated - the finished article will then be provided in this topic early next week.

1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

Game of 2 halves. Albion should have been out of sight mind.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

Quite harsh though losing that bloke to the FA probably a big gap to fill. No idea re Mel. Then again the UK based options were limited

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

As others state we have little choice. Villa is not an easy job under normal circumstances and we are not under such circumstances. The fact he isn't McLeish is no longer enough.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

Holt. Meh - sends out bad signal to Helenius and Bowery. Bertrand Good. Very Good in fact.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?
Conservatively at least 3.

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?
He should have apologised immediately when the connatations became clear. Yep suspension is in order. No great loss. To anyone

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

Mid table

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?

Man Cit-eh. 3 from 11. Porbably Cardiff + Fulham + A.N. Other

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

The one v Liverpool team if all available

10. And finally, score predictions.

3-1
Thank you.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: freethinker on January 23, 2014, 02:08:16 PM
Thanks for your post Bad English - very informative. I can honestly say I didn't know anything about this 'gesture' before Anelka did it.

Those photos are quite shocking (the wanker doing it next to a waxwork model of Anne Frank particularly annoyed me). What surprises me is how widespread anti-Jewish sentiment seems to be in France, and by the looks of it not just amongst people of Arab descent. Whilst I often hear people in England criticising the Israeli government, it is thankfully rare to encounter anti-Jewish sentiment like that displayed in those photos.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Monty on January 23, 2014, 02:12:35 PM
Thanks for the post Bad English - very informative. I can honestly say I didn't know anything about this 'gesture' before Anelka did it.

Those photos are quite shocking (the wanker doing it next to a waxwork model of Anne Frank particularly annoyed me). What surprises me is how widespread anti-Jewish sentiment seems to be in France, and by the looks of it not just amongst people of Arab descent. Whilst I often hear people in England criticising the Isreali government, it is thankfully rare to encounter anti-Jewish sentiment like that displayed in those photos.

The saddest thing about those photos is how many of them are young. Like, really young, 20s and down. Anti-Semitism is the one prejudice the rise of which has an apocalyptic feel about it - people get riled about Bulgarians, or Romanians, or Poles, or Irish, or Caribbeans or whatever, but anti-Jewish prejudice has a paranoid psychotic character, a conspiratorial nutbag element.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: silhillvilla on January 23, 2014, 03:24:36 PM
We can all now await the WBA troll getting arsey after the game again, this poster has previous.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Des Little on January 23, 2014, 03:30:41 PM
The quicker the Albion rid themselves of this disgusting vermin the better.  The fact that they haven't sacked him already does them no good whatsoever.  Shame on them.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 23, 2014, 06:18:35 PM
We can all now await the WBA troll getting arsey after the game again, this poster has previous.

Troll? Arsey?

Quite the opposite. I've been fair, balanced and credited Villa when it's been worthwhile.

I certainly haven't been trolling otherwise your moderators would have banned me by now.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: dekko on January 23, 2014, 06:23:15 PM
We can all now await the WBA troll getting arsey after the game again, this poster has previous.

Troll? Arsey?

Quite the opposite. I've been fair, balanced and credited Villa when it's been worthwhile.

I certainly haven't been trolling otherwise your moderators would have banned me by now.

I think he might be confusing you with some of your pals who came on here before the last match and acted like dicks
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Matt C on January 23, 2014, 07:14:46 PM
At least we think they were, but we couldn't really understand a word they were saying.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: class_of_82 on January 23, 2014, 07:15:27 PM
How about these questions
1- what do you base your assumption your pride of the midlands
2- ask ally brown why he went over the top on Cropley
3-how many times you won the European cup
4-why did you kick the shit out of us from the first minute in the game Cropley got his leg broke
5-why did frank skinner make Jeff Astle look a total prat on fantasy football
6-why do I hate the Albion so much- answer the above questions and you might get an idea
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Legion on January 23, 2014, 07:53:14 PM
We can all now await the WBA troll getting arsey after the game again, this poster has previous.

Troll? Arsey?

Quite the opposite. I've been fair, balanced and credited Villa when it's been worthwhile.

I certainly haven't been trolling otherwise your moderators would have banned me by now.

Correct.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on January 23, 2014, 08:42:33 PM

tl;dr version = Anelka. c***!


Otherwise, read on for more about the gesture.

<snip shocking stuff>

Fucking hell. That is an eye opener. Err yes I change my answer from "Dont understand it" to "Highly offensive." How can anyone even think of doing this kind of shit at fucking auschwitz???
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Legion on January 23, 2014, 08:50:33 PM
Hi, folks.

Again, if you could complete the questionnaire beneath it would be much appreciated - the finished article will then be provided in this topic early next week.

1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game? Sh*t start, great finish

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel? Felt sorry for him. Poor bugger.

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC? Yes

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions? Functional. Yay!

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January? CM and CD

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long? Yes. Four games

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be? All Villa

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated? Manchester City. Any three from 10th place down apart from us and you.

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter? A winning one

10. And finally, score predictions. 2-0

Thank you. My pleasure
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: silhillvilla on January 23, 2014, 09:02:36 PM
We can all now await the WBA troll getting arsey after the game again, this poster has previous.

Troll? Arsey?

Quite the opposite. I've been fair, balanced and credited Villa when it's been worthwhile.

I certainly haven't been trolling otherwise your moderators would have banned me by now.
Ok apologies if I've mixed you up with someone else.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Damo70 on January 24, 2014, 09:46:42 AM
1. Nightmare start but I always felt if we pulled one back we could get something from the game. A draw was a fair result.

2. I din't think he deserved the sack and I thnk his replacement is a big gamble.

3. Yes.

4. Holt is good, experienced cover and still leaves us one other Premier League loan. Bertrand will improve the side defensively, he is quality.

5. A centre half on loan as Okore is out and Vlaar is prone to missing games. A creative midfielder as a priority and a tough tackling experienced one would be nice too.

6. He has been naive at best. I think the standard ban is five games and that would be about right for me. Any repeat and I would throw the book at him.

7. Rimmer, Swain, Williams, Evans, Mortimer, Bremner, Cowans, Shaw and Withe from Villa and McNaught and Morley from Albion. Sub Spink from Albion.

8. Man City. Norwich, Cardiff and either Palace or Fulham.

9. Guzan, Bacuna, Vlaar, Clark, Bertrand, El Ahmadi, Westwood, Delph, Weimann, Gabby, Benteke

10. 2-1 Villa
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: AVH87 on January 24, 2014, 11:28:00 PM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

Role reversal from the previous season at the Hawthorns. If Sessegnon had taken the golden chance he had to put WBA 3-0 up, things could have turned very ugly.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

I know Clarke's record in the calendar year 2013 was borderline relegation form, but the season isn't played over a calendar year. Considering he finished EIGHTH with WBA last season, I think he more than deserved the chance to see this season out and then review things.

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

It's a difficult one, we must be the worst side to watch at home in the league, I'd guess results back that up as well. You've gotta keep the season ticket holders happy at the end of the day. Losing at home to League 1 opposition didn't help.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

I'm hoping we won't see too much of Holt, and we shouldn't providing Benteke stays fit. Bertrand I'm really pleased about, although I could be left disappointed if we don't get him permanently.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?

Need an enforcer in the midfield for me, a creative player if there's the budget for both. Possibly a back-up CB if there's one available as I don't think Baker should start games.

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?

Very hard to say, as I don't know if it would be interpreted differently in his native France.

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

Guzan

Okore Vlaar Olsson Bertrand

Delph Mulumbu

Gabby Sessegnon Brunt

Benteke

8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?

Man City. Palace, Cardiff, Fulham.

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

Guzan

Bacuna Vlaar Clark Bertrand

KEA Westwood Delph

Gabby Benteke Weimann

10. And finally, score predictions.

1-0 Villa - Benteke.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: eamonn on January 25, 2014, 07:06:47 PM
Liam's a good lad. All these years later and Agent Ridgewell is still putting in the hours.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 27, 2014, 08:49:07 PM
Finished article: http://westbrom.com/forum/index.php?topic=13008.0
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Legion on January 27, 2014, 08:50:55 PM
Quote
Only registered members are allowed to access this section.
Please login below or register an account with westbrom.com.

Nothing personal, but no thanks.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 27, 2014, 08:55:40 PM
Shite. Let me post the article for you.

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sBEY5mqdZr4/T9rRkiZTKII/AAAAAAAAEpg/zFadSgzbGOg/s1600/Aston+Villa.png)vs   (http://thechelseablog.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/west-brom.jpg)

     Wednesday 29th January 2014

And now we head to Villa Park as both sides look to ease their relegation worries. In their previous outings, both sides took a point off the Merseyside duo - Villa squandered a two nil lead against Liverpool and Albion came from a goal behind in Pepe Mel's first game with the club against Everton. Albion versus Villa always tend to be tight occasions with either 2-1 victories or a draw being most likely. The two outings last season finished in score draws and so did the previous meeting between the side at The Hawthorns this season. Albion were comfortably leading 2-0 until they surrendered and allowed Villa a share of the spoils.

For this edition of A View From the Opposition I've headed over to Heroes & Villains. (http://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php)

The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

Richard: The first 20 mins or so reflected the confidence of the 2 teams going into the game, but I thought after that we got to grips and in the second half should have pushed on to win as you were there for the taking !

pauliewalnuts: You were the better side in the first half, we were the better side in the second. It was quite a good game, it has to be said. I doubt Long will ever score goals better than his two that night. That also showed one way we've improved this year, we are more resilient.

Sam Smith: We were poor first half and got what we deserved in the second after we introduced our more effective players and could have won it. I don't know why Albion don't go for our jugular when it's exposed.

Adam: We were awful first half and while Long's touch for his first goal was world class we just didn't turn up.  Second half was a completely different story however and Steve Clarke looked like he didn't have a clue what to do when Lambert made the triple substitution.

Montbert: Horrifying first half where you got Zlatan Ibrahimovic to where an impressive Shane Long mask. Second half we came back and you wilted. Great Westwood goal.

WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

Montbert: Maybe harsh, but I'm impressed with Mel P and his previous records, and the change in the way you played against Everton was really instantaneous. Annoyingly.

Ads: I think it’s a poor decision to sack Clarke. I don't think you had being doing too badly given the quality of squad and level of outlay. It's pretty tight in the bottom half and a win can move you clear. The length of time it took to appoint a successor was something of a shambles.

Hoyle87: I know Clarke's record in the calendar year 2013 was borderline relegation form, but the season isn't played over a calendar year. Considering he finished EIGHTH with WBA last season, I think he more than deserved the chance to see this season out and then review things.

The Sandman: I thought the Clarke sacking was somewhat harsh. The managerial hunt seemed a bit protracted to me too, it was almost as if the WBA hierarchy were unsure what to do once they had sacked him. As for Mel, I know nothing about him. His record in Spain isn't brilliant but I have no idea what kind of constraints he worked under there. Seeing what Spanish football experts have to say about him he actually seems to be a good appointment and something of a character. However, I'd really be going with their opinions rather than mine if I said that, considering how little I follow continental football.

Sheffield Villain: Harsh. Who?

Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

pauliewalnuts: He's going to have to be, frankly, because starting all over again doesn't bear thinking about. I also suspect the major (though not only) constraining factor is money, in particular the need to not spend too much of it.

Sam Smith: Yes as any other Gaffa would be working under the same constraints. He really has to improve the home form and the quality of play as it has been genuinely shocking at times.

The Sandman: I think yes. We've put in some poor performances recently but were much better on Saturday against Liverpool. I definitely think he is a step forward compared to our last manager and has performed respectably given the financial constraints in place and the level of rebuilding the club has required. If the Liverpool performance is a sign of what is to come and we finish the season strongly then he remains the right man for me.

Montbert: Well, people say he needs to be given time, but see above for how quickly you can see the signs of a new manager stamping their way of playing on teams. If he really was going to be the guy to get us playing top stuff, we'd have seen a f**k of a lot more evidence by now IMO. However, as Paulie said, we don't really have a choice but to hope he is the right man.

Ads: Yes he is. Things are not great, especially at home, but the club has a plan and by hook or crook, it appears to be working. If the home form was as good as the away form, we would be above Man United. It's got to be sorted out as it's been poor for way too long.

Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

supertom: Holt seemed a strange signing but he's just a loan to cover the injured Kozak. He's got a bit of nous which we've been lacking. Bertrand is a decent young player and his debut was promising. I'd love to see him here next season.

Damo70: Holt is good, experienced cover and still leaves us one other Premier League loan. Bertrand will improve the side defensively, he is quality.

hoyle87: I'm hoping we won't see too much of Holt, and we shouldn't providing Benteke stays fit. Bertrand I'm really pleased about, although I could be left disappointed if we don't get him permanently.

pauliewalnuts: Holt - massively unimpressed, will turn out a waste of money. Bertrand, much more impressive. Thank God no more Luna.

Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?

KevinGage: Central midfield, centre defence and wide cover/attacking midfield too, ideally.

The Sandman: Yes, I think we need at least one new midfielder to provide a better link between the mid and the strikers. A quality defensive midfielder might also be a useful addition as Westwood isn't playing as well as last season and I'm really not sure about El Ahmadi. Experience defensive cover is also a must. Vlaar is injury prone and without him we are very weak in central defence.

Advillafan: Centre-Back, defensive midfield and an attacking midfielder. I'm hopeful that our full-backs will look better with some cover in defensive midfield.

Ads: Our midfield is in desperate need of one or two more players. A proper ball winning midfielder and a play maker are a must. I think this would have a real positive impact on our home form

Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?

Ads: I think so yes. There is no place in football for any of that anti-Semitic nonsense. The anti-establishment line does not wash with me, coming from a millionaire who drives a £250,000 sports car.

rob_bridge: He should have apologised immediately when the connatations became clear. Yep suspension is in order. No great loss. To anyone

Damo70: He has been naive at best. I think the standard ban is five games and that would be about right for me. Any repeat and I would throw the book at him.

Sheffield Villain: Yes. Even if he was just sticking up for a friend, the friend was a comedian accused of anti-semitism. He was a prat for doing it. 5 games minimum.

Michel Sibble: The FA need to set an example in charging Anelka, it's less about what constitutes a reverse Nazi signal, rather any such action needs to be nipped in the bud before it becomes a big problem. We can do without racists in the game and we can do without cocks like Anelka and Suarez.

Sam Smith: It's meaning appears to be ambiguous but it's ill advised at best and anti Semitic at worst. It should be treated like any other of the cases of this nature. Appropriate suspension following investigation assuming his guilt is proven.

If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?

Pauliewalnuts: Mediocre.

KevinGage: Guzan, Lowton, Vlaar, Olsson, Bertrand, Mulumbu, Brunt, Delph, Gabby, Benteke, Behranio

Adam: Villa strikers, mostly Olbiyun midfield, mix of both in defence and Guzan in goal.

Ads: If all our players were fit, then I would probably include Mulumbu and Morrison in our midfield and I would take Olsson into the squad too.

Hoyle87: Guzan

Okore Vlaar Olsson Bertrand

Delph Mulumbu

Gabby Sessegnon Brunt

Benteke

Matt Collins: The west brom players id have would be, in order: Morrison, berahino, mulumbu, olsson, amalfitano. Morrison most likely to be first choice. Maybe mulumbu too

Foster is good but we don't  need him. I'd have had Shane long at villa too.

Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?

Montbert: I'd love Arsenal to win, but the dictator-owned oil arseholes at City will probably get it in the end. As for relegation, who the hell knows, though if West Ham keep Allardyce for too long I'd be stunned if they stay up.

Ads I will be very surprised if Man City do not win the league. I think Sunderland, Cardiff and Palace will go down.

pauliewalnuts: Man City win league, Norwich, Sunderland, West Ham doomed.

KevinGage: Chelsea.   Slumberland, Palarse and Norwich   I expect West Ham and yourselves to be heavily involved though.  We might be fighting it out too, if the home form in the second half of the campaign mirrors the first

The Sandman: Man City to win the league. West Ham, Fulham and Cardiff to go down.

What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?

Adam: There are some certs - Guzan, Vlaar, Delph, Westwood, Benteke, Wiemann, Agbonlahor.  The others will be a mix of Bacuna, Lowton, Bertrand, Luna, Sylla, El Ahmadi, and Albrighton.

peter w: Guzan; Lowton, Vlaar, Clark, Bertrand; KEA, Westwood, Delph; Gabby, Benteke, Weimann

supertom: If possible the same 11 that started against Liverpool. Although he may put Holt in there for some additional physical presence.

Hoyle87: Guzan

Bacuna Vlaar Clark Bertrand

KEA Westwood Delph

Gabby Benteke Weimann

And finally, score predictions

Damo70: 2-1 Villa

ciggiesnbeer: Dont know. Beauty of derby games, everything goes out the window.

Richard: We should win 3-1 but hey this is normally a draw so 2 2 again

Sam Smith: Big Villa win or a Narrow Albion win. If we start like you did at the Hawthorns I think we will make you pay but our home form is so bad Albion must surely fancy it. It's gonna be a cracker!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A thank you to the Villa fans for their answers. To view the answers you can do by Clicking Here (http://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=51357.0)

Here's to an entertaining game and three points returning to the Black Country

Ole, Ole Ole Ole, Pepe, Pepe
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Legion on January 27, 2014, 09:05:13 PM
Cheers, apart from the three points bit!
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 27, 2014, 09:16:53 PM
Why do you have to register just to look at the site?
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 27, 2014, 09:25:32 PM
We've closed it for a number of reasons recently.

The main one being Nicolas Anelka - we're a bit cautious about who is viewing the forum.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Hopadop on January 27, 2014, 10:32:47 PM
We've closed it for a number of reasons recently.

The main one being Nicolas Anelka - we're a bit cautious about who is viewing the forum.

Very sensible.  You don't want the daft anti-semite seeing what you're up to.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 27, 2014, 10:36:21 PM
We've closed it for a number of reasons recently.

The main one being Nicolas Anelka - we're a bit cautious about who is viewing the forum.

Very sensible.  You don't want the daft anti-semite seeing what you're up to.

I didn't mean Anelka himself  ;D

You know what I meant.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 27, 2014, 10:58:26 PM
Doesn't explain why you hide it.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: LeeB on January 27, 2014, 11:24:18 PM
Spotted in this weeks Solihull Times:

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1619419_10152556045362067_536133889_n.jpg)
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Ads on January 28, 2014, 08:34:09 AM
We need more houses that look like Hitler/Anelka on this site.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: QBVILLA on January 28, 2014, 08:56:34 AM
1. The game at the Hawthorns finished 2-2. What was your assessment of the game?

Sessengon was Villa's best player in the first half, Albion should have been out of sight. Clarke failed to deal with our three subs and in the end we looked the most likely side to win it.

2. WBA recently sacked Steve Clarke and appointed Pepe Mel. What were your thoughts on Clarke's sacking and the appointment of Pepe Mel?

The form since Christmas suggests he deserved to go. His signings in the summer were poor. As for Mel, a jobbing manager in the Spanish league. Reckon Peace has taken the cheap option but time will tell.

3. Paul Lambert has been receiving some criticism from supporters. Is he still the right man for AVFC?

Chopping and changing managers hasn't done us any good and whilst some of the things he has done are baffling I don't think we could get anyone better at this moment in time.

4. Villa have signed Grant Holt and Ryan Bertrand. What are your opinions on these additions?

Bertrand was a surprise, a pleasant surprise, really chuffed. Holt signing had me scratching my head but if he can recapture the form of two seasons ago he's a handful and therefore a good addition to the squad.

5. Are there any other positions which need strengthening during January?
A midfielder who can create is a must. Also a centre half to partner Vlaar.

6. Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?
Footballers should stay out of politics, sensationalised crap. However, it has to be fair all round so a 3 to 5 game ban.

7. If you were to form a side using Albion/Villa players - what would the side be?
Guzan, Albion right back Billy something, Vlaar, Olsson the cheat, Bertrand
Westwood,Mulumbu,Brunt,Agbonlahor
Benteke Weimann ( would've been Long, ridiculous sale imo)


8. Which side shall win the league & which three sides shall be relegated?
Man City.
Fulham,Cardiff and the other one take your pick from anyone from 10th down

9. What side is Paul Lambert likely to choose for our encounter?
Same as Liverpool if fit

10. And finally, score predictions.
3-2 Villa
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 28, 2014, 06:24:02 PM
Doesn't explain why you hide it.

We're having club sponsors viewing the forum.

It's closed so we can monitor who wants to join the forum.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: cheltenhamlion on January 28, 2014, 06:36:25 PM
A genuine question. Club sponsors? Zoopla or prospective new ones? And why are they surfing your website, potentially?

We had a member of our board turn up here once. We told him to fuck off for 2 weeks until we saw a copy of his passport and a close up photo of what scar a shrapnel wound leaves.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Archbishop Herbert Cockthrottle on January 29, 2014, 08:30:35 AM
Right. Time for my pre match ritual...

(http://theimpersonals.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/voodoo-dolls-large.jpg)
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Bad English on January 29, 2014, 11:16:46 AM
Shite. Let me post the article for you.

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sBEY5mqdZr4/T9rRkiZTKII/AAAAAAAAEpg/zFadSgzbGOg/s1600/Aston+Villa.png)vs   (http://thechelseablog.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/west-brom.jpg)





Anelka has been in the headlines for the wrong reasons. What have you made of the situation? Does he warrant a suspension and for how long?


So, it's Panthera Leo versus erm... Turdus Turdus.


And , you forgot my contribution: Anelka: ******!


;-)
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 30, 2014, 12:44:27 AM
I feel a bit sorry for West Brom. Their local "rivals" have won a real European Cup Final. They've just lost their pretend one.

Any idea how Coventry are getting on this year? Does anyone else remember when we used to pretend to care about them?
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 30, 2014, 12:51:58 AM
How come they no longer keep signing up to the site to tell us far ahead of us they are as a club?
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 30, 2014, 12:55:10 AM
It's or gon quiet ay eet?
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 30, 2014, 12:57:10 AM
We gave them a 4-0 lead and yet we came away with 4 points.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: supertom on January 30, 2014, 01:15:19 AM
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tLAz3zvoSvQ/T87MOog8RPI/AAAAAAAAMkU/Q_ycgdT8e1c/s400/20120418120245-62cbeff6.gif)
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on January 30, 2014, 01:18:43 AM
I admit I was worried. I think Mel is a very good manager. They played some pleasing passing until the end when they started hoofing it. He was a bit silly sticking with the high line when two goals up though.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Matt Collins on January 30, 2014, 07:06:59 AM
Thanks for playing Lugano. He was our best player
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Stu on January 30, 2014, 07:21:05 AM
Liam hasn't come on with patronising questions? I am surprised.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: chrisw1 on January 30, 2014, 08:48:06 AM
Come on folks, show some class.  It could have gone either way.

Liam seems a decent fella and must be hurting today.

Great goals by Brunt & Delph.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Richard E on January 30, 2014, 08:50:22 AM
Come on folks, show some class.  It could have gone either way.

No. We beat the Baggies. Personally I'm going to gloat for all its worth. They dish it out well enough when it suits them.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on January 30, 2014, 08:51:42 AM
Have to say that Olsson and Lugano were both incredibly slow.

We desperately need a new centre-back, when Vlaar went down after their 3rd goal I was imagining a Clark-Baker partnership and lots of goals conceded for the rest of the season.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Clampy on January 30, 2014, 08:57:39 AM
Come on folks, show some class.  It could have gone either way.

No. We beat the Baggies. Personally I'm going to gloat for all its worth. They dish it out well enough when it suits them.

Absolutely. If they'd have come back from 2 goals down to win, they'd be reminding us for weeks. Remember their pathetic tribute to Stan, their clapping in the 8th minute last season and take the piss to your hearts content.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Clampy on January 30, 2014, 08:59:21 AM
I think for once, Call Me Franskey might just be worth listening to later.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 30, 2014, 09:00:54 AM
I think for once, Call Me Franskey might just be worth listening to later.

He'll still say they've got the better team.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Stu on January 30, 2014, 09:01:40 AM
I never realised how whiny and moany Albion are before last night. Constantly surrounding the ref and whinging in his ear all game long.

They'm a great footballing side ay they? First goal from a speculative punt, second from a quick set piece, and the third a defensive error from Villa.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Archbishop Herbert Cockthrottle on January 30, 2014, 09:01:50 AM
There was some buffoon on radio WM this morning talking as though he had bread in his mouth. I think thats what we can expect tonight.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Stu on January 30, 2014, 09:03:51 AM
Come on folks, show some class.  It could have gone either way.

No. We beat the Baggies. Personally I'm going to gloat for all its worth. They dish it out well enough when it suits them.

Absolutely. If they'd have come back from 2 goals down to win, they'd be reminding us for weeks. Remember their pathetic tribute to Stan, their clapping in the 8th minute last season and take the piss to your hearts content.

And the wankers that came on here taking the piss out of the 19th minute tribute - basically saying we should be booing Stan now that he has cancer.

They can fuck off, the sanctimonious "We're doing ever so well for a small club" tossbags.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Clampy on January 30, 2014, 09:06:11 AM
I think for once, Call Me Franskey might just be worth listening to later.

He'll still say they've got the better team.

Or invite calls asking how many of the Villa side would get into their team.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: chrisw1 on January 30, 2014, 09:13:36 AM
First goal from a speculative punt.

And there you have it.  Brunts goal summed up with claret and blue specs. 

Of course, Delphs goal was well worked brilliance.

And to think some people say football fans are one eyed...
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Stu on January 30, 2014, 09:19:41 AM
First goal from a speculative punt.

And there you have it.  Brunts goal summed up with claret and blue specs. 

Of course, Delphs goal was well worked brilliance.

And to think some people say football fans are one eyed...

Did you ever stop to think I might be doing it on purpose? I was expecting a bite, but not from a Villa fan.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on January 30, 2014, 09:20:38 AM
Come on folks, show some class.  It could have gone either way.


And just imagine the Albion reaction on here this morning if it had gone their way last night.

Fuck em. They can crawl back ino the woodwork.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: chrisw1 on January 30, 2014, 09:26:56 AM
First goal from a speculative punt.

And there you have it.  Brunts goal summed up with claret and blue specs. 

Of course, Delphs goal was well worked brilliance.

And to think some people say football fans are one eyed...

Did you ever stop to think I might be doing it on purpose? I was expecting a bite, but not from a Villa fan.

Fair enough.  But it's a fine line between sarcasm and sounding like a tit.  I can just see that quote posted ion their forums with a comment about how deluded we are.  But point taken.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Des Little on January 30, 2014, 09:27:16 AM
When are our club shop going to start selling 'Pride of the Midlands' t shirts?  That's right, they're not.  Because we don't need to.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Ads on January 30, 2014, 09:28:05 AM
First goal from a speculative punt.

And there you have it.  Brunts goal summed up with claret and blue specs. 

Of course, Delphs goal was well worked brilliance.

And to think some people say football fans are one eyed...

Did you ever stop to think I might be doing it on purpose? I was expecting a bite, but not from a Villa fan.

Fair enough.  But it's a fine line between sarcasm and sounding like a tit.  I can just see that quote posted ion their forums with a comment about how deluded we are.  But point taken.

Who cares what the Pride of the Midlands think?
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Stu on January 30, 2014, 09:30:39 AM
First goal from a speculative punt.

And there you have it.  Brunts goal summed up with claret and blue specs. 

Of course, Delphs goal was well worked brilliance.

And to think some people say football fans are one eyed...

Did you ever stop to think I might be doing it on purpose? I was expecting a bite, but not from a Villa fan.

Fair enough.  But it's a fine line between sarcasm and sounding like a tit.  I can just see that quote posted ion their forums with a comment about how deluded we are.  But point taken.

I couldn't care less if it posted on a boggies forum, I posted it on here, a Villa forum, to take the piss.

I don't think you'll find much grace for Albion on this forum, of all places. And don't patronise me, thanks.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Damo70 on January 30, 2014, 09:34:49 AM
So far today I have heard how they were by far the better side for the entire ninety minutes, how lucky we were but they knew before the game even kicked off that would be the case and if they had held onto their two two goal leads this season the table would show a more true picture with them as good as safe and us as good as down. So I don't think favourably comparing Delph's goal to Brunt's even comes close to all that for being deluded. The only thing they have got right is their suspicion that we may be taking their pride of the Midlands chant and turning into something to ridicule them with.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: chrisw1 on January 30, 2014, 09:35:13 AM
Patronise?

Not sure how you read that into what I said? 
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Villa-Villan on January 30, 2014, 09:57:24 AM
I thoroughly enjoyed the win and the fact it was against the Stripy-Filth is even sweeter. I personally have the misfortune to know one of their fans who really is a total gobshite. So knowing how the twat will be feeling this morning is just fine by me!

Over the years I have seen many games against this lot and seen lots of trouble between supporters and even when they unfortunately attempt to start a bust up, most times they lose that as well.

Up The Villa.

Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Dr Butler on January 30, 2014, 10:01:32 AM
is the DVD of the first ten minutes of both games out yet ?
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 30, 2014, 10:11:08 AM
I might go on an Albion forum and post:

Quote
Hi

I'm from the Villa forum, H&V.

We are running a review article on last nights match and have a Q and A section interviewing a rival fan, if some of you could oblige?

The questions are:

1. How do ya like them apples?

Thanks in advance!
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Fergal on January 30, 2014, 10:24:28 AM
First goal from a speculative punt.

And there you have it.  Brunts goal summed up with claret and blue specs. 

Of course, Delphs goal was well worked brilliance.

And to think some people say football fans are one eyed...

Did you ever stop to think I might be doing it on purpose? I was expecting a bite, but not from a Villa fan.

Fair enough.  But it's a fine line between sarcasm and sounding like a tit.  I can just see that quote posted ion their forums with a comment about how deluded we are.  But point taken.

Who cares what the Pride of the Midlands think?
One of the best things about this forum thingy is being one eyed and taking the piss.  Who ever said we have to present a fair and balanced view of our lesser known rivals. (The term rivals is used with a Bit of artistic licence) 
They had a 2-0 lead and we won 4-3 this gives us thr right to take the piss. Fair? Feck that.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Olneythelonely on January 30, 2014, 10:40:22 AM
Agreed. But it was 4-3.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Fergal on January 30, 2014, 10:47:49 AM
Agreed. But it was 4-3.
Feck, typo...
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 30, 2014, 11:21:57 AM
Congratulations on your victory - no complaints from me.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 30, 2014, 11:23:14 AM
If Olsson spent as much time defending as he did moaning at the ref then maybe WBA would have got something out of the game
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 30, 2014, 11:24:56 AM
Congratulations on your victory - no complaints from me.

Thanks for picking Lugano. He's awful, isn't he?

It's just as well Gabby wasn't playing, really.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 30, 2014, 11:26:45 AM
Congratulations on your victory - no complaints from me.

Thanks for picking Lugano. He's awful, isn't he?

It's just as well Gabby wasn't playing, really.

He's behind a joke is Lugano.

In every game he has played for us this season he has gifted the opposition goals - even more annoying when our best centre back is sat there watching from the bench.

You want a dependable defender next to Ron Vlaar. You can have Lugano if you want? Free transfer.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 30, 2014, 11:30:37 AM
You want a dependable defender next to Ron Vlaar. You can have Lugano if you want? Free transfer.

Ha ha, nah, you're alright.

One thing I will say for both of these matches this season, there have been some truly belting goals. Brunt and Delph last night, Long (x2) and Westwood last time around, and two incredibly entertaining matches, too.

Last night there was some terrible defending from both sides, but what a spectacle it was.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 30, 2014, 11:33:55 AM
I agree. Both good games packed with entertainment.

What I will say is that some of the defending has been very very poor to say the least.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: PeterWithe on January 30, 2014, 11:34:12 AM
If Olsson spent as much time defending as he did moaning at the ref then maybe WBA would have got something out of the game

His jinking run down our left was quite entertaining, like a hippo in a wig ice skating with Tucker from Grange Hill.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Meanwood Villa on January 30, 2014, 11:41:23 AM
Fair play to you for coming on here Liam Baggies, you must be hurting.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Astral Weeks on January 30, 2014, 11:43:35 AM
You want a dependable defender next to Ron Vlaar. You can have Lugano if you want? Free transfer.

Ha ha, nah, you're alright.

One thing I will say for both of these matches this season, there have been some truly belting goals. Brunt and Delph last night, Long (x2) and Westwood last time around, and two incredibly entertaining matches, too.

Last night there was some terrible defending from both sides, but what a spectacle it was.
True. Both games about as far from the cliche of a dour local derby as it's possible to get.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Jon Crofts on January 30, 2014, 11:45:16 AM
And not spolit by too many niggles, Battenburg did a great job.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: glasses on January 30, 2014, 11:48:25 AM
My Baggies colleague took the view that Mel looks to have solved an issue and created a new one.

He couldn't understand why McAuley (sp?) was on the bench. He was happy enough with the performance and is looking forward to Mel getting used to the league with a few games under his belt.

He is a little bitter though. First thing he said was something about if both pen appeals/incidents happened at their place both decisions would be different.

To be honest, I've not seen both again so can't really comment.

Chuffed with the win. Great night, great goals, poor defending.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: QBVILLA on January 30, 2014, 11:54:16 AM
My Baggies colleague took the view that Mel looks to have solved an issue and created a new one.

He couldn't understand why McAuley (sp?) was on the bench. He was happy enough with the performance and is looking forward to Mel getting used to the league with a few games under his belt.

He is a little bitter though. First thing he said was something about if both pen appeals/incidents happened at their place both decisions would be different.

To be honest, I've not seen both again so can't really comment.

Chuffed with the win. Great night, great goals, poor defending.

Hand on heart and allegiances aside I thought Clattenburg got both decisions spot on. I can't see how they can be argued to be honest. Reckon the only real thing they could dispute would be Bacuna's goal which looked to me as it had gone in off his arm but even that would be clutching at straws. Was a great game and Lugano's miss for 3-4 then foul for 4-3 proved just how fine the margins are between winning and losing.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: PeterWithe on January 30, 2014, 12:00:15 PM
There was a fella on the radio floating the opinion that Lugano is playing because he is one of the few Spanish speakers in the squad so if the coach needs to get instructions carried out on the pitch quickly he can get it done. Makes sense as he surely couldn't be in any professional football team on ability alone.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: QBVILLA on January 30, 2014, 12:01:47 PM
There was a fella on the radio floating the opinion that Lugano is playing because he is one of the few Spanish speakers in the squad so if the coach needs to get instructions carried out on the pitch quickly he can get it done. Makes sense as he surely couldn't be in any professional football team on ability alone.

I can't recall seeing a slower player in the top flight.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: OzVilla on January 30, 2014, 12:03:18 PM
Agreed, I honestly can't see any problems with Benteke's penalty. Actually I'd go further and say on first view I thought it was a stonewall penalty.

Theirs had it been given it'd have been genuinely soft, not to say we've never seen them given though.

Superb comeback though, this team under Lambert does show some bollocks and that's as good a habit as a side with the limitations like ours can have.

Benteke's back isn't he.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: glasses on January 30, 2014, 12:03:29 PM
He's the Uruguay captain though isn't he. He can't be pants, just probably not suited to English football. He clearly has no pace, and if Mel is going to play this high line stuff then he won't be any good for them used that way.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 30, 2014, 12:05:02 PM
Fair play to you for coming on here Liam Baggies, you must be hurting.

Not really hurting that much. I half expected us after going 2-0 up to find some way of throwing it away. I expected a draw if anything but weren't expecting us to collapse like we did.

The four big decisions in the game Clattenberg got spot on - the penalty, Foster's tackle on Bemteke and our penalty claims which were quite rightly waved away.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: QBVILLA on January 30, 2014, 12:07:42 PM
He's the Uruguay captain though isn't he. He can't be pants, just probably not suited to English football. He clearly has no pace, and if Mel is going to play this high line stuff then he won't be any good for them used that way.

I know. I used the same argument regarding Tom Cleverley last season that he wouldn't be a regular for England and Man United if he was shit but I couldn't for the life of me  understand why. Hope he plays in the summer against England.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Big Dick Edwards on January 30, 2014, 12:08:00 PM
If Olsson spent as much time defending as he did moaning at the ref then maybe WBA would have got something out of the game

His jinking run down our left was quite entertaining, like a hippo in a wig ice skating with Tucker from Grange Hill.

Ha!Ha! Brilliant..
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: QBVILLA on January 30, 2014, 12:08:37 PM
Fair play to you for coming on here Liam Baggies, you must be hurting.

Not really hurting that much. I half expected us after going 2-0 up to find some way of throwing it away. I expected a draw if anything but weren't expecting us to collapse like we did.

The four big decisions in the game Clattenberg got spot on - the penalty, Foster's tackle on Bemteke and our penalty claims which were quite rightly waved away.

Yep, totally agree with that.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: OCD on January 30, 2014, 12:19:36 PM
Fair play to you for coming on here Liam Baggies, you must be hurting.

Not really hurting that much. I half expected us after going 2-0 up to find some way of throwing it away. I expected a draw if anything but weren't expecting us to collapse like we did.

The four big decisions in the game Clattenberg got spot on - the penalty, Foster's tackle on Bemteke and our penalty claims which were quite rightly waved away.

Fair play. There are quite a few Baggies fans who are blaming the result on the ref.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: LeeB on January 30, 2014, 12:24:32 PM
Fair play to you for coming on here Liam Baggies, you must be hurting.

Not really hurting that much. I half expected us after going 2-0 up to find some way of throwing it away. I expected a draw if anything but weren't expecting us to collapse like we did.

The four big decisions in the game Clattenberg got spot on - the penalty, Foster's tackle on Bemteke and our penalty claims which were quite rightly waved away.

Fair play. There are quite a few Baggies fans who are blaming the result on the ref.

Well they can't blame the manager as he's only just got there.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on January 30, 2014, 12:28:58 PM
Fair play to you for coming on here Liam Baggies, you must be hurting.

Not really hurting that much. I half expected us after going 2-0 up to find some way of throwing it away. I expected a draw if anything but weren't expecting us to collapse like we did.

The four big decisions in the game Clattenberg got spot on - the penalty, Foster's tackle on Bemteke and our penalty claims which were quite rightly waved away.

Fair play. There are quite a few Baggies fans who are blaming the result on the ref.

Well they can't blame the manager as he's only just got there.

It most certainly can't be their board as they're the best run club in the league.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Diablo on January 30, 2014, 12:36:22 PM
Fair play to you for coming on here Liam Baggies, you must be hurting.

Not really hurting that much. I half expected us after going 2-0 up to find some way of throwing it away. I expected a draw if anything but weren't expecting us to collapse like we did.

The four big decisions in the game Clattenberg got spot on - the penalty, Foster's tackle on Bemteke and our penalty claims which were quite rightly waved away.

Fair play for being such a good sport Liam - enjoy the rest of the season. I almost filled in your questionnaire (predicted a draw but feared the worse when Gabby was out, even more so after 8 mins) but will ensure that I do next season.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 30, 2014, 12:46:29 PM
Liam seems a decent chap to me.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Liam_Baggies on January 30, 2014, 01:00:38 PM
Fair play. There are quite a few Baggies fans who are blaming the result on the ref.

There's nothing to blame the referee about.

The only decision that could be deemed as controversial was whether Lugano was pulled to the ground in the second half after giving away the penalty. In my opinion, he realised he had cocked up and therefore tried to make amends by throwing himself to the ground. I thought Clatternberg had a good game last night.

Liam seems a decent chap to me.

Cheers mate - I expect the abuse as I'm intruding on a Villa forum but out of respect and courtesy to the moderators who have been decent to me, I ignore the baiting.

Plus, I'd look a massive tit.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Ad@m on January 30, 2014, 01:06:26 PM
He couldn't understand why McAuley (sp?) was on the bench. He was happy enough with the performance and is looking forward to Mel getting used to the league with a few games under his belt.

The amount of chat I've heard from Boggies over the past 12 or so hours about McAuley makes me think this guy is the love child of Bobby Moore and Franz Beckenbauer!

Oh and Liam, can you stop being so reasonable please.  I really want to dislike you because of your footballing allegiances but your all round sensible behaviour is making it very, very difficult!!!!
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 30, 2014, 02:10:27 PM
Fair play. There are quite a few Baggies fans who are blaming the result on the ref.

There's nothing to blame the referee about.

The only decision that could be deemed as controversial was whether Lugano was pulled to the ground in the second half after giving away the penalty. In my opinion, he realised he had cocked up and therefore tried to make amends by throwing himself to the ground. I thought Clatternberg had a good game last night.

Liam seems a decent chap to me.

Cheers mate - I expect the abuse as I'm intruding on a Villa forum but out of respect and courtesy to the moderators who have been decent to me, I ignore the baiting.

Plus, I'd look a massive tit.
Well done Liam, all the best.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Dr Butler on January 30, 2014, 02:17:04 PM
He couldn't understand why McAuley (sp?) was on the bench. He was happy enough with the performance and is looking forward to Mel getting used to the league with a few games under his belt.

The amount of chat I've heard from Boggies over the past 12 or so hours about McAuley makes me think this guy is the love child of Bobby Moore and Franz Beckenbauer!

Oh and Liam, can you stop being so reasonable please.  I really want to dislike you because of your footballing allegiances but your all round sensible behaviour is making it very, very difficult!!!!

yeah stop being so.....normal and nice about it all.

all the best for the rest of the season Liam. :)
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: LeeB on January 30, 2014, 02:53:37 PM
Fair play. There are quite a few Baggies fans who are blaming the result on the ref.

There's nothing to blame the referee about.

The only decision that could be deemed as controversial was whether Lugano was pulled to the ground in the second half after giving away the penalty. In my opinion, he realised he had cocked up and therefore tried to make amends by throwing himself to the ground. I thought Clatternberg had a good game last night.

Liam seems a decent chap to me.

Cheers mate - I expect the abuse as I'm intruding on a Villa forum but out of respect and courtesy to the moderators who have been decent to me, I ignore the baiting.

Plus, I'd look a massive tit.

I'm not comfortable with you being so affable. Stop it, or least have a minor hissy over something.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 31, 2014, 12:50:39 AM
If anyone hasn't seen it, here's Tel's take on the match.

http://thebirminghampress.com/2014/01/boinging-in-the-rain/
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: QBVILLA on January 31, 2014, 06:33:41 AM
If anyone hasn't seen it, here's Tel's take on the match.

http://thebirminghampress.com/2014/01/boinging-in-the-rain/


Can't argue with any of that apart from saying Brunt's goal was their goal of the season. Long's opener in the game at the Hawthorns was (allegiances aside) one of the best goals i've seen in a while.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: silhillvilla on January 31, 2014, 07:56:04 AM
Was it about 83/84 when we had the same 4-3 score line
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Legion on January 31, 2014, 08:03:03 AM
1983.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: QBVILLA on January 31, 2014, 08:47:37 AM
1983.

Was that game 3-3 at half time as well? Memory may be playing tricks on me as I saw it on video years ago, was there a Brendan Ormsby goal?
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Damo70 on January 31, 2014, 08:53:07 AM
1983.

Was that game 3-3 at half time as well? Memory may be playing tricks on me as I saw it on video years ago, was there a Brendan Ormsby goal?

I was telling my son about that game when the score was 2-2 on Wednesday. 3-3 at half time then Ormsby got the second half winner at the Holte End. I am a bit sketchy on the first six goals but I think they scored first then we went 2-1 and 3-2 up. I think our goals may have come from Withe, Shaw and Evans and I'm pretty sure Regis and Thompson both scored for them.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Fin Feds Dad on January 31, 2014, 09:01:40 AM
1983.

Was that game 3-3 at half time as well? Memory may be playing tricks on me as I saw it on video years ago, was there a Brendan Ormsby goal?

Pretty sure Brendan got the winner
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Damo70 on January 31, 2014, 09:03:18 AM
If anyone hasn't seen it, here's Tel's take on the match.

http://thebirminghampress.com/2014/01/boinging-in-the-rain/

I'm not sure about the 'numerous controversial refereeing decisions'.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 31, 2014, 10:29:31 AM
If anyone hasn't seen it, here's Tel's take on the match.

http://thebirminghampress.com/2014/01/boinging-in-the-rain/

I'm not sure about the 'numerous controversial refereeing decisions'.

I'm 100% certain that Villa fans weren't and wouldn't be singing about being the top team in the Midlands.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 31, 2014, 11:27:35 AM
If anyone hasn't seen it, here's Tel's take on the match.

http://thebirminghampress.com/2014/01/boinging-in-the-rain/

I'm not sure about the 'numerous controversial refereeing decisions'.

I'm 100% certain that Villa fans weren't and wouldn't be singing about being the top team in the Midlands.

The we shall not be moved chant refers to it a bit.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 31, 2014, 12:32:30 PM
It's an Albion fan, writing about the Albion. I don't expect impartiality.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Ads on January 31, 2014, 12:33:45 PM
If anyone hasn't seen it, here's Tel's take on the match.

http://thebirminghampress.com/2014/01/boinging-in-the-rain/

I'm not sure about the 'numerous controversial refereeing decisions'.

I'm 100% certain that Villa fans weren't and wouldn't be singing about being the top team in the Midlands.

The we shall not be moved chant refers to it a bit.

That is more for the Noses benefit though.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: nodge on January 31, 2014, 12:38:33 PM
From where I was in the upper Holte, they were "vociferous" at 0-2 but not so much at 1-2 and definitely not at 4-3
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Ads on January 31, 2014, 12:42:22 PM
They knew what they bin up from around three minutes up until twelve minutes, then nothing uptil they knew what they bin again on the 40 minute mark.

They must have forgot after that.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 31, 2014, 01:28:46 PM
Putting myself in their shoes, it must be infuriating to have played us twice this year, gone 2 up inside 12 minutes at home, and then 2 up inside 8 minutes away from home, only to wind up taking 1 point from 6.

It's almost like they have some form of cultural cringe going on, where all their insecurity kicks in and they go to pieces with the excitement of taking something from the big club up the road.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 31, 2014, 01:35:24 PM
Their support was shit. Lots of noise when 1 and 2 up (not surprisingly) and then nothing when we made it 2-1 onwards until their third. And then fuck all once we were ahead again. They knew what they were for all of 8 minutes and then conveniently forgot the words to that song for the next 80 minutes.

Must be really hard for them to have their dreams and aspirations of finishing above us fading. Even more so to realise what they actually are, always have been, and always will be.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: saunders_heroes on January 31, 2014, 01:37:44 PM
Horrible fans. Every time they scored their fans ran towards the Villa fans in the lower North looking for trouble. The sooner that club are relegated back to where they belong the better.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Ad@m on January 31, 2014, 01:40:06 PM
What words do they sing to 'Know what you are'?
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 31, 2014, 01:42:53 PM
Horrible fans. Every time they scored their fans ran towards the Villa fans in the lower North looking for trouble. The sooner that club are relegated back to where they belong the better.

Worse than small heath for that. And a lot of them were proper 30+ year old blokes, not kids. Even running from the back of the stand to join in the rush towards us. A rush it should be added that was so intent on reaching us that a few stewards stopped them with relative ease. Sad twats.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: saunders_heroes on January 31, 2014, 01:58:17 PM
Horrible fans. Every time they scored their fans ran towards the Villa fans in the lower North looking for trouble. The sooner that club are relegated back to where they belong the better.

Worse than small heath for that. And a lot of them were proper 30+ year old blokes, not kids. Even running from the back of the stand to join in the rush towards us. A rush it should be added that was so intent on reaching us that a few stewards stopped them with relative ease. Sad twats.

Spot on. Their fans seemed so bitter and angry. Decades of pent-up frustration of looking up at the Villa with envious eyes. Jealousy is horrible thing.
It was mighty fine watching their fans stream out at the end with their tails firmly lodged in between their legs.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 31, 2014, 02:03:21 PM
Horrible fans. Every time they scored their fans ran towards the Villa fans in the lower North looking for trouble. The sooner that club are relegated back to where they belong the better.

Worse than small heath for that. And a lot of them were proper 30+ year old blokes, not kids. Even running from the back of the stand to join in the rush towards us. A rush it should be added that was so intent on reaching us that a few stewards stopped them with relative ease. Sad twats.

Spot on. Their fans seemed so bitter and angry. Decades of pent-up frustration of looking up at the Villa with envious eyes. Jealousy is horrible thing.
It was mighty fine watching their fans stream out at the end with their tails firmly lodged in between their legs.

One thing I have noticed about their support in the past two seasons is that they're a lot more arrogant/cocky/up for it walking down Witton Lane beforehand. They've started to believe their own hype.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: saunders_heroes on January 31, 2014, 02:08:06 PM
Horrible fans. Every time they scored their fans ran towards the Villa fans in the lower North looking for trouble. The sooner that club are relegated back to where they belong the better.

Worse than small heath for that. And a lot of them were proper 30+ year old blokes, not kids. Even running from the back of the stand to join in the rush towards us. A rush it should be added that was so intent on reaching us that a few stewards stopped them with relative ease. Sad twats.

Spot on. Their fans seemed so bitter and angry. Decades of pent-up frustration of looking up at the Villa with envious eyes. Jealousy is horrible thing.
It was mighty fine watching their fans stream out at the end with their tails firmly lodged in between their legs.

One thing I have noticed about their support in the past two seasons is that they're a lot more arrogant/cocky/up for it walking down Witton Lane beforehand. They've started to believe their own hype.

And that ridiculous song about being the 'pride of the midlands' - do they not see that it's nothing but a back-handed compliment to Aston Villa? It's lovely to know that they judge all their "success" on where they finish in relation to the Villa.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 31, 2014, 02:11:07 PM
'Finished higher than the Villa' appears on their honours list.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 31, 2014, 02:12:09 PM
They hate us as much as Small Heath do. The only differences are that they've got some sort of pride in their own achievements to dilute the bitterness a bit and it's only Small Heath's supporters who hate us. At Albion the loathing starts in the boardroom. 
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Pat McMahon on January 31, 2014, 02:29:01 PM
1983.

Was that game 3-3 at half time as well? Memory may be playing tricks on me as I saw it on video years ago, was there a Brendan Ormsby goal?

Pretty sure Brendan got the winner

IIRC that is right.

I was absolutely gutted to miss this game but it was my sister's wedding that day and I was giving her away so couldn't get out of it. Lots of nerves in the church (from me about the footie, no idea about my sis) but one of my cousins had a pocket radio so we knew the result before the first beer of the day. Chuffed.

Funnily enough her second wedding is tomorrow, hot on the heels of this 4-3 win. . I should ask her to remarry every time we play the Boggies...
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Rudy65 on January 31, 2014, 10:19:54 PM
From where I was in the upper Holte, they were "vociferous" at 0-2 but not so much at 1-2 and definitely not at 4-3

Agreed, which I found strange. As soon as we got 1 back they went very quiet, livened up at half time after there third aNd then were very quiet in the second half
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: PeterWithe on January 31, 2014, 10:28:06 PM
Horrible fans. Every time they scored their fans ran towards the Villa fans in the lower North looking for trouble. The sooner that club are relegated back to where they belong the better.

It's all just posturing though isn't it, not many are seriously up for trouble.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Damo70 on February 01, 2014, 11:29:21 AM
Their support was shit. Lots of noise when 1 and 2 up (not surprisingly) and then nothing when we made it 2-1 onwards until their third. And then fuck all once we were ahead again. They knew what they were for all of 8 minutes and then conveniently forgot the words to that song for the next 80 minutes.

Must be really hard for them to have their dreams and aspirations of finishing above us fading. Even more so to realise what they actually are, always have been, and always will be.

You are right in saying that apart from the odd half hearted stirring they were very quiet from 1-2 onwards. I think we genuinely took the wind out of their sails and after Weimann's goal they lost their belief.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: ez on February 01, 2014, 12:50:04 PM
Putting myself in their shoes, it must be infuriating to have played us twice this year, gone 2 up inside 12 minutes at home, and then 2 up inside 8 minutes away from home, only to wind up taking 1 point from 6.

It's almost like they have some form of cultural cringe going on, where all their insecurity kicks in and they go to pieces with the excitement of taking something from the big club up the road.

They could have got a draw and a defeat against us without scoring but they did it scoring 5 goals :)
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: somec on February 01, 2014, 01:12:18 PM
Horrible fans. Every time they scored their fans ran towards the Villa fans in the lower North looking for trouble. The sooner that club are relegated back to where they belong the better.

Worse than small heath for that. And a lot of them were proper 30+ year old blokes, not kids. Even running from the back of the stand to join in the rush towards us. A rush it should be added that was so intent on reaching us that a few stewards stopped them with relative ease. Sad twats.

Spot on. Their fans seemed so bitter and angry. Decades of pent-up frustration of looking up at the Villa with envious eyes. Jealousy is horrible thing.
It was mighty fine watching their fans stream out at the end with their tails firmly lodged in between their legs.

One thing I have noticed about their support in the past two seasons is that they're a lot more arrogant/cocky/up for it walking down Witton Lane beforehand. They've started to believe their own hype.

They were certainly giving it the billy big bollocks in new street station and on the train to the ground.

Is there anything more annoying on this planet than a carriage full of boozed up boneheaded baggie bumders?

Made it all the more satisfying to win the game from 2-0 down.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Witton Warrior on February 01, 2014, 03:50:25 PM
Spoke with a mate of mine who has followed the Olbiun with the same passion as I do the Villa for 40 years and pointed out to him that if they could just let go of the inferiority complex they might actually enjoy their lives more. He is an honest and decent bloke and admitted that there is a core of Olbiun who have always hated us more than anyone else and would accept relegation if it meant beating us. They hate us more than they love their own team.

Now forget them and let them rot...


Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: itbrvilla on February 01, 2014, 04:09:05 PM
Spoke with a mate of mine who has followed the Olbiun with the same passion as I do the Villa for 40 years and pointed out to him that if they could just let go of the inferiority complex they might actually enjoy their lives more. He is an honest and decent bloke and admitted that there is a core of Olbiun who have always hated us more than anyone else and would accept relegation if it meant beating us. They hate us more than they love their own team.

Now forget them and let them rot...



How many other teams have 2 local teams with fans that hate us more than they love their own team?
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: robbo1874 on February 02, 2014, 05:04:29 AM
1983.

Was that game 3-3 at half time as well? Memory may be playing tricks on me as I saw it on video years ago, was there a Brendan Ormsby goal?

Pretty sure Brendan got the winner

IIRC that is right.

I was absolutely gutted to miss this game but it was my sister's wedding that day and I was giving her away so couldn't get out of it. Lots of nerves in the church (from me about the footie, no idea about my sis) but one of my cousins had a pocket radio so we knew the result before the first beer of the day. Chuffed.

Funnily enough her second wedding is tomorrow, hot on the heels of this 4-3 win. . I should ask her to remarry every time we play the Boggies...
that's a brilliant story Paul.
Title: Re: View From the Opposition - WBA fan
Post by: Dave Clark Five on February 03, 2014, 08:12:07 AM
Horrible fans. Every time they scored their fans ran towards the Villa fans in the lower North looking for trouble. The sooner that club are relegated back to where they belong the better.

It's all just posturing though isn't it, not many are seriously up for trouble.

For the period covering their goals, there were no Police in the gap between the fans and the stewards were hardly in there either. The Police didn't get in there for another 5/10 minutes. If they had wanted to attack our fans, nothing was stopping them.
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