Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Match Threads & Player Ratings => Topic started by: Toronto Villa on September 21, 2020, 07:57:55 PM

Title: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 21, 2020, 07:57:55 PM
We got over the line. Bland overall.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Axl Rose on September 21, 2020, 07:58:43 PM
We got over the line. Bland overall.

Perfectly summed up.

Three points will do nicely, though.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 21, 2020, 07:59:06 PM
Give me another fifteen poor wins and I'll get a round in.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: hilts_coolerking on September 21, 2020, 07:59:12 PM
A dull game.  Which we won, so I'm happy with that.

Still a number of areas where we could do with new, better personnel.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Big Ming on September 21, 2020, 08:00:03 PM
What a horrible, horrible win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: andyh on September 21, 2020, 08:00:13 PM
I’ll take 3 points.
I don’t ever want to see Trezeguet or Hourihane start another premier league game.

MOM - Dougie by a mile.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 21, 2020, 08:00:39 PM
Nice to win, but the game showed lots of the same problems from last season  No pace, not enough quality in midfield. Targett is utter gash.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: LukeJames on September 21, 2020, 08:00:59 PM
I think it wouldve suited us better had they stayed with 11 men. They sat so deep aftdr the sending off and we had no idea how to break them down, slow sideways passing and crosses into the box suited them perfectly.

Better once we got the opener and they had to open up a bit.

Brilliant save from Martinez.

Please Dean, stop that fucking around at the back, Barcelona and Man City can do it. We cant.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: CT on September 21, 2020, 08:01:16 PM
Nowhere near as bad as some are making out. Last season we’d have probably still had less possession and not controlled the game against ten men.

We did this time, totally dominant against a brilliantly organised side.

Good starts for the new boys, plenty to improve on and most importantly, three fucking points! 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: thick_mike on September 21, 2020, 08:01:25 PM
I’ll take 3 points.
I don’t ever want to see Trezeguet or Hourihane start another premier league game.

MOM - Dougie by a mile.

Martinez has a shout too
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Big Ming on September 21, 2020, 08:01:36 PM
I’ll take 3 points.
I don’t ever want to see Trezeguet or Hourihane start another premier league game.

MOM - Dougie by a mile.

Martinez?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 21, 2020, 08:01:39 PM
We were rusty, but that’s hardly surprising. Great to have 3 points on the board.

Cash was a good outlet, Martinez was so assured.

McGinn was really off the pace. Ezri was excellent.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 21, 2020, 08:01:47 PM
glad we won - but we're in for a massive struggle again if that continues.

We'll have to play better than that to win the amount of games to get to 40 points.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Aldridge Villa on September 21, 2020, 08:02:00 PM
Can see myself waking up in the early hours in a cold sweat with the commentary “ Basham Away” ringing in my ears. Still, a win is a win . UTV
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: sickbeggar on September 21, 2020, 08:02:15 PM
well that was mainly a Bag of arse, Sheffield united parked the bus and it looked like we had no answer for a long time. I fear for watkins because he'll have to create his own chances with the service he's getting. Martinez, save aside, it's nice to have a 'keeper that looks thoroughly reliable.  Hopefully we're still ring rusty, because otherwise it's gonna be a long season based on that performance. Still, a win is a win is a win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on September 21, 2020, 08:02:20 PM
Chris we need new midfielders. 

3 points. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Smithy on September 21, 2020, 08:02:21 PM
We'll play a lot better and lose this season.  A pretty poor performance, but we did what we needed.  Those are the games where last season we probably concede a late goal - so in that respect, an improvement.

I really like Cash, looks to go forward, a good cross on him and seems to have a turn of pace - good debut.  Martinez was brilliant, even without the penalty save - but that put him over the top.  Watkins didn't have much to go on, but did OK.

As for the rest of them, we do seem to lack a bit of creativity in the final third.  Which is surprising when we've got Jack in the side, but it would be nice to see some of the other players step up and try to create something in the final third.  Yes, it's very hard when a team camps out with 10 men behind the ball, but I can't believe we only had two shots on target all game - that's outrageously bad.

But it's a win, it's a clean sheet, and we're off and running!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WarszaVillan on September 21, 2020, 08:02:35 PM
Sheff Utd probably the worst team to play against with 10 men as they are well organised at the back and are used to playing on the counter. We played better before they had their man sent off. Not the best performance by far, but we kept passing, got the goal and 3 points. Bang average as someone wrote - but that makes us a mid table team which is where we're at this season (hopefully).
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: manic-road on September 21, 2020, 08:02:39 PM
Great to start the season with a win, great debut for Martinez and Cash. We look more solid if unspectacular but don't care tonight.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Meanwood Villa on September 21, 2020, 08:02:43 PM
We know how priceless and hard to come by wins are so I'll take them however they come. Job done.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 21, 2020, 08:02:45 PM

Three points will do nicely, though.

3 points and the first game under their belts. That'll do for me too although it sounded turgid.

Per the Beeb it's the first time we've won 3 in a row at home since 2007. Is that right?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 21, 2020, 08:02:48 PM
Grealish needs to remember how good he is. We need to remember that McGinn isn't the player that dominated the second division. Trezeguet needs to remember that he gets paid for this.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: DB on September 21, 2020, 08:02:52 PM
Slow, lacking ideas. We need pace. Trez was poor, hopefully he’ll be replaced. Targett needs to improve his crossing. McGinn and Conor were missing for most parts. Pleased with Konsa, Cash and of course the keeper.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Ger Regan on September 21, 2020, 08:02:58 PM
Job done, but we need two or three new players into that team.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: mrfuse on September 21, 2020, 08:03:05 PM
I don't care how we won we won.

For the first game playing catch up that's fine with me.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: maidstonevillain on September 21, 2020, 08:03:12 PM
Solid professional win against a niggly side. We would have lost that last year.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Goldie.7 on September 21, 2020, 08:03:19 PM
Great to start the season off with a win and 3 points.

As for the performance, we were awful. We looked slow, lethargic and pedestrian for the entire match. I have no idea what's happened to McGinn, but I honestly can't remember the last time he had a good game.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: CT Villan on September 21, 2020, 08:03:29 PM
Ugly win but 3 points nonetheless.

Martinez the bright spot.

9th in the table.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: gpbarr on September 21, 2020, 08:03:36 PM
Dreadful. Just to bright spots - Martinez will win us points, he looked very assured albeit not a lot to do aside the penalty save. And the 3 points.

Negatives - McGinn (woeful), Smith's formation (far too negative), Jack (doesn't grab hold the game like a captain needs to - clearly has the skills but does he have the mental aptitude to lead on the pitch?), and Targett / Trez (they should be ashamed of the wastefulness on the ball).

I guess we move on and hopefully improve.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Edvard Remberg on September 21, 2020, 08:04:04 PM
Douglas Motm... was awesome
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: aldridgeboy on September 21, 2020, 08:04:15 PM
Not great. But a win is a win.
Cash looked decent , Targett didn’t.

Trez too little attacking flair for me. Mcginn not anywhere near what he can do. Kings and Konsa decent.  Goalie looks very assured , and awesome save. I thought Davis did well when he came on.

We’ll play better and lose. But big 3 points.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: villadelph on September 21, 2020, 08:04:19 PM
Thank you Douglas and Emi for making sure we got 3 points.

It needs to be better but I won't complain about it one match in.. Here's to hoping Traore can step in and improve our attack.

UTV, onto the next one!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Big Ming on September 21, 2020, 08:04:29 PM
I’ll take 3 points.
I don’t ever want to see Trezeguet or Hourihane start another premier league game.

MOM - Dougie by a mile.

Martinez has a shout too
Almost as impressive as the pen save was the way he dealt with a couple of hospital passes.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 21, 2020, 08:05:14 PM
Dull game, but could have won by two or three in the end with sharper passing. A bit rusty perhaps.

What a save from the pen, couldn’t have got much closer to the corner.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 21, 2020, 08:05:35 PM
Two shots on target against 10 men. #pride
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Villan For Life on September 21, 2020, 08:06:03 PM
I was really impressed by the three new guys, Matt Cash in particular looked calm and assured.

A win is a win and I reckon last season we’d have conceded in the last 15 so we are starting to show some game management nous. If we win next Monday then there will already be 6 points between us and the bottom.

We need to improve in a couple of areas but that side has a strong spine and we have something to build on.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: thick_mike on September 21, 2020, 08:06:03 PM
Solid professional win against a niggly side. We would have lost that last year.

Very true. This turgid performance is progress.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 21, 2020, 08:06:07 PM
So I thought we were crap but then I take a step back and think we haven’t beaten these in God knows how long, they were always going to be nearly impossible to break down with ten men, they finished 9th last season and we have won our first game of the season on home soil for the first time since 2011 (I think). 

We are three points better off than last year.  Only 35 more points and we survive.  More pace to follow at the weekend.  All good for me. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: john e on September 21, 2020, 08:06:11 PM
happy with the 3 points
unhappy with the lacklustre performance

Seeing us try and play out from the back is like watching that Russian Roulette scene from The Dearhunter
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Smithy on September 21, 2020, 08:06:19 PM
Dreadful. Just to bright spots - Martinez will win us points, he looked very assured albeit not a lot to do aside the penalty save. And the 3 points.

Negatives - McGinn (woeful), Smith's formation (far too negative), Jack (doesn't grab hold the game like a captain needs to - clearly has the skills but does he have the mental aptitude to lead on the pitch?), and Targett / Trez (they should be ashamed of the wastefulness on the ball).

I guess we move on and hopefully improve.

WILL win us points? I'd say he's won us at least two already!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Proposition Joe on September 21, 2020, 08:06:24 PM
It was always going to be a hard fought game against the Uruk-Hai of Sheff Utd, and going down to 10 suited them to the ground, sticking two banks of four in their box.

So looking at the positives: all the new signings looked good; Konsa was excellent again; 3 points down, 37 to go; the unpredictable nature of Traore will make a real difference - you know that he for one will have none of the "always give the ball to Jack" mentality; I liked the look of Watkins on the left and Davis in the middle as a plan b
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Richard E on September 21, 2020, 08:06:43 PM
Konsa and Luiz are developing into really decent players. Good performance from Davis when he came on. Once Jack started attacking the box rather than us just firing in crosses we looked much better.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: stevo_st on September 21, 2020, 08:07:02 PM
Clean sheet!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: wolfman999 on September 21, 2020, 08:07:09 PM
Not a great watch but when the other team park the bus on the edge of their box, it’s going to be ugly.

And fucking Sky, no review or interviews. They couldn’t wait to get onto the Citeh V Dogheads build up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: colin69 on September 21, 2020, 08:07:41 PM
Not much of a spectacle but 3 very welcome points nonetheless. Keeper looks very decent and an excellent penalty save.
Not sure Cash is better than Freddie and I can’t really fathom that one. Looking forward to seeing Bertie and I’m sure there may be more signings to come yet.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Duncan Shaw on September 21, 2020, 08:08:01 PM
Can we have John McGinn back please and take this imposter away.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: KevinGage on September 21, 2020, 08:08:09 PM
Would have been a far more open match without the red.  We looked like we had their number early on. 

After that they just camped on the edge of their own box. At least we found a way through now, and had more chances late on.

We still looked far too one paced for most of the match but I hope/ expect we'll be a different proposition by the close of the window.

The new lads all did well. Martinez and Cash in particular.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 21, 2020, 08:08:24 PM
Hopefully it will have reinforced the point that we still need a couple more new players.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: TonyD on September 21, 2020, 08:08:55 PM
Carragher reminds me of Basil Brush. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 21, 2020, 08:09:53 PM
Job done, but we need two or three new players into that team.

I don’t know it’s really hard to judge given we were a game behind them. You may be right, but I doubt that’s the high watermark for the likes of McGinn (or at least it better bloody not be!).
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Monty on September 21, 2020, 08:09:58 PM
Cash seems good but really, if we were looking to update one of the full back positions it's astonishing we decided Targett was better than Guilbert.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: German James on September 21, 2020, 08:10:23 PM
We're too cautious on the edge of the opponents' penalty area, and, as someone else said, the FUCKING about trying to pass it out from the back is severely worrying, but, other than that, I really can't understand the negativity. We were composed and secure the entire game, and I can't remember that being said too often in recent years.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: CT on September 21, 2020, 08:10:30 PM
SKY dropped us Straight away.

Fair enough, we didn’t want any interviews, analysis anyway.

It’s the game of the century everyone, Wolves v Man City.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on September 21, 2020, 08:10:49 PM
Thankfully there wont be many games this season where we will have that much of the ball.

Predictable, no magic. McGinn? Where's the old McGinn gone?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: kipeye on September 21, 2020, 08:11:16 PM
Not much of a spectacle but 3 very welcome points nonetheless. Keeper looks very decent and an excellent penalty save.
Not sure Cash is better than Freddie and I can’t really fathom that one. Looking forward to seeing Bertie and I’m sure there may be more signings to come yet.
I'm hoping he might play Cash in front of Freddie. Think it would be better than Trez in front of Cash.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 21, 2020, 08:11:56 PM
Thankfully there wont be many games this season where we will have that much of the ball.

Predictable, no magic. McGinn? Where's the old McGinn gone?

Injury maybe?  Or perhaps he's just not that good.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Flamingo Lane on September 21, 2020, 08:12:17 PM
It goes without saying that 3 points are welcome, but that was terrible.  McGinn played as if he'd been dragged out of the pub, to make up an 11.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 21, 2020, 08:12:24 PM
Pretty unconvincing. We don't have half lack conviction and belief when the opposition go down to 10 men for some odd reason.

Mentioned it in the match thread but the game after the 0-0 at VP Sheffield United had someone sent off at Newcastle after 20 minutes and Newcastle scored 3 goals without breaking sweat.

Anyway let's at least get a more convincing performance at Fulham and hopefully we can build on the 3 points today as that and Martinez were the only real plus points.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Nii Lamptey on September 21, 2020, 08:13:15 PM
A lot of people saying there’s an over reliance on Grealish, but sometimes I think it’s his fault. I wish he’d just release the ball to a teammate who’s in a better position more often... Found myself screaming “PASS IT!!” at the telly so many times tonight.

Positives: I think we’ve found our long term #1. Oozes confidence, assured debut.
 Cash and Watkins played well without dazzling. Mings and Konsa partnership looks to have carried on progressing from last season.

Negs: Targett - a clanger waiting to happen.
McGinn quiet,
Grealish below par and needs to trust his teammates a little more - Love him, but slowed potential attacks by holding onto ball too long tonight imo.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Proposition Joe on September 21, 2020, 08:13:31 PM
McGinn barrelling forward for some reason reminds me of Homer Simpson rolling like a boulder in the Simpsons' Raiders of the Lost Ark pastiche.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: wolfman999 on September 21, 2020, 08:13:48 PM
Thankfully there wont be many games this season where we will have that much of the ball.

Predictable, no magic. McGinn? Where's the old McGinn gone?

Injury maybe?  Or perhaps he's just not that good.

Let’s not forget he was out for a long, long time before we crucify him.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: PaulTheVillan on September 21, 2020, 08:14:04 PM
Thankfully there wont be many games this season where we will have that much of the ball.

Predictable, no magic. McGinn? Where's the old McGinn gone?

Injury maybe?  Or perhaps he's just not that good.
Perhaps he is just a championship player
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 21, 2020, 08:14:06 PM
movement was non existent
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: kipeye on September 21, 2020, 08:14:36 PM
It goes without saying that 3 points are welcome, but that was terrible.  McGinn played as if he'd been dragged out of the pub, to make up an 11.
I think Ramsey may well get a game. I think SJM will get sharper after a couple of games though.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: ktvillan on September 21, 2020, 08:15:11 PM
As I feared, no real improvement on last season except we are two points up and seem to have found a very competent keeper. 

After the weekend goal feast it was almost inevitable we'd be involved in a  low scoring bore-fest.   I'll take a few wins like that if that's what it takes but fuck me we need a rocket up us.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Big Ming on September 21, 2020, 08:15:18 PM
SKY dropped us Straight away.

Fair enough, we didn’t want any interviews, analysis anyway.

It’s the game of the century everyone, Wolves v Man City.
Happy not to have that performance analysed.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 21, 2020, 08:15:39 PM
Thankfully there wont be many games this season where we will have that much of the ball.

Predictable, no magic. McGinn? Where's the old McGinn gone?


Injury maybe?  Or perhaps he's just not that good.


I do worry about the latter.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Rudy65 on September 21, 2020, 08:16:26 PM
I think one of the issues is that we don’t have any players, other than Jack, who can take on and beat a player consistently

We are just so slow moving the ball. It’s just goes side to side and back. Nobody even with space in front of them drives forward with the ball and takes men on. That would draw out their players and create angles for forward passes..

McGinn looks worryingly like a championship player And is starting like he finished last season. I’m not sure what his role in the team is. Conor unlucky to get hooked. Notice him throwing his water bottle down behind the goal after he was subbed and 10 seconds later we scored!

Ultimately 3 points. Great start to the season
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Dave on September 21, 2020, 08:17:18 PM
Sign of a title-winning side.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Jon Crofts on September 21, 2020, 08:17:31 PM
We’ve spent getting on for £200 million in the past year or so and we still have Neil Taylor on the bench. Criminal.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: ez on September 21, 2020, 08:18:16 PM
Cant blame United for their tactics after the red card. They defended in numbers but the fact is we did  break through and we were also down to 10 men at the time.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Border villan on September 21, 2020, 08:18:36 PM
SMJ was at the far post early on for the cross from Cash, yes he did fade after that but like the rest of the team you can only beat the opposition who turn up.

Onwards and upwards.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: J on September 21, 2020, 08:20:10 PM
I think one of the issues is that we don’t have any players, other than Jack, who can take on and beat a player consistently

We are just so slow moving the ball. It’s just goes side to side and back. Nobody even with space in front of them drives forward with the ball and takes men on. That would draw out their players and create angles for forward passes..

McGinn looks worryingly like a championship player And is starting like he finished last season. I’m not sure what his role in the team is. Conor unlucky to get hooked. Notice him throwing his water bottle down behind the goal after he was subbed and 10 seconds later we scored!

Ultimately 3 points. Great start to the season

Agree with all of that, hopefully Traore can be the man to give us a threat down the opposite flank.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Nev on September 21, 2020, 08:20:50 PM
I think I'll save my rank disappointment, misery and gloomy outlook until the back end of the season and hope that I never use it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: leylandalbion on September 21, 2020, 08:22:35 PM
Jeez 1st game of season and we won.  It will do me!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Edvard Remberg on September 21, 2020, 08:23:23 PM
7 wasn't good,  but jeez we are quick to bin our players
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: CT on September 21, 2020, 08:24:30 PM
SKY dropped us Straight away.

Fair enough, we didn’t want any interviews, analysis anyway.

It’s the game of the century everyone, Wolves v Man City.
Happy not to have that performance analysed.

I’d like have heard what they had to say about us dominating a really decent side.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 21, 2020, 08:24:57 PM
yeah, come on everyone - you're not allowed to say someone played poorly.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Chris Smith on September 21, 2020, 08:25:00 PM
Chris we need new midfielders. 

3 points.

Ok, I haven’t played for 30 years but I’m up for it if they want me.

Obviously lacking sharpness but they deserve credit for how hard they made it for us.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 21, 2020, 08:25:20 PM
Sign of a title-winning side.

*has a look to Bournemouth away 15/16 post match thread to see if it's a copy and paste job....(wink)*
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: wolfman999 on September 21, 2020, 08:25:35 PM
Reading some of these comments, we did win didn’t we ffs? It’s our first game of the season when most teams have played 2 games already. We have  three players making their debuts and a player who was everyone’s favourite still getting up to speed after a long injury break. When did we last win our first game of the season in the premier league and keep a clean sheet. Jeez.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 21, 2020, 08:26:17 PM
was a good win - wasn't a good performance.

Simple :)
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 21, 2020, 08:26:22 PM
Reading some of these comments, we did win didn’t we ffs? It’s our first game of the season when most teams have played 2 games already. We have  three players making their debuts and a player who was everyone’s favourite still getting up to speed after a long injury break. When did we last win our first game of the season in the premier league and keep a clean sheet. Jeez.

When McLeish was manager.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 21, 2020, 08:27:25 PM
wasn't that 3-1?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: wolfman999 on September 21, 2020, 08:27:45 PM
Reading some of these comments, we did win didn’t we ffs? It’s our first game of the season when most teams have played 2 games already. We have  three players making their debuts and a player who was everyone’s favourite still getting up to speed after a long injury break. When did we last win our first game of the season in the premier league and keep a clean sheet. Jeez.

When McLeish was manager.

Shudder.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 21, 2020, 08:28:03 PM
was a good win - wasn't a good performance.

Simple :)

Exactly.  Three points are always welcome but there's no point pretending it was a good performance, because it wasn't.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 21, 2020, 08:28:06 PM
Reading some of these comments, we did win didn’t we ffs? It’s our first game of the season when most teams have played 2 games already. We have  three players making their debuts and a player who was everyone’s favourite still getting up to speed after a long injury break. When did we last win our first game of the season in the premier league and keep a clean sheet. Jeez.

15/16.......!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: CT on September 21, 2020, 08:28:11 PM
Reading some of these comments, we did win didn’t we ffs? It’s our first game of the season when most teams have played 2 games already. We have  three players making their debuts and a player who was everyone’s favourite still getting up to speed after a long injury break. When did we last win our first game of the season in the premier league and keep a clean sheet. Jeez.

This.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 21, 2020, 08:30:33 PM
Reading some of these comments, we did win didn’t we ffs? It’s our first game of the season when most teams have played 2 games already. We have  three players making their debuts and a player who was everyone’s favourite still getting up to speed after a long injury break. When did we last win our first game of the season in the premier league and keep a clean sheet. Jeez.

When McLeish was manager.

Nah was a bore draw 0-0 at Fulham.

1-0 at Bournemouth was a better performance than today although that season quickly went downhill far more than anyone expected. Thankfully that won't happen this time but winning on opening day actually means little to how a season pans out if you look at our opening day results in premier league in last 30 years. We lost on opening day in 96/97 and 97/98 and did o.k in the end.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Villa Lew on September 21, 2020, 08:31:00 PM
Well that was nervous viewing, but we did it. Highlight of the match Emiliano's penalty save, you see so many goalies commit themselves, but he didn't, superb effort. Badly need some pace in the team, hopefully that's where Traore comes in.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 21, 2020, 08:31:13 PM
Reading some of these comments, we did win didn’t we ffs? It’s our first game of the season when most teams have played 2 games already. We have  three players making their debuts and a player who was everyone’s favourite still getting up to speed after a long injury break. When did we last win our first game of the season in the premier league and keep a clean sheet. Jeez.

15/16.......!

Yes.  Although at home it’s 2011 3-1 Blackburn
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 21, 2020, 08:31:18 PM
Reading some of these comments, we did win didn’t we ffs? It’s our first game of the season when most teams have played 2 games already. We have  three players making their debuts and a player who was everyone’s favourite still getting up to speed after a long injury break. When did we last win our first game of the season in the premier league and keep a clean sheet. Jeez.

When McLeish was manager.

Nah was a bore draw 0-0 at Fulham.

1-0 at Bournemouth was a better performance than today although that season quickly went downhill far more than anyone expected. Thankfully that won't happen this time but winning on opening day actually means little to how a season pans out if you look at our opening day results in premier league in last 30 years. We lost on opening day in 96/97 and 97/98 and did o.k in the end.

I was thinking first home game.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: TopDeck113 on September 21, 2020, 08:32:12 PM
Not the greatest performance but I don't get the misery.  Whilst it was certainly disjointed in places, overall I didn't think it was half as bad as some are making out. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Nev on September 21, 2020, 08:32:13 PM
Reading some of these comments, we did win didn’t we ffs? It’s our first game of the season when most teams have played 2 games already. We have  three players making their debuts and a player who was everyone’s favourite still getting up to speed after a long injury break. When did we last win our first game of the season in the premier league and keep a clean sheet. Jeez.

When McLeish was manager.

I thought that was 0-0 away at Fulham?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on September 21, 2020, 08:32:13 PM
Did anyone notice if Hourihane celebrated the goal? He had just slammed down his bottle (pissed off with being subbed) walking around the Holte End just before the corner came in.

I would have hooked McGinn and Trezeguet for the last 15 and put on Nakamba and El Ghazi to give us fresh legs.

Dean's passivity towards subs bugged me last season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Footy-Vill on September 21, 2020, 08:33:33 PM
Tonight shows exactly why we signed Bertrand Traore.
A player who can be direct,  dribble and take players on !
He would have been ideal for this match as Trez was really lacking and outside of Grealish no one was prepared to take llayers on
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Virgil Caine on September 21, 2020, 08:33:51 PM
I’m satisfied as Sheffield Utd have built their success on a solid defence. I would have bought Davies on as soon as their player was sent off as we dominated for a good twenty minutes and having 2 forwards might have stretched them more.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 21, 2020, 08:34:56 PM
We won. We weren’t great, but plenty of reasons for that. If we’re playing like that in 5 games I’ll be worried, but it’s understandable we were rusty.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SamTheMouse on September 21, 2020, 08:35:59 PM
Turgid shite for the most part. We still play without tempo or urgency.

But starting the season with a win is the important thing.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WilliamStanding on September 21, 2020, 08:37:30 PM
We won.

All that matters.

I will eat my words with Davis, would keep him.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SaddVillan on September 21, 2020, 08:38:00 PM
Come on peeps, let's have some perspective.

Sheff Utd only conceded 39 goals last season the 4th best in the division. So scoring was always going to be tricky. After going down to 10 men they parked the bus and defended in depth.

We only got a point against them last year, so 3pts is a clear improvement.

The 3 debutants did well and we've Traore and possibly others to come in.

Onwards and upwards.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 21, 2020, 08:38:48 PM
Give me another fifteen poor wins and I'll get a round in.
steady on.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Luke8 on September 21, 2020, 08:40:23 PM

I would have hooked McGinn and Trezeguet for the last 15 and put on Nakamba and El Ghazi to give us fresh legs.

Dean's passivity towards subs bugged me last season.

I think that only one sub must be either a play for building up the players fitness or more players incoming. Or both, I guess.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Hookeysmith on September 21, 2020, 08:41:10 PM
Keeper could prove to be a bargain

Cash  great balls whipped in

Konsa Motm

Mings  assured

Targett  needs better crosses

Luiz  very composed

Mcginn good and bad in equal measure

Hourihane   had right to be pissed off with being taken off

Trez  bloody awful and made the game 10 vs 10

Jack  not really in the game and does try to do too much at times

Watkins  some good touches but also was Invisible at times. Needs better service

Davis  was a nuisance when he came on.

Hard to break down 10 men in a single half, especially one as drilled as them.
Take the points but hope Dean saw enough to insist on a couple more new faces
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Ian. on September 21, 2020, 08:41:40 PM
Lots of positives to take from that. All three debutants look a certain upgrade to what we have. Very impressed with Martinez and Cash. Ollie done ok for his first game against one of the better defences last season, unlucky with his dipping curled effort.
Konsa and Mings were again very good together. Jack was good except he forgot his shooting boots. Trez as always worked hard, but little end product. Doug was solid and did the unspectacular easily. I thought we was extremely comfortable but lacked a bit of zip.

The only downside was we seemed a little rusty on the offensive and tried to walk it in too much, which was similar against Burton.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 21, 2020, 08:42:43 PM
How many times does Targett whack the ball against the ankles of the defender he's trying to get past?  Drives me mad.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Mister E on September 21, 2020, 08:44:43 PM
Happy with a win.
McGinn's performance is exactly why we need another decent CMF - not to replace SJM but to take the pressure off playing him when not entirely fit. And, during the game, I'd have pushed McGinn wide and brought JG into the middle.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Luke8 on September 21, 2020, 08:44:48 PM
We won. We weren’t great, but plenty of reasons for that. If we’re playing like that in 5 games I’ll be worried, but it’s understandable we were rusty.

Quite. Plus the red card obviously massively conditions the game. Won’t play too many more games where teams defend in such a deep block for the whole game.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: maidstonevillain on September 21, 2020, 08:46:35 PM
Thankfully there wont be many games this season where we will have that much of the ball.

Predictable, no magic. McGinn? Where's the old McGinn gone?
[/quo

Injury maybe?  Or perhaps he's just not that good.

My thoughts also. Very good Championship player. Scores brilliant goals if has space. But the Premiership a step too far?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 21, 2020, 08:46:55 PM
As I detach a little from the immediate emotion of the game is that we win 1-0. How many times did we do that last season? Did we? We won ugly. Huge room for improvement but a clean sheet as very encouraging. That performance was enough to get by to lower mid table.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Loxton01 on September 21, 2020, 08:47:01 PM
A win is a win and a good way to start the season

Martinez looked excellent and will be a great signing. Always tough to break down ten men but we needed to move the ball faster have different patterns of play.

Targett was woeful defensively. I struggle why we bought a right back when we needed a left back. Konza is getting better and better Mings was great in the air not so good when someone running at him.

Cash not sure tbh not sure what Guilbert has done wrong

McGinn still looks a shadow of his former self. We need a runner from midfield. Jack was ok but needs to get rid of the ball quicker

Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: saunders_heroes on September 21, 2020, 08:48:23 PM
3 points, thank you very much!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: AV82EC on September 21, 2020, 08:48:39 PM
Well early doors last season we managed to stumble to a 0-0 against West Ham who were down to 10 men where we didn't look like scoring. Much better today against 10 men even if we did lack pace and fluidity and looked very rusty with little sharpness to our play. Scores on the doors:

Martinez - 9 MOTM Penalty save, utterly assured in everything he did superb debut

Cash - 7.5 assured debut, looks to have some pace and liked his link up play
Konsa - 8.5 very good, great goal and very assured at the back
Mings - 7.5 solid did what he needed to
Targett - 6.5 rusty

Luiz - 7.5 used the ball intelligently and protected the back 4 well
McGinn - 5 really poor, can we have the old John back, don't know if its just rustiness but really poor both with and without the ball tonight
Hourihane - 6 good set pieces but ineffectual outside that
Trezeguet - 5 poor, passive, marked out the game by Stevens and hardly took him on at all
Watkins - 6.5 not bad caused a few issues but lack of delivery into the box restricted his ability to influence proceedings
Grealish - 7.5 still takes the wrong option too often and needs to pass more, good to see him shoot more though

Davis - 6 caused a few issues when he came on

Smith - 6 he really needs to get a grip of playing against 10 men as despite the win it wasn't overly convincing. He also needs to work out a way of making teams pay/suffer for doubling/trebling up on Grealish, there must be space elsewhere and we don't make enough use of it.

All in all a rusty and uninspiring win against 10 men but we got the job done and thats good enough for me.
   
 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: The Edge on September 21, 2020, 08:49:58 PM
A win on opening day for us is very welcome especially against such awkward opponents. On the plus side Konsa just gets better and better and Martinez looks top drawer. On the minus side it got very annoying watching them continually lump hopeful balls into the box against a team who's game seems built around defending crosses. We did get our goal from a cross but we really do need to add more variety to our game. I think Jack could get plenty of goals if he works on his finishing. He could of had a hat trick. Overall I'm quite a happy bunny tonight.
6.5/10
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: liam on September 21, 2020, 08:52:04 PM
Did anyone notice if Hourihane celebrated the goal? He had just slammed down his bottle (pissed off with being subbed) walking around the Holte End just before the corner came in.

I would have hooked McGinn and Trezeguet for the last 15 and put on Nakamba and El Ghazi to give us fresh legs.

Dean's passivity towards subs bugged me last season.
I thought the same and when the replay was shown, it didnt look like he celebrated...at least not immediately. Felt it was a strange sub, as i'd have hooked others. Conors dead balls were as good as always and although he has his faults to me its worth having on the pitch for those deliveries especially when we struggling to break them down through open play   
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 21, 2020, 08:53:40 PM
A throwback to the days of MON. Happy with the win.
It shows we are still a few players off being a decent team.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: rougegorge on September 21, 2020, 08:53:46 PM
I thought it was going to be another failure against 10 men.

Whilst it wasn't great, at least we were generally solid apart form the penalty moment.

The biggest concern for me was the form of McGinn. He still looks miles away from the player he was two seasons ago.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WilliamStanding on September 21, 2020, 08:56:51 PM
3 points, thank you very much!

This.

End of.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on September 21, 2020, 08:57:05 PM
One thing that gave me encouragement on Watkins. The technique for that beautiful curler that just missed the top corner with their goalie stranded. If we get him in the right positions he'll be good.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: john2710 on September 21, 2020, 08:57:40 PM
Overall we did enough to win but were better when it was 11 v 11.
Plus points - Martinez looks quality whilst Watkins & Cash looked OK.
Trez worked hard but is simply not good enough.
McGinn & to a lesser extent Grealish were ineffective.
Thought Hourihane was unlucky to be pulled, when it should have been McGinn.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 21, 2020, 08:58:17 PM
Come on peeps, let's have some perspective.

Sheff Utd only conceded 39 goals last season the 4th best in the division. So scoring was always going to be tricky. After going down to 10 men they parked the bus and defended in depth.

We only got a point against them last year, so 3pts is a clear improvement.

The 3 debutants did well and we've Traore and possibly others to come in.

Onwards and upwards.

This for me.

Sheffield may or may not have 2nd season syndrome but they are no mugs and although we were too square and rigid, they were absolutely solid at the back.
We wouldn’t of won that last season and I think lots of us on here were crying out for pragmatic or even scrappy 1-0 wins.
The defence largely carried on where they left off at the end of last season, looking far more assured than before lockdown. Really liked the look of Cash. Freddie’s gone if he wasn’t in squad.
Midfield, Luiz class, McGinn off pace but don’t think he should be written off as championship quality only, he was one our better performers last year before ankle break. Hourihane was ok, grealish had one of his poorer games by his standards. Watkins was up against it and a bit isolated, but had good movement and unlucky with that curler in 2nd half. I think he’ll do well. I actually think smith did well bringing Davis on and we actually created far more chances and opened them up more. Major problem was no outlet on the right as Trez is Trez, vital goals last season, but squad player for me, hopefully Traore will be big improvement.

On the whole, scrappy, bit of a tough watch at times, but I’ll take that all day. First top ten side of last season beaten.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Villafirst on September 21, 2020, 08:58:25 PM
We need two quality signings at least before the window slams shut. Certainly another striker needed. But, it's very early days and 3 points against a very dogged team is fine with me.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: sickbeggar on September 21, 2020, 08:59:53 PM
One thing that gave me encouragement on Watkins. The technique for that beautiful curler that just missed the top corner with their goalie stranded. If we get him in the right positions he'll be good.

yeah I think he did well with what we created for him. The problem was that was mainly F. all
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 21, 2020, 09:00:10 PM
It wasn't a classic, but we've got three points, and a few teams have played twice and lost both, and it's hard to bounce back from that.  Beat Fulham and it's a superb start to the season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Baldy on September 21, 2020, 09:01:43 PM
We already have enough points to end the season above WBA and Fulham  :)

Well done lads, a great start.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: tomd2103 on September 21, 2020, 09:02:10 PM
Lots of positives to take from that. All three debutants look a certain upgrade to what we have. Very impressed with Martinez and Cash. Ollie done ok for his first game against one of the better defences last season, unlucky with his dipping curled effort.
Konsa and Mings were again very good together. Jack was good except he forgot his shooting boots. Trez as always worked hard, but little end product. Doug was solid and did the unspectacular easily. I thought we was extremely comfortable but lacked a bit of zip.

The only downside was we seemed a little rusty on the offensive and tried to walk it in too much, which was similar against Burton.

Pretty much agree with this summation.  Thought the acquisitions looked to be upgrades on their predecessors and thought we looked a more solid outfit overall.

Thought Konsa and Mings looked solid, thought McGinn did a lot better when he dropped a bit deeper alongside Luiz and Watkins looks like he has got something about him.

Targett, Hourihane and Trezeguet need to come out of that starting XI and replaced with better.  Targett's lack of awareness for their penalty was really poor. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Steve67 on September 21, 2020, 09:03:59 PM
The new players all gave a good account of themselves, although fair to say we need a couple more.  Trezeguet and Hourihane, if they don't score goals, offer very little to the game, leaving others to make up for their work.  Konsa is turning out to be aa very decent player.  Still need creativity alongside Jack and hope that we bring in Rashica, alongside Traore.  A win is a win, although it was a bit turgid.  I hope McGinn improves like many of the others have.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Ads on September 21, 2020, 09:04:48 PM
Had to be patient. Sheffield United are one of the best defensive sides in the league and the loss of a man removed near enough any adventure in their play.

They condensed the space when they'd reorganised and sat incredibly deep. It was always going to be hard.

We kept at it mind. Felt the full backs pushed on a lot better second half, but the transition wide to them was a little slow. Hard game for McGinn to get on top of when there was no space to drive it on.

Couple of players short, one out wide and one in midfield. Tricky to really read a great deal into the game, as the structure and manner of it will be quite unique.

Martinez looked assured. Great stop, came and collected/punch well. Comfortable on the ball.

Dougie is a class act and Grealish really started to get into it later on in the game.

I'd have probably gone 442 sooner, but all in all a mistake free, very comfortable win. Not a lot to moan at.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: darren woolley on September 21, 2020, 09:05:46 PM
Three points clean sheet job done I'm happy.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: maidstonevillain on September 21, 2020, 09:05:52 PM
Give me another fifteen poor wins and I'll get a round in.
steady on.

Don't get excited. He didn't say wins.  He said "Poor wins", which is very subjective. And no doubt Dave will say there's no such thing as a "Poor Win"
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: steamer on September 21, 2020, 09:06:03 PM
Did what was needed, great to start with a win.
They are very disciplined and not easy to break down with 10 in the box.
Small things that impressed me, GK taking the ball down and hanging onto it on the floor to kill a few seconds.
taking the ball to the corner for same effect.
Little things that pissed me off, still fucking about at the back creating unneccesary pressure, no making subs to kill of some time at the end.
We are still short of pace, maybe a midfield enforcer and someone else upfront.
But lets see still time, clearer picture in a months time.
Again, great to start with a win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 21, 2020, 09:06:31 PM
Thought we looked good in possession but failed to find the final ball with any regularity.

Having said that, last season we started by playing well and getting nothing, so I think i prefer it this way around.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: itmustbe_it is! on September 21, 2020, 09:13:26 PM
Solid professional win against a niggly side. We would have lost that last year.

This for me. Plenty to work on, but happy with that for now.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 21, 2020, 09:18:15 PM
Fucking hell Wilder is a whinging ******. I have lost all respect for him. Apparently Egan  was no way red and Targett should have been sent off.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Jaffa on September 21, 2020, 09:18:59 PM
My two-Penneth FWIW..

3 points is 3 points, 37 to go.

I just want to see some pace, urgency when attacking, our football always seems so lethargic & very predictable for other Teams, which is why we are always hanging on so much at the end of games.

In my eyes we still need another :-
Winger
Striker
No. 8

SJM needs some competition, Cantwell/ Dele Alli (with the right attitude) - loans

Onwards & Upwards
 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on September 21, 2020, 09:20:16 PM
We already have enough points to end the season above WBA and Fulham  :)



Not if Fulham do the double over the Albion.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 21, 2020, 09:22:13 PM
We could have played much better, but got to be happy with a win against a team who had the advantage of playing last week. We looked very rusty at times, but will definitely improve on that and in the meantime have got 3 points in the bag.

Also, it’s right to say it would have been a different game if they had kept 11 men on the pitch - we might have been 1-0 up for a start!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: themossman on September 21, 2020, 09:24:37 PM
Positives:

Martinez looks the part - imperious
Cash and Watkins also looked good
We did what we’ve struggled to do so often and made the most of an extra man
In fact sheff Utd are about the last team you’d want to be playing when they need to dig in with a man down, so credit where it’s due
We won without grealish having a good game

Negatives:

Turgid, boring football
SJM’s form is starting to really worry me
Some very poor fringe players still too close to the first team
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: West Derby Villan on September 21, 2020, 09:25:20 PM
1st game of the season against a well organised team playing their second. We looked a bit rusty but the defence, as said before, carried on from last season looking strong and assured. I thought SJM, Trez and Jack were poor by their standards but expect them too improve as the season progresses. Anyway 3 points and a clean sheet will do for me
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 21, 2020, 09:26:43 PM
I think the Egan challenge is a foul and a red. The thing is there’s no advantage to Watkins grappling, he wants to get free. So Wilder saying they’re both grappling misses the point - it’s Egan initiating the grabbling to slow Watkins. He also kept on holding on for a few seconds, if he hadn’t just held on for so long he would have got away with it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WRVilla on September 21, 2020, 09:28:31 PM
I think last season we’d have thrown it away so I remain positive. Cash and Martinez had good games but Douglas was a class act. Always looking to make a positive pass and keep things moving. He looks tougher now too. We’ve got to get rid of that buyback clause - throw some money at City to get rid of it. Could be the best bit of business we do this window after Jack’s contract!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: dorsetvillian on September 21, 2020, 09:32:46 PM
I'm a Uefa B level coach. One of the exercises we did when doing the badge was playing against 10 men who sit deep. You play wide to get behind teams and stretch the pitch.  Play quick and  keep the ball  moving quickly. Switch play to move the opposition and tire them. It's  obvious really, but just as last season in the same position we did none of the above. I find it incredibly at this level that Deano and his coaching team can't see that. Glad for 3 points, truly dreadful performance against 10 men.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: dave shelley on September 21, 2020, 09:35:35 PM
A positive result which in itself should promote confidence and as we all know, confidence breeds confidence, we must push on from this.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 21, 2020, 09:36:26 PM
I'm a Uefa B level coach. One of the exercises we did when doing the badge was playing against 10 men who sit deep. You play wide to get behind teams and stretch the pitch.  Play quick and  keep the ball  moving quickly. Switch play to move the opposition and tire them. It's  obvious really, but just as last season in the same position we did none of the above. I find it incredibly at this level that Deano and his coaching team can't see that. Glad for 3 points, truly dreadful performance against 10 men.

Makes sense, but I’d say expecting them to hit the ground running and ping quick passes around in the first league game is a big ask. In some ways this was probably the hardest game to play 10 men in.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on September 21, 2020, 09:38:55 PM
Dreadful performance but got the win. Martinez made a great save from the penalty and looked very assured in air and with his feet. Very very little to get enthused about that aside. So much to complain about but our inability in last 15 minutes to find a colleague with a throw in really took the piss. Davis was standing about 10 yards from Cash each time but he couldn't seem to find him!

Some age old problems. Is there another team where three of the back four are at fault for a penalty? Smith using only one sub, somehow Hourihane first man off leaving McGinn and Trez to stink out the 90 mins plus. Targett remains a glaring liability on the left but wasn't helped by our captain deciding to play where he wanted in the second half leaving the left flank free. Even the pitch seemed a bit dry? Ball certainly didn't zip around.

Martinez 7, Cash 6, Konsa 6, Mings 6, Targett 3, Luiz 6, Hourihane 6, Trez 2, McGinn 4, Grealish 6, Watkins 5. Davis 7.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: London Villan on September 21, 2020, 09:42:22 PM
It's the pace - when we did draw them out we didn't move the ball forward quick enough after we won back possession.

Great to start the season with a win though and two more winable games up next.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: mcgrath_85 on September 21, 2020, 09:43:37 PM
Very happy with the 3 points. They parked the bus and that’s very difficult to shift.
We wouldn’t have won that last season.
I really hope a left back is on the agenda to at least challenge but preferably start ahead of Targett.
I agree with the Mcginn criticism: he’s been poor for a while now and has had enough games since his injury to get back to where he was and he hasn’t got closed. A little worrying but hopefully he’ll crack on.
Konsa, Cash and Luiz were good and we might well have our best goalie since Brad Friedel in Martinez. What a debut saving from the spot!
UTV
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: exigo on September 21, 2020, 09:45:21 PM
It was like the pitch hadn't been watered before the game. Every pass just seemed so sluggish.
In fact, the game was so dull I spent far too much time trying to work out whether we'd slowed the pitch down for a reason.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Goldie.7 on September 21, 2020, 09:47:01 PM
A lot of people saying there’s an over reliance on Grealish, but sometimes I think it’s his fault. I wish he’d just release the ball to a teammate who’s in a better position more often... Found myself screaming “PASS IT!!” at the telly so many times tonight.

I've been saying the same for months. There was one moment earlier where Watkins was using his hands to tell Grealish look "play me in" and what does Grealish do? He ignores it and heads towards 3 defenders.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: supertom on September 21, 2020, 09:47:36 PM
We've been dire against 10 men for decades. So a win, relative comfort (albeit frustratingly tepid going forward) and a clean sheet is not to be sniffed at. As said, last season we'd have probably chucked a game like this away. Given we have a difficult opening set of fixtures, it was also important to win.

Most pleasing for me was Konsa and Mings working very well as a pair. Douglas continues to look very assured. If we can get another winger in, and get said signing or Traore into the starting 11 over Trezegeut, that will improve things. I like Trez, but he's a squad player, not a regular starter.
Cash looked promising. Martinez very assured. Watkins gave a few signs of his movement, but games like this are almost a death knell for a striker like him who thrives on getting space on a counter as Utd sat all bar one behind the ball. Once we went one up and they had to push out, he was finding more pockets. I think getting Davis alongside him in certain games will benefit him too.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WilliamStanding on September 21, 2020, 09:48:35 PM
Dreadful performance but got the win. Martinez made a great save from the penalty and looked very assured in air and with his feet. Very very little to get enthused about that aside. So much to complain about but our inability in last 15 minutes to find a colleague with a throw in really took the piss. Davis was standing about 10 yards from Cash each time but he couldn't seem to find him!

Some age old problems. Is there another team where three of the back four are at fault for a penalty? Smith using only one sub, somehow Hourihane first man off leaving McGinn and Trez to stink out the 90 mins plus. Targett remains a glaring liability on the left but wasn't helped by our captain deciding to play where he wanted in the second half leaving the left flank free. Even the pitch seemed a bit dry? Ball certainly didn't zip around.

Martinez 7, Cash 6, Konsa 6, Mings 6, Targett 3, Luiz 6, Hourihane 6, Trez 2, McGinn 4, Grealish 6, Watkins 5. Davis 7.

Are you high / drunk ?

Yes we were slightly taxing against 10 men but Jesus we were up against one of the tightest teams in the league, our first league game, no fans, new players.

In Smithy we trust.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 21, 2020, 09:49:46 PM
I'm a Uefa B level coach. One of the exercises we did when doing the badge was playing against 10 men who sit deep. You play wide to get behind teams and stretch the pitch.  Play quick and  keep the ball  moving quickly. Switch play to move the opposition and tire them. It's  obvious really, but just as last season in the same position we did none of the above. I find it incredibly at this level that Deano and his coaching team can't see that. Glad for 3 points, truly dreadful performance against 10 men.
dv that's good information especially for lay people like me who spend the entire match just ball watching. However if that's the attacking strategy surely there must be a counter strategy to it that defending teams can deploy?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on September 21, 2020, 09:54:31 PM
I felt bad for Egan for a second as if that had been given against us I'd be really fcuked off but then I remembered in the corresponding game in June when Egan grabbed hold of gentle Keinan all the fcuking time without punishment.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Skerra on September 21, 2020, 09:55:32 PM
The real positive I take from the match is Martinez and the team keeping a clean sheet. Confidence builds so much, throughout the team, when they see such a good keeper and, with the exception of Targett, a solid looking defence. As someone else pointed out, Jack rarely has a good game when the England manager turns up. Both he and Luiz(who was excellent, need to have more shots on goal. Big if, but if we can get another couple of players with pace, I think we will have the makings of a really good team. As much as I moan sometimes, 3 points is a good start. Any type of win at Fulham will be exactly what the doctor ordered. Sometimes it’s just frustration for the team that I love.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WilliamStanding on September 21, 2020, 09:59:12 PM
I felt bad for Egan for a second as if that had been given against us I'd be really fcuked off but then I remembered in the corresponding game in June when Egan grabbed hold of gentle Keinan all the fcuking time without punishment.

Don’t start talking sense or you get attacked.

You’re not a villa fan if you give opinion.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 21, 2020, 10:00:39 PM
I felt bad for Egan for a second as if that had been given against us I'd be really fcuked off but then I remembered in the corresponding game in June when Egan grabbed hold of gentle Keinan all the fcuking time without punishment.

Don’t start talking sense or you get attacked.

You’re not a villa fan if you give opinion.

Please let's not go down that road.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Taylor on September 21, 2020, 10:12:19 PM
It pleases me that this was supposedly the most entertaining weekend of premier league football ever, and yet our game stunk the place up. Have that yer Sky bastids!!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Drummond on September 21, 2020, 10:17:10 PM
Easy win. Tough to break them down which highlights a need for more creative players.

I still don't understand why we didn't take out shots from distance as we've personnel to do it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on September 21, 2020, 10:19:45 PM
Dreadful performance but got the win. Martinez made a great save from the penalty and looked very assured in air and with his feet. Very very little to get enthused about that aside. So much to complain about but our inability in last 15 minutes to find a colleague with a throw in really took the piss. Davis was standing about 10 yards from Cash each time but he couldn't seem to find him!

Some age old problems. Is there another team where three of the back four are at fault for a penalty? Smith using only one sub, somehow Hourihane first man off leaving McGinn and Trez to stink out the 90 mins plus. Targett remains a glaring liability on the left but wasn't helped by our captain deciding to play where he wanted in the second half leaving the left flank free. Even the pitch seemed a bit dry? Ball certainly didn't zip around.

Martinez 7, Cash 6, Konsa 6, Mings 6, Targett 3, Luiz 6, Hourihane 6, Trez 2, McGinn 4, Grealish 6, Watkins 5. Davis 7.

Are you high / drunk ?

Yes we were slightly taxing against 10 men but Jesus we were up against one of the tightest teams in the league, our first league game, no fans, new players.

In Smithy we trust.

My trust in Smithy wouldn't be water tight to start with....He has a long standing issue for me with game management, tactical changes, subs and timing of them. No issue with the starting eleven but there's no way Hourihane should have been first man off ahead of Trez and McGinn. We had two subs left but didn't use them to kill time when under pressure. I fail to see why he retains faith in Matt Targett either. Absolute priority position for us to strengthen, as evidenced yet again tonight.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: stevo_st on September 21, 2020, 10:23:25 PM
Easy win. Tough to break them down which highlights a need for more creative players.

I still don't understand why we didn't take out shots from distance as we've personnel to do it.

It was frustrating as hell, but always seemed like the lay off pass wasn't quite there and forced us to take an extra touch before taking a shot.
Bit of rustiness in the all important final third
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WilliamStanding on September 21, 2020, 10:24:06 PM
I felt bad for Egan for a second as if that had been given against us I'd be really fcuked off but then I remembered in the corresponding game in June when Egan grabbed hold of gentle Keinan all the fcuking time without punishment.

Don’t start talking sense or you get attacked.

You’re not a villa fan if you give opinion.

Please let's not go down that road.

Dave, 100% this, but let’s not ignore the fact that once again the gang mentality on here once again attempting to bully certain posters out with an agenda as their “mates “ have thrown their dummies out.

You guys have been immense lately for anticipating this and it’s well acknowledged.

Jesus we have won a game, let’s be joyous.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: KevinGage on September 21, 2020, 10:26:10 PM
I felt bad for Egan for a second as if that had been given against us I'd be really fcuked off but then I remembered in the corresponding game in June when Egan grabbed hold of gentle Keinan all the fcuking time without punishment.

Don’t start talking sense or you get attacked.

You’re not a villa fan if you give opinion.

Not getting enough attention recently?

Bless.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WilliamStanding on September 21, 2020, 10:28:31 PM
I felt bad for Egan for a second as if that had been given against us I'd be really fcuked off but then I remembered in the corresponding game in June when Egan grabbed hold of gentle Keinan all the fcuking time without punishment.

Don’t start talking sense or you get attacked.

You’re not a villa fan if you give opinion.

Not getting enough attention recently?

Bless.

Rest my case.

Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 21, 2020, 10:28:54 PM
Enough, everybody.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: exigo on September 21, 2020, 10:30:42 PM
Only one team in the Premier League yet to concede a goal this season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Steve67 on September 21, 2020, 10:31:21 PM
I felt bad for Egan for a second as if that had been given against us I'd be really fcuked off but then I remembered in the corresponding game in June when Egan grabbed hold of gentle Keinan all the fcuking time without punishment.

Don’t start talking sense or you get attacked.

You’re not a villa fan if you give opinion.

Please let's not go down that road.

Dave, 100% this, but let’s not ignore the fact that once again the gang mentality on here once again attempting to bully certain posters out with an agenda as their “mates “ have thrown their dummies out.

You guys have been immense lately for anticipating this and it’s well acknowledged.

Jesus we have won a game, let’s be joyous.


Your posts are provocative and you disagree for the sake of it.  Whilst this continues to happen, you will be called out.  Mary, Argie, drunk/high.  All words used by you this evening against other posters so be respectful and you get it back. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 21, 2020, 10:33:03 PM
Highlights:
https://www.skysports.com/football/a-villa-vs-sheff-utd/report/428848
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Rory on September 21, 2020, 10:37:16 PM
Reading some of these comments, we did win didn’t we ffs? It’s our first game of the season when most teams have played 2 games already. We have  three players making their debuts and a player who was everyone’s favourite still getting up to speed after a long injury break. When did we last win our first game of the season in the premier league and keep a clean sheet. Jeez.

15/16.......!

Yes.  Although at home it’s 2011 3-1 Blackburn

One of Gabby's best goals for us that day, IIRC.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Legion on September 21, 2020, 10:42:26 PM
Highlights:
https://www.skysports.com/football/a-villa-vs-sheff-utd/report/428848

Thank you.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 21, 2020, 10:48:39 PM
We’ve spent getting on for £200 million in the past year or so and we still have Neil Taylor on the bench. Criminal.
More worrying is we have Targett on the pitch.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 21, 2020, 10:48:51 PM
I'm a Uefa B level coach. One of the exercises we did when doing the badge was playing against 10 men who sit deep. You play wide to get behind teams and stretch the pitch.  Play quick and  keep the ball  moving quickly. Switch play to move the opposition and tire them. It's  obvious really, but just as last season in the same position we did none of the above. I find it incredibly at this level that Deano and his coaching team can't see that. Glad for 3 points, truly dreadful performance against 10 men.

Think they do see it but for whatever reason the players always seem to panic with the pressure of having to win the game and forget to do the basics of playing v 10 men as you say so our moves easily break down.

Having quicker players would help to get in behind deep defences (I remember Adama last year killing Man. City when they only had 10 men) so hopefully next team we face opponents with one less player Traore and Rashica will be on the pitch for us.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 21, 2020, 10:51:44 PM
Highlights:
https://www.skysports.com/football/a-villa-vs-sheff-utd/report/428848

Cheers! Great save but the penalty highlights one of my bug bears which is defenders not following in on penalties against us. It's not just our players who are guilty of it as it seems fairly prevalent these days.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: nick harper on September 21, 2020, 10:53:30 PM
I will always be grateful for the 3 goals he scored at the end of last season but Trezeguet really is a dreadful footballer.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: The Edge on September 21, 2020, 10:55:15 PM
We've not conceded a goal in the  last 270 minutes of football. It's a bloody miracle!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 21, 2020, 10:55:29 PM
I will always be grateful for the 3 goals he scored at the end of last season but Trezeguet really is a dreadful footballer.

He just hasn't got enough skill or pace to be a good Premier League forward player. He can't beat a man, so resorts to kick and rush which he isn't very good at.  He's got a decent shot on him but that's not really enough in itself.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 21, 2020, 10:55:44 PM
Highlights:
https://www.skysports.com/football/a-villa-vs-sheff-utd/report/428848

Cheers! Great save but the penalty highlights one of my bug bears which is defenders not following in on penalties against us. It's not just our players who are guilty of it as it seems fairly prevalent these days.

Problem is VAR would just show up that and would say to ref to take it again if they ran into the box too quickly and cleared the ball from the rebound.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: OzVilla on September 21, 2020, 10:57:18 PM
Just catching up but delighted we got the win. Sending off looks harsh to me, had it been the other way I’d have been annoyed.

Regardless of performance playing against 10 men has proved tough for this team, Sheffield Utd have about as good an organisation defensively as we’ll come across so a win is huge to start us off.

Small steps but an imo an improvement from last season in several areas. UTV.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 21, 2020, 10:59:09 PM
We've not conceded a goal in the  last 270 minutes of football. It's a bloody miracle!
How did you arrive at that? We conceded against Burton and West Ham. Unless you are only counting home games?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: OzVilla on September 21, 2020, 10:59:40 PM
I will always be grateful for the 3 goals he scored at the end of last season but Trezeguet really is a dreadful footballer.

I was astonished to learn that not only was Trez our quickest player last year, one of his sprints was 3rd quickest by anyone across the season. He bloody well hides it well.

He just hasn't got enough skill or pace to be a good Premier League forward player. He can't beat a man, so resorts to kick and rush which he isn't very good at.  He's got a decent shot on him but that's not really enough in itself.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 21, 2020, 11:09:03 PM
I know it was against ten men so made somewhat easier, but our ball retention and passing was significantly better than we saw for almost the entirety of last season.

In other positives, I genuinely think Konsa has a great career ahead of him, he really looks the part.

The goalkeeper looked superb, despite a nagging feeling i was being harsh on him, I always felt nervous when Nyland was in goal for us. Martinez has got off on exactly the right note.

Defensively we looked - with the exception of Targett - solid (although we risk getting ourselves into trouble by being over-clever a bit too often).

Trezeguet is, I think a very inconsistent player, but he works very hard indeed. Cash has bags of pace and looked assured.

Grealish didn't have one of his best games, Luiz i thought played very well. McGinn, though, looked largely anonymous to me.

Three points is great to start the season with, and whatever we think about Sheffield United they're a doggedly difficult side to beat at the best of times.

Of concern was we still look like we desperately need an injection of pace, we're still very one-paced. We also really struggle to find the spark to finish off good spells of possession. I dont know if Rashica and/or Traore will address these issues, but I hope we do.

Also slightly concerned that much of our squad is taken up with players who really aren't good enough - Davis, Lansbury, Jota, for example. I'd like to see some of these moved on and replaced with improvements.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: stevo_st on September 21, 2020, 11:11:54 PM
Agree with all that - except I think Davis is worth having in the squad
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Legion on September 21, 2020, 11:12:54 PM
I just don't get why Targett is preferred over Guilbert.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 21, 2020, 11:13:46 PM
I just don't get why Targett is preferred over Guilbert.

He's not, though
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 21, 2020, 11:16:12 PM
I just don't get why Targett is preferred over Guilbert.

He's not, though

Not positionally, but we've splashed out big for a replacement for Guilbert, when Targett in my opinion is a weaker player.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 21, 2020, 11:16:35 PM
I like the idea of going into our second league game vs Fulham with at least one new player in Traoré and hopefully two if we can someone else through the door. We need to get faster and Traoré will give us that.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 21, 2020, 11:19:34 PM
I just don't get why Targett is preferred over Guilbert.

He's not, though

Not positionally, but we've splashed out big for a replacement for Guilbert, when Targett in my opinion is a weaker player.

Ah, I see what you mean.

Ideally it'd be nice to have two decent options in each position. Targett or Taylor does seem a poor selection. Mind you, Guilbert and Cash is much better and I wish we'd move on Elmo rather than Guilbert.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Nii Lamptey on September 21, 2020, 11:20:12 PM
I just don't get why Targett is preferred over Guilbert.

He's not, though

Not positionally, but we've splashed out big for a replacement for Guilbert, when Targett in my opinion is a weaker player.

He's this transfer window's equivalent of last season's 'Only signing one striker' shennanigans. If we play Targett as first choice LB for the course of this season, he's going to cost us double figures in points. Our weakest link by far.

An out of position Guilbert would be a better option at  LB imo.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: sickbeggar on September 21, 2020, 11:21:58 PM
Fucking hell Wilder is a whinging ******. I have lost all respect for him. Apparently Egan  was no way red and Targett should have been sent off.

Hate to say it but he's got a point about Targett and that double jeopardy sending off rule. Hard to make a case that he was making a genuine challenge for the ball when the ball was nowhere near him

Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on September 21, 2020, 11:22:45 PM
I will always be grateful for the 3 goals he scored at the end of last season but Trezeguet really is a dreadful footballer.

He's absolutely shocking. He hasn't a single attribute that's at the required level to play in this division. Reminds me of Andi Weimann but arguably less effective.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: thick_mike on September 21, 2020, 11:23:59 PM
One thing I’ve noticed is that Jack really trusts Davis. When he came on, Jack immediately started playing passes to him in tight situations, knowing Keinan would hold the ball, or lay it off. He didn’t play balls like that to anyone before Davis came on.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Small Rodent on September 21, 2020, 11:25:16 PM
I can’t believe the people moaning.

It was one way traffic. Apart from the penalty the opposition never looked remotely like scoring.

Yes, we were one dimensional in our one way traffic, but like last year, we are rated by many to be relegation favourites.

A bit of pace with Traoré and hopefully another outlet will work wonders; watching us trying to walk the ball into the net was rather frustrating.

My main beef was lack of game management yet again by Smith with 15 minutes to go. I can only think he wanted to give the majority of players out there game time for fitness and saw that there was no way Sheffield would score.

Since the Wesley and Heston injuries, I now wince anytime one of our players is clattered. Going to be a long season!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: maidstonevillainjunior on September 21, 2020, 11:26:02 PM
I'll be honest I didn't know what to expect of Cash but he looked quality tonight. I'd say the same about Watkins too, shame he didn't manage a goal or assist but second half he was in a lot of the right places at the right times which is reassuring, definitely got a lot of room to grow. You could tell he as well as others were expecting a goal from him, and were disappointed that nothing came of any of the chances we had. But goes to show that the team are looking forward to a not-mediocre season like last year, if you can qualify last year as only "mediocre".

Those two new signings aside... MARTINEZ - WHAT A MAN. Goes to show what being a Villa fan is like when as soon as the ref pointed to the spot, I was thinking, "okay so we just need two goals to win." Didn't have much to do tonight but already worth his fee as far as I am concerned with the work he did.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WilliamStanding on September 21, 2020, 11:32:10 PM
I can’t believe the people moaning. I’m
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: FatSam on September 21, 2020, 11:35:37 PM
Ideally it'd be nice to have two decent options in each position. Targett or Taylor does seem a poor selection. Mind you, Guilbert and Cash is much better and I wish we'd move on Elmo rather than Guilbert.
I don’t understand how we couldn’t get a reliable left back for the money that we paid for Targett. Guilbert on the other side isn’t perfect, but cost about a third of the price. Guilbert seems to have been scouted, and I can’t help thinking that there must be better options than Targett out there. I can really see why him and Taylor get switched depending on the opposition, because both have glaring weaknesses.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: FatSam on September 21, 2020, 11:39:46 PM
I will always be grateful for the 3 goals he scored at the end of last season but Trezeguet really is a dreadful footballer.
Agreed. I thought he looked a limited player when playing for Egypt in the World Cup in Russia. I‘ve been pleasantly surprised by his goal return considering how out of his depth he looks a lot of the time. At least he looks like he is putting a shift in.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WilliamStanding on September 21, 2020, 11:43:01 PM
I just don't get why Targett is preferred over Guilbert.

One is a left back, the other right.

I’m no Cloughy I may add.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: ROBBO on September 21, 2020, 11:48:00 PM
Davis and Watkins partnership could work well, Watkins speed bought about the sending off but it was always going to be difficult for him once they went narrow and packed the centre of the pitch, Davis is the best hold up player we've got.
Thought Jack had a poor decision day, quick passing was needed but he held on to it for too long, SJM i suspect has found the pace of the premiership too hot for him, goalkeeper look immense but loke most posters worry about Targett and lack of pace wide out.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Legion on September 21, 2020, 11:52:05 PM
I just don't get why Targett is preferred over Guilbert.

One is a left back, the other right.

I’m no Cloughy I may add.

My bad.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: FatSam on September 21, 2020, 11:52:41 PM
The main thing is to start with a win. The Everton game aside, the start of last season was a real blow to the confidence, as we kept surrendering leads. It took us 7 games to get to 5 points, whereas we can exceed that if we beat Fulham in our next game. Regardless of the circumstances of today’s game, at least we seem to be getting better at manufacturing results.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 21, 2020, 11:58:35 PM
Fucking hell Wilder is a whinging ******. I have lost all respect for him. Apparently Egan  was no way red and Targett should have been sent off.

Hate to say it but he's got a point about Targett and that double jeopardy sending off rule. Hard to make a case that he was making a genuine challenge for the ball when the ball was nowhere near him



Targett stayed on as it was in the box although I do recall Chester getting sent off in that mad 3-3 with Preston (cabbage game) and he got sent off after conceding a penalty but you rarely get a red card now for last minute fouls in the box.

Thought the Egan one was interesting. I thought it was similar to the Chelsea CB red when he pulled back Mane even though the ball had run through to Kepa, most agreed it was a red. Yes Watkins was a bit more away from the ball but he was being tugged back a fair bit. Defenders get away with that a fair bit on strikers so Egan rode his luck too much.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Legion on September 22, 2020, 12:01:54 AM
I agree with Dave Shelley.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: stevo_st on September 22, 2020, 12:05:24 AM
They changed the rules a couple of seasons back to stop you being penalised twice with a pen and a red.

Looking at the tug on Watkins, on the highlights you can see him being pulled unnaturally to the side, away from the run of the ball as they are running. Ref in a good position to spot it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: rooboy316 on September 22, 2020, 02:00:47 AM
I just don't get why Targett is preferred over Guilbert.

He's not, though

Not positionally, but we've splashed out big for a replacement for Guilbert, when Targett in my opinion is a weaker player.

Isn't it a case of a good right back was available for the right price, to build for the future?  I agree, left back was absolutely a priority and I'm a fan of Freddy. But taking a view to build for the long term, you just have to pull the trigger when the right players become available.

That's not to say we aren't looking for a LB too, though we may not end up with a new one because of budget/ffp constraints. But we will eventually upgrade LB, and have a better squad over a few windows. It's a more sustainable approach to long term success, which we have the luxury of adpoting after years of scrambling and coming up with stop gap solutions.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Matt C on September 22, 2020, 02:57:52 AM
It’s trite to say, but this time last season there’s no way we’re winning that. We should have scored more but we found a way to win. Konsa, Martinez and Luiz all excellent, the other new additions all did well too.

We all know we need more quality - the bench didn’t look too inspiring and creativity wise we’re overly reliant on Jack but there’s still time. So far it’s been an excellent window - we’ve done everything we had to do; striker, add pace, sort goalkeeper position & resolve Jack situation. Now we need to add the finishing touches - I suspect they’ll be the different between bottom five/six and mid table.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: baddowvillans on September 22, 2020, 06:56:26 AM
Having looked at Wilder's 9 minute post match whinge I've lost a bit of respect for the man.  He sees Egans "tussle" with Oli as 50/50.  Yes Oli has hands on but only because Egan is clearly pulling him back - what else is he supposed to do.  Was it certain Oli would have got to the ball before the keeper - not sure but as soon as pulls him back the answers no so its a foul. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 22, 2020, 07:14:03 AM
Thought about the game in the cold light of this morning, and I think it was very similar to the last 4 or 5 games of last season. In terms of the result largely being based on defensive solidity. Difference I suppose is expectation, whereas post lockdown we looked like relegation certs so it was more of a pleasant surprise that we’d learnt how to defend. Whereas pre season with new signings there is the hope of free flowing attacking football.
On the whole I like the look of the defense, even Targett, despite reservations. Cash looks good, Smith obviously doesn’t fancy Guilbert for whatever reason. Martinez fantastic debut.
I think we do need to have a bit more creativity up the field and hopefully Traore will help with this. Watkins has a tough night but looks to me like he knows how to run the line, something Wesley was only starting to slowly pick up by Xmas.
I’ve said on another thread pre season I think we need another centre midfielder. Not because I suddenly think McGinn is championship, as I just don’t buy that at all, just out of form after a really bad injury, I also really like connors character and commitment. But we need the option of not playing one of them.
Despite a dogged performance, heavily influenced by the oppositions tactics after the sending off, I’m optimistic.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: simboy on September 22, 2020, 07:14:36 AM
I thought it was a good result. Our midfield looked rusty, whilst i still worry that a Sheffield United attack cut us open quite so easily for the penalty. Konsa was out of position and the cover just didn't stop the attack, which came from our corner.

Also thought the timing of the switch between Davis and Conor helped create our goal. For the first [only?] time in the match the Sheff United players didnt pick up properly allowing the Konsa at the back post to take advantage. The extra man in the box caused the problems and the overload, Grealish or Hourine usually holds the 18 yard line at corners whilst Davis was in and around the penalty spot.

A game we probably wouldn't have seen out last year, with a well timed tactical switch. I hope it bodes well for the season...       
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Ads on September 22, 2020, 07:17:51 AM
Having looked at Wilder's 9 minute post match whinge I've lost a bit of respect for the man.  He sees Egans "tussle" with Oli as 50/50.  Yes Oli has hands on but only because Egan is clearly pulling him back - what else is he supposed to do.  Was it certain Oli would have got to the ball before the keeper - not sure but as soon as pulls him back the answers no so its a foul. 

They've lost 6 league games on the bounce. 7 games in all competitions. He's feeling pressure for the first time.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: sid1964 on September 22, 2020, 07:42:49 AM
Poor game - glad of the win, but we need to improve greatly.

Cash was my MOTM
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: john e on September 22, 2020, 07:49:05 AM
Thought about the game in the cold light of this morning, and I think it was very similar to the last 4 or 5 games of last season. In terms of the result largely being based on defensive solidity. Difference I suppose is expectation, whereas post lockdown we looked like relegation certs so it was more of a pleasant surprise that we’d learnt how to defend. Whereas pre season with new signings there is the hope of free flowing attacking football.
On the whole I like the look of the defense, even Targett, despite reservations. Cash looks good, Smith obviously doesn’t fancy Guilbert for whatever reason. Martinez fantastic debut.
I think we do need to have a bit more creativity up the field and hopefully Traore will help with this. Watkins has a tough night but looks to me like he knows how to run the line, something Wesley was only starting to slowly pick up by Xmas.
I’ve said on another thread pre season I think we need another centre midfielder. Not because I suddenly think McGinn is championship, as I just don’t buy that at all, just out of form after a really bad injury, I also really like connors character and commitment. But we need the option of not playing one of them.
Despite a dogged performance, heavily influenced by the oppositions tactics after the sending off, I’m optimistic.

I get what your saying but it shouldn’t be difficult to be defensively solid against a team down to 10 men playing for a 0-0 with no attacking intentions whatsoever until later on in the game

I reckon I could have defended against that
honestly think we are getting a bit carried away thinking we have sorted our defensive frailties out

bigger tests ahead and i hope I’m totally wrong but I’m not convinced yet
Sorry to be a bed wetter
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: TelfordVilla on September 22, 2020, 07:56:13 AM
Having looked at Wilder's 9 minute post match whinge I've lost a bit of respect for the man.  He sees Egans "tussle" with Oli as 50/50.  Yes Oli has hands on but only because Egan is clearly pulling him back - what else is he supposed to do.  Was it certain Oli would have got to the ball before the keeper - not sure but as soon as pulls him back the answers no so its a foul. 

They've lost 6 league games on the bounce. 7 games in all competitions. He's feeling pressure for the first time.
this
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Lastfootstamper on September 22, 2020, 07:57:07 AM
Having looked at Wilder's 9 minute post match whinge I've lost a bit of respect for the man.  He sees Egans "tussle" with Oli as 50/50.  Yes Oli has hands on but only because Egan is clearly pulling him back - what else is he supposed to do.  Was it certain Oli would have got to the ball before the keeper - not sure but as soon as pulls him back the answers no so its a foul.

A foot race between Watkins and Egan. Hmm, who to put my money on...
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: VILLA MOLE on September 22, 2020, 07:57:13 AM
For me it was the lack of tackling through the midfield when United did come out ! ,  I would look at putting marvellous in there in some formation . I know his distribution is suspect at times but he can put his foot in .  Like to see 2 up top as well  .  It tends to stick with Davis .

Could we try a diamond?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Gareth on September 22, 2020, 08:08:51 AM
We did win didn’t we??

I thought considering we didn’t have anything like a traditional pre-season & we were playing against a side that had already had a full on PL game we did just fine.

Red card changed the game, we had 15 mins or so where we needed to capitalise before they hooked McGoldrick for Ampadu & settled back into two banks of four.  Thought Sheff U did brilliantly then to keep our midfielders like Luiz / Hourihane far enough from goal that we couldn’t get a shot away.

Martinez penalty save aside also dealt with corners very nicely, sure we are going to have plenty of ‘ahhhh’ moments when they try and pass around or as I still call it ‘fanny around’ at the back :/)

Cash looked good, Konsa and Mings solid, Targett’s lack of pace exposed again, McGinn More influential late in game after Hourihane went off which is good fitness wise, Luiz heart of everything, Hourihane generally quiet, Trez ran around but contributed little, Jack tried hard but little came off for him & Watkins willing runner - Keinan made an impact again
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: themossman on September 22, 2020, 08:23:39 AM
We seem to either play well and lose or play badly and win. Obviously prefer the latter.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Monty on September 22, 2020, 08:32:18 AM
For me it was the lack of tackling through the midfield when United did come out ! ,  I would look at putting marvellous in there in some formation . I know his distribution is suspect at times but he can put his foot in .  Like to see 2 up top as well  .  It tends to stick with Davis .

Could we try a diamond?

Bloody love a diamond midfield but you need two really really good fullbacks for that, and I feel like we have maximum 1.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on September 22, 2020, 08:35:42 AM
I think we'll see Davis starting through the middle with Watkins and Traore either side before long. And it will be a good thing, and we shall prosper.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: The Edge on September 22, 2020, 08:37:11 AM
We've not conceded a goal in the  last 270 minutes of football. It's a bloody miracle!
How did you arrive at that? We conceded against Burton and West Ham. Unless you are only counting home games?
Because I forgot the Burton goal. But 1 goal in 270 minutes is still a minor miracle after last season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: ozzjim on September 22, 2020, 08:39:25 AM
Very odd game.

Thought Cash did well, Grealish had one of those nights where things are a couple of % off, the little passes just behind the man, the shots just wide etc. Match sharpness and that will come. Watkins looked a handful all night and they didn't like how he wanted to run in behind at all, so he is going to be a real asset.

Trez was awful for me, far too often it broke down with him, while McGinn was as bad as I ever remember him. He needs rhythm I think, so I would start him on Thursday to get more games into his legs.

The biggest frustration for me though was us not putting a foot in in midfield. We were crying out for Nakamba on about 60 minutes to start picking up the pieces in midfield, we kept standing off too much.

Good result, Wilder is starting to become a bit of a stuck record with his "straight talking" - whinging as I know it!

Could more signings and we will be ok.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on September 22, 2020, 08:47:37 AM
Dreadful performance but got the win. Martinez made a great save from the penalty and looked very assured in air and with his feet. Very very little to get enthused about that aside. So much to complain about but our inability in last 15 minutes to find a colleague with a throw in really took the piss. Davis was standing about 10 yards from Cash each time but he couldn't seem to find him!

Some age old problems. Is there another team where three of the back four are at fault for a penalty? Smith using only one sub, somehow Hourihane first man off leaving McGinn and Trez to stink out the 90 mins plus. Targett remains a glaring liability on the left but wasn't helped by our captain deciding to play where he wanted in the second half leaving the left flank free. Even the pitch seemed a bit dry? Ball certainly didn't zip around.

Martinez 7, Cash 6, Konsa 6, Mings 6, Targett 3, Luiz 6, Hourihane 6, Trez 2, McGinn 4, Grealish 6, Watkins 5. Davis 7.

Dreadful performance? I know it's all about opinions but that is just nonsense. It was a mostly one sided game and they actually defended very well. Judging by your posts though, you do seem a very hard man to please.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Mister E on September 22, 2020, 08:49:52 AM
One thing I’ve noticed is that Jack really trusts Davis. When he came on, Jack immediately started playing passes to him in tight situations, knowing Keinan would hold the ball, or lay it off. He didn’t play balls like that to anyone before Davis came on.
Except to Watkins, which he did first and second half.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 22, 2020, 08:51:31 AM
I think we'll see Davis starting through the middle with Watkins and Traore either side before long. And it will be a good thing, and we shall prosper.
I like that despite my reservations about young Davis at the moment. Of course when Wesley returns it would be better.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 22, 2020, 08:52:10 AM
Thought about the game in the cold light of this morning, and I think it was very similar to the last 4 or 5 games of last season. In terms of the result largely being based on defensive solidity. Difference I suppose is expectation, whereas post lockdown we looked like relegation certs so it was more of a pleasant surprise that we’d learnt how to defend. Whereas pre season with new signings there is the hope of free flowing attacking football.
On the whole I like the look of the defense, even Targett, despite reservations. Cash looks good, Smith obviously doesn’t fancy Guilbert for whatever reason. Martinez fantastic debut.
I think we do need to have a bit more creativity up the field and hopefully Traore will help with this. Watkins has a tough night but looks to me like he knows how to run the line, something Wesley was only starting to slowly pick up by Xmas.
I’ve said on another thread pre season I think we need another centre midfielder. Not because I suddenly think McGinn is championship, as I just don’t buy that at all, just out of form after a really bad injury, I also really like connors character and commitment. But we need the option of not playing one of them.
Despite a dogged performance, heavily influenced by the oppositions tactics after the sending off, I’m optimistic.

I get what your saying but it shouldn’t be difficult to be defensively solid against a team down to 10 men playing for a 0-0 with no attacking intentions whatsoever until later on in the game

I reckon I could have defended against that
honestly think we are getting a bit carried away thinking we have sorted our defensive frailties out

bigger tests ahead and i hope I’m totally wrong but I’m not convinced yet
Sorry to be a bed wetter

Not bed wetting at all. Watched some of the Man City wolves game after and different level of attacking intent from both sides to be fair. We’ve got Liverpool in 2 weeks, so we’ll see how the defense is shaping up.
I guess given where we finished last season, we’ll be one of Fulham’s target games for a result, so may be tough game. If we can progress in the cup and put Fulham away, it will be a very decent start to the season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 22, 2020, 08:53:10 AM
We seem to either play well and lose or play badly and win. Obviously prefer the latter.
We'll have less of that playing well nonsense this season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 22, 2020, 08:55:38 AM
I agree with Dave Shelley.
I also agree with Dave as he knows what he is talking about.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: VinnieChase84 on September 22, 2020, 08:56:44 AM
Delighted to win against a side who are a pain in the ass to breakdown at the best of times, let alone when they stick 9 behind the ball.
Rusty performance from us but cannot discount this was their first proper game and up against a side whose already got one under their belt.

The final ball/killer instinct was lacking. Thought Watkins effort was heading top bins (unlucky) - he worked hard and will be a good player for us

Matty Cash - loved his energy - very assured first start

Martinez - nice to have a keeper where i dont shit myself when they have the ball

Shout out to Konsa who i thought was superb last night and MOTM for me.

This game highlighted our flaws and what we still need. Crying out for a new CM, hopefully we can get one in soon. Also another wideman/striker

Additional areas - id love us to be looking at a new left back. Targett is poor

Overall, happy with the 3 points and pleased we seem to have a backbone at long last
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 22, 2020, 09:00:38 AM
I think we'll see Davis starting through the middle with Watkins and Traore either side before long. And it will be a good thing, and we shall prosper.

Not a chance in my opinion.  For a start it would mean moving Grealish back into midfield, which Smith really seems not to like doing.  The first choice front three with obviously be Jack/Watkins/Traore before long.  I think both Traore and Watkins can alternate between up front and out wide, so can't see Davis being a regular at all.  Hope not anyway.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on September 22, 2020, 09:06:04 AM
I thought we did ok against a side who were forced to sit back and defend. It was mostly one sided and we maybe tried too hard to score at times but they did close us down whenever we tried to shoot from distance. There's a lot of positives to take and room for improvement but I'm pleased overall. It's points on the board and hopefully with some additions, it could be a lot more comfortable than it was last season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 22, 2020, 09:07:01 AM
Jack very ineffective when they more or less doubled up on him.  He got significantly better when they surprisingly took Basham off.  It’s why we need more than just Jack as our creative option.  Others simply have to step up.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on September 22, 2020, 09:15:07 AM
I think we'll see Davis starting through the middle with Watkins and Traore either side before long. And it will be a good thing, and we shall prosper.

Not a chance in my opinion.  For a start it would mean moving Grealish back into midfield, which Smith really seems not to like doing.  The first choice front three with obviously be Jack/Watkins/Traore before long.  I think both Traore and Watkins can alternate between up front and out wide, so can't see Davis being a regular at all.  Hope not anyway.

For me, Jack's only that far forward because of the lack of threat we had in those areas previously. That's changed and I expect him to drop back in, it's why we haven't gone big on another central midfielder.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: dicedlam on September 22, 2020, 09:15:59 AM
Playing against Sheff Utd is difficult at the best of times, even more so when one of them gets sent off.  So under those circumstances I was encouraged by last night's display, especially knowing that last season we would of capitulated and surrendered that lead.

I thought Martinez was excelent and it seemed that both Mings and Konsa were more at ease knowing that they had a decent keeper behind them. It's been a very long time since I have seen a keeper of ours come out and take a ball in the box so confidently. As for the penalty, it was just a shame the Holte were not behind him to show there support. It would of been an amazing sight to see.

Konsa was also very good last night and he did his chances for an England call-up in the future no harm at all with Southgate in attendance. He could make that right side of defence his own and for me he is already better than what we currently play there (Stones, Gomez).

Cash was excellent. Some of those crosses in the first half were on par with what Alexander-Arnold sends in for Liverpool. Again, I am sure Southgate would of been impressed.

As for the rest of the team, Mings seemed assured at the back, but I cannot say the same for Targett. We need better.
I thought both Jack and McGinn were disappointing. McGinn it seems is still finding his way back from injury but there were glimpses of the old SJM. Jack out wide was totally ineffective and exacty where the Sheff Utd defenders wanted him. Hourihane played well in parts I thought, but that's just it...in parts.
Luiz will be a big player for us this year and is pretty much orchestrating everything through the middle of the park. Fingers crossed he keeps injury free this season.

For all his hard work, Trez is ineffective and flatters to decieve. Watkins I thought is already a major upgrade on Wes and Samatta. However, he will need better service than what he received last night.

Overall, I thought we did well in spells last night but there is plenty of room for improvement. We still need at least 3 additions to the team and would like to see someone like Danny Rose at left back, another left-sided midfielder and hopefully another winger/forward like Rashica to takeover from Trez.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: brian green on September 22, 2020, 09:26:34 AM
I also agree with Dave Shelley because he is my mate.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on September 22, 2020, 09:39:18 AM
Dreadful performance but got the win. Martinez made a great save from the penalty and looked very assured in air and with his feet. Very very little to get enthused about that aside. So much to complain about but our inability in last 15 minutes to find a colleague with a throw in really took the piss. Davis was standing about 10 yards from Cash each time but he couldn't seem to find him!

Some age old problems. Is there another team where three of the back four are at fault for a penalty? Smith using only one sub, somehow Hourihane first man off leaving McGinn and Trez to stink out the 90 mins plus. Targett remains a glaring liability on the left but wasn't helped by our captain deciding to play where he wanted in the second half leaving the left flank free. Even the pitch seemed a bit dry? Ball certainly didn't zip around.

Martinez 7, Cash 6, Konsa 6, Mings 6, Targett 3, Luiz 6, Hourihane 6, Trez 2, McGinn 4, Grealish 6, Watkins 5. Davis 7.

Dreadful performance? I know it's all about opinions but that is just nonsense. It was a mostly one sided game and they actually defended very well. Judging by your posts though, you do seem a very hard man to please.

Of course it was a one sided game, after the red card Sheff Utd retreated to their 18 yard box and kicked the ball back to us at every opportunity.

For our back four and midfield two it was an armchair ride after their red card. Yet three of them contrived to hand Sheff Utd a penalty.

We hardly created a decent chance from open play until late on when they pushed up. If anything the difference in the game was the two keepers, ours made a brilliant save from the penalty, Ramsdale was piss poor getting down for Konsas goal I thought.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on September 22, 2020, 09:41:51 AM
Well, it was shocking that we gave away three points on the opening day. Let's hope we turn it round on Monday.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 22, 2020, 10:07:44 AM
Personally I like the fact that despite the win, most people weren't overly happy with the performance and can see that we didn't play that well.  It means we're not settling for making up the numbers and actually want to do something this season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: chrisw1 on September 22, 2020, 10:09:03 AM
We’ve spent getting on for £200 million in the past year or so and we still have Neil Taylor on the bench. Criminal.
Whilst I see your point it's difficult to blame Taylor for that performance.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on September 22, 2020, 10:16:07 AM
Personally I like the fact that despite the win, most people weren't overly happy with the performance and can see that we didn't play that well.  It means we're not settling for making up the numbers and actually want to do something this season.

I'm not sure what else were were meant to do against a team that just sat back and defended once they went down to 10 men. We had 72% of the possession and yes, we could have done better with it at times but it wasn't a dreadful performance by any means.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Luke8 on September 22, 2020, 10:35:07 AM
Personally I like the fact that despite the win, most people weren't overly happy with the performance and can see that we didn't play that well.  It means we're not settling for making up the numbers and actually want to do something this season.

I'm not sure what else were were meant to do against a team that just sat back and defended once they went down to 10 men. We had 72% of the possession and yes, we could have done better with it at times but it wasn't a dreadful performance by any means.

I think that Risso is right in that we want to be looking for better performances as the season progresses, but I agree that it was a bad display at all in the circumstances.

People point at how we were playing against ten men for eighty minutes, but tend to overlook the fact that it changed how Sheffield United approaches the game and that they also defended really well in my opinion.

There will be plenty of performances, from us and other teams, that aren’t great but teams manage to dig out a result at this stage in the season - Arsenal vs West Ham and Chelsea vs Brighton for example.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Chris Smith on September 22, 2020, 10:36:54 AM
Personally I like the fact that despite the win, most people weren't overly happy with the performance and can see that we didn't play that well.  It means we're not settling for making up the numbers and actually want to do something this season.

I'm not sure what else were were meant to do against a team that just sat back and defended once they went down to 10 men. We had 72% of the possession and yes, we could have done better with it at times but it wasn't a dreadful performance by any means.
P
There’s clearly a lot of room for improvement but I’d put that down to a lack of match fitness and the type of sharpness that only comes through playing games. We had been the better side prior to the sending off but once they made the change and started defending deep it became increasingly difficult to find space and they seemed to be well suited to that backs to the wall type performance.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: The Edge on September 22, 2020, 10:44:53 AM
Personally I like the fact that despite the win, most people weren't overly happy with the performance and can see that we didn't play that well.  It means we're not settling for making up the numbers and actually want to do something this season.

I'm not sure what else were were meant to do against a team that just sat back and defended once they went down to 10 men. We had 72% of the possession and yes, we could have done better with it at times but it wasn't a dreadful performance by any means.
While I'm very happy that we got off to a winning start there's cause for concern in my view. How many hopeful crosses were lumped into their box? Surely we knew that was playing to their strengths. Ok we scored from one such cross but we shouldn't let that gloss over the fact that we need a whole lot more creativity and variety to our game if we're going to be anywhere near successful. That's my only gripe really. I'm sure the staff are aware of it and will be in the process of resolving it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: sickbeggar on September 22, 2020, 10:53:44 AM
People forget we were a superb save from being behind last night. In that scenario its highly unlikely we would have got any more than a draw against 10 men on what we created as it was.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Drummond on September 22, 2020, 10:54:19 AM
We won. That's what we set out to do.

We controlled the game and, penalty aside, they never looked like scoring. (To be fair, even with the penalty their fans were convinced they'd miss).

Room for improvement for sure, but for a first game, we got plenty of practice at playing the ball around and keeping possession, we just need more of a spark. Hopefully, Traore and AN Other will help to provide it.

And I agree with LeeB again, Davis, Watkins and Traore with Luiz, Grealish and McGinn (or AN Other) would be good. I'm still not convinced McGinn is back to fitness, or maybe he is but we're becoming better and he doesn't stand out as much any more.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Border villan on September 22, 2020, 10:55:17 AM
Worried for all those who have bought a Konsa shirt. Two more goals from him and we may have to retire the number.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Somniloquism on September 22, 2020, 11:05:32 AM
Wilder "not coming out to mug off" then states Targett should have been sent off as the ball was 4 yards away on the challenge.........

Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 22, 2020, 11:08:28 AM
We won. That's what we set out to do.

We controlled the game and, penalty aside, they never looked like scoring. (To be fair, even with the penalty their fans were convinced they'd miss).

Room for improvement for sure, but for a first game, we got plenty of practice at playing the ball around and keeping possession, we just need more of a spark. Hopefully, Traore and AN Other will help to provide it.

And I agree with LeeB again, Davis, Watkins and Traore with Luiz, Grealish and McGinn (or AN Other) would be good. I'm still not convinced McGinn is back to fitness, or maybe he is but we're becoming better and he doesn't stand out as much any more.

Goal aside though, neither did we look like scoring.  Two shots on target all game, against ten men. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 22, 2020, 11:08:57 AM
A lot of people looking for pace in the game last night.  You can't do anything with that against a side who are very organised at defending deep.  It doesn't matter how quick you are there is nowhere to go.  As soon as they were down to 10 men they reset their stall out.  We didn't react to their new formation until into the 2nd half when we brought Davis on.  That should have come sooner as it showed how effective he is at keeping hold of the ball and laying it off which was far more effective than anything else we were doing earlier.  We're nowhere the level of Man City, Arsenal or Liverpool at working through a stubborn defence, we just don't have enough players at that level. 

Overall I was very pleased with the effort and result. Sheff Utd are a difficult nut to crack but we looked the far better team and deserved to crack that nut.  It's also great to have a keeper who gives out such confidence to those in front of him.  He is a very commanding figure.   
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Gareth on September 22, 2020, 11:15:46 AM
Personally I like the fact that despite the win, most people weren't overly happy with the performance and can see that we didn't play that well.  It means we're not settling for making up the numbers and actually want to do something this season.

I’d say a bit of yes & no on that one Risso

Yes we can always improve & certainly there is room to significantly improve on last night :-) but for some it’s a default position to moan about something.

Highlighting concerns & weaknesses is a game we all play (& in the main we all tend to agree on the issues) but when you see nonsense like ‘dreadful performance’ written after a win with a clean sheet you have to question whether some find any joy in the game anymore.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Dave P on September 22, 2020, 11:18:04 AM
We've recently struggled against teams with 10 men.  We've recently struggled against teams like Sheffield United who are strong defensively and well organised.  I will take this result all day long.  Performances will get better but results might not.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Chris Smith on September 22, 2020, 11:18:43 AM
People forget we were a superb save from being behind last night. In that scenario its highly unlikely we would have got any more than a draw against 10 men on what we created as it was.

People forget we were a sending off offence from being in front early on.

These ifs and buts are fairly meaningless, we were the better team before and after the red card.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 22, 2020, 11:19:52 AM
Just watched Wilder's post-match interview on the Sky Sports website. I like him, and think he's a great manager, but it's deeply enjoyable to see how pissed off he was.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Dave P on September 22, 2020, 11:21:46 AM
Just watched Wilder's post-match interview on the Sky Sports website. I like him, and think he's a great manager, but it's deeply enjoyable to see how pissed off he was.

We'd be the same but rules is rules.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 22, 2020, 11:23:59 AM
Last night we had a fairly easy win against a side we should be comparable to this season. As Amfy said at the end of last season - we would have settled for seventeenth and what we saw was what it's like. This season we'd settled for mid-table and last night was what it's like; beat the teams round you at home and anything else is a bonus. Ultimately, you're not going to go down if you finish above Sheffield United.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on September 22, 2020, 11:24:15 AM
I like him too. What you see is what you get, a down to earth grafter with a brain. I'm just impressed how he manages to avoid swearing as he often looks like he's going to at any moment. I like the way he referred to Dougie as "David Luiz".
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: TelfordVilla on September 22, 2020, 11:26:33 AM
Just wondering, if Mings had been sent off and we played for 80mins with 10 men against Sheff Utd. What do you think the score would have been ?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Drummond on September 22, 2020, 11:31:39 AM
Just wondering, if Mings had been sent off and we played for 80mins with 10 men against Sheff Utd. What do you think the score would have been ?

15-0. We'd have battered them.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: sickbeggar on September 22, 2020, 11:33:19 AM
People forget we were a superb save from being behind last night. In that scenario its highly unlikely we would have got any more than a draw against 10 men on what we created as it was.

People forget we were a sending off offence from being in front early on.

These ifs and buts are fairly meaningless, we were the better team before and after the red card.

To be honest I agree with you that its unfair to judge much on a 1st game as it was clearly apparent some players weren't up to speed, and i would have took a draw beforehand tbf.

But the criticism is still relevant after last season. We had something like 16 shots on goal and managed 2 on target last night. Yes they parked the entire bus station, but you just have to look at us last season. What was it 6/7 games we scored 2 goals in? Basically if you score against us you've got a very good chance of at least a draw. If you manage 2 then we're not gonna win...Watkins had the sending off and his curled shot last night and both of those chances he made out of nothing. Grealish was having one of his don't pass nights - indeed I think Watkins set him up a few times, so the lack of creativity and the fact we probably will not face such a defensive team again who will allow us so much possession is a bit worrying imo.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on September 22, 2020, 12:05:11 PM
I enjoyed the game, nice to have football back.

Positives

The Mings Konsa partnership which looked good. This was helped enormously by them having a very good keeper behind them, and in Luiz a very good midfielder protecting them. Konsa was excellent, and capped it with a goal. Mings always looks like he has a clanger in him, despite being mostly good (reminds me of Richard Dunne).

Watkins looked shaper than Wesley or Samatta, and when Davis came on he looked even better.

Midfield is a concern. Luiz is good, but McGinn has been off form for a long while now and Hourihane whilst being a good squad member should not be a first choice. Don't even want to think about the options if either of them got injured.

Grealish didn't have his best game, but was still the most talented player on the pitch. Trez worked hard but didn't have a great game.

Liked Cash (but also like Guilbert) but am scratching my head as to why we have not replaced Targett. I would actually pick Taylor over Targett, that's how rubbish he is.

We would not have won that game last year, so I think we are seeing a better Villa this season. We have Traore to come in who would have made a difference. If we do add a player like Barclay to the mix we will much better.


Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Russ aka Big Nose on September 22, 2020, 12:18:42 PM
There seems to be - on here and in the wider reporting of the game - a preoccupation with the red card decision (something entirely out of our control).

Another take, If Egan doesn't foul Watkins, he gets to the ball before a stranded keeper and scores so we are 1-0 up after 12 minutes, full of confidence and facing a side that has to do more than park the bus to get something from the game - remembering that they scored fewer goals than us last season.

They were organised and very determined to earn a point. It wasn't a thing of beauty but we found a way to win.

In many games last season we took something positive from the performance and hoped that results would improve. Today I'm very happy to take something positive from the result and hope and expect performances will improve.

We are a work in progress, there are other players to come in - just signed and likely - and as a group they will get better. UTV.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Fred Crump on September 22, 2020, 12:24:27 PM
I was going to post my thoughts but Ashton has pretty much said them word for word. I just hope if Freddie and Engels go, we can get a much better LB than either of the two current choices. I know Deano rates Targett but I honestly think that Taylor is the least worse of the two - at least he can defend most of the time. Targett has a rick per game in him and we can’t afford that.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Fred Crump on September 22, 2020, 12:27:37 PM
Also Targett pisses me off for two reasons other than not being very good
1) He grins inanely whenever he gives a goalscoring opportunity to the opposition
2) He looks as if he was in the cast of the Inbetweeners.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 22, 2020, 12:31:54 PM
We won. That's what we set out to do.

We controlled the game and, penalty aside, they never looked like scoring. (To be fair, even with the penalty their fans were convinced they'd miss).

Room for improvement for sure, but for a first game, we got plenty of practice at playing the ball around and keeping possession, we just need more of a spark. Hopefully, Traore and AN Other will help to provide it.

And I agree with LeeB again, Davis, Watkins and Traore with Luiz, Grealish and McGinn (or AN Other) would be good. I'm still not convinced McGinn is back to fitness, or maybe he is but we're becoming better and he doesn't stand out as much any more.

Goal aside though, neither did we look like scoring.  Two shots on target all game, against ten men. 

There were so many opportunities for us to shoot from outside the box but Luiz, Grealish and Conor were all sitting 10 yards to deep to really have a go. Instead we played it across time after time, from one side to the other 30 yards out. It was completely pointless given how packed the Sheffield box was and how easily they dealt with our crosses into the box.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Drummond on September 22, 2020, 12:36:50 PM


There were so many opportunities for us to shoot from outside the box but Luiz, Grealish and Conor were all sitting 10 yards to deep to really have a go. Instead we played it across time after time, from one side to the other 30 yards out. It was completely pointless given how packed the Sheffield box was and how easily they dealt with our crosses into the box.

I agree, I wish we'd had more shots as we've players in midfield who can all strike the ball well. However, we kept possession and I guess that's half of the point, we kept the ball moving, retained possession and got some practice in.

And we beat them, hahahaha! I love that Wilder started ranting afterwards!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Luke8 on September 22, 2020, 01:18:32 PM

To be honest I agree with you that its unfair to judge much on a 1st game as it was clearly apparent some players weren't up to speed, and i would have took a draw beforehand tbf.

But the criticism is still relevant after last season. We had something like 16 shots on goal and managed 2 on target last night. Yes they parked the entire bus station, but you just have to look at us last season. What was it 6/7 games we scored 2 goals in? Basically if you score against us you've got a very good chance of at least a draw. If you manage 2 then we're not gonna win...Watkins had the sending off and his curled shot last night and both of those chances he made out of nothing. Grealish was having one of his don't pass nights - indeed I think Watkins set him up a few times, so the lack of creativity and the fact we probably will not face such a defensive team again who will allow us so much possession is a bit worrying imo.


Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by. I’d argue that the two of Grealish’s chances that went just wide when better than Luiz’s header on target for instance.

Regarding scoring goals, we scored two, or more, eleven times last season. So it’s not as concerning as you reckon, especially when you factor in the improvement in the defence towards the end of last season and the fact that we have improved the attacking players on the team.

Specifically in relation to last night, it’s not the possession really, it was the fact that they defended with their defence and midfield in such a deep block. I think Grealish, Watkins and others would benefit from having more space in transition when opposition attack and commit men forwards. I don’t imagine we will play many, if any, other games like last night this season.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on September 22, 2020, 01:25:08 PM
We won. That's what we set out to do.

We controlled the game and, penalty aside, they never looked like scoring. (To be fair, even with the penalty their fans were convinced they'd miss).

Room for improvement for sure, but for a first game, we got plenty of practice at playing the ball around and keeping possession, we just need more of a spark. Hopefully, Traore and AN Other will help to provide it.

And I agree with LeeB again, Davis, Watkins and Traore with Luiz, Grealish and McGinn (or AN Other) would be good. I'm still not convinced McGinn is back to fitness, or maybe he is but we're becoming better and he doesn't stand out as much any more.

Goal aside though, neither did we look like scoring.  Two shots on target all game, against ten men. 

There were so many opportunities for us to shoot from outside the box but Luiz, Grealish and Conor were all sitting 10 yards to deep to really have a go. Instead we played it across time after time, from one side to the other 30 yards out. It was completely pointless given how packed the Sheffield box was and how easily they dealt with our crosses into the box.

I thought Luiz in particular signposted his shots last night. Most if not all were blocked. Hourihane should have done better with the one before half time. Jack just went wide of the right post with a good effort. In fairness, they defended the area in front of the box really well. Berge in particular was excellent.

We really struggled to get in behind them out wide. I was expecting a bit more from Cash in this regard. Though Trez offered absolutely nothing. McGinn or Traore tucking in to free Cash up might be a better bet going forward. 
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: amfy on September 22, 2020, 01:26:35 PM

To be honest I agree with you that its unfair to judge much on a 1st game as it was clearly apparent some players weren't up to speed, and i would have took a draw beforehand tbf.

But the criticism is still relevant after last season. We had something like 16 shots on goal and managed 2 on target last night. Yes they parked the entire bus station, but you just have to look at us last season. What was it 6/7 games we scored 2 goals in? Basically if you score against us you've got a very good chance of at least a draw. If you manage 2 then we're not gonna win...Watkins had the sending off and his curled shot last night and both of those chances he made out of nothing. Grealish was having one of his don't pass nights - indeed I think Watkins set him up a few times, so the lack of creativity and the fact we probably will not face such a defensive team again who will allow us so much possession is a bit worrying imo.


Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by. I’d argue that the two of Grealish’s chances that went just wide when better than Luiz’s header on target for instance.


Spot on - it’s always a bugbear if mine that those crosses that zip across the face of the goal, and are inches short of someone getting a touch which would put it in the back of the net, are often the closest thing to a goal without scoring, yet they don’t even count as a shot, let alone on or off target. We had 2 or 3 of those last night.

Then the stats count some lame effort that trickles straight at the goalkeeper as if it was an achievement.

Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 22, 2020, 01:35:13 PM


There were so many opportunities for us to shoot from outside the box but Luiz, Grealish and Conor were all sitting 10 yards to deep to really have a go. Instead we played it across time after time, from one side to the other 30 yards out. It was completely pointless given how packed the Sheffield box was and how easily they dealt with our crosses into the box.

I agree, I wish we'd had more shots as we've players in midfield who can all strike the ball well. However, we kept possession and I guess that's half of the point, we kept the ball moving, retained possession and got some practice in.

And we beat them, hahahaha! I love that Wilder started ranting afterwards!

I don't think I've ever seen such epic post-match interviews before.  Most managers do three or four minutes each to the likes of the BBC, Sky, and their own in-house website. If Mourinho and Guardiola are in a bad mood, you're lucky to get half a dozen words and a couple of shrugs of the shoulders.  But Wilder went for it like an unemployed actor asked to fill in for Laurence Olivier.  Jesus Christ, he was going to have his say, and he was going to make sure he repeated it for a good 10 minutes to anybody paid to listen.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 22, 2020, 01:36:14 PM


There were so many opportunities for us to shoot from outside the box but Luiz, Grealish and Conor were all sitting 10 yards to deep to really have a go. Instead we played it across time after time, from one side to the other 30 yards out. It was completely pointless given how packed the Sheffield box was and how easily they dealt with our crosses into the box.

I agree, I wish we'd had more shots as we've players in midfield who can all strike the ball well. However, we kept possession and I guess that's half of the point, we kept the ball moving, retained possession and got some practice in.

And we beat them, hahahaha! I love that Wilder started ranting afterwards!

I also agree. It was driving me mental that Luiz, in particular, didn't pull the trigger on a few occasions, also Hourihane and Grealish.

I think Targett just looks like he's grinning because he has those massive choppers.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on September 22, 2020, 01:36:42 PM
But c'mon Amfy, that's what the sexy Expected Goals number takes into account...
Had to laugh at a weird one at the weekend. Think it was Leicester's Exp.Goals which was less than one and they actually scored four.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 22, 2020, 01:42:18 PM
Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by.

When you have 72% Possession, only manage 2 shots all game on target and having watched the game I'd say it's a great metric to measure the performance by.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 22, 2020, 01:48:23 PM
Personally I like the fact that despite the win, most people weren't overly happy with the performance and can see that we didn't play that well.  It means we're not settling for making up the numbers and actually want to do something this season.

I'm not sure what else were were meant to do against a team that just sat back and defended once they went down to 10 men. We had 72% of the possession and yes, we could have done better with it at times but it wasn't a dreadful performance by any means.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/51779562

Newcastle scored 5 minutes after Egan again got sent off and had 8 shots on target in the end. It was actually a similar situation as Sheffield had just played us while it was Newcastle's first game after 3 months off.

I don't think anyone is saying we should've won 5 or 6 nil but it would've been nice to have had a few shots on target and only desperate goalline clearances and shots hitting post/bar stopping us from scoring. Did we even have a shot on target before the goal.

We seem to have a massive issue playing v 10 men for some reason given all the points we wasted last season so it would be nice for once to have a comfortable victory in that situation.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 22, 2020, 01:55:05 PM
Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by.

When you have 72% Possession, only manage 2 shots all game on target and having watched the game I'd say it's a great metric to measure the performance by.

If you didn't see the game and judged the game by stats only you would conclude that Sheff U parked the bus.  If you watched the game and seen no stats you'd say that Sheff U parked the bus but Villa's constant pressure finally paid off.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: AllanW on September 22, 2020, 01:58:38 PM
We seem to have a massive issue playing v 10 men for some reason given all the points we wasted last season so it would be nice for once to have a comfortable victory in that situation.

Those aren't the only two possibilities (comfy win/awful performance). As the Scouse v Chelski match the day before showed us, playing against the bus parked across the back is very difficult. If the best team in the world at the moment (ish) only won 2-0 with one of those being a major mistake from their goalie then we might think about cutting our lads some slack for 'only' winning the game 1-0.

We won. Enjoy it :)
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: sickbeggar on September 22, 2020, 02:06:24 PM

To be honest I agree with you that its unfair to judge much on a 1st game as it was clearly apparent some players weren't up to speed, and i would have took a draw beforehand tbf.

But the criticism is still relevant after last season. We had something like 16 shots on goal and managed 2 on target last night. Yes they parked the entire bus station, but you just have to look at us last season. What was it 6/7 games we scored 2 goals in? Basically if you score against us you've got a very good chance of at least a draw. If you manage 2 then we're not gonna win...Watkins had the sending off and his curled shot last night and both of those chances he made out of nothing. Grealish was having one of his don't pass nights - indeed I think Watkins set him up a few times, so the lack of creativity and the fact we probably will not face such a defensive team again who will allow us so much possession is a bit worrying imo.


Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by. I’d argue that the two of Grealish’s chances that went just wide when better than Luiz’s header on target for instance.

Regarding scoring goals, we scored two, or more, eleven times last season. So it’s not as concerning as you reckon, especially when you factor in the improvement in the defence towards the end of last season and the fact that we have improved the attacking players on the team.

Specifically in relation to last night, it’s not the possession really, it was the fact that they defended with their defence and midfield in such a deep block. I think Grealish, Watkins and others would benefit from having more space in transition when opposition attack and commit men forwards. I don’t imagine we will play many, if any, other games like last night this season.

Well you're including cup games and scoring 6 past Crewe, and other team's reserves and youth, well i'm on about the league primarily.

I don't know, maybe last night was a hangover from last season and they still haven't adapted to having a striker. I know I was telling them to shoot when the alternative was passing to Samatta or Davis. I just think we've spent 28m on a striker who on paper at least should be our most prolific marksman. It would have been nice last night is someone had created a chance for him, even a 50/50 chance where he didn't have to do all the work himself because frankly he's our best chance of scoring.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 22, 2020, 02:08:10 PM
We seem to have a massive issue playing v 10 men for some reason given all the points we wasted last season so it would be nice for once to have a comfortable victory in that situation.

Those aren't the only two possibilities (comfy win/awful performance). As the Scouse v Chelski match the day before showed us, playing against the bus parked across the back is very difficult. If the best team in the world at the moment (ish) only won 2-0 with one of those being a major mistake from their goalie then we might think about cutting our lads some slack for 'only' winning the game 1-0.

We won. Enjoy it :)

Liverpool scored two goals in 5 minutes after the red card after not creating much v 11 men so I'd say they exploited things pretty comfortably against a top 4 level team.

Last season we drew 0-0 v West Ham despite having 30 minutes v 10 men, lost at Arsenal despite leading when they had a man sent off (and that was also first half), were 1 down at Watford when they had a red card and got worse and lost 3-0 and also lost at Bournemouth although we were 2 down when they had the red.

I can't imagine any other top flight club comes close to that sort of record of failing to win so often v 10 men so it's just something I'd like us to be a bit more competant at. It shouldn't take us 50 minutes to score a goal once oppo go down to 10 men for example.

Hopefully we'll learn from this and just like beating Arsenal will mean more points off top 6 we'll now win games more comfortably in this situation.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 22, 2020, 02:08:17 PM
hopefully we take more points off the teams who we expect to be close to also
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 22, 2020, 02:13:49 PM
Also Targett pisses me off for two reasons other than not being very good
1) He grins inanely whenever he gives a goalscoring opportunity to the opposition
2) He looks as if he was in the cast of the Inbetweeners.

3) He goes off injured in games in which he’s getting absolutely roasted. (This is not necessarily a bad thing for the team).
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: chrisw1 on September 22, 2020, 02:35:50 PM
Can't believe Wilder thought Targett should have been sent off at the time of their pen.  I know he's upset about their sending off but it's hardly 9 minute rant worthy.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 22, 2020, 02:45:59 PM
And can't believe that he could not see the difference between each incident. I think he's starting to feel a bit of pressure.  Leeds up next for them, I think that might see a few more Red cards.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Drummond on September 22, 2020, 02:56:21 PM
Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by.

When you have 72% Possession, only manage 2 shots all game on target and having watched the game I'd say it's a great metric to measure the performance by.

Ok, they had 1 shot on target so we're twice as good as they are.

Off target was 18 v 4, so we're 4.5 times better

Possession was 72 v 28 so we're 2.5 times better.

Corners 10 v 4, 2.5 times better

Goals 1 v 0. We were the best and they were all fart and no shit.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: brontebilly on September 22, 2020, 03:15:53 PM
Can't believe Wilder thought Targett should have been sent off at the time of their pen.  I know he's upset about their sending off but it's hardly 9 minute rant worthy.

Their red card was ludicrous I thought. Referee could have consulted linesman or screen on field. Not that clown Mike Dean. That decision gets given against us and we all would have been going ballistic. I'm not a fan of the "double jeopardy" rule either, a penalty is not a guaranteed goal. At least there is a rule that prevented Targetts red card. Egan was very unlucky.

Sheff United are struggling anyway though. Found goals an issue last season and I highly doubt any combination of Burke, McGoldrick, McBurnie are going to change that. Their new keeper reminds me of Kalinic a bit based on the goals he has let in so far. Same money as Martinez too.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Clampy on September 22, 2020, 03:16:30 PM
We seem to have a massive issue playing v 10 men for some reason given all the points we wasted last season so it would be nice for once to have a comfortable victory in that situation.

Those aren't the only two possibilities (comfy win/awful performance). As the Scouse v Chelski match the day before showed us, playing against the bus parked across the back is very difficult. If the best team in the world at the moment (ish) only won 2-0 with one of those being a major mistake from their goalie then we might think about cutting our lads some slack for 'only' winning the game 1-0.

We won. Enjoy it :)

Some people just can't seem to enjoy it though. It's as if they have to discect every negative part of a win now. Strange.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Damo70 on September 22, 2020, 03:25:28 PM
I am waiting for someone to dig out the possession stats of the European Cup final to decide whether we deserved to win it or not. I am black and white on these matters. Obviously I prefer a good dominant performance but for me a win is a win.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Jockey Randall on September 22, 2020, 03:49:51 PM
I think we're a side that takes a few games to get into our stride. They looked a little bit ahead of us in terms of fitness as well I thought. Great win and I expect performances will improve over the next few weeks.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Luke8 on September 22, 2020, 03:55:40 PM
Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by.

When you have 72% Possession, only manage 2 shots all game on target and having watched the game I'd say it's a great metric to measure the performance by.

I don’t think having only two shots on target, against a team that defended very narrow and very deep, and did a good of it as well is an indication that we are going to struggle to score this season as Mr Beggar was implying.

I don’t think it was a great attacking performance, but it wasn’t terrible and people tend to ignore the fact that Sheffield United defended pretty well.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 22, 2020, 04:02:16 PM
Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by.

When you have 72% Possession, only manage 2 shots all game on target and having watched the game I'd say it's a great metric to measure the performance by.

If you didn't see the game and judged the game by stats only you would conclude that Sheff U parked the bus.  If you watched the game and seen no stats you'd say that Sheff U parked the bus but Villa's constant pressure finally paid off.

Or more correctly, if you didn't see the game and judged the game by stats only you would conclude that Sheff U parked the bus and/or Villa were poor in attack.  If you watched the game and seen no stats you'd say that Sheff U parked the bus but Villa's constant pressure finally paid off despite being very poor in attack.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 22, 2020, 04:04:45 PM
Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by.

When you have 72% Possession, only manage 2 shots all game on target and having watched the game I'd say it's a great metric to measure the performance by.

I don’t think having only two shots on target, against a team that defended very narrow and very deep, and did a good of it as well is an indication that we are going to struggle to score this season as Mr Beggar was implying.

I don’t think it was a great attacking performance, but it wasn’t terrible and people tend to ignore the fact that Sheffield United defended pretty well.

Put it like this, if I'd been a neutral watching last night I'd have changed channel.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Ian. on September 22, 2020, 04:14:47 PM
Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by.

When you have 72% Possession, only manage 2 shots all game on target and having watched the game I'd say it's a great metric to measure the performance by.

I don’t think having only two shots on target, against a team that defended very narrow and very deep, and did a good of it as well is an indication that we are going to struggle to score this season as Mr Beggar was implying.

I don’t think it was a great attacking performance, but it wasn’t terrible and people tend to ignore the fact that Sheffield United defended pretty well.

Put it like this, if I'd been a neutral watching last night I'd have changed channel.
I'm also pretty sure when the neutrals saw the fixture they would have avoided it! Both teams were very uninspiring last season, even Utd although they had a great campaign.

I was happy with the performance, but I agree it was a bit dull. Very much like the Burton game we tried too hard to walk it in and not test the keeper enough. Jack's shooting was way off a few times and we over complicate things.

It was the first game of season so will not be too critical and it's been no secret that we are still in the market for another attacking, option with some pace. It was missing last season and it seems Smith knows we need to address it.

Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Luke8 on September 22, 2020, 04:24:32 PM

To be honest I agree with you that its unfair to judge much on a 1st game as it was clearly apparent some players weren't up to speed, and i would have took a draw beforehand tbf.

But the criticism is still relevant after last season. We had something like 16 shots on goal and managed 2 on target last night. Yes they parked the entire bus station, but you just have to look at us last season. What was it 6/7 games we scored 2 goals in? Basically if you score against us you've got a very good chance of at least a draw. If you manage 2 then we're not gonna win...Watkins had the sending off and his curled shot last night and both of those chances he made out of nothing. Grealish was having one of his don't pass nights - indeed I think Watkins set him up a few times, so the lack of creativity and the fact we probably will not face such a defensive team again who will allow us so much possession is a bit worrying imo.


Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by. I’d argue that the two of Grealish’s chances that went just wide when better than Luiz’s header on target for instance.

Regarding scoring goals, we scored two, or more, eleven times last season. So it’s not as concerning as you reckon, especially when you factor in the improvement in the defence towards the end of last season and the fact that we have improved the attacking players on the team.

Specifically in relation to last night, it’s not the possession really, it was the fact that they defended with their defence and midfield in such a deep block. I think Grealish, Watkins and others would benefit from having more space in transition when opposition attack and commit men forwards. I don’t imagine we will play many, if any, other games like last night this season.

Well you're including cup games and scoring 6 past Crewe, and other team's reserves and youth, well i'm on about the league primarily.

I don't know, maybe last night was a hangover from last season and they still haven't adapted to having a striker. I know I was telling them to shoot when the alternative was passing to Samatta or Davis. I just think we've spent 28m on a striker who on paper at least should be our most prolific marksman. It would have been nice last night is someone had created a chance for him, even a 50/50 chance where he didn't have to do all the work himself because frankly he's our best chance of scoring.

I only included the league games. We scored two or more quite a bit, we just also let the opposition scored that many too many times!

I wouldn’t be too worried at the moment about Watkins. If you only look at shots on target, Werner has had one in two games and Salah has had two (excluding penalties). The state of the game made it difficult to create much space around/in their penalty area. The one time he had space to work in he got a player sent off.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: CT Villan on September 22, 2020, 04:30:31 PM
For most of the game last night we had this slow, languid style which gave SU so much time to get back in positions and organize. It was only after we scored, when they opened up a little to try and chase an equalizer, that we showed a bit more urgency. We have to move the ball quicker from time-to-time to mix it up or we become very predictable and easy to defend.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: LeeB on September 22, 2020, 05:10:17 PM
Can't believe Wilder thought Targett should have been sent off at the time of their pen.  I know he's upset about their sending off but it's hardly 9 minute rant worthy.

Their red card was ludicrous I thought. Referee could have consulted linesman or screen on field. Not that clown Mike Dean. That decision gets given against us and we all would have been going ballistic. I'm not a fan of the "double jeopardy" rule either, a penalty is not a guaranteed goal. At least there is a rule that prevented Targetts red card. Egan was very unlucky.

Sheff United are struggling anyway though. Found goals an issue last season and I highly doubt any combination of Burke, McGoldrick, McBurnie are going to change that. Their new keeper reminds me of Kalinic a bit based on the goals he has let in so far. Same money as Martinez too.

I'm sorry but no, it was a clear sending off, and the only thing I'd have been angry if it was us would've been our donkey centre half. He'd got both his arms wrapped around him for crying out loud.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Risso on September 22, 2020, 05:19:50 PM
I'm sorry but no, it was a clear sending off, and the only thing I'd have been angry if it was us would've been our donkey centre half. He'd got both his arms wrapped around him for crying out loud.

Exactly.  It wasn't a "six of one, half a dozen of the other" tussle at all.  Our player would have been clean through if not for the opposition defender having both of his arms around him.  All Ollie was trying to do was get the useless donkey off him, which doesn't strike me as unreasonable and certainly not a reason not to issue a red card.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Gareth on September 22, 2020, 05:23:50 PM
Shots on target isn’t a particularly great metric to measure dominance/performance by.

When you have 72% Possession, only manage 2 shots all game on target and having watched the game I'd say it's a great metric to measure the performance by.

I don’t think having only two shots on target, against a team that defended very narrow and very deep, and did a good of it as well is an indication that we are going to struggle to score this season as Mr Beggar was implying.

I don’t think it was a great attacking performance, but it wasn’t terrible and people tend to ignore the fact that Sheffield United defended pretty well.

Put it like this, if I'd been a neutral watching last night I'd have changed channel.

Genuinely couldn’t care less about the neutral....3 points are 3 points against a team that finished comfortably on page 1 of ceefax table last season
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 22, 2020, 05:48:38 PM
Good posts, IanJ and CT Villan. If anything it reminded me of the previous game against Sheff Utd after the break. I need to lower my expectations.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Ads on September 22, 2020, 06:10:04 PM
I think we'll see Davis starting through the middle with Watkins and Traore either side before long. And it will be a good thing, and we shall prosper.

And McGrath said unto his followers, behold the bounties I have brought thee. And the good people of Birmingham rejoiced and sang the Lord's name heartily. Apart from the Sty Dwellers, festooned in sin, they wandered the barren lands in search of Sherlock Street.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WilliamStanding on September 22, 2020, 06:15:12 PM
If a clear sending off is 40 yards from goal running away from the new nets is a goal scoring opportunity then every goal kick blocked in front of Martinez is a red.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Ian. on September 22, 2020, 06:17:56 PM
It was a definite sending off in my view, Ollie would have been through as his awareness and pace beat his man and he was pulled all over the place. Doesn’t matter at what point in the game it is and the ref did well calling it.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Ads on September 22, 2020, 06:18:15 PM
But for Egan being a cynical cheat, Watkins is through on goal, with no hope of being caught. It is a clear goalscoring opportunity, he has been denied the same by a defender who deliberately impedes his run. The law is clear Sir, a red card must follow and those would be my submissions, unless I can be of any further service Sir?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Legion on September 22, 2020, 06:21:16 PM
It's a definite red.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 22, 2020, 06:30:01 PM
The only possible circumstance in which that wasn't a clear red would have been if it was a Villa defender.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: WarszaVillan on September 22, 2020, 06:38:05 PM
I think the goalie may have got there first.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: dave shelley on September 22, 2020, 06:53:23 PM
I think the goalie may have got there first.

Yes because Watkins was being held.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: Ads on September 22, 2020, 07:27:26 PM
The only possible circumstance in which that wasn't a clear red would have been if it was a Villa defender.

Agreed.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: KRS on September 22, 2020, 07:48:49 PM
I very much doubt anyone would be arguing about the red card if Ollie had gone down or had been tripped instead of held back. I’ve seen a few circumstances already where penalties/cards have been given with players trying to stay on their feet (Chelsea penalty as an example) so it’s good to see that blatant obstruction/cynical fouls are finally being punished...obviously I won’t be so much in favour if any of our players are guilty of these petty crimes!
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: eamonn on September 22, 2020, 07:53:07 PM
I am waiting for someone to dig out the possession stats of the European Cup final to decide whether we deserved to win it or not. I am black and white on these matters. Obviously I prefer a good dominant performance but for me a win is a win.

I think Opta was just a twinkle in its parents eyes back in 1982.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: olaftab on September 22, 2020, 09:25:42 PM
I think the goalie may have got there first.
No. He just about got there with Watkins carrying a yeti  on his back. Even in an 50/50 there is no way he would have outplayed a nippy forward.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 22, 2020, 09:55:40 PM
37 is the magic number.

Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 22, 2020, 11:06:29 PM
Did laugh at the way Ramsdale just collapsed for the goal. Imagine signing him instead of Martinez.

He seems to have the build Paul Robinson had about 15 years ago and dives like an oak tree being chopped down.
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: The Edge on September 23, 2020, 01:00:30 PM
If a clear sending off is 40 yards from goal running away from the new nets is a goal scoring opportunity then every goal kick blocked in front of Martinez is a red.
I'm just having a catch up on my lunch break. I can't fathom this post. Is it me?
Title: Re: Aston Villa 1-0 Sheffield United Post Match Thread
Post by: The Edge on September 23, 2020, 01:01:49 PM
I think the goalie may have got there first.
No. He just about got there with Watkins carrying a yeti  on his back. Even in an 50/50 there is no way he would have outplayed a nippy forward.
This made me laugh. And it's spot on.
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