Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Legion on September 10, 2017, 12:30:46 PM
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Factory of Sadness
Tuesday 12.9.17
19:45 KO
2-0 home win
0-1
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2-0 Boro. Bruce's final game.
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Traore and Assombalonga had a great time yesterday v Bolton.
0-3.
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Might be embarrassing. 0-3.
Bye bye Brucie
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I watched the Bolton Boro highlights. Bolton deserved something from that match and I doubt it if Adama is going to be that consistent so we will bore them into another 0-0.
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On Saturday, I mentioned to the bloke next to me that I'm working in Leeds at the moment, so wasn't sure if I'd make it to this. He said, "Leeds, what's that, an hour?". My quizzical look* then prompted him to elaborate on how he used to live in-between Sunderland and Middlesbrough, and the trip to VP was something he did in a little over two hours.
Can someone confirm these figures as possibly somewhat exaggerated, or am I really the world's slowest driver?
*on two occasions over the last couple or three months, the trip home has taken me in excess of four hours, thanks to motorway "incidents".
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Everyone knows this is going to be more of the same shite. Goodnight Bruce.
0-2
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On Saturday, I mentioned to the bloke next to me that I'm working in Leeds at the moment, so wasn't sure if I'd make it to this. He said, "Leeds, what's that, an hour?". My quizzical look* then prompted him to elaborate on how he used to live in-between Sunderland and Middlesbrough, and the trip to VP was something he did in a little over two hours.
Can someone confirm these figures as possibly somewhat exaggerated, or am I really the world's slowest driver?
*on two occasions over the last couple or three months, the trip home has taken me in excess of four hours, thanks to motorway "incidents".
Yes 45 mins max.
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0-2
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I'm away on holiday for this one so it's a nailed on 6-0 home win performance of the millennium.
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On Saturday, I mentioned to the bloke next to me that I'm working in Leeds at the moment, so wasn't sure if I'd make it to this. He said, "Leeds, what's that, an hour?". My quizzical look* then prompted him to elaborate on how he used to live in-between Sunderland and Middlesbrough, and the trip to VP was something he did in a little over two hours.
Can someone confirm these figures as possibly somewhat exaggerated, or am I really the world's slowest driver?
*on two occasions over the last couple or three months, the trip home has taken me in excess of four hours, thanks to motorway "incidents".
My old man used to live in Middlesbrough at one time. I used to reckon on 2 1/2 hours if I did it late at night and risked the wrath of the rozzers. 3 1/4 in more normal traffic.
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Dull 0-0 and he clings onto his job
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0-3. Bruce goes on Wednesday morning. In comes Roy Hodgson to bring the crowds back with his exciting, attacking brand of football.
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Can we have a poll please?
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Another draw.
Will 46 points be enough to keep us up?
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3-1 Villa
Hogan 2 Hourihane
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Fuck me,
The very cautious Mr Bruce set us up yesterday to not lose. Against promotion chasing Brentford , so I imagine against the only favourites for automatic promotion mr Bruce will err more on the side of defend what we have.
I envisage something around Villa nil.
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I'm away on holiday for this one so it's a nailed on 6-0 home win performance of the millennium.
If it is I will pay for your holiday. (quickly retreats to check Laws of contract to see if a promise is legally binding :-[)
Subject to Ts&Cs available at request.
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An 8-2-0 formation. Boro to win 1-0.
I wish we had Garry Monk.
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I'm away on holiday for this one so it's a nailed on 6-0 home win performance of the millennium.
If it is I will pay for your holiday. (quickly retreats to check Laws of contract to see if a promise is legally binding :-[)
I'll be in touch on Wednesday to collect payment.
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I'm away on holiday for this one so it's a nailed on 6-0 home win performance of the millennium.
If it is I will pay for your holiday. (quickly retreats to check Laws of contract to see if a promise is legally binding :-[)
I'll be in touch on Wednesday to collect payment.
No problem. I hope you have read the Ts&Cs and I will probably make a payment online as soon as the 6th goal goes in however you must return the payment when we score our 7th.
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Poll added. Sorry.
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I am sure the Villa engine will go through the gears and fire on all cylinders.
The benifit analisys following a back to the drawing board review in the inclusive team building off site work shop will pay dividends. This is not a cookie cutter approach but a goal focussed orientation towards collective harmonisation across multi disciplines within a defined framework and determined timescales.
There is no I in TEAM.
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Another bore draw to keep Bruce, just about, in a job for a few more days.
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When I realise the best we can probably expect is a draw at home to Middleborough, I could actually cry. 😭
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As we clearly find it difficult to score goals without Kodjia, it seems unlikely we will win many games, but might luckily have a few more 0-0s
We will need a good slice of luck to finish in mid table while Bruce remains at B6
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Nailed on home win. 2-0
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On Saturday, I mentioned to the bloke next to me that I'm working in Leeds at the moment, so wasn't sure if I'd make it to this. He said, "Leeds, what's that, an hour?". My quizzical look* then prompted him to elaborate on how he used to live in-between Sunderland and Middlesbrough, and the trip to VP was something he did in a little over two hours.
Can someone confirm these figures as possibly somewhat exaggerated, or am I really the world's slowest driver?
*on two occasions over the last couple or three months, the trip home has taken me in excess of four hours, thanks to motorway "incidents".
I am also working in Leeds currently and it takes me normally 2 hours each way, normal traffic conditions and vary between M42 and M1 or A38 and M1 routes.
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1-1 Davis for us.
I don't agree that if we lose it will be bye-bye Bruce. There's no signs coming from the club of that and I doubt there's enough negativity coming from the crowd at this point. But certainly it would be another push towards the door. But its way too early still.
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1-1 Davis for us.
I don't agree that if we lose it will be bye-bye Bruce. There's no signs coming from the club of that and I doubt there's enough negativity coming from the crowd at this point. But certainly it would be another push towards the door. But its way too early still.
That would signal that the Club has given up on automatic promotion this season.
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2-0 down by half time, Bruce to get a Bolton moment of abuse. Lose the game 2-1
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1-1 Draw for me.
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I'm not sure we have ever beaten a Monk team? Nice time to do just that. Sadly, I think they will be more organised and do us by 2 to 1. I would throw Kodjia in and try to get an hour out of him if we can.
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1-1.
We'll play better and be leading but will concede late so SB following the RDM self destruction manual to the letter.
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I'd put the following out given the injuries;
Same back five of Johnstone, Taylor, Terry, Chester and Bree.
Adomah, Jedinak, Hourihane, Elmo in midfield with Snodgrass in behind Hogan.
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I expect us to play better and win the game. We are nowhere near as bad as our display yesterday suggests.
It is just abundantly clear that this manager, after a year of trying, is not capable of establishing a high enough win ratio to secure promotion from this division- the ONLY thing that really matters to the future of the club.
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Home games against Boro are rarely memorable, sadly I think this one will be for the wrong reasons. Us 1 Them 2.
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Can see the old guard being put in for us. Bree apparently had a poor game so would fully expect Hutton back in if he isn't injured.
I can also see Jedinak starting....alongside Whelan.
Get on the prozac folks.
Boro always used to be a strange fixture when we played them in the premier league. We'd go up there and it would be the easiest away game of the season yet they always seemed to get at least a point at VP.
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I can't see us getting anything from this one. Adama will probably be MOTM. I am going 0-1 or 1-2 to Boro. Decent side but not always a massive goal threat. Has Gestede been playing for them? haven't heard or read his name for a while.
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Gestede is out injured at the moment.
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He scored a couple for them in August. Assombalonga their main man upfront.
Thought Downing was out of favour but he's playing for them again.
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0-2 further humiliation.
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Johnstone
De laet, Chester, terry, Taylor
Jedinak lansbury
Snodgrass hourihane Adomah
Hogan
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Looking at their website, Boro fans have been raving about Traore's performance yesterday and what I saw on Channel 5, he looked unstoppable. He's clearly going to be up for it on Tuesday.
Birmingham Mail have done a poll asking if we were right to sell him. 55%, including me, said no.
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Johnstone
De laet Jedinak Chester Taylor
Snodgrass Hourihane O'Hare Adomah
Davis Hogan
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Birmingham Mail have done a poll asking if we were right to sell him. 55%, including me, said no.
What a silly poll, the player said he wanted to leave.
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1-3
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Hes a circus act who battered a third division club. About the level he's used to with Barca B.
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On current form:
Johnstone
Whoever Someone Anyone Him
APlayer Random FingersCrossed ANOther
Guess Hope
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On current form:
Johnstone
Whoever Someone Anyone Him
APlayer Random FingersCrossed ANOther
Guess Hope
ANOther picked up a knock, he's doubtful.
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Can't see us getting anything. 0-2 to the borough.
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Birmingham Mail have done a poll asking if we were right to sell him. 55%, including me, said no.
What a silly poll, the player said he wanted to leave.
dont blame him
the only players that probably didn't want to leave were Gabby and RicHards
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0-2 Villa
assamwhathesname
Downing
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They will be to good for us I think. 1-3 to boro
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FIFA 17 predicts a 3-1 away win despite Villa taking the lead. Chester scores an unfortunate own goal.
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FIFA 17 predicts a 3-1 away win despite Villa taking the lead. Chester scores an unfortunate own goal.
Damn. It's all going to seem so promising after going 1-0 up, as well.
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I usually take part in this but not knowing what team the fuckwit will pick means I can't take part this time
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FIFA 17 predicts a 3-1 away win despite Villa taking the lead. Chester scores an unfortunate own goal.
Damn. It's all going to seem so promising after going 1-0 up, as well.
I am going to the Botanical Gardens tomorrow as I have heard there is a sunflower there that can predict the result by ignoring the sun and bending towards the winning team scarf. The question is has anyone got a Boro scarf handy?
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FIFA 17 predicts a 3-1 away win despite Villa taking the lead. Chester scores an unfortunate own goal.
Damn. It's all going to seem so promising after going 1-0 up, as well.
I am going to the Botanical Gardens tomorrow as I have heard there is a sunflower there that can predict the result by ignoring the sun and bending towards the winning team scarf. The question is has anyone got a Boro scarf handy?
I shouldn't worry if I were you, it'll probably spontaneously combust at the sight of the Villa scarf.
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FIFA 17 predicts a 3-1 away win despite Villa taking the lead. Chester scores an unfortunate own goal.
On my Commodore 64 Football Manager we win 5-0 so I'll go with that.
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FIFA 17 predicts a 3-1 away win despite Villa taking the lead. Chester scores an unfortunate own goal.
On my Commodore 64 Football Manager we win 5-0 so I'll go with that.
Football manager on my ZX Spectrum has a number of the European Cup winning side available to sign. When they are a level 5 flog them once you have won the league and buy a load of level 1 players. The following season all level fives drop to level one and all level ones jump up to level fives. That should have been of of the Top Tips in Viz.
I hope I haven't ruined Football Manager 1982 for anyone.
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That plan sounds remarkably similar to Doug's strategy back in 1982. Sell off half the European Cup winners and buy utter shit. It doesn't end well.
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My Vic20 blew up with all that info painstakingly inputted. It sounded somethjng like BBBBrrruuceOOOUUUTT!!!!
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My Vic20 blew up with all that info painstakingly inputted. It sounded somethjng like BBBBrrruuceOOOUUUTT!!!!
I had a Vic20 as my first computer, Xmas '82. I was addicted to the Pac-Man rip off game 'Jelly Monsters'. The only other game I had was Jupiter Lander. Trying to land a space pod of some sort into three different sized craters with different scores for each one. Christ, it was a crap game. I could never do those adventure games where you typed in instructions. My mate lent me one of his and it did my head in.
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FIFA 17 predicts a 3-1 away win despite Villa taking the lead. Chester scores an unfortunate own goal.
Damn. It's all going to seem so promising after going 1-0 up, as well.
I am going to the Botanical Gardens tomorrow as I have heard there is a sunflower there that can predict the result by ignoring the sun and bending towards the winning team scarf. The question is has anyone got a Boro scarf handy?
I should tell you that I was a resident of the Sunflower State of the US of A for the best part of a decade and I once tried out this procedure in a corn field when Kansas City Chiefs were due to play the ghastly Dallas Cowboys. Long story short: bitten by a snake, attacked by a racoon and infested by chiggers. The Chiefs fucked up as usual.
Don't do it, dude. Its Satanical in the Botanical. The numerical value of satanical in Pythagorean Numerology is: 8.
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I reckon we will nick a win. Terry off a corner. 1-0 to us.
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I reckon you must be smoking something.
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Hope Kodja is fit and raring to go.
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FIFA 17 predicts a 3-1 away win despite Villa taking the lead. Chester scores an unfortunate own goal.
Damn. It's all going to seem so promising after going 1-0 up, as well.
The equaliser is scored in first half stoppage time, just to make it even more of a sickener.
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Traore and Assombalonga had a great time yesterday v Bolton.
0-3.
Just watched their highlights.... when you see ex villains in others shirts they look like world beaters. This is why my stance and patience is changing on Bruce too. Traore could see the end of Bruce tomoz
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Against this years Rotherham?
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My Vic20 blew up with all that info painstakingly inputted. It sounded somethjng like BBBBrrruuceOOOUUUTT!!!!
10 PRINT "BRUCE OUT"
20 GOTO 10
RUN
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Saturday was awful, but I wouldn't panic and change too much to be honest and would sticvk with the 4-1-4-1 formation. Bree had a shocker, but I would keep him in, but would have De Laet on the bench in case of a repeat performance. Elmohamady deserves to be dropped, but with Green presumably being out he might stay in, with Snodgrass likely to come in to replace the latter. The only other question would then be Whelan or Jedinak in the defensive midfield role.
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On Saturday, I mentioned to the bloke next to me that I'm working in Leeds at the moment, so wasn't sure if I'd make it to this. He said, "Leeds, what's that, an hour?". My quizzical look* then prompted him to elaborate on how he used to live in-between Sunderland and Middlesbrough, and the trip to VP was something he did in a little over two hours.
Can someone confirm these figures as possibly somewhat exaggerated, or am I really the world's slowest driver?
*on two occasions over the last couple or three months, the trip home has taken me in excess of four hours, thanks to motorway "incidents".
I am also working in Leeds currently and it takes me normally 2 hours each way, normal traffic conditions and vary between M42 and M1 or A38 and M1 routes.
Spot on, I live in Huddersfield which is the same distance and the same route (M1 M42) apart from me joining the M1 a bit further down - 2 1/4 hours usually to Great Barr and I'm a careful driver, 75mph all the way.
The bloke who claimed north of Middlesbrough to Villa Park in two hours is talking bollocks, it's about 200 miles.
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Spot on, I live in Huddersfield which is the same distance and the same route (M1 M42) apart from me joining the M1 a bit further down - 2 1/4 hours usually to Great Barr and I'm a careful driver, 75mph all the way.
The bloke who claimed north of Middlesbrough to Villa Park in two hours is talking bollocks, it's about 200 miles.
Even the roadworks where the limit's down to 50...? I've been doing Castleford/Leeds to Birmingham a bit lately and even (very) early morning it's two and a bit hours.
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I used to play rugby between derby and nottingham and the latter is about an hour if you're sticking close to the speed limit and don't have any major traffic. Leeds is at least the same again from there so doing it in an hour during the afternoon rush is highly unlikely, 2-2 1/2 would be a much more reasonable guess.
On google maps it's listed as 120m miles and 2:06 in decent traffic (i.e. current conditions).
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Birmingham Mail have done a poll asking if we were right to sell him. 55%, including me, said no.
What a silly poll, the player said he wanted to leave.
And it was the injury which cost him appearing more for us. That was just bad luck. A better poll maybe for Baker or Ruddy. I think both could make a difference for us this season.
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1-1 Davis for us.
I don't agree that if we lose it will be bye-bye Bruce. There's no signs coming from the club of that and I doubt there's enough negativity coming from the crowd at this point. But certainly it would be another push towards the door. But its way too early still.
That would signal that the Club has given up on automatic promotion this season.
After six or seven games you cannot write anyone off in the Championship. Its that sort of league. Pretty sure Brighton had a rotten start last season. Think we have a good enough squad (though I think we should bring in another striker in Jan) to be in the top six mix come the end of the season. Its just whether the squad clicks and if Bruce is a bit bolder tactically. He deserves till Christmas at least IMO. Don't know which top mangers we would attract this early in the season anyway.
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If we lose this I may begin to lose the will to live by the time the second Tuesday game against Brough rolls around.
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Spot on, I live in Huddersfield which is the same distance and the same route (M1 M42) apart from me joining the M1 a bit further down - 2 1/4 hours usually to Great Barr and I'm a careful driver, 75mph all the way.
The bloke who claimed north of Middlesbrough to Villa Park in two hours is talking bollocks, it's about 200 miles.
Even the roadworks where the limit's down to 50...? I've been doing Castleford/Leeds to Birmingham a bit lately and even (very) early morning it's two and a bit hours.
No, I do slow down for that bit. I was down a few weeks ago and the roadworks do seem to be getting shorter. And when I say 'all the way' I just mean the motorway and the 42, obviously.
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0-0 or 0-2
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Looking at the poll, I'm wondering whether people really think we're going to lose, or it's what they'd take to see the back of Bruce? While I doubt he's the man to take us up, I don't think we're in such bad shape as recent performances would suggest. Villa to win. 2-1, and the string of managerial saliva to stretch on that little bit longer before it snaps inevitably onto our chins and down our shirts.
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Looking at the poll, I'm wondering whether people really think we're going to lose, or it's what they'd take to see the back of Bruce? While I doubt he's the man to take us up, I don't think we're in such bad shape as recent performances would suggest. Villa to win. 2-1, and the string of managerial saliva to stretch on that little bit longer before it snaps inevitably onto our chins and down our shirts.
I've voted for a draw (1s each) because I can see them scoring and I can't see us scoring twice. I suspect we'll take the lead in the first half hour and then back off further and further before the dam breaks in the last 20 and we cling on to the point.
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I think it will be a battling draw and Bruce to claim we have turned the corner... again
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If Triore runs at our defence like he did against Bolton, I don't hold out much hope for us hanging on for a draw, unless he returns to his Villa inconsistent form and is completely anonymous.
Without a consistent goal scorer, we are going to remain in the bottom six and hope there are at least three worse than us by next May.
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I've gone draw in the hope we score as I can see Middlesbrough scoring. I'll take a draw if we put the effort into pressing and moving off the ball, if not it is simply a matter of time for Bruce to be gone. A defeat and I reckon the dreaded vote of confidence will come out.
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If Triore runs at our defence like he did against Bolton, I don't hold out much hope for us hanging on for a draw, unless he returns to his Villa inconsistent form and is completely anonymous.
Without a consistent goal scorer, we are going to remain in the bottom six and hope there are at least three worse than us by next May.
I don't think he was completely anonymous. He was lively in the games he played. he just didn't play enough of them.
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A draw at best but most likely a defeat.
At least you'll get to see the Villa Engine...
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4HRf-3VnoWQ/WWSoKx1hW_I/AAAAAAAAKyM/NuqTOZNCZOs7fQs_x6mc0wrUEsujt6Y3gCLcBGAs/s1600/A%2B44.png)
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we are playing Middlesbrough at home and 76% of us don't think we will win
wtf is going on
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Are Davis, Onomah and Green all out?
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given how they performed last time out, is it crucial?
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I wont be shocked if we win
2-1
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Can we postpone the game due to complete apathy (already!) on behalf of us fans?
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given how they performed last time out, is it crucial?
Onomah I thought was the one midfielder who showed a little bit of awareness of space and players around him. Davies was on a hiding to nothing as his game is all about bringing the supporters runners into the game, and our midfield was constantly 50 yards away from him.
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Spot on, I live in Huddersfield which is the same distance and the same route (M1 M42) apart from me joining the M1 a bit further down - 2 1/4 hours usually to Great Barr and I'm a careful driver, 75mph all the way.
The bloke who claimed north of Middlesbrough to Villa Park in two hours is talking bollocks, it's about 200 miles.
Even the roadworks where the limit's down to 50...? I've been doing Castleford/Leeds to Birmingham a bit lately and even (very) early morning it's two and a bit hours.
Agreed. And can easily be near 2.5 hours.
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Just before this season started I read an article previewing the Championship which pointed out the key dates in this seasons league calendar. They focused on tomorrow's game as being a key promotion battle as the first meeting of the two favourites for promotion.
Incredible to think that a few weeks later apathy reigns supreme, a low crowd is expected and many Villa fans have already had enough.
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Incredible to think that a few weeks later apathy reigns supreme, a low crowd is expected and many Villa fans have already had enough.
Lightweights with no staying power. God knows what they'll be like after 46 matches
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Sure the boro team talk will be along the lines of...' just do the basics right tonight and we'll be leaving with 3 points . Teams should be coming to VP thinking a draw for them or losing by the odd goal to us is not too bad.Unfortunately with Bruce 's tactics of inviting the opposition onto us many teams now come to VP expecting to go away with a point at least.
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Boro have sold 1100.
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Better than expected, to be fair.
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Better than expected, to be fair.
Their away support has improved since we played them in the Premier League. I saw on Twitter they took 3500+ to Bolton on Saturday.
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Are Davis, Onomah and Green all out?
Onomah and Green out. Davis doubtful.
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Are Davis, Onomah and Green all out?
Onomah and Green out. Davis doubtful.
Lansbury, Snodgrass and possibly Hogan in?
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Kodjia starting this evening for the U23 side vs Southampton at the Banks'. KO 7-00pm
De Laet starts at RB. O'Hare also starts as does Doyle-Hayes, Blackett-Taylor, plus Clark & Clarke.
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Kodjia starting this evening for the U23 side vs Southampton at the Banks'. KO 7-00pm
De Laet starts at RB. O'Hare also starts as does Doyle-Hayes, Blackett-Taylor, plus Clark & Clarke.
Kodjia vs Van Dijk should be an interest battle
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Never have I been more sure of a defeat. 1-2 Boro. If so, I'll be joining the Bruce out brigade.
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Are Davis, Onomah and Green all out?
Onomah and Green out. Davis doubtful.
Lansbury, Snodgrass and possibly Hogan in?
Jordan Lyden not captaining the U23s tonight. Maybe Bodger is planning on giving him a go tomorrow night, probably out of position as an attacking midfielder rather than replacing the knackered Whelan.
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Feeling pessimistic
I reckon he'll go:
Hutton for Bree (or maybe Elmo)
Jedi for Whelan
Lansbury for Onomah (or maybe keep Whelan AND Jedi, which promises to be free flowing)
Thor for green
Snodgrass for Elmo
Hogan for Davis
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Anything less than a win is unacceptable. We're six points off the pace we ought to be accumulating at.
Attack for fecks sake.
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Anything less than a win is unacceptable. We're six points off the pace we ought to be accumulating at.
Attack for fecks sake.
Indeed. He should be sacked regardless, but if we don't win he absolutely should be sacked immediately.
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Head says no way will it be anything other than an away win, and a convincing one at that. Bruce gone by the time I've driven back.
Heart says Villa win, it's 'boro, ffs. Ftf. Bruce is reborn, hallelujah!
Arsehole says 1 down with 88 on the clock having not dirtied Randolph's knees, unlike Johnstone who's had to change his worn-out gloves twice. We then launch an onslaught the like of which has not been witnessed since Balaklava, culminating in Lansbury's bun netting the equaliser with moments left. Bruce milks it for all its worth, and continues on his point-a-game campaign til Bonfire Night.
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2-1 us.
That's all I can post in my apathy.
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Just watched the C5 highlights from the Boro game against Bolton at the weekend...they only showed 2 runs from Traore which both ended up with assists so looks like he may have finally added some end product to his game. He may not be consistent but if he's allowed to run at Taylor and Terry then this isn't going to be a positive result. I think Bruce will play for a draw...but will fail.
0-2 Boro
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Anything less than a win is unacceptable. We're six points off the pace we ought to be accumulating at.
Attack for fecks sake.
Indeed. He should be sacked regardless, but if we don't win he absolutely should be sacked immediately.
If we lose they should sack him twice
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Are Davis, Onomah and Green all out?
Onomah and Green out. Davis doubtful.
Lansbury, Snodgrass and possibly Hogan in?
De Laet for Bree too I expect, think Jedinak will start for Whelan. Team looks very one paced but Bruce will go back to experienced players for this one. Would prefer to see a bit of a curve ball like O'Hare in for Lansbury to give us some energy in midfield.
---------------Johnstone
De Laet, Chester, Terry, Taylor
Lansbury, Jedinak, Hourihane
Snodgrass, Hogan, Bjarnsson
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I've passed my ST to my mate as I'm on an all-inclusive in Marrakesh this week.
He might not be my mate after tomorrow.....
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De Laet played tonight in the u23's. We hammered Soton 4-0. Kodjia played well, Doyle Hayes and O'hare played well again apparently.
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Kodjia looked well off the pace, understandably so. I'd say he's ready for 15-20 minutes maximum tomorrow.
O'Hare was superb again. How he isn't in the main squad is beyond me, probably because he's too attacking.
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0-2 Boro
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Another 0-0
Bruce is under pressure and knows it so will not want to lose this, although it's difficult to imagine him being more defensive save laying trenches and barbed wire in our penalty area.
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Clearly going to be Hutton at right back. De Laet should be in but played last night. Jedinak and Whelan will start I reckon and I think he will bring pony hair back in for Hourihane. Snodgrass and Adomah should start in the wide positions and interchange but you just know he will start Elmo. Hogan having a very lonely night up top.
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
It's going to absolutely piss down as well from about 7pm tonight, for the rest of the evening.
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
I really doubt it, generally he has tried to play an attacking game at home. He knows he needs a win so we will try to play on the front foot although there needs to be a balance as they are a decent side.
I do feel for you though, your poor little thing having to go out in the cold. Try to stay strong.
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I didn't see much attacking v Brentford.
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I do think he might pair Whelan and Jedinak today. I don't think we should ever really do that at home
Could see hourihane being rested ahead of Barnsley
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
I really doubt it, generally he has tried to play an attacking game at home. He knows he needs a win so we will try to play on the front foot although there needs to be a balance as they are a decent side.
I do feel for you though, your poor little thing having to go out in the cold. Try to stay strong.
Chris, I'd go along with your optimism except I saw first hand how we did the very opposite of everything you just described on Saturday. And I will bring an extra layer for my balls and something waterproof for my head tonight. Thanks for caring 😄
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I didn't see much attacking v Brentford.
I agree and that is why I said generally. Neither players nor manager can afford to be timid tonight and hand them the initiative; all have a lot to prove.
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I do think he might pair Whelan and Jedinak today. I don't think we should ever really do that at home
I was thinking the other day he might do that. Away from home, I could see the reasoning behind it. Not at home though.
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
I really doubt it, generally he has tried to play an attacking game at home. He knows he needs a win so we will try to play on the front foot although there needs to be a balance as they are a decent side.
I do feel for you though, your poor little thing having to go out in the cold. Try to stay strong.
Chris, I'd go along with your optimism except I saw first hand how we did the very opposite of everything you just described on Saturday. And I will bring an extra layer for my balls and something waterproof for my head tonight. Thanks for caring 😄
Very sensible, maybe take a flask as well.
It's going to be wet but the forecast is 12/13 degrees so not that cold really.
I hate the over egging of individual games but this one does feel pivotal to me. I think it will be extremely difficult for Bruce to recover from another poor result but also some of the players. A change of manager inevitably results in changes and some may find themselves surplus to requirements.
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
It's going to absolutely piss down as well from about 7pm tonight, for the rest of the evening.
Perfect. I can fly back the following morning with a fever and us sitting bottom 3.
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
I really doubt it, generally he has tried to play an attacking game at home. He knows he needs a win so we will try to play on the front foot although there needs to be a balance as they are a decent side.
I do feel for you though, your poor little thing having to go out in the cold. Try to stay strong.
Chris, I'd go along with your optimism except I saw first hand how we did the very opposite of everything you just described on Saturday. And I will bring an extra layer for my balls and something waterproof for my head tonight. Thanks for caring 😄
Very sensible, maybe take a flask as well.
It's going to be wet but the forecast is 12/13 degrees so not that cold really.
I hate the over egging of individual games but this one does feel pivotal to me. I think it will be extremely difficult for Bruce to recover from another poor result but also some of the players. A change of manager inevitably results in changes and some may find themselves surplus to requirements.
I just don't think he has it in him Chris to change drastically enough to affect the result tonight. The players will be confused too considering he has sent them out with mixed messages. What seemed to work well against Norwich and Wigan was suddenly changed for no reason vs Bristol City. Instead of going back to that style vs Brentford we witnessed an even more pathetic display. After 11 months a manager with his experience should have identified a specific way of playing. He doesn't know what that is and it is clearly being reflected by the players on the pitch. I don't expect much better or different tonight.
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Anything less than a win is unacceptable. We're six points off the pace we ought to be accumulating at.
Attack for fecks sake.
Indeed. He should be sacked regardless, but if we don't win he absolutely should be sacked immediately.
If we lose they should sack him twice
Someone should be standing in the tunnel at the end of the game with his P45
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
I really doubt it, generally he has tried to play an attacking game at home. He knows he needs a win so we will try to play on the front foot although there needs to be a balance as they are a decent side.
I do feel for you though, your poor little thing having to go out in the cold. Try to stay strong.
Chris, I'd go along with your optimism except I saw first hand how we did the very opposite of everything you just described on Saturday. And I will bring an extra layer for my balls and something waterproof for my head tonight. Thanks for caring 😄
Very sensible, maybe take a flask as well.
It's going to be wet but the forecast is 12/13 degrees so not that cold really.
I hate the over egging of individual games but this one does feel pivotal to me. I think it will be extremely difficult for Bruce to recover from another poor result but also some of the players. A change of manager inevitably results in changes and some may find themselves surplus to requirements.
I just don't think he has it in him Chris to change drastically enough to affect the result tonight. The players will be confused too considering he has sent them out with mixed messages. What seemed to work well against Norwich and Wigan was suddenly changed for no reason vs Bristol City. Instead of going back to that style vs Brentford we witnessed an even more pathetic display. After 11 months a manager with his experience should have identified a specific way of playing. He doesn't know what that is and it is clearly being reflected by the players on the pitch. I don't expect much better or different tonight.
I think the Brentford display was down to performance rather than tactics, the players just looked flat and what had worked well previously just did not happen. The fault from the manager's perspective was not recognising players who needed a rest and from the players for retreating into a timid, reactive performance. All need to do better tonight, whether or not they can or will is another matter. I will travel in hope, otherwise what's the point?
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
It's going to absolutely piss down as well from about 7pm tonight, for the rest of the evening.
Perfect. I can fly back the following morning with a fever and us sitting bottom 3.
Living the dream!
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
It's going to absolutely piss down as well from about 7pm tonight, for the rest of the evening.
Perfect. I can fly back the following morning with a fever and us sitting bottom 3.
All that and you think your flight will be on time?
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
I really doubt it, generally he has tried to play an attacking game at home. He knows he needs a win so we will try to play on the front foot although there needs to be a balance as they are a decent side.
I do feel for you though, your poor little thing having to go out in the cold. Try to stay strong.
Chris, I'd go along with your optimism except I saw first hand how we did the very opposite of everything you just described on Saturday. And I will bring an extra layer for my balls and something waterproof for my head tonight. Thanks for caring 😄
Very sensible, maybe take a flask as well.
It's going to be wet but the forecast is 12/13 degrees so not that cold really.
I hate the over egging of individual games but this one does feel pivotal to me. I think it will be extremely difficult for Bruce to recover from another poor result but also some of the players. A change of manager inevitably results in changes and some may find themselves surplus to requirements.
I just don't think he has it in him Chris to change drastically enough to affect the result tonight. The players will be confused too considering he has sent them out with mixed messages. What seemed to work well against Norwich and Wigan was suddenly changed for no reason vs Bristol City. Instead of going back to that style vs Brentford we witnessed an even more pathetic display. After 11 months a manager with his experience should have identified a specific way of playing. He doesn't know what that is and it is clearly being reflected by the players on the pitch. I don't expect much better or different tonight.
I think the Brentford display was down to performance rather than tactics, the players just looked flat and what had worked well previously just did not happen. The fault from the manager's perspective was not recognising players who needed a rest and from the players for retreating into a timid, reactive performance. All need to do better tonight, whether or not they can or will is another matter. I will travel in hope, otherwise what's the point?
I disagree, I think we were setup deeper and that the flat nature of the performance came from there.
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
I really doubt it, generally he has tried to play an attacking game at home. He knows he needs a win so we will try to play on the front foot although there needs to be a balance as they are a decent side.
I do feel for you though, your poor little thing having to go out in the cold. Try to stay strong.
Chris, I'd go along with your optimism except I saw first hand how we did the very opposite of everything you just described on Saturday. And I will bring an extra layer for my balls and something waterproof for my head tonight. Thanks for caring 😄
Very sensible, maybe take a flask as well.
It's going to be wet but the forecast is 12/13 degrees so not that cold really.
I hate the over egging of individual games but this one does feel pivotal to me. I think it will be extremely difficult for Bruce to recover from another poor result but also some of the players. A change of manager inevitably results in changes and some may find themselves surplus to requirements.
I think if we fail to win tonight (which is very likely), Barnsley away will be last years Preston away. I think he'll go if we lose that one after failing to win tonight. You would have thought the intention would have been to look at it at the end of the month but 1-2 points from those first 3 will be very hard to recover from in terms of convincing Xia he's the man to carry on after the next international break.
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Here today, gone tomorrow. Hopefully.
I have no faith that a win will turn into a run. More likely a win, three draws and a defeat.
Teams aren't coming here and upping their game to 'claim a scalp', they just identity the many weaknesses.
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On of the off chance we won tonight you just know he would completely change the system at Barnsley and we'd play out a defensive 1-1. The way he set us up at Bristol City after beating Norwich was just downright bizarre. He's showing far too much respect to teams in this piss pot league. Let them fear us and worry about us not the other way round.
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I always want Villa to win but slightly torn on this one in that I do feel that a defeat, or even a lucky draw, might be the bearable short term pain that will enable longer term gain.
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Is Kodija back tonight?
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Yeah he is, probably get 30 mins from the bench.
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Well I've no idea what to think anymore regarding the Villa. I feel like shit and I've got a gruelling 12 hour night shift ahead. Years gone by and I'd be gutted to be working on match day, but nowadays I couldn't give a crap. Prediction is Villa 1-0 Boro a late winner from Chester.
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Lose and I think he will be sacked.
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2-0 to us. Hogan at the double.
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I think he has to win either this or Barnsley, and a bad defeat today and he could go - based in part on the fans reaction
I feel like I've taken on a "Bruce defender" role when I've got massive problems with him
But I do feel that if and when he goes, the paucity / risk of our credible options will become very quickly apparent
Part of me thinks we should deprioritise the assumption we can go up this year, our 'tried and tested players' approach and build from the bottom, with the youth etc, even if we wait a few years and sell the likes of Kodjia next summer
Bruce isn't the man to lead that, but equally there's no point in rushing to get whoever is available in September either. That's only worth doing if we still want promotion this season.
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2-0 to us. Hogan at the double.
Did you forget to take your pills today? ;D
I expect to lose tonight
I expected to win on Saturday, but at least to have more than 1 shot on target all game. ???
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You just know that tonight is going to be an eye bleeding rearguard affair where he sends the team out to deny Boro as opposed to for a win. He'll blame injuries, the pitch, the fans, the recent eclipse and the worsening political situation regarding North Korea amongst a whole host of non Steve Bruce things for our failings. I can't wait to shiver my balls off watching us brilliantly score nil and pray Boro do the same.
It's going to absolutely piss down as well from about 7pm tonight, for the rest of the evening.
Perfect. I can fly back the following morning with a fever and us sitting bottom 3.
All that and you think your flight will be on time?
I do. But I also expect the plane to blow a tire as it takes off seeing it flip multiple times down the runway.
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Should be
Jonstone
DeLaet Chester Terry Taylor
Jedinak
Lansbury Hourihanne
Snodgrass Hogan Elmohady
And if shite after 50+ mins swap Elmo / Jedi for Kodja + Bjorn (442) or one of the very promising young uns
What we will likely get as he must be shitting it
Johnstone
Chester Samba Terry
Elhomady Whelan Jedinak Bjorn Taylor
I
I
I
I
I 40 / 50 yards
I
I
I
V
Hogan or Gabby
Someone should be standing in the tunnel at the end of the game with his P45
Hopefully
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I can only see a defeat tonight - they are hitting their stride (good win at the weekend), we are an utter shambles and have been since March, players seem devoid of ideas or confidence, we will be set up to defend (again!), don't see where the goals are going to come from, and it'll end badly.
2 or 3 goal defeat.
The only consolation - change is imminent
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Just selected a Love Heart at random and it said "HOT LIPS".
Get your money on a Hourihane goal. It's fate.
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In addition to the heavy rain which has already been mentioned, there is a high wind advisory from the Met Office.
Should be fun. I am going straight from the cricket where the Bears are giving it the full Villa and going down like Buddy Holly.
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In addition to the heavy rain which has already been mentioned, there is a high wind advisory from the Met Office.
Should be fun. I am going straight from the cricket where the Bears are giving it the full Villa and going down like Buddy Holly.
Bloody hell, the Bears and Villa on the same day?
Do you really hate yourself that much? ;)
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Come on Villa! I really dislike the manager, I think he should go, but I can't bring myself to hope we don't win, dull draw 1-1
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Cant remember if I've already made a prediction for this one, anyway based on nothing other than a feeling I think we'll be papering over the cracks tonight and win 1-0.
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Looks at weather forecast....bit like the team for the last 2 games I simply can't be arsed!
Hopefully for those going it'll be more Norwich than Bristol City or Brentford but I can only see Mr Negative battening down the hatches, wouldn't surprise me to see (well hear!);
Johnstone
Hutton Chester Terry Taylor
Elmo Lansbury jedinak Whelan
Snodgrass
Gabby
A nice back 8 in front of Johnstone.
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Looks at weather forecast....bit like the team for the last 2 games I simply can't be arsed!
Hopefully for those going it'll be more Norwich than Bristol City or Brentford but I can only see Mr Negative battening down the hatches, wouldn't surprise me to see (well hear!);
Johnstone
Hutton Chester Terry Taylor
Elmo Lansbury jedinak Whelan
Snodgrass
Gabby
A nice back 8 in front of Johnstone.
we really are starting to look like Hull City
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The most optimistic vote I went for was a draw.
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The most optimistic vote I went for was a draw.
Same. If we win tonight we're right back in the playoff chase (at this early stage). That's why we will drop points.
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Grow some balls Bruce and send out a team with the tactics and mindset to win the game. Like Del said 'fortune favours the brave'. Retreat into our shell and defend deeper and deeper and we'll be there for the taking. Please Mr.Bruce, 'grow a pair.
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Based on the weather forecast, the second have could be fun (as will the drive home)
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He who dares wins as Monsieur Trotter also said.
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2-1 Villa.
Hogan and hot lips to score.
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Whoever starts upfront, we need to get our midfield up supporting them and not in opposite halves.
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Good to see Jedinak back.
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I watched Adama display this weekend...
combined with the "see what you missed out on" factor...
combined with the lackluster, slow and static defenders we got on that side (Taylor, Terry).
This might make the Brentford game look like "pure joy and inspiration to build on" and the Cardiff game like a "comfortable defeat"...
I feel slightly ill at the prospect of this one...