Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: kippaxvilla2 on February 02, 2019, 04:56:55 PM

Title: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on February 02, 2019, 04:56:55 PM
Mid table mediocrity beckons.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on February 02, 2019, 04:58:01 PM
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 02, 2019, 04:58:08 PM
Two poor teams share the points. Mildly disappointing.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on February 02, 2019, 04:58:31 PM
Poor stuff. Not good enough again.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: CT Villan on February 02, 2019, 04:58:43 PM
Bag of shite, Elphick and Mings the only positive.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on February 02, 2019, 04:58:52 PM
We’ve gone up a place to 9th.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on February 02, 2019, 04:59:25 PM
If Tammy doesn’t score Villa don’t.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: wittonwarrior on February 02, 2019, 04:59:26 PM
Zzzzzzzzzz it’s not even the oner I’ve spent today.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Axl Rose on February 02, 2019, 04:59:35 PM
Incredibly boring to watch.

Booooooo
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: brontebilly on February 02, 2019, 04:59:59 PM
11 points from 9 games since Grealish got injured at West Brom. Another season in this cesspit of a division beckons.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: wolfman999 on February 02, 2019, 05:00:10 PM
Utter dog shit. Has DS got a plan to get us out of the league in the next 5/10/15 years? I know we can't keep changing the Manager but we seem to have the knack of picking duds.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Pete3206 on February 02, 2019, 05:00:27 PM
Finding it really hard to summon up anything positive to say about the remainder of the season. Without Grealish and Axel, we have been terrible.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Fred Crump on February 02, 2019, 05:01:03 PM
Oh well , clean sheet I suppose and by all accounts Mings and Kalinic good today. Not much else to shout about
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: four fornicholl on February 02, 2019, 05:01:15 PM
Wasn't there but that's piss poor!
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on February 02, 2019, 05:01:24 PM
Absolute garbage.

Only positive was the clean sheet and the triumvirate of Kalinic, Mings and Tommy (but let's remember we were only playing Reading!). Let's see how they get on against Sheff Utd before jumping to conclusions.

I'm guessing Hogan won't play?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: LowerNorthStand on February 02, 2019, 05:01:36 PM
11 points from 9 games since Grealish got injured at West Brom. Another season in this cesspit of a division beckons.

Better get used to it. Being in this division. And without Grealish.

Play offs we could sneak thanks to Tammy.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on February 02, 2019, 05:01:46 PM
Sort it the fuck out Dean, we look disjointed all the time.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: TheMalandro on February 02, 2019, 05:01:50 PM
I’m not sure why, but that game really wound me up.

Fucking fuckers.

Which player will say “hopefully we’ll go on a run now”.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Karlos96 on February 02, 2019, 05:02:03 PM
We're going to end up being in this shit league for years.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: andyh on February 02, 2019, 05:02:51 PM
I really cannot accept that our pathetic drop off in form is solely due to losing Jack and Axel.
We have had more than enough time to come to terms with their loss and yet our football is every bit as shite as under Bruce.

If it is because this is Bruce team and players, how come smith was able to get a tune out of them for the first 10 games or so?
They obviously have it in them but it seems they can’t be arsed.

There is a massive carrot (the play offs) within easy reach and yet it seems to me that most of the team are shit fucking scared to go for it.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: mr underhill on February 02, 2019, 05:02:58 PM
when is this shit going to end? Losing faith in Dean.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: frank black on February 02, 2019, 05:03:40 PM
Oh well , clean sheet I suppose and by all accounts Mings and Kalinic good today. Not much else to shout about

Kalinic sadly wasn’t great, but didn’t have too much to do. He came for crosses and waved them past. His distribution was good. But the defence overall looked improved . Thought their keeper was excellent  overall
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 02, 2019, 05:03:54 PM
Too many labourers and bang average footballers. Zero creativity and we have become so predictable yet again. Everyone knows the ball is going wide. El Ghazi had two on him very quickly and Adomah is a very pale shadow the player he was last season. Just not good enough at all.

Positives: Kalinic very solid, two excellent saves. Mings looks very assured at CB. I just hope Hause is able to get fit and replace Taylor.

Glenn Whelan - shit and old and slow and shit
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 02, 2019, 05:04:24 PM
Oh well , clean sheet I suppose and by all accounts Mings and Kalinic good today. Not much else to shout about

Kalinic sadly wasn’t good, but didn’t have too much to do. He came for crosses and waved them past. His distribution was good. But the defence overall looked good

Kalinic wasn’t good?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: CJ on February 02, 2019, 05:04:37 PM
Not good enough. Drawing and not even scoring against one of the worst teams in the division. 6 draws in the last 10 games - we can wave the play-offs bye bye unless we go on an incredible run after Jack comes back next week.  In reality - ain't gonna happen, and we can look forward to another season in this league
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Diablo on February 02, 2019, 05:06:13 PM
Defence looking better with Mings, Carroll looks like he's not match fit (which is hardly surprising) late challenge costing him a booking on his debut. Needed JK on earlier for either of our wingers who just weren't really at the races today (JK is always capable of making something out of nothing - and sadly it was one of those nothing days).
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: mike on February 02, 2019, 05:06:32 PM
Well, I think I’m finally starting to give up on the play offs. Massively disappointed and I’m starting to lose faith in Smith. His results are no better than Bruce’s.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: frank black on February 02, 2019, 05:06:47 PM
Oh well , clean sheet I suppose and by all accounts Mings and Kalinic good today. Not much else to shout about

Kalinic sadly wasn’t good, but didn’t have too much to do. He came for crosses and waved them past. His distribution was good. But the defence overall looked good

Kalinic wasn’t good?

He was ok I guess, shot stopped when needed but useless with crosses
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on February 02, 2019, 05:07:04 PM
Oh well , clean sheet I suppose and by all accounts Mings and Kalinic good today. Not much else to shout about

Kalinic sadly wasn’t good, but didn’t have too much to do. He came for crosses and waved them past. His distribution was good. But the defence overall looked good

Kalinic wasn’t good?
Woeful distribution which put us on the back foot several times
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: mr underhill on February 02, 2019, 05:07:43 PM
Dean's as inflexible as Bruce - he shouldn't be playing Albert, who is a busted flush. Kodjia has to start on Friday
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: eddiemunster on February 02, 2019, 05:07:51 PM
I do hope Hourihane, Whelan, Taylor, Adomah and El Khasi never wear the shirt again....a Sunday League side would turn the fuckers over easily.....utter shite from the aforementioned yet again, but feckin Hourihane and Whelan and Adomah  will all be in the team next Friday....mark my words!!!
Promotion or the play offs......don't make me feckin laugh!!!
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: hilts_coolerking on February 02, 2019, 05:07:53 PM
We can't expect to win many if we only get two or three good individual performances per game.  The reason why we only get two or three is most of our players are quite limited and can't be relied upon to play well consistently.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: brontebilly on February 02, 2019, 05:08:15 PM
11 points from 9 games since Grealish got injured at West Brom. Another season in this cesspit of a division beckons.

Better get used to it. Being in this division. And without Grealish.

Play offs we could sneak thanks to Tammy.

Don't think we have a prayer mate. I saw a thoroughly disjointed team out there today. Possession football has gone out the window, Tuanzebe and Grealish are big losses but the overall drop off in performances in unacceptable.

Whatever message Smith is giving them certainly isn't working and hasn't since that West Brom game.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: CT on February 02, 2019, 05:08:35 PM
We're offering virtually nothing out wide anymore. AEG is so weak.

If McGinn and Tammy got injured, we might as well pack the season in, if we haven't already.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: mike on February 02, 2019, 05:09:22 PM
Well, I think I’m finally starting to give up on the play offs. Massively disappointed and I’m starting to lose faith in Smith. His results are no better than Bruce’s.

Fuck me, I’ve just realised Monk seems to be outperforming him too.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: andyh on February 02, 2019, 05:09:25 PM
I am not putting any faith in jack being able to drag us up into the playoffs.
He won’t be in the team for another couple of weeks at the least and the damage will have been done.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: thick_mike on February 02, 2019, 05:11:09 PM
Bizarrely, we are 4 points off the play offs...though the teams in 3 to 6 have a game in hand.

Thought Mings played well very assured on the ball (a bit like Axel was playing before he got injured). His partnership with Elphick looked solid, albeit against Reading. Carroll looked half a second behind everyone and a bit lightweight. Could just be a lack of match fitness, hopefully.

Attacking-wise, we looked toothless.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: sickbeggar on February 02, 2019, 05:14:04 PM
fair result. shit 1st half, much better 2nd half. Defence looked almost non-porous at times which is a plus, in fact they were better than the midfield and attack. Tammy was poor - those missed chances are why he's just off premiership class. Mings looks promising. Not the end of the world, and hopefully we'll see more of the newcomers against Sheffield United.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: LowerNorthStand on February 02, 2019, 05:16:58 PM
11 points from 9 games since Grealish got injured at West Brom. Another season in this cesspit of a division beckons.

Better get used to it. Being in this division. And without Grealish.

Play offs we could sneak thanks to Tammy.

Don't think we have a prayer mate. I saw a thoroughly disjointed team out there today. Possession football has gone out the window, Tuanzebe and Grealish are big losses but the overall drop off in performances in unacceptable.

Whatever message Smith is giving them certainly isn't working and hasn't since that West Brom game.

I didn't see the game mate. Only updates on SofaScore. I will take your word for it and not surprised if we looked disjointed. Sounds poor considering it was against Reading. I keep having flashbacks to us routing Boro over Christmas it now seems like an another universe  :-X
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Fred Crump on February 02, 2019, 05:17:39 PM
Oh well , clean sheet I suppose and by all accounts Mings and Kalinic good today. Not much else to shout about

Kalinic sadly wasn’t good, but didn’t have too much to do. He came for crosses and waved them past. His distribution was good. But the defence overall looked good

Kalinic wasn’t good?
Woeful distribution which put us on the back foot several times
I’ve only seen him in home games but his distribution really worries me. Especially the way I think Deano wants us to play i.e. out from the back. I think he doesn’t have that ability on the ball which is a real worry for an expensive keeper. But still, sounds as if he made some good saves and I think kept his first clean sheet ( PWS will correct me if I’m wrong on that)
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Jockey Randall on February 02, 2019, 05:21:15 PM
Defence looked good finally, albeit against a toothless Reading. The wide players were poor yet again though. El Ghazi had a lot of good positions and didn't do enough and Adomah just hasn't been at it for ages now.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Chinchilla Bathhouse on February 02, 2019, 05:22:36 PM
Such a frustrating game that, Reading were really poor, there for the taking, and yet we were so flat, so bereft of ideas, confidence and style. I don't understand what's gone wrong. What do they do all week? Do they actually train?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on February 02, 2019, 05:27:11 PM
Defence looked good finally, albeit against a toothless Reading. The wide players were poor yet again though. El Ghazi had a lot of good positions and didn't do enough and Adomah just hasn't been at it for ages now.

Albert has lost his mojo big time. Maybe being deemed surplus to requirements by SB in the close season gave him the hump. 
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Clark W Griswold on February 02, 2019, 05:29:48 PM
Wow. Unbeaten in 3. Were on a fucking roll.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 05:31:56 PM
Mings was good. First half was ok. Too cold to make sense of the second half. We have no midfield.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: pooligan on February 02, 2019, 05:32:28 PM
i use to be critical of Bruce waiting so long to make changes from the bench .It used to be around 70 minutes ,Smith seems to be even worse ,74 minutes today .Bringing on Jedinak instead of Davies when we needed to score also was the sort of decision Bruce use to make.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: berneboy on February 02, 2019, 05:33:05 PM
The defence looked more solid.
McMinn could have died from exhaustion.

Poor otherwise.
El Ghazi particularly disappointing.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 02, 2019, 05:33:54 PM
Mings was good. First half was ok. Too cold to make sense of the second half. We have no midfield.

McGinn does the work of two players. Whelan and Hourihane offer nothing at all in support. Liabilities when covering and defending and nothing at all in attack. And if Hourihane isn't creating a goal or scoring there's not much else to his game.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on February 02, 2019, 05:34:44 PM
Mings was good. First half was ok. Too cold to make sense of the second half. We have no midfield.

I hope you protected your vitals from the cruel north wind with thermal underwear, SE.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 05:35:04 PM
We keep crossing the ball but we never attack the box in numbers.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 05:36:51 PM
Mings was good. First half was ok. Too cold to make sense of the second half. We have no midfield.

I hope you protected your vitals from the cruel north wind with thermal underwear, SE.

I did not. Now having a double double brandy in the Hilton Hotel because Reading.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 05:37:34 PM
Frustrating afternoon. Dominated save for a 20 minute spell first half and we were well on top all of the 2nd. We failed to use the territory we dominated though and the delivery wasn't good enough.

Positives

Mings. Looks a very good player. Decisive in his play, very strong and good in the air. Fancy him to compete with Sharp well.

Elphick. I didn't rate him, but since he's come back, I hold my hands up and credit him with looking good. I appreciate Reading created little, but we didn't gift them anything.

Pressing 2nd half was excellent.

Super John McGinn. He's brilliant.

I felt we looked more cohesively in the way we defended which we haven't all season.

Negatives

Whelan. An absolute waste of a shirt. So slow on and off the ball, lucky to be hooked as we was going to get himself sent off.

Hourihane. I don't think he offers enough. In fact first half.the midfield was far too deep and I struggle to see what he offers.

Adomah was very poor. Offers nothing. Wasted countless opportunities to put ball in the box. El Ghazi is in and out but at least he's a menace and put a lovely ball in for Tammy.

Crying out for Jack. 2 points dropped.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: mike on February 02, 2019, 05:39:01 PM
i use to be critical of Bruce waiting so long to make changes from the bench .It used to be around 70 minutes ,Smith seems to be even worse ,74 minutes today .Bringing on Jedinak instead of Davies when we needed to score also was the sort of decision Bruce use to make.

Fuck me, I didn’t know that. Is there any excuse or is it as shit as it sounds.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Risso on February 02, 2019, 05:40:28 PM
Piss poor. I’m starting to think that Smith is more very naughty boy than Messiah.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on February 02, 2019, 05:41:35 PM
Mings was good. First half was ok. Too cold to make sense of the second half. We have no midfield.

I hope you protected your vitals from the cruel north wind with thermal underwear, SE.

I did not. Now having a double double brandy in the Hilton Hotel because Reading.

Cognac would be your main man, but if the frost has penetrated the vitals it could well blight your efficiency.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 05:42:27 PM
Smith is fine. Some of our players are dangerously thick.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: KRS on February 02, 2019, 05:42:55 PM
The prospect of sitting in the cold watching another poor performance put me off going today...sounds like a good decision, but I’m not happy.

The fact that we’re still just 4pts outside the playoffs is the only blessing (even if they all have a game in hand). Like many others have said, I’m still at a loss as to how we’ve gone from looking like league winners to struggling to beat relegation candidates in a matter of weeks, and it’s hard to believe that it’s just due to injuries to Jack and Axel.

Not good enough from management to players.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on February 02, 2019, 05:43:25 PM
Frustrating afternoon. Dominated save for a 20 minute spell first half and we were well on top all of the 2nd. We failed to use the territory we dominated though and the delivery wasn't good enough.

Positives

Mings. Looks a very good player. Decisive in his play, very strong and good in the air. Fancy him to compete with Sharp well.

Elphick. I didn't rate him, but since he's come back, I hold my hands up and credit him with looking good. I appreciate Reading created little, but we didn't gift them anything.

Pressing 2nd half was excellent.

Super John McGinn. He's brilliant.

I felt we looked more cohesively in the way we defended which we haven't all season.

Negatives

Whelan. An absolute waste of a shirt. So slow on and off the ball, lucky to be hooked as we was going to get himself sent off.

Hourihane. I don't think he offers enough. In fact first half.the midfield was far too deep and I struggle to see what he offers.

Adomah was very poor. Offers nothing. Wasted countless opportunities to put ball in the box. El Ghazi is in and out but at least he's a menace and put a lovely ball in for Tammy.

Crying out for Jack. 2 points dropped.
Agree with your negatives. Pressing second half was poor though.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 05:43:27 PM
You didn't go because it was cold?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on February 02, 2019, 05:45:21 PM
Crowd is losing faith. Needs a big performance and soon or things will get ugly.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 05:45:29 PM
Mings was good. First half was ok. Too cold to make sense of the second half. We have no midfield.

I hope you protected your vitals from the cruel north wind with thermal underwear, SE.

I did not. Now having a double double brandy in the Hilton Hotel because Reading.

Cognac would be your main man, but if the frost has penetrated the vitals it could well blight your efficiency.


I sensed a purple renaissance so I have reported myself to the police as a precaution.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on February 02, 2019, 05:46:01 PM
Clean sheet a positive but points dropped today and vs wigan very costly. We definitely need a run of winning games 7 or 8 possibly. Need to start again next Friday with a win vs sheff utd.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 05:46:28 PM
Crowd is losing faith. Needs a big performance and soon or things will get ugly.

Eh?

The away support was louder today than it has been for weeks.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on February 02, 2019, 05:47:44 PM
Crowd is losing faith. Needs a big performance and soon or things will get ugly.

Eh?

The away support was louder today than it has been for weeks.
You're having a laugh. Three chants second half which soon foundered.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 05:49:04 PM
You mustn't have been there. Lots of singing, especially a good 5-6 minutes of Allez, Allez, Allez.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 05:49:49 PM
it’s hard to believe that it’s just due to injuries to Jack and Axel.

It honestly, literally is the reason in my opinion. They are very good and the rest aren't.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on February 02, 2019, 05:50:07 PM
I was there .Maybe you weren't.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on February 02, 2019, 05:50:37 PM
Just one question.  We’re we fantastic in the 2nd half?  Just that Dean has just said we were.  Oh and the performances are now back to where he expects them to be.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 05:51:30 PM
I was there .Maybe you weren't.

I'm there ever week stalker. Perhaps you were too busy lusting after Toronto Villa to have your ears open.

Crowd turning? Fucking garbage.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 02, 2019, 05:51:48 PM
Just one question.  We’re we fantastic in the 2nd half?  Just that Dean has just said we were.  Oh and the performances are now back to where he expects them to be.

No
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 05:52:08 PM
You mustn't have been there. Lots of singing, especially a good 5-6 minutes of Allez, Allez, Allez.

This is true. When their lad was down injured we allezed them off the park.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: KRS on February 02, 2019, 05:52:14 PM
No, the prospect of watching another shite performance did for me. Respect to yourself and all the Villa that follow the team around the country even when we’re as bad as we are right now.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 05:52:21 PM
The effort was there, the ideas were not.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on February 02, 2019, 05:52:28 PM
I was there .Maybe you weren't.

I'm there ever week stalker. Perhaps you were too bust lusting after Toronto Villa to have your ears open.

Crowd turning? Fucking garbage.
Do what? Rose coloured spectacles. Again.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 05:54:02 PM
No it's your hearing and your imagination that's the issue. The crowd turning, what utter bollocks.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: john e on February 02, 2019, 05:54:09 PM
can't believe people calling us boring, you do know we are the top goalscorers in the league since Smith joined

nothing to worry about we just need to chill

we are playing the exact same players every week in the exact same way because apparently we have no other options

( just for those wondering if I'm being sarcastic yes I fucking am )
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: mr underhill on February 02, 2019, 05:55:15 PM
I think it's time to be honest about this - whilst the team isn't brilliant, it isn't that bad and can play very well when it wants to.  Dean can be very effective as a coach, but hasn't been since we got robbed at Albion.  Jack and Axel ( to a much lesser extent) are missed, but our decline isn't just down to that. Something is still wrong at Villa. I'm going get my head blown off for this but if we miss out by some margin  on the top six, Dean won't survive.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on February 02, 2019, 05:56:25 PM
No it's your hearing and your imagination that's the issue. The crowd turning, what utter bollocks.
Don't misquote. I said the crowd losing faith
If you couldn't sense it today and the last few matches then you're blind.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: john e on February 02, 2019, 05:57:40 PM
I think it's time to be honest about this - whilst the team isn't brilliant, it isn't that bad and can play very well when it wants to.  Dean can be very effective as a coach, but hasn't been since we got robbed at Albion.  Jack and Axel ( to a much lesser extent) are missed, but our decline isn't just down to that. Something is still wrong at Villa. I'm going get my head blown off for this but if we miss out by some margin  on the top six, Dean won't survive.

He'l survive if it looks like we are going somewhere and have a plan that looks like it's worth building on

at the moment we are going nowhere and if that stays the same till the end of the season you will be right he won't survive
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Villafirst on February 02, 2019, 05:58:47 PM
I think it's time to be honest about this - whilst the team isn't brilliant, it isn't that bad and can play very well when it wants to.  Dean can be very effective as a coach, but hasn't been since we got robbed at Albion.  Jack and Axel ( to a much lesser extent) are missed, but our decline isn't just down to that. Something is still wrong at Villa. I'm going get my head blown off for this but if we miss out by some margin  on the top six, Dean won't survive.

That's ridiculous. DS needs a least 2 more windows to mould his team. It doesn't happen overnight!
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 02, 2019, 05:58:47 PM
Please talk about the match not each other.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 06:00:02 PM
No it's your hearing and your imagination that's the issue. The crowd turning, what utter bollocks.
Don't misquote. I said the crowd losing faith
If you couldn't sense it today and the last few matches then you're blind.

Perhaps we have different ways of measuring an intangible element. Lots of support for the team today, no boos, no evidence of the white flag from those that went.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Clampy on February 02, 2019, 06:05:37 PM
I said yesterday that people need to chill and I think they do. OK, we've lost lost our way a little from when Smith first came in but what do we do? Show some patience or make another change? I'll go for the former.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: sickbeggar on February 02, 2019, 06:07:37 PM
I said yesterday that people need to chill and I think they do. OK, we've lost lost our way a little from when Smith first came in but what do we do? Show some patience or make another change? I'll go for the former.


Amen to that. We weren't great today but if we'd taken one of those chances we normally bury we'd have walked off with a 3 point smash 'n grab.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on February 02, 2019, 06:09:03 PM
I said yesterday that people need to chill and I think they do. OK, we've lost lost our way a little from when Smith first came in but what do we do? Show some patience or make another change? I'll go for the former.

Clearly there should be patience, but Smith needs to start getting us playing better.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: hilts_coolerking on February 02, 2019, 06:09:47 PM
I said yesterday that people need to chill and I think they do. OK, we've lost lost our way a little from when Smith first came in but what do we do? Show some patience or make another change? I'll go for the former.
Whether you're chilled or not 3 wins from 12 is a cause for concern.  Not panic, but concern.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 06:14:43 PM
I said yesterday that people need to chill and I think they do. OK, we've lost lost our way a little from when Smith first came in but what do we do? Show some patience or make another change? I'll go for the former.
Whether you're chilled or not 3 wins from 12 is a cause for concern.  Not panic, but concern.

I think if we'd have had these two centre halves all.season, Bruce would still be in a job.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: hilts_coolerking on February 02, 2019, 06:17:33 PM
I think if we'd have had these two centre halves all.season, Bruce would still be in a job.
It's an interesting point: the deficiencies in the squad were the same for Bruce as they are for Smith.  The difference being Bruce was responsible for them whereas Smith is trying to address them.

I can't remember what Bruce's record was this season before he got the poke but it can't be that different to Smith's.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 02, 2019, 06:17:56 PM
I said yesterday that people need to chill and I think they do. OK, we've lost lost our way a little from when Smith first came in but what do we do? Show some patience or make another change? I'll go for the former.
Whether you're chilled or not 3 wins from 12 is a cause for concern.  Not panic, but concern.

Agreed. I know Smith is trying to remain positive and spin it as 1 defeat in whatever it is. But if he keeps that up he’ll start to sound like Bruce. What was great when he came in is that it felt very much as if he saw the same things we did. But his constant picking of Whelan as an an example is bewildering. A player who offers literally nothing is now essentially one of the first names on the team sheet if fit.

The job is a massive one and I have no doubt his heart is absolutely in the right place. But in the end and he knows this he will be judged like all other managers on his results. Right now irrespective of whatever challenges he’s got it makes not good enough.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: sickbeggar on February 02, 2019, 06:18:16 PM
I said yesterday that people need to chill and I think they do. OK, we've lost lost our way a little from when Smith first came in but what do we do? Show some patience or make another change? I'll go for the former.
Whether you're chilled or not 3 wins from 12 is a cause for concern.  Not panic, but concern.


Bruce managed 0 wins in 9 in his first few months. I don't remember this level of concern....
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: andyh on February 02, 2019, 06:19:11 PM
The defence looked more solid.
McMinn could have died from exhaustion.

Poor otherwise.
El Ghazi particularly disappointing.
Why could McGinn have died from exhaustion?
Didn’t he have energetic support from his co midfielders to share the load and drive the team onwards.

I probably know the answer.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on February 02, 2019, 06:20:40 PM
I said yesterday that people need to chill and I think they do. OK, we've lost lost our way a little from when Smith first came in but what do we do? Show some patience or make another change? I'll go for the former.
Whether you're chilled or not 3 wins from 12 is a cause for concern.  Not panic, but concern.

Agreed. I know Smith is trying to remain positive and spin it as 1 defeat in whatever it is. But if he keeps that up he’ll start to sound like Bruce. What was great when he came in is that it felt very much as if he saw the same things we did. But his constant picking of Whelan as an an example is bewildering. A player who offers literally nothing is now essentially one of the first names on the team sheet if fit.

The job is a massive one and I have no doubt his heart is absolutely in the right place. But in the end and he knows this he will be judged like all other managers on his results. Right now irrespective of whatever challenges he’s got it makes not good enough.
Bang on esp Whelan. He will be the downfall
Shouldn't start.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 02, 2019, 06:20:58 PM
I said yesterday that people need to chill and I think they do. OK, we've lost lost our way a little from when Smith first came in but what do we do? Show some patience or make another change? I'll go for the former.
Whether you're chilled or not 3 wins from 12 is a cause for concern.  Not panic, but concern.

I think if we'd have had these two centre halves all.season, Bruce would still be in a job.

Makes packing off Elphick on loan all the more crazy. That and spunking all that cash on Bolasie and whatever we are paying El Ghazi when the defence needed to be right. I get he had his hands tied a bit by FFP but he spent what he had in the wrong places. Loads of goalkeepers, massively average RB’s and wingers. No CB’s, no LB. No real thought given to the style of play.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 06:21:23 PM
To be fair, I don't recall seeing a midfielder in years as run as much as McGinn.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: KRS on February 02, 2019, 06:24:24 PM
What was great when he came in is that it felt very much as if he saw the same things we did. But his constant picking of Whelan as an an example is bewildering. A player who offers literally nothing is now essentially one of the first names on the team sheet if fit.
What other options does Smith have in midfield though with Jack injured? There’s only so much he can do whilst being shackled sorting out the mess of his predecessors.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: rougegorge on February 02, 2019, 06:24:25 PM
The football continues to be uninspiring and there is no change or improvement in tactics and the starting line up was questionable again.

I like Albert but he's clearly way off the pace and Kodjia might be selfish at times but a better bet than El Ghazi.

Some fans round us were very critical of Smith.

I wish it were otherwise,  but the last 10 games now have all been below par or poor. Bruce would have been crucified if we'd had a continuous run of underperforming like this, especially given the 'easy' run of opponents.

On the plus side, Mings played well.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 06:25:04 PM
Albert is way off the pace indeed.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Steve67 on February 02, 2019, 06:26:31 PM
To be fair, I don't recall seeing a midfielder in years as run as much as McGinn.

He desperately needs help in there. Our wide men are a disgrace and only Jack is up to the task. If Tammy doesn’t score, we need to work out where other goals are coming from.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 02, 2019, 06:28:01 PM
To be fair, I don't recall seeing a midfielder in years as run as much as McGinn.

He's been great, simply incredible overall. What I couldn't believe was late in the game, right before he cramped up, he was still going. I feel bad for him and I have to think over the summer we need to limit or manage that by bringing in other younger, hard working, energetic players to help him, and give him a break every so often. Otherwise the wheels will fall off.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 06:30:50 PM
El Ghazi stands off too deep in a starting position for me. I feel he ought to be really playing off the full back. That said he carries the ball and can create something. He's inconsistent.

Adomah is poor for me. I think he needs time out.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on February 02, 2019, 06:31:01 PM
To be fair, I don't recall seeing a midfielder in years as run as much as McGinn.

True. I have to go back as far as Frank Carrodus. Ron Saunders said he had five lungs.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: dave shelley on February 02, 2019, 06:32:23 PM
James Milner could keep going a fair bit. 
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: olaftab on February 02, 2019, 06:33:18 PM
Bloody hell people need to calm down a little bit. There are far too many problem with the set of players Smith inherited and he can not fix those in one go. Those of us expecting a run of 10 wins are going to be disappointed in the short run. We need Jack and Axel back and new signings to bed in and we will be ok. We will make playoffs.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Kimaster1976 on February 02, 2019, 06:46:21 PM
Is it law that every club in world football has to play this 4-2-3-1 system so in vogue?

With Grealish injured and him being the only one really any good for the no.10 role why not try the good old 4-4-2 with 2 actual out and out strikers, Abraham in tandem with Kodjia/Davis, what do you think?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 06:49:05 PM
We've only played it the last two games.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 02, 2019, 06:49:27 PM
James Milner could keep going a fair bit. 

He still can. Brilliant footballer
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Tuscans on February 02, 2019, 06:51:36 PM
My take....Norwich were just ok last season, Fucker had a pre-season, sold Maddison and now they're brilliant. Next season Smith will have a pre-season, sell Grealish...and we'll storm it.

I'm the best.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: tomd2103 on February 02, 2019, 07:00:52 PM
Is it law that every club in world football has to play this 4-2-3-1 system so in vogue?

With Grealish injured and him being the only one really any good for the no.10 role why not try the good old 4-4-2 with 2 actual out and out strikers, Abraham in tandem with Kodjia/Davis, what do you think?

We’d get ripped to pieces in central midfield if Hourihane, Whelan, Bjarnason or Jedinak were one of the two in there.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on February 02, 2019, 07:18:20 PM
My take....Norwich were just ok last season, Fucker had a pre-season, sold Maddison and now they're brilliant. Next season Smith will have a pre-season, sell Grealish...and we'll storm it.

I'm the best.

You're the worst, but you could well be right.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: TaxDodger on February 02, 2019, 07:41:20 PM
I really don’t think we were that bad. We were the better side for most of the game, defended well and missed four very good chances to win it. The counter point to this I suppose is that we were playing a pretty awful team and mid table in the championship is clearly not good enough.

I’m going to wait until next season before offering significant judgement on Smith. I’m not sure where we stand on FFP, but I’d certainly back us to be well up there next season if we’ve got a bit of money to spend in the summer, particularly looking at the very mediocre standard of teams getting relegated.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: in exile on February 02, 2019, 07:49:27 PM
I'm waiting for next season before judgment on Smith too.
Hutton, Whealan, ElGhazi and Adomah are costing us at the moment.
Struggling to see what's changed.
We had a couple of good games under Bruce, we have had a couple of good games under Smith.
Don't get me wrong - I hated Bruceball but I am really struggling to see any improvement 
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: andyh on February 02, 2019, 07:52:55 PM
One thing that has been very noticeable for me over the last few games is the number of chances where the goalie has saved our effort and there has been no one near or quick enough to tap in the follow up.
It’s not been on one or two occasion either, it’s been quite a lot.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: footyskillz on February 02, 2019, 08:06:14 PM
So 0-0
For those who saw or listened or followed.  a few questions ?!

As what I read on here no one is exactly saying what Deano said about our performance levels being back to where they want

How accurate are Dean Smith comments that we are back to these performance levels ?

That after being somewhat  disjointed 1st half things were sorted out and were "outstanding "second half.

I was told "a good performance but not a good result "
Just going to watch EFL goals now . Though maybe 0-0 won't be much extra sky sports highlights
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 08:08:35 PM
I thought there was an absolutely blatant handball first half.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on February 02, 2019, 08:28:08 PM
So 0-0
For those who saw or listened or followed.  a few questions ?!

As what I read on here no one is exactly saying what Deano said about our performance levels being back to where they want

How accurate are Dean Smith comments that we are back to these performance levels ?

That after being somewhat  disjointed 1st half things were sorted out and were "outstanding "second half.

I was told "a good performance but not a good result "
Just going to watch EFL goals now . Though maybe 0-0 won't be much extra sky sports highlights
If that second half was outstanding I'll hang up my scarf.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: JUAN PABLO on February 02, 2019, 08:30:10 PM
absolute dull

stop playing Adomah and whelan  , Albert has been wank for ages and whelan is slower than a legless tortoise .

houriane is rubbish and whats the point in bringing on Jedicack instead of Davis .

Mings looked decent but they always start decent and then turn to turd .

we look lost of ideas so slow and no intensity .  Whats happened ?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Chinchilla Bathhouse on February 02, 2019, 08:32:13 PM
So 0-0
For those who saw or listened or followed.  a few questions ?!

As what I read on here no one is exactly saying what Deano said about our performance levels being back to where they want

How accurate are Dean Smith comments that we are back to these performance levels ?

That after being somewhat  disjointed 1st half things were sorted out and were "outstanding "second half.


I was told "a good performance but not a good result "
Just going to watch EFL goals now . Though maybe 0-0 won't be much extra sky sports highlights

I thought the effort was there Footy, we just looked devoid of ideas and confidence. Not enough quality, not enough good chances made and no obvious plan. Disjointed is a good word for it. The performance was nowhere even close to the level it was v Derby or Boro, so I'm not sure what Smith means by that comment. It's concerning that he thinks that's good enough, and to hear him describe the second half as 'outstanding'. 'Better' would have been more accurate. It still wasn't good enough to beat a desperately poor side, and his standards are going to have to be way higher than that if we're going to make progress.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Three Spires Villa on February 02, 2019, 08:46:02 PM
Boring game, in a boring stadium. 1st half was poor. Started better in the second. In my opinion a 0-0 was a fair result. Don’t agree with Deans comments. Hopefully they get relegated so we don’t have to go there next year.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: QuintonVilla on February 02, 2019, 08:52:16 PM
Hutton, Taylor, Whelan, El Ghazi, Adomah all shite. Worst of all for me though is Hourihane, absolute wank. He gets a few assists so escapes a lot of criticism but the game just passes him by. Don't think I've ever seen him make a tackle and he's never anywhere near the ball when the opposition attack.

You can carry a couple of players in this league because the league is crap but you can't carry that many. We are so weak in the wide areas and in the middle of the park.

If we lose to Sheff Utd, which we will, our season is over.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ketzster on February 02, 2019, 08:52:23 PM
Very poor again in the main. Yes the Villa ran around a lot in the second half, but really the only chance created was Abrahams header. If DS thinks the levels today are back to what he expects, it’s an insult to the fantastic fans.

I’ve been to every game since the Albion, and virtually every week it’s been the same. That same which is very poor, occasionally lowering to abominable levels like against Swansea in the cup, Wigan away and the first half against Hull. Why doesn’t DS try something different? I can’t remember a manager so stubbornly sticking with something that isn’t working like he has been for the past couple of months. After Swansea and Wigan for example, why not try playing Davis with Abraham up front so he isn’t so isolated? You can’t just blame the players, from what I’ve seen week in, week out, whatever coaching and instructions they are receiving, it just isn’t good enough. Not a single player has improved from what I can see since he came in. There’s just nothing, no spark where you think ‘ooooh, that might be good next week’.

And as for the Hourihane bashing. He’s almost a forward. He had one game against Norwich last season playing off Davis (somebody who can hold the ball up for him), and he got a hattrick. But Bruce never played that again and instead they all keep playing him as a defensive midfielder which evidently just isn’t his game. Get him in and around the box shooting.

And after seeing Kalinic, Hause at Wigan and Carroll today, I certainly wouldn’t want to have DS building a team. It evidently won’t be the popular opinion, but I don’t think DS is the right person for the job. It’s all well and good saying managers need time. Maybe, but only if you have the right person to start with, and I don’t think we do
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Steve67 on February 02, 2019, 09:01:25 PM
The think is with Hourihane is that, if you take every corner and every free kick, you are bound to get assists.  Other than those, like Adoughnut, Wheelhimin and El Ghastly they don’t deserve a place in the side. Sadly, I’m not sure there’s many alternatives.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 09:04:57 PM
I thought (at half time) that we'd given ourselves a platform to batter them second half. We did not do that.

I don't get the Hourihane-bashing - he was no worse than any of the others. El Ghazi has the talent to be much better than he is, which is really frustrating. Taylor is awful, but it's not his fault. Adomah was anonymous.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on February 02, 2019, 09:08:22 PM
I think Taylor went as a player after they Coleman injury. He was ok before that, I think it took something away from him mentally.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Jon Crofts on February 02, 2019, 09:17:20 PM
That’ll sting a bit.
(https://i.ibb.co/wQrVGC1/39125-F16-CBA3-4091-BE05-558590-D1-AF1-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wQrVGC1)
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on February 02, 2019, 09:17:43 PM
Didn’t see an urgency or fluency from the boys today,

Midfield is too slow to get around the pitch which

makes them play too deep which in

turn isolates Abraham especially as the wingers were ineffective,

Today you wouldn’t have said there was much between the teams
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Steve67 on February 02, 2019, 09:21:49 PM
That’ll sting a bit.
(https://i.ibb.co/wQrVGC1/39125-F16-CBA3-4091-BE05-558590-D1-AF1-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wQrVGC1)


Bloody hell, poor bloke. That looks horrendous.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: QuintonVilla on February 02, 2019, 09:37:13 PM
That’ll sting a bit.
(https://i.ibb.co/wQrVGC1/39125-F16-CBA3-4091-BE05-558590-D1-AF1-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wQrVGC1)
I hope Mings meant it, about time we had a few shithouses in our team.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 02, 2019, 09:40:32 PM
That’ll sting a bit.
(https://i.ibb.co/wQrVGC1/39125-F16-CBA3-4091-BE05-558590-D1-AF1-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wQrVGC1)
I hope Mings meant it, about time we had a few shithouses in our team.

You hope he did that deliberately?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Clampy on February 02, 2019, 09:41:38 PM
That’ll sting a bit.
(https://i.ibb.co/wQrVGC1/39125-F16-CBA3-4091-BE05-558590-D1-AF1-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wQrVGC1)
I hope Mings meant it, about time we had a few shithouses in our team.

Wow. Really?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 02, 2019, 09:42:54 PM
That’ll sting a bit.
(https://i.ibb.co/wQrVGC1/39125-F16-CBA3-4091-BE05-558590-D1-AF1-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wQrVGC1)
I hope Mings meant it, about time we had a few shithouses in our team.

You’re a dick if you truly feel that way. And Mings has already come out and said he feels terrible for what has happened. He’s a much better person than you are.

https://twitter.com/officialtm_3/status/1091764459402653696?s=12
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: QuintonVilla on February 02, 2019, 09:47:34 PM
Calm down lads, it was a joke. It was obviously accidental but we do need to be a bit nastier and harder to play against (Not to that extent).
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Dazvillain on February 02, 2019, 09:49:24 PM
Welcome to the positive thread !

Great centre back partnership, great debut from Mings, good intro and few playing mins from Carroll, first clean sheet for ages, a place up the table, still only 4 pts off 6th.

We have a plan longer term, we are /will be weeding out old,contracts and aged players come May/June.

The owners, CEO, Director of football and team management seem to have all bought into the plan , unlike this time this last year when we hurling the kitchen sink at achieve or bust in Mays final.

We can buy loan players if we want as we have options not just returning without receipt

Build for sustainability in the longer term has to be right as the owners want
Have patience
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Jon Crofts on February 02, 2019, 09:52:30 PM
That’ll sting a bit.
(https://i.ibb.co/wQrVGC1/39125-F16-CBA3-4091-BE05-558590-D1-AF1-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wQrVGC1)
I hope Mings meant it, about time we had a few shithouses in our team.

You hope he did that deliberately?

He could still face a ban for dangerous play, not clever especially as he does have form.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: stuart445 on February 02, 2019, 10:10:15 PM
Another pathetic result to add to Smiths ever growing collection.
Certain people were saying how great it would be under Smith and it'll be brilliant attacking football we'd be playing, can you please tell me what's happenwe because he seems to have destroyed our ability to score goals?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: garyshawsknee on February 02, 2019, 10:12:49 PM
Tumbleweed.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 10:13:05 PM
Another pathetic result to add to Smiths ever growing collection.
Certain people were saying how great it would be under Smith and it'll be brilliant attacking football we'd be playing, can you please tell me what's happenwe because he seems to have destroyed our ability to score goals?

I'm glad you enjoyed it Stuart.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 02, 2019, 10:15:43 PM
El Ghazi stands off too deep in a starting position for me. I feel he ought to be really playing off the full back. That said he carries the ball and can create something. He's inconsistent.

Unfortunately, he's very consistent at the moment but as you say, he stands off too deep in a starting position. You'd hope and expect somebody to have a word. His physique and play when receiving the ball deep is very similar to Cristiano Ronaldo. It comes as no surprise that's where the similarity ends. Right now, like Uncle Albert, he's a waste of a shirt which is my major concern. It's true the midfield is a problem but our attack is one dimensional. Tammy. Both Albert and El Khazi need to be in double figures this season if we intend to do anything in the play-offs.

Over you you, Dean.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 10:18:35 PM
El Ghazi stands off too deep in a starting position for me. I feel he ought to be really playing off the full back. That said he carries the ball and can create something. He's inconsistent.

Unfortunately, he's very consistent at the moment but as you say, he stands off too deep in a starting position. You'd hope and expect somebody to have a word. His physique and play when receiving the ball deep is very similar to Cristiano Ronaldo. It comes as no surprise that's where the similarity ends. Right now, like Uncle Albert, he's a waste of a shirt which is my major concern. It's true the midfield is a problem but our attack is one dimensional. Tammy. Both Albert and El Khazi need to be in double figures this season if we intend to do anything in the play-offs.

Over you you, Dean.

Typical Eurocrat, telling us brave lads what to do!
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: stuart445 on February 02, 2019, 10:20:23 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 10:21:59 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

Is it Murder on the Orient Express where the lights go out and everybody stabs Steve Bruce?

Edit: I don't want Steve Bruce to be stabbed.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: stuart445 on February 02, 2019, 10:23:21 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

Is it Murder on the Orient Express where the lights go out and everybody stabs Steve Bruce?

2 wins in 11 says everything. This is our supposedly easy games and we've won 2 games and played shit football. There would have been fighting in the stands had Bruce been in charge today
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 10:24:06 PM
Why are you gloating Stuart that we didn't win?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 10:24:38 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

Is it Murder on the Orient Express where the lights go out and everybody stabs Steve Bruce?

2 wins in 11 says everything...... But at least we are playing good football..............

Ellipses require just three dots...
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Clampy on February 02, 2019, 10:31:56 PM
Why are you gloating Stuart that we didn't win?

In fairness, he's not the only one having a go today.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: footyskillz on February 02, 2019, 10:33:03 PM
That’ll sting a bit.
(https://i.ibb.co/wQrVGC1/39125-F16-CBA3-4091-BE05-558590-D1-AF1-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wQrVGC1)

I warned people about Mings and his previous and what he did to zlatan.

What happened this time ??

I don't like the over physical is not necessary in life and in football
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 10:33:06 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

Is it Murder on the Orient Express where the lights go out and everybody stabs Steve Bruce?

2 wins in 11 says everything. This is our supposedly easy games and we've won 2 games and played shit football. There would have been fighting in the stands had Bruce been in charge today

You do understand that Bruce took over in October 2016 and had 4 transfer windows, 2 years, failed to get us promoted and won 1 in 10, with inspid performances par for the course, while spending a fortune. Meanwhile Smith has had 3 and a bit months and has shown he can get the squad playing football way beyond Bruce. It's certainly not been as good post Albion owing to Jack's injury.

Why aren't you behind the manager?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Tayls_7 on February 02, 2019, 10:36:35 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

Is it Murder on the Orient Express where the lights go out and everybody stabs Steve Bruce?

2 wins in 11 says everything. This is our supposedly easy games and we've won 2 games and played shit football. There would have been fighting in the stands had Bruce been in charge today

You do understand that Bruce took over in October 2016 and had 4 transfer windows, 2 years, failed to get us promoted and won 1 in 10, with inspid performances par for the course, while spending a fortune. Meanwhile Smith has had 3 and a bit months and has shown he can get the squad playing football way beyond Bruce. It's certainly not been as good post Albion owing to Jack's injury.

Why aren't you behind the manager?

And your point is? Jesus.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on February 02, 2019, 10:36:51 PM
That’ll sting a bit.
(https://i.ibb.co/wQrVGC1/39125-F16-CBA3-4091-BE05-558590-D1-AF1-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wQrVGC1)

I warned people about Mings and his previous and what he did to zlatan.

What happened this time ??

I don't like the over physical is not necessary in life and in football

Jesus wept.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 02, 2019, 10:40:35 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

One certain sign of a troll - when they get called out for their unadulterated bullshit and reply with "Truth hurts".
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: stuart445 on February 02, 2019, 10:49:03 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

One certain sign of a troll - when they get called out for their unadulterated bullshit and reply with "Truth hurts".

You can say what you like I don't care you can say I don't understand blah blah blah, but what I do understand is in football wins is all that matters and we've won 2 in 11, and let's not ignore the fact these were our so called easy games.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Clark W Griswold on February 02, 2019, 10:50:34 PM
That’ll sting a bit.
(https://i.ibb.co/wQrVGC1/39125-F16-CBA3-4091-BE05-558590-D1-AF1-A.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wQrVGC1)

I warned people about Mings and his previous and what he did to zlatan.

What happened this time ??

I don't like the over physical is not necessary in life and in football

Jesus wept.

Looks like he's been in a fight with Wolverine.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 02, 2019, 10:53:02 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

One certain sign of a troll - when they get called out for their unadulterated bullshit and reply with "Truth hurts".

You can say what you like I don't care you can say I don't understand blah blah blah, but what I do understand is in football wins is all that matters and we've won 2 in 11, and let's not ignore the fact these were our so called easy games.

I don't say that you don't care and neither do I say that you don't understand. In fact, you seem very happy about the situation.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: stuart445 on February 02, 2019, 10:57:33 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

One certain sign of a troll - when they get called out for their unadulterated bullshit and reply with "Truth hurts".

You can say what you like I don't care you can say I don't understand blah blah blah, but what I do understand is in football wins is all that matters and we've won 2 in 11, and let's not ignore the fact these were our so called easy games.

I don't say that you don't care and neither do I say that you don't understand. In fact, you seem very happy about the situation.

The don't understand part was aimed at others not you, I'm not happy at the situation I'm fuming, people said it'd be better under Smith when Bruce was in charge but last season I couldn't wait for the next game whereas now under Smith I was hoping the snow would mean this game was postponed.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: footyskillz on February 02, 2019, 10:58:42 PM
It's really irresponsible to put up that image and I've reported it.

In the rules should be appreciated what is posted .
This is not a UFC site . And images like that are inappropriate and can cause distress

Please bear in mind what you're posting and other people as it saying in the forum rules.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Clampy on February 02, 2019, 10:59:01 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

One certain sign of a troll - when they get called out for their unadulterated bullshit and reply with "Truth hurts".

You can say what you like I don't care you can say I don't understand blah blah blah, but what I do understand is in football wins is all that matters and we've won 2 in 11, and let's not ignore the fact these were our so called easy games.

I don't say that you don't care and neither do I say that you don't understand. In fact, you seem very happy about the situation.

The don't understand part was aimed at others not you, I'm not happy at the situation I'm fuming, people said it'd be better under Smith when Bruce was in charge but last season I couldn't wait for the next game whereas now under Smith I was hoping the snow would mean this game was postponed.

Now you are being stupid.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on February 02, 2019, 11:00:09 PM
Now?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Legion on February 02, 2019, 11:01:35 PM
Mings (https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2645902435437298&id=129445223749711)
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Legion on February 02, 2019, 11:04:43 PM
It's really irresponsible to put up that image and I've reported it.

In the rules should be appreciated what is posted .
This is not a UFC site . And images like that are inappropriate and can cause distress

Please bear in mind what you're posting and other people as it saying in the forum rules.

Image is widely available elsewhere and is a fair reflection of an incident in  the game.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: footyskillz on February 02, 2019, 11:04:58 PM
So 0-0
For those who saw or listened or followed.  a few questions ?!

As what I read on here no one is exactly saying what Deano said about our performance levels being back to where they want

How accurate are Dean Smith comments that we are back to these performance levels ?

That after being somewhat  disjointed 1st half things were sorted out and were "outstanding "second half.


I was told "a good performance but not a good result "
Just going to watch EFL goals now . Though maybe 0-0 won't be much extra sky sports highlights

I thought the effort was there Footy, we just looked devoid of ideas and confidence. Not enough quality, not enough good chances made and no obvious plan. Disjointed is a good word for it. The performance was nowhere even close to the level it was v Derby or Boro, so I'm not sure what Smith means by that comment. It's concerning that he thinks that's good enough, and to hear him describe the second half as 'outstanding'. 'Better' would have been more accurate. It still wasn't good enough to beat a desperately poor side, and his standards are going to have to be way higher than that if we're going to make progress.

Thank you
I'll look to extend highlights and will look at more reports online as well as stats in forthcoming days.
Don't feel up to it now.
Thanks though great info and insight .
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: stuart445 on February 02, 2019, 11:08:20 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

One certain sign of a troll - when they get called out for their unadulterated bullshit and reply with "Truth hurts".

You can say what you like I don't care you can say I don't understand blah blah blah, but what I do understand is in football wins is all that matters and we've won 2 in 11, and let's not ignore the fact these were our so called easy games.

I don't say that you don't care and neither do I say that you don't understand. In fact, you seem very happy about the situation.

The don't understand part was aimed at others not you, I'm not happy at the situation I'm fuming, people said it'd be better under Smith when Bruce was in charge but last season I couldn't wait for the next game whereas now under Smith I was hoping the snow would mean this game was postponed.

Now you are being stupid.

So you're going in to games thinking we can win them? We've won 2 games in 11 can you please enlighten me why should I go into games thinking we can win them with that record?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: footyskillz on February 02, 2019, 11:10:29 PM
It's really irresponsible to put up that image and I've reported it.

In the rules should be appreciated what is posted .
This is not a UFC site . And images like that are inappropriate and can cause distress

Please bear in mind what you're posting and other people as it saying in the forum rules.

Image is widely available elsewhere and is a fair reflection of an incident in  the game.

It's also accesscor  on this forum which is the point not elsewhere !!
my setting stop violent and gory images from coming up and this doesn't ?!

I wouldn't be making the point as It would be blocked and I don't see these sort of images generally .
I within rules .
I politely and fairly requested it to be removed and replaced with link
Because of reasons stated.
Thank you.






Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Clampy on February 02, 2019, 11:11:16 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

One certain sign of a troll - when they get called out for their unadulterated bullshit and reply with "Truth hurts".

You can say what you like I don't care you can say I don't understand blah blah blah, but what I do understand is in football wins is all that matters and we've won 2 in 11, and let's not ignore the fact these were our so called easy games.

I don't say that you don't care and neither do I say that you don't understand. In fact, you seem very happy about the situation.

The don't understand part was aimed at others not you, I'm not happy at the situation I'm fuming, people said it'd be better under Smith when Bruce was in charge but last season I couldn't wait for the next game whereas now under Smith I was hoping the snow would mean this game was postponed.

Now you are being stupid.

So you're going in to games thinking we can win them? We've won 2 games in 11 can you please enlighten me why should I go into games thinking we can win them with that record?

No, I'm not hoping games are postponed because I don't rate the manager. What an idiot.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: ChicagoLion on February 02, 2019, 11:11:53 PM
When you look at the team sheet it is not surprising we draw with Reading.


Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Legion on February 02, 2019, 11:14:14 PM
'High'lights (https://www.skysports.com/watch/video/11626103/reading-0-0-aston-villa)
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: ChicagoLion on February 02, 2019, 11:15:16 PM
There are 5 players in that line up that I would hope never to see play for us beyond this season.
Hutton Adomah Whelan Hourihane Taylor.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Chinchilla Bathhouse on February 02, 2019, 11:15:27 PM
So you're going in to games thinking we can win them? We've won 2 games in 11 can you please enlighten me why should I go into games thinking we can win them with that record?

You apparently managed it when Bruce had similar runs of form.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 11:20:46 PM
Where was Stuart in January 2017 pissing and moaning about Bruce when we went through a diabolical run, getting beat by all and sundry?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: stuart445 on February 02, 2019, 11:21:18 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

One certain sign of a troll - when they get called out for their unadulterated bullshit and reply with "Truth hurts".

You can say what you like I don't care you can say I don't understand blah blah blah, but what I do understand is in football wins is all that matters and we've won 2 in 11, and let's not ignore the fact these were our so called easy games.

I don't say that you don't care and neither do I say that you don't understand. In fact, you seem very happy about the situation.

The don't understand part was aimed at others not you, I'm not happy at the situation I'm fuming, people said it'd be better under Smith when Bruce was in charge but last season I couldn't wait for the next game whereas now under Smith I was hoping the snow would mean this game was postponed.

Now you are being stupid.

So you're going in to games thinking we can win them? We've won 2 games in 11 can you please enlighten me why should I go into games thinking we can win them with that record?

No, I'm not hoping games are postponed because I don't rate the manager. What an idiot.

Games under Smith have become horrible, the reason I hoped it was postponed was because after a hard week of work getting up early to drive down to watch villa didn't appeal because I didn't believe we could win and in the end I was proven right.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 02, 2019, 11:26:58 PM
You bought a ticket to a match then hoped it wasn't going to be played?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 11:28:23 PM
And you were skipping there under Bruce? Fucking hell. Bruce lost me at Norwich. I'll always go out of duty.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Chinchilla Bathhouse on February 02, 2019, 11:30:00 PM
So to clarify, Stuart, you happily put up with two years of Bruce football and the various poor runs of form we endured in that time, even looking forward to the games, but in just three months Smith's matches have become so horrible you want them snowed off?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 11:31:14 PM
He's got Bruce's face tattooed to his belly.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Clampy on February 02, 2019, 11:32:26 PM
Tumbleweed.

Meh truth hurts I suppose

One certain sign of a troll - when they get called out for their unadulterated bullshit and reply with "Truth hurts".

You can say what you like I don't care you can say I don't understand blah blah blah, but what I do understand is in football wins is all that matters and we've won 2 in 11, and let's not ignore the fact these were our so called easy games.

I don't say that you don't care and neither do I say that you don't understand. In fact, you seem very happy about the situation.

The don't understand part was aimed at others not you, I'm not happy at the situation I'm fuming, people said it'd be better under Smith when Bruce was in charge but last season I couldn't wait for the next game whereas now under Smith I was hoping the snow would mean this game was postponed.

Now you are being stupid.

So you're going in to games thinking we can win them? We've won 2 games in 11 can you please enlighten me why should I go into games thinking we can win them with that record?

No, I'm not hoping games are postponed because I don't rate the manager. What an idiot.

Games under Smith have become horrible, the reason I hoped it was postponed was because after a hard week of work getting up early to drive down to watch villa didn't appeal because I didn't believe we could win and in the end I was proven right.

Ah, ok fair enough. I thought the answer was going to be something stupid.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Clampy on February 02, 2019, 11:32:59 PM
He's got Bruce's face tattooed to his belly.

He fainted four times.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: stuart445 on February 02, 2019, 11:35:25 PM
And you were skipping there under Bruce? Fucking hell. Bruce lost me at Norwich. I'll always go out of duty.

Remind me how did Smith do Vs Norwich.... Also remind me how Smith did against Wigan who hadn't scored a goal from open play for over a month when we played them. Also how did Smith do against a Preston team that was so injury hit they were had to pick youth team players?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2019, 11:36:36 PM
Norwich? His 2nd game? Are you for fucking real.

Tedious troll is tedious.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: stuart445 on February 02, 2019, 11:45:00 PM
Norwich? His 2nd game? Are you for fucking real.

Tedious troll is tedious.

Go on and on all you want 2 wins in 11 isn't tedious.

I'll leave it at that because I want to try and recover what Villa have tried to ruin.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2019, 11:45:49 PM
And you were skipping there under Bruce? Fucking hell. Bruce lost me at Norwich. I'll always go out of duty.

Remind me how did Smith do Vs Norwich.... Also remind me how Smith did against Wigan who hadn't scored a goal from open play for over a month when we played them. Also how did Smith do against a Preston team that was so injury hit they were had to pick youth team players?

Alex, I don't think you're good enough for a contract at Sheff. Weds., but if you don't get any sleep you'll struggle to get one at Rotherham. Get to bed.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Chinchilla Bathhouse on February 02, 2019, 11:52:03 PM
You know, when they brought out the stuart444 I said they couldn't improve on it and it could only go rapidly downhill from there.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Tayls_7 on February 02, 2019, 11:59:09 PM
He's got Bruce's face tattooed to his belly.

He fainted four times.

Imagine if you tried to get Bruce's belly tattooed on your face? Impossible unless you're the moon.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: ROBBO on February 03, 2019, 12:11:01 AM
We are only four points from the play off because teams above us have a game in hand. Just saying.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Legion on February 03, 2019, 12:12:15 AM
We've morphed into a version of the Dingles a few seasons ago. Draw specialists. Look where they are now...
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 03, 2019, 12:38:03 AM
Stuart I assume you’ve been on the Sheff Wed site tonight to tell them how lucky they are?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: sickbeggar on February 03, 2019, 12:41:59 AM
There are 5 players in that line up that I would hope never to see play for us beyond this season.
Hutton Adomah Whelan Hourihane Taylor.

I'd probably agree with that. If smith still thinks they have a part to play for us past this season, well i'd be suprised, but you can't dump a whole team 3 months in during a January transfer window unless you have an unlimited budget
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 03, 2019, 12:44:00 AM
El Ghazi stands off too deep in a starting position for me. I feel he ought to be really playing off the full back. That said he carries the ball and can create something. He's inconsistent.

Unfortunately, he's very consistent at the moment but as you say, he stands off too deep in a starting position. You'd hope and expect somebody to have a word. His physique and play when receiving the ball deep is very similar to Cristiano Ronaldo. It comes as no surprise that's where the similarity ends. Right now, like Uncle Albert, he's a waste of a shirt which is my major concern. It's true the midfield is a problem but our attack is one dimensional. Tammy. Both Albert and El Khazi need to be in double figures this season if we intend to do anything in the play-offs.

Over you you, Dean.

Typical Eurocrat, telling us brave lads what to do!

Keep your bloody shirt on, it's cold, is the message from Strasbourg. A chest waxing wouldn't go a miss is the message from Lisbon.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 03, 2019, 12:51:50 AM
El Ghazi stands off too deep in a starting position for me. I feel he ought to be really playing off the full back. That said he carries the ball and can create something. He's inconsistent.

Unfortunately, he's very consistent at the moment but as you say, he stands off too deep in a starting position. You'd hope and expect somebody to have a word. His physique and play when receiving the ball deep is very similar to Cristiano Ronaldo. It comes as no surprise that's where the similarity ends. Right now, like Uncle Albert, he's a waste of a shirt which is my major concern. It's true the midfield is a problem but our attack is one dimensional. Tammy. Both Albert and El Khazi need to be in double figures this season if we intend to do anything in the play-offs.

Over you you, Dean.

Typical Eurocrat, telling us brave lads what to do!

Keep your bloody shirt on, it's cold, is the message from Strasbourg. A chest waxing wouldn't go a miss is the message from Lisbon.

Fascists.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 03, 2019, 01:27:00 AM
El Ghazi stands off too deep in a starting position for me. I feel he ought to be really playing off the full back. That said he carries the ball and can create something. He's inconsistent.

Unfortunately, he's very consistent at the moment but as you say, he stands off too deep in a starting position. You'd hope and expect somebody to have a word. His physique and play when receiving the ball deep is very similar to Cristiano Ronaldo. It comes as no surprise that's where the similarity ends. Right now, like Uncle Albert, he's a waste of a shirt which is my major concern. It's true the midfield is a problem but our attack is one dimensional. Tammy. Both Albert and El Khazi need to be in double figures this season if we intend to do anything in the play-offs.

Over you you, Dean.

Typical Eurocrat, telling us brave lads what to do!

Keep your bloody shirt on, it's cold, is the message from Strasbourg. A chest waxing wouldn't go a miss is the message from Lisbon.

Fascists.

I never ran from the Klu Klux Klan but I shit myself at the Ape Man.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on February 03, 2019, 01:36:07 AM
El Ghazi stands off too deep in a starting position for me. I feel he ought to be really playing off the full back. That said he carries the ball and can create something. He's inconsistent.

Unfortunately, he's very consistent at the moment but as you say, he stands off too deep in a starting position. You'd hope and expect somebody to have a word. His physique and play when receiving the ball deep is very similar to Cristiano Ronaldo. It comes as no surprise that's where the similarity ends. Right now, like Uncle Albert, he's a waste of a shirt which is my major concern. It's true the midfield is a problem but our attack is one dimensional. Tammy. Both Albert and El Khazi need to be in double figures this season if we intend to do anything in the play-offs.

Over you you, Dean.

Typical Eurocrat, telling us brave lads what to do!

Keep your bloody shirt on, it's cold, is the message from Strasbourg. A chest waxing wouldn't go a miss is the message from Lisbon.

Fascists.

I still remember the MPLA badge I used to wear when Portugal was a fascist dictatorship and busy waging war in Angola and Mozambique. The working class is on the move again there now though with a wave of strikes, and they don't seem to be overly enamoured of the EEC. Who would have guessed? 
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 03, 2019, 01:56:34 AM
El Ghazi stands off too deep in a starting position for me. I feel he ought to be really playing off the full back. That said he carries the ball and can create something. He's inconsistent.

Unfortunately, he's very consistent at the moment but as you say, he stands off too deep in a starting position. You'd hope and expect somebody to have a word. His physique and play when receiving the ball deep is very similar to Cristiano Ronaldo. It comes as no surprise that's where the similarity ends. Right now, like Uncle Albert, he's a waste of a shirt which is my major concern. It's true the midfield is a problem but our attack is one dimensional. Tammy. Both Albert and El Khazi need to be in double figures this season if we intend to do anything in the play-offs.

Over you you, Dean.

Typical Eurocrat, telling us brave lads what to do!

Keep your bloody shirt on, it's cold, is the message from Strasbourg. A chest waxing wouldn't go a miss is the message from Lisbon.

Fascists.

I still remember the MPLA badge I used to wear when Portugal was a fascist dictatorship and busy waging war in Angola and Mozambique. The working class is on the move again there now though with a wave of strikes, and they don't seem to be overly enamoured of the EEC. Who would have guessed? 

Not me. The MPLA were formed before Villa last won the FA Cup. The former fascist state is now run by Socialists/Commies and crazy Left wing radicals. Unlike the Villa, they're strong on the left wing. The only Taylor they have to put up with makes great Port wine.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: robbo1874 on February 03, 2019, 03:03:24 AM
When people talk about us becoming the new Leeds. We already are, it seems (minus the racism).
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: stuart445 on February 03, 2019, 03:28:52 AM
We are only four points from the play off because teams above us have a game in hand. Just saying.

Oh god don't go saying things like that, saying logical things like that you have my deepest sympathy for what is about to happen to you becauae questioning Smith is not allowed on here.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Axl Rose on February 03, 2019, 04:05:28 AM
We are only four points from the play off because teams above us have a game in hand. Just saying.

Oh god don't go saying things like that, saying logical things like that you have my deepest sympathy for what is about to happen to you becauae questioning Smith is not allowed on here.

Come on mate, you know that isn't true at all. I think it all depends on your attitude towards other points of view and the way in which you word your own.

I've questioned him and will continue to do so until I'm completely satisfied with our performances.

I'm a moany twat though, so am probably/definitely being too harsh on Smith.

I just want us to play good football and get out of this league.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: CT Villan on February 03, 2019, 04:26:01 AM
He's got Bruce's face tattooed to his belly.

and an odd fact is that if a kebab passes within 6 inches of his belly it disappears - it's like the Bermuda Triangle.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: ROBBO on February 03, 2019, 04:32:51 AM
Only pointed out the weakness in the four points because it underestimates the task before us. Looking on the positive I really believe that Jack bought into the new manager and was playing his best football before the injury, if he can get back to that form quickly we can still get there and I think Mings will be a commanding player for us in this division. How's that for positive.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Mister E on February 03, 2019, 07:12:47 AM
There are 5 players in that line up that I would hope never to see play for us beyond this season.
Hutton Adomah Whelan Hourihane Taylor.
Hear, Hear.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: brian green on February 03, 2019, 07:31:02 AM
x 2
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Fred Crump on February 03, 2019, 07:33:59 AM
They will all be gone in the summer
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: mr underhill on February 03, 2019, 07:51:13 AM
Thank goodness. i was seriously contemplating not renewing my ST for next season as I can't take any more of the usual suspects, but they will be gone and next season will be  literally quite refreshing .
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: brian green on February 03, 2019, 07:56:13 AM
And don't forget, if getting rid of that lot is not enough to raise our flagging spirits, we get rid the balloon chaser extraordinaire Micah  Richards. 
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: mr underhill on February 03, 2019, 07:57:09 AM
Amen to that.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 03, 2019, 08:24:41 AM
We are only four points from the play off because teams above us have a game in hand. Just saying.

Oh god don't go saying things like that, saying logical things like that you have my deepest sympathy for what is about to happen to you becauae questioning Smith is not allowed on here.

You do talk some utter shit.

Plenty question the manager over all sorts; selection, substitutions, systems etc. People want him to succeed though. You plainly don't and take glee in wanting him to fail.

I cannot recall you slagging Bruce off and jumping up and down with delight everytime we lost 3 and a bit months in Bruce's reign, which was right in the middle of a shocking run. Having spent around £20m on players in the January.

Bruce is gone. He failed. He should have gone in the summer. Get over it, you support the Villa, not Steve Bruce.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Clampy on February 03, 2019, 09:27:10 AM
I only saw the second half yesterday on a stream. We had most of the possession in that half but lacked that bit of quality in the final third. I said before the game that the bench lacked an attacking midfield option, someone who could come on and create something and it was definately needed yesterday.

Still, it's a point which is better than nothing but we should be beating teams who looked a poor as they did.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on February 03, 2019, 09:54:57 AM
turgid, hard to watch and not the way I want my Villa teams to play.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: john e on February 03, 2019, 11:00:27 AM
turgid, hard to watch and not the way I want my Villa teams to play.

could sticky that and keep it up for the last 8 seasons
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: LukeJames on February 03, 2019, 11:12:21 AM
Just flicking through instagram and a video came up of our goals against Blues at home, 4 players in the box for the 1st, 3 players for the second, 3 players as Tammy wins the penalty.

That we have stopped getting players in the box to support Tammy is a big dissapointment. Yesterday he looked isolated.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: ktvillan on February 03, 2019, 12:00:53 PM
At least we got a clean sheet, which is perhaps a sign of encouragement, especially as we've still got tweedle dumb and tweedle dumber at full back. Shame we forgot how to create and score.  It is a bit concerning that we seem to have stopped doing a lot of the things that made us look so good in Smith's first few games, like the passes threaded through into the space between the defence and midfield which created a lot of chances for us.  We seem to just pump it wide all the time now and it's too predictable.  I reckon Smith will sort it out once he has all his players back.  Hope so anyway.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: sickbeggar on February 03, 2019, 12:48:05 PM
Just flicking through instagram and a video came up of our goals against Blues at home, 4 players in the box for the 1st, 3 players for the second, 3 players as Tammy wins the penalty.

That we have stopped getting players in the box to support Tammy is a big dissapointment. Yesterday he looked isolated.

Tammy was poor yesterday and it shows how much we rely on him when he's below par. Yes, the performance wasn't great but a promotion chasing team will go to places like reading, play badly and still nick it. We didn't take our chances yesterday, and we had enough to win it.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: LukeJames on February 03, 2019, 01:22:17 PM
I never bet on Villa in any form, however yesterday I went against this for the first time and I had the free scoring, free conceeding, Aston Villa on my Both teams to score accumulator.

That our first 0-0 of the season followed pretty much sums up how 90% of my bets go over the course of the season.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 03, 2019, 02:29:46 PM
They will all be gone in the summer

This squad will look very, very different in August. We will be much younger but we will also lose key players along with the dead wood

Gone or could be

Bunn
Hutton
Taylor
Richards
Elphick (although he might get a new deal)
Chester (no guarantee he’ll be here)
Whelan - thank fuck
Jedinak
BB
Adomah
El Ghazi
Kodjia
Tammy - there will be plenty of suitors for a 30 goal striker
Jack - it will be tough to keep him again especially if he does well after he gets fit but you never know

Younger, faster, technically better I hope will be the outcome
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Legion on February 03, 2019, 02:34:41 PM
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: garyshawsknee on February 03, 2019, 02:45:40 PM
That's a hell of a long list T.V, but you're right, they need to go. I just worry about the players still under contract, how attractive are they gonna be for buying clubs.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 03, 2019, 02:48:45 PM
That's a hell of a long list T.V, but you're right, they need to go. I just worry about the players still under contract, how attractive are they gonna be for buying clubs.

For those out of contract they’ll be gone off course. But the others, there will be buyers and it’s only a few. BB for sure as a current international, same with Kodjia. Boro wanted Adomah in the summer. And if we sold Chester there would be loads of teams wanting him especially if he was fit but I reckon he’ll be with us and we will sign Mings to play next to him.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: garyshawsknee on February 03, 2019, 03:12:39 PM
Yeah, I hope Mings can prove his fitness and stay with us, showed a lot of promise 2 or 3 years ago. Only thing about BB and Kodjia is that they're the wrong side of 30, there could be someone dumb enough to buy them, currently at the City ground and Hillsborough.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: achilles on February 03, 2019, 07:03:00 PM
TV, you forgot about Axel and I think McGinn could get snapped up as well, a very different side next season.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 03, 2019, 07:37:10 PM
I don’t think McGinn will go. And he’s not the type to demand a move. He’s a super player and Smith will make him a focus of the team. This board won’t need to sell anyone and made that clear last year and with all the salaries being shifted in the summer we will be financially in a really good spot. Yes I forgot AT but I wouldn’t totally discount him returning because Man U will go through a managerial/philosophy change again.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on February 03, 2019, 08:04:18 PM
Most exciting thing is midfield will get total overhaul. Plodders like Whelan, Jedinak and Bjarni will all be gone. With way we're run you're talking not far off 100k a week for those three so tremendous opportunity for DS to shape the midfield into a more fast paced and cohesive unit than it is now.

I can see McGinn getting captain's armband tbh.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Pat McMahon on February 03, 2019, 08:15:53 PM
A very dull game yesterday and I couldn’t really see a pattern to our play. It was effing freezing too, though I bumped into Kevin Foley (Villa and Ireland fan) in the pub after the game and he was only wearing his customary short sleeved shirt.

Positives - Kalinin made 2 good first half saves, Mings was probably our best player and McGinn’s work rate was excellent. Elphick is also better than he has been in previous spells in the team and generally we were solid defensively.

Negatives- we just don’t create enough chances. I can only really recall their keeper making that save from Tammy’s Header. Our best chance would have been a though ball from McGinn to Tammy in the second half but the ref immediately stopped play for a blatant hack on McGinn. To be fair, he held his hands up at blowing too soon, which actually earned some respect from me ( he would have  obviously earned more if he hadn’t made the error in the first place).

Overall it feels like we are drifting. Reminds me of the 1973-74 season where after 3 years of momentum we just became directionless.

A good day out with the London Lions blemished by a dreary afternoon at the Madejski. I had a work dinner in Harrogate on Friday so had to be up at 6-30 to get the train to London, back to drop off my stuff then head to Reading. Next year I’ll just stay up there and go to Betty’s..

Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 03, 2019, 08:31:54 PM
Most exciting thing is midfield will get total overhaul. Plodders like Whelan, Jedinak and Bjarni will all be gone. With way we're run you're talking not far off 100k a week for those three so tremendous opportunity for DS to shape the midfield into a more fast paced and cohesive unit than it is now.

I can see McGinn getting captain's armband tbh.

With Richards going, those three you mentioned and few others like Hutton and Elmo you have to think we will be close to £250k a week in savings. That allows you to do a lot in the Championship. We’ll be saving in wages what most teams won’t ever come close to spending.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 03, 2019, 08:32:39 PM
First half Elphick and Tammy should have scored their headers to be fair.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: dorsetvillian on February 03, 2019, 08:52:58 PM
Decent defensive display. Just lacked that bit of quality second half.  Jack would have done that for us. V. Cold!!
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Pat McMahon on February 03, 2019, 11:16:03 PM
Decent defensive display. Just lacked that bit of quality second half.  Jack would have done that for us. V. Cold!!

DV was that your Dorset Villains flag at the back of the away end? If so, is yellow the county colour?
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Ads on February 04, 2019, 12:40:38 AM
Was that the yellow and green one? I think it was those colours anyway
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Mister E on February 04, 2019, 06:09:13 AM
A very dull game yesterday and I couldn’t really see a pattern to our play. It was effing freezing too, though I bumped into Kevin Foley (Villa and Ireland fan) in the pub after the game and he was only wearing his customary short sleeved shirt.

Positives - Kalinin made 2 good first half saves, Mings was probably our best player and McGinn’s work rate was excellent. Elphick is also better than he has been in previous spells in the team and generally we were solid defensively.

Negatives- we just don’t create enough chances. I can only really recall their keeper making that save from Tammy’s Header. Our best chance would have been a though ball from McGinn to Tammy in the second half but the ref immediately stopped play for a blatant hack on McGinn. To be fair, he held his hands up at blowing too soon, which actually earned some respect from me ( he would have  obviously earned more if he hadn’t made the error in the first place).

Overall it feels like we are drifting. Reminds me of the 1973-74 season where after 3 years of momentum we just became directionless.

A good day out with the London Lions blemished by a dreary afternoon at the Madejski. I had a work dinner in Harrogate on Friday so had to be up at 6-30 to get the train to London, back to drop off my stuff then head to Reading. Next year I’ll just stay up there and go to Betty’s..


Give me a shout when you’re next in ‘arrogate. That’s my adopted home.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: darren woolley on February 04, 2019, 09:17:57 AM
I thought Mings did well on another day we could have come away with three points there keeper saved well from Tammy's header and Elphick hitting the woodwork great day out with the London Lions again.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: darren woolley on February 04, 2019, 09:18:49 AM
A very dull game yesterday and I couldn’t really see a pattern to our play. It was effing freezing too, though I bumped into Kevin Foley (Villa and Ireland fan) in the pub after the game and he was only wearing his customary short sleeved shirt.

Positives - Kalinin made 2 good first half saves, Mings was probably our best player and McGinn’s work rate was excellent. Elphick is also better than he has been in previous spells in the team and generally we were solid defensively.

Negatives- we just don’t create enough chances. I can only really recall their keeper making that save from Tammy’s Header. Our best chance would have been a though ball from McGinn to Tammy in the second half but the ref immediately stopped play for a blatant hack on McGinn. To be fair, he held his hands up at blowing too soon, which actually earned some respect from me ( he would have  obviously earned more if he hadn’t made the error in the first place).

Overall it feels like we are drifting. Reminds me of the 1973-74 season where after 3 years of momentum we just became directionless.

A good day out with the London Lions blemished by a dreary afternoon at the Madejski. I had a work dinner in Harrogate on Friday so had to be up at 6-30 to get the train to London, back to drop off my stuff then head to Reading. Next year I’ll just stay up there and go to Betty’s..



Great to see you on Saturday Pat.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Pat McMahon on February 04, 2019, 05:25:07 PM
Was that the yellow and green one? I think it was those colours anyway

The one i saw was yellow with a white cross on it - same style as St George's flag. Some red trim too I think.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Pat McMahon on February 04, 2019, 05:28:13 PM
A very dull game yesterday and I couldn’t really see a pattern to our play. It was effing freezing too, though I bumped into Kevin Foley (Villa and Ireland fan) in the pub after the game and he was only wearing his customary short sleeved shirt.

Positives - Kalinin made 2 good first half saves, Mings was probably our best player and McGinn’s work rate was excellent. Elphick is also better than he has been in previous spells in the team and generally we were solid defensively.

Negatives- we just don’t create enough chances. I can only really recall their keeper making that save from Tammy’s Header. Our best chance would have been a though ball from McGinn to Tammy in the second half but the ref immediately stopped play for a blatant hack on McGinn. To be fair, he held his hands up at blowing too soon, which actually earned some respect from me ( he would have  obviously earned more if he hadn’t made the error in the first place).

Overall it feels like we are drifting. Reminds me of the 1973-74 season where after 3 years of momentum we just became directionless.

A good day out with the London Lions blemished by a dreary afternoon at the Madejski. I had a work dinner in Harrogate on Friday so had to be up at 6-30 to get the train to London, back to drop off my stuff then head to Reading. Next year I’ll just stay up there and go to Betty’s..


Give me a shout when you’re next in ‘arrogate. That’s my adopted home.

I go to the same bash first Friday in February every year at the Old Swan. In the past we have ventured on to one of those bars up the hill from Wetherspoons but this year I was tucked up before 2 as I was up at 6.30. See you in 12 months!
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: dave shelley on February 04, 2019, 05:50:47 PM
Flag of Dorset (https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/df/Flag_of_Dorset.svg/255px-Flag_of_Dorset.svg.png&imgrefurl=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flag_of_Dorset&h=153&w=255&tbnid=7DJNY6ruFMMefM:&q=flag+of+dorset&tbnh=128&tbnw=214&usg=AI4_-kRjwj06hDvcfp-sgT6tvECvRcv-YA&vet=12ahUKEwie_Kno0aLgAhUKsqQKHQEnDocQ9QEwAHoECAoQBg..i&docid=Yr2bbdvS5nPFcM&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwie_Kno0aLgAhUKsqQKHQEnDocQ9QEwAHoECAoQBg)
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: Pat McMahon on February 04, 2019, 06:17:00 PM
Cheers Dave, that's the one.
Title: Re: Reading v Hard to Beat Aston Villa Post Match Thread.
Post by: eddiemunster on February 05, 2019, 12:04:44 PM
They will all be gone in the summer

Out of contract at the end of the season;

Bunn, Elphick, Hutton, Jedinak, Richards, Steer, Whelan, De Laet, Clarke, Knibbs, Lyden, McKirdy, Mooney, O'Hare, Rowe, Suliman, Blackett-Taylor, Clark. + all of the loanees.

I'd keep Everyone from Jack Clarke to Mitch Clark in the above list.
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