Post by: Bad English on August 28, 2021, 05:03:30 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/wRkt0Rm/Screenshot-20210828-181110.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Y3CgR3s)
Post by: Hillbilly on August 28, 2021, 05:05:01 PM
Post by: SaddVillan on August 28, 2021, 05:05:18 PM
Plenty of learning points.
Squad depth better than last season, 3 starters missing, but the team wasn't too bad.
Chucky made his full debut and did quite well.
We STILL NEED A PROPER DEFENSIVE MIDFIELDER.
A number of alternatives off the bench.
Ollie getting back to match fitness.
Hause - you can see why Tuanzebe was brought in.
Think the team is progressing but injuries/Covid buggering things up and Smith is still looking for his best starting XI and formation.
Post by: Ger Regan on August 28, 2021, 05:05:36 PM
Carney needs more time as he's not ready for regular starts, hopefully that comes with time. Starting to get concerned with cash, he gets caught on the ball too often.
Really annoyed by konsa's injury, shouldn't have risked it and we don't seem to have learned from the trezeguet situation.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 28, 2021, 05:06:08 PM
Need a centre-mid obvs.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 28, 2021, 05:06:59 PM
Been said by many people already but we're always going to make things harder for ourselves if we insist on ceding midfield from the start.
Post by: Risso on August 28, 2021, 05:07:09 PM
Post by: BoVillan esq on August 28, 2021, 05:07:25 PM
Post by: ez on August 28, 2021, 05:08:44 PM
Post by: brontebilly on August 28, 2021, 05:09:58 PM
Post by: LukeJames on August 28, 2021, 05:10:15 PM
I haven't enjoyed watching any of our League games so far this season.
Post by: BC Villain on August 28, 2021, 05:10:36 PM
Our haphazard preseason really is showing at the moment. We don't have any identity or apparent gameplay. The international break has come at tbd right time. Get some of these players fit and working together.
And please reconsider our transfer business being over Villa. We're criminally short in the middle of the park.
Post by: Monty on August 28, 2021, 05:11:15 PM
And that about sums it up for me. I know we had injuries, a draw isn't a bad result considering those. But what is our style of play? Can anyone actually tell me what our plan is? How do we attack, how do we press, how do we beat the opposition press, how do we move in the final third. We must be the team whose players spend the longest average time on the ball, because a player will just get it, everyone will run away from them, and they'll end up tapping it sideways or playing one of those shit slice-chips into the channels or up to well-known target man Danny Ings.
I don't think we want to be some sort of long-ball team. But we don't have any actual positional patterns, or movements, or strategies. We're aimless. And the period of play with the 2 up top - I know it was a disjointed end to the game, I know everyone goes long at the end anyone, but it's probably the least coherent passage of play I've seen from any team this season. Please, coaches, sort it out.
Post by: Villan82 on August 28, 2021, 05:12:18 PM
The injuries/Covid situation with key players are absolutely sickening.
It all feels disjointed at the moment and we can't build any momentum.
Post by: sickbeggar on August 28, 2021, 05:13:23 PM
Shit formation
Injuries granted
4 points from 2 promoted teams and Newcastle
looking at the upcoming games we're gonna have to play like we're this Europe chasing team or it could look a bit bleak come October.
Post by: ez on August 28, 2021, 05:13:58 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on August 28, 2021, 05:14:47 PM
Didnt think ings was good.
Poor result 2 points dropped at home. Next up chelaea away followed by united away. Anyone give us a chance on what they seen first 3 games.?
Post by: Behind Bluenose Lines on August 28, 2021, 05:15:02 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 28, 2021, 05:16:50 PM
Oh and what Monty said.
Post by: German James on August 28, 2021, 05:20:55 PM
Is it me or did Brentford look fitter?Their energy levels were higher but it's very early and they won't be able to keep up that aggressive pressing game for the whole season. We weren't bad at all. Especially when considering the players missing. AEG man of the match by a mile.
Post by: VillaBoy_23 on August 28, 2021, 05:23:14 PM
Post by: N'ZMAV on August 28, 2021, 05:23:19 PM
Is it me or did Brentford look fitter?They tired more as the game went on - they really pressed us, we should have went for it more towards the end to take advantage.
All a bit Meh
Post by: Tom_Mc9? on August 28, 2021, 05:24:19 PM
Post by: N'ZMAV on August 28, 2021, 05:25:07 PM
I didn’t think it was too bad considering the team we had to put together. Things will improve.I agree - I feared the worst when we went behind.
Just lacked a bit in most areas - I hope when the missing players return they sort that out for us.
Post by: martyn ellis on August 28, 2021, 05:25:24 PM
Post by: Risso on August 28, 2021, 05:26:15 PM
Post by: villa for life on August 28, 2021, 05:26:47 PM
City stroll to a 5-0 drubbing of Arsenal while we labour to a 1 -1 draw v Brentford.
Post by: N'ZMAV on August 28, 2021, 05:26:55 PM
A lot of doom merchants on here. Couldn't go today so had to listen on 5-live. Their take was two good sides battling it out and could have gone either way - an enjoyable game, which fizzled out towards the end. I think we have allowed the 'let's challenge the top six' mantra get to us. Top ten? Maybe. Right direction? Definitely. Shit performance? Not from what I was hearing. I may stand corrected after watching the re-run, but for now we have lots to look forward to.I watched it on the TV.
It was ok, not very good, not poor. Just lacking in most areas.
Post by: brontebilly on August 28, 2021, 05:27:23 PM
Supporting Villa is like reliving Groundhog Day on repeat. Another 2 points wasted. We’re a billion miles away from the top 6 on the evidence, injuries or no injuries. What’s our style of play? What’s our identify? Another afternoon of my life wasted.
Sticking Young into the centre of the pitch, even with all the injuries, was nonsensical.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on August 28, 2021, 05:29:00 PM
Today’s results epitomize why Jack left.Oh,I see what you're doing now.SHA emigre.
City stroll to a 5-0 drubbing of Arsenal while we labour to a 1 -1 draw v Brentford.
Post by: villadelph on August 28, 2021, 05:29:06 PM
Biggest shocker of the day.. the 4-4-2!
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on August 28, 2021, 05:29:14 PM
7 shots all game from the home team not good enough.
Accepting absences today more incoming players are needed.
Maybe we can use the next few weeks to do what we should have been doing pre-season (a poor and disjointed build up to the 1st 3 games).
Anyway UTV!
Post by: Legion on August 28, 2021, 05:29:20 PM
We were missing Mings, McGinn, Ramsey, Bailey and Watkins for most of it. When you take that into consideration we did OK.
That's how I saw it as well. Quite enjoyed it to be fair.
Post by: supertom on August 28, 2021, 05:29:45 PM
Targett was good today. Ashley has started three games on the spin, but he's clearly a gap filler. He's doing okay but we need our first choices in soon. I just think we're lacking a spark of someone who's between and 8 and 10 on the pitch, who can hold the ball and thread a pass. Beundia aside, no one else will do that.
Given all the injuries and some players still not 100% like Ollie and Beundia, I think we did okay to keep in the game. Brentford have started the season well and look sharp. They certainly did look fitter.
Post by: RamboandBruno on August 28, 2021, 05:33:36 PM
There was a moment towards the end where the Scouse co-commentator tried to sum things up. He said 'both teams have set their stall out for the season: Brentford, they keep the ball, they press aggressively; Aston Villa...well...they're trying to move into this post-Jack Grealish era now...erm..."
And that about sums it up for me. I know we had injuries, a draw isn't a bad result considering those. But what is our style of play? Can anyone actually tell me what our plan is? How do we attack, how do we press, how do we beat the opposition press, how do we move in the final third. We must be the team whose players spend the longest average time on the ball, because a player will just get it, everyone will run away from them, and they'll end up tapping it sideways or playing one of those shit slice-chips into the channels or up to well-known target man Danny Ings.
I don't think we want to be some sort of long-ball team. But we don't have any actual positional patterns, or movements, or strategies. We're aimless. And the period of play with the 2 up top - I know it was a disjointed end to the game, I know everyone goes long at the end anyone, but it's probably the least coherent passage of play I've seen from any team this season. Please, coaches, sort it out.
Sorry just don’t agree. How can possibly judge the style of play, formation etc when up to 6 players who would be expected to start or possibly start were out injured or ill. The squad depth that has been built, allowed us to at least compete today. Apart from Man City and Chelsea, I can’t think of another team who wouldn’t struggle without 6 first teamers and that includes Man U and Liverpool.
On top of that we have 3 new players in the team today if you include Tuanzebe and a kid making his first start.
Four points from 9 not an ideal, but Jesus some perspective is needed. Let’s see what’s happening after 10 games with our main players back.
Post by: Ian. on August 28, 2021, 05:33:43 PM
We played a very well drilled team and could have won. Watkins looked ace in his cameo. Emi had his best game and scored a beaut. AEG was a constant menace and also worked very hard. Targett looked the beast from last season after a nervy start. Martinez was solid. Axel was good. Nice debut from Chuck and Dougie played very well. Also Ings is so much better in a Villa shirt than the opposing teams.
Well done Villa boys, we’ve had a very tough time off the field up to now. We’re going to be just fine.
Post by: Matt C on August 28, 2021, 05:35:25 PM
We were missing Mings, McGinn, Ramsey, Bailey and Watkins for most of it. When you take that into consideration we did OK.
That's how I saw it as well. Quite enjoyed it to be fair.
+1. Given the absentees and disrupted preparation I thought we did OK. Entertaining game.
Post by: Ian. on August 28, 2021, 05:36:00 PM
We were missing Mings, McGinn, Ramsey, Bailey and Watkins for most of it. When you take that into consideration we did OK.
That's how I saw it as well. Quite enjoyed it to be fair.
It was a good game of football from two teams trying to play it about. A good game I thought.
Post by: steamer on August 28, 2021, 05:36:08 PM
Clear to everyone, I guess including the management we need some strengthening still
Do that and we might not be looking over our shoulder.
Can not see us higher than 7 or 8 even with a bit of strengthening, build on,youngsters coming through and not get scammed for the whatsis name money with some good scouting
Post by: Monty on August 28, 2021, 05:37:09 PM
There was a moment towards the end where the Scouse co-commentator tried to sum things up. He said 'both teams have set their stall out for the season: Brentford, they keep the ball, they press aggressively; Aston Villa...well...they're trying to move into this post-Jack Grealish era now...erm..."
And that about sums it up for me. I know we had injuries, a draw isn't a bad result considering those. But what is our style of play? Can anyone actually tell me what our plan is? How do we attack, how do we press, how do we beat the opposition press, how do we move in the final third. We must be the team whose players spend the longest average time on the ball, because a player will just get it, everyone will run away from them, and they'll end up tapping it sideways or playing one of those shit slice-chips into the channels or up to well-known target man Danny Ings.
I don't think we want to be some sort of long-ball team. But we don't have any actual positional patterns, or movements, or strategies. We're aimless. And the period of play with the 2 up top - I know it was a disjointed end to the game, I know everyone goes long at the end anyone, but it's probably the least coherent passage of play I've seen from any team this season. Please, coaches, sort it out.
Sorry just don’t agree. How can possibly judge the style of play, formation etc when up to 6 players who would be expected to start or possibly start were out injured or ill. The squad depth that has been built, allowed us to at least compete today. Apart from Man City and Chelsea, I can’t think of another team who wouldn’t struggle without 6 first teamers and that includes Man U and Liverpool.
On top of that we have 3 new players in the team today if you include Tuanzebe and a kid making his first start.
Four points from 9 not an ideal, but Jesus some perspective is needed. Let’s see what’s happening after 10 games with our main players back.
Because I've watched Dean Smith's Villa for a few years, and without Jack Grealish there isn't a plan for breaking teams down. If you read my post instead of just quoting it, you'll have seen that I don't think a point is a terrible result. My problem is the style - or rather, the lack thereof.
Everyone in a squad should know what the style of play is. He chose to put Young in midfield, to bring in Carney, rather than more experienced options like Hourihane and Nakamba, so he must have had some confidence they knew how we play. Yet does anyone? There's no evidence of it.
Post by: LamBeast on August 28, 2021, 05:39:22 PM
Buendia’ goal was a bit of magic!Its early days & plenty more to come from this Villa squad methinks… 🦁
Post by: N'ZMAV on August 28, 2021, 05:39:48 PM
Post by: Goldie.7 on August 28, 2021, 05:44:00 PM
We're going to need every point we can get.
Post by: nick harper on August 28, 2021, 05:47:20 PM
I agree we look a bit shapeless, hoping for something to happen rather than expecting and is been like that for all the games.
I think it will take half a season to get a new identity and pattern to our game so think we have a few tough weeks come.
Post by: caster troy on August 28, 2021, 05:50:31 PM
Would like to have seen JPB on for Chuck with Buendia moved inside to try something different, bringing Nakamba on felt like Dean was happy with a point, which is disappointing.
Post by: PaulTheVillan on August 28, 2021, 05:52:10 PM
Post by: brontebilly on August 28, 2021, 05:52:15 PM
There was a moment towards the end where the Scouse co-commentator tried to sum things up. He said 'both teams have set their stall out for the season: Brentford, they keep the ball, they press aggressively; Aston Villa...well...they're trying to move into this post-Jack Grealish era now...erm..."
And that about sums it up for me. I know we had injuries, a draw isn't a bad result considering those. But what is our style of play? Can anyone actually tell me what our plan is? How do we attack, how do we press, how do we beat the opposition press, how do we move in the final third. We must be the team whose players spend the longest average time on the ball, because a player will just get it, everyone will run away from them, and they'll end up tapping it sideways or playing one of those shit slice-chips into the channels or up to well-known target man Danny Ings.
I don't think we want to be some sort of long-ball team. But we don't have any actual positional patterns, or movements, or strategies. We're aimless. And the period of play with the 2 up top - I know it was a disjointed end to the game, I know everyone goes long at the end anyone, but it's probably the least coherent passage of play I've seen from any team this season. Please, coaches, sort it out.
Sorry just don’t agree. How can possibly judge the style of play, formation etc when up to 6 players who would be expected to start or possibly start were out injured or ill. The squad depth that has been built, allowed us to at least compete today. Apart from Man City and Chelsea, I can’t think of another team who wouldn’t struggle without 6 first teamers and that includes Man U and Liverpool.
On top of that we have 3 new players in the team today if you include Tuanzebe and a kid making his first start.
Four points from 9 not an ideal, but Jesus some perspective is needed. Let’s see what’s happening after 10 games with our main players back.
Because I've watched Dean Smith's Villa for a few years, and without Jack Grealish there isn't a plan for breaking teams down. If you read my post instead of just quoting it, you'll have seen that I don't think a point is a terrible result. My problem is the style - or rather, the lack thereof.
Everyone in a squad should know what the style of play is. He chose to put Young in midfield, to bring in Carney, rather than more experienced options like Hourihane and Nakamba, so he must have had some confidence they knew how we play. Yet does anyone? There's no evidence of it.
It's an important break for us now I think to bed in the team and backroom staff. Watkins back from injury and hopefully more to follow like Traore, Sanson and Bailey. No harm for Mings to presumably drop out of the England squad through injury. I think your first point is still valid but maybe a bit more patience required.
Post by: gpbarr on August 28, 2021, 05:54:02 PM
We were missing Mings, McGinn, Ramsey, Bailey and Watkins for most of it. When you take that into consideration we did OK.
That's how I saw it as well. Quite enjoyed it to be fair.
Me too - thought it was a good game. We had 5 first team picks out and even with that thought we shaded it - AEG looked good today. The only criticism is Young in midfield - not sure what Dean sees to make that the right pick, I’d have had Marv in his place to bolster DM.
All in all a steady start. Strong players to come back and give Brentford some credit - they are no mugs and won’t be embarrassed in this league. The break will do us good.
Post by: Vegas on August 28, 2021, 05:55:39 PM
We were missing Mings, McGinn, Ramsey, Bailey and Watkins for most of it. When you take that into consideration we did OK.
That's how I saw it as well. Quite enjoyed it to be fair.
Yep, agreed. Quite enjoyed it, thought the fullbacks were better, Buendia’s best game, weak through the middle but with the injuries plus late pull outs not at all bad.
Post by: Monty on August 28, 2021, 05:56:15 PM
Post by: mrfuse on August 28, 2021, 05:58:01 PM
Today’s results epitomize why Jack left.
City stroll to a 5-0 drubbing of Arsenal while we labour to a 1 -1 draw v Brentford.
Who? I really don't care....
Thought we did well considering all the injuries and illnesses. I would have taken that result at the beginning of the game.
Post by: clash city rocker on August 28, 2021, 05:59:03 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on August 28, 2021, 06:01:53 PM
Post by: Villafirst on August 28, 2021, 06:06:35 PM
That was a struggle. We're not looking much like top four material at the moment. Thankfully we scored soon after them because we looked unlikely to score after that.
Is it any surprise we're not looking atop 4 team with such a makeshift team? Some top players missing.
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 28, 2021, 06:07:18 PM
Post by: SaddVillan on August 28, 2021, 06:08:18 PM
Mings
McGinn
Traore
Bailey
Sanson
Trezeguet
Davis
Dougie is just back from the Olympics.
Added to which Konsa went off injured today
On the bench:
Chucky 17 - home debut
Philogene-Bidace - 19
Ramsey Junior - 18
Archer - 19
Injuries are having a serious affect on Smith's ability to pick a settled side and formation and for players to knit together into effective combinations.
The kids are probably being thrown on a bit earlier than planned but long-term it should benefit them although withva fully fit squad perhaps Archer and Aaron Ramsey would have been loaned out to continue their development - delayed until January now?
As others have said,xSmith has the international break to work on the team, hopefully the injury list will decrease, we can welcome a proper defensive midfielder and an additional coach will join to help Smith and Co at Bodymoor.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on August 28, 2021, 06:09:02 PM
We were missing Mings, McGinn, Ramsey, Bailey and Watkins for most of it. When you take that into consideration we did OK.
That's how I saw it as well. Quite enjoyed it to be fair.
This. We did as well as to be expected. Actually thought they might Nick it but we were decent at the back. Didn’t see a chance by them in the 2nd half for all their possession. They’re half decent but given the amount of players out it’s a good result and had Mings been in that first goal would have been prevented. Ref was a bit wank.
Post by: Vegas on August 28, 2021, 06:09:38 PM
With our injuries to attacking players it’s surely unsurprising we didn’t rip them apart today?
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 28, 2021, 06:10:56 PM
Unsure what it means to be impatient in this regard. I'm not calling for him to be sacked or anything. I'm criticising something that I do think is perfectly within is remit to address. I hope he does address it, sincerely, but it's been a while now. Maybe that mooted new coach will be a catalyst, like it was for Ferguson several times.
That's my take on it, too.
Dean is frustrating as fuck, and the way certain weaknesses of ours persist unaddressed is concerning.
Criticising him doesn't mean you want him sacked, though.
Post by: Monty on August 28, 2021, 06:14:06 PM
,
But here's what does. Today, the midfield was makeshift. Last week however, it consisted of three players who've worked together, under Dean, for two and a bit years, and the play looked exactly as disjointed as today. That suggests a lack of plan.
Paulie - exactly, I'm not calling for him to be sacked. I want him to sort out this clear problem we have.
Post by: KRS on August 28, 2021, 06:20:48 PM
Any ambitions of qualifying for Europe are purely delusional fantasy unless they bring in a few more players, and that’s true even with our best starting XI…we are way off where we want to be as a team and a squad, and we’re already dropping points so it’s simply not going to happen this season. Realistic mid table at best.
Post by: Nunkin1965 on August 28, 2021, 06:24:56 PM
A decent point in the circumstances I felt.
Post by: john e on August 28, 2021, 06:27:35 PM
Tuenzebe - good solid game
Cash - very poor
Konsa- no one passes the ball back to the goalie more than him
Hause - one of the worst players I’ve ever seen at trying to control a football, like watching a cat playing with a balloon
Ings - quiet day but no service
Buendia- great goal, keeps getting caught in possession hope he adjusts
El Ghazi - tried all game
Carney - did well, at least tried to move the ball forward unlike Marv
all other players not mentioned- ok but non descript
Smith - difficult with players missing 5.5/10
Also so much for Brentford’s lovely football style, thought we were playing the old Wimbledon in the second half at times
not a great deal of football played by either team to be fair though very stop/ start game
Edit - oh and Watkins looked lively when he came on
Post by: RamboandBruno on August 28, 2021, 06:30:16 PM
There was a moment towards the end where the Scouse co-commentator tried to sum things up. He said 'both teams have set their stall out for the season: Brentford, they keep the ball, they press aggressively; Aston Villa...well...they're trying to move into this post-Jack Grealish era now...erm..."
And that about sums it up for me. I know we had injuries, a draw isn't a bad result considering those. But what is our style of play? Can anyone actually tell me what our plan is? How do we attack, how do we press, how do we beat the opposition press, how do we move in the final third. We must be the team whose players spend the longest average time on the ball, because a player will just get it, everyone will run away from them, and they'll end up tapping it sideways or playing one of those shit slice-chips into the channels or up to well-known target man Danny Ings.
I don't think we want to be some sort of long-ball team. But we don't have any actual positional patterns, or movements, or strategies. We're aimless. And the period of play with the 2 up top - I know it was a disjointed end to the game, I know everyone goes long at the end anyone, but it's probably the least coherent passage of play I've seen from any team this season. Please, coaches, sort it out.
Sorry just don’t agree. How can possibly judge the style of play, formation etc when up to 6 players who would be expected to start or possibly start were out injured or ill. The squad depth that has been built, allowed us to at least compete today. Apart from Man City and Chelsea, I can’t think of another team who wouldn’t struggle without 6 first teamers and that includes Man U and Liverpool.
On top of that we have 3 new players in the team today if you include Tuanzebe and a kid making his first start.
Four points from 9 not an ideal, but Jesus some perspective is needed. Let’s see what’s happening after 10 games with our main players back.
Because I've watched Dean Smith's Villa for a few years, and without Jack Grealish there isn't a plan for breaking teams down. If you read my post instead of just quoting it, you'll have seen that I don't think a point is a terrible result. My problem is the style - or rather, the lack thereof.
Everyone in a squad should know what the style of play is. He chose to put Young in midfield, to bring in Carney, rather than more experienced options like Hourihane and Nakamba, so he must have had some confidence they knew how we play. Yet does anyone? There's no evidence of it.
I’ve been watching Dean Smiths villa for the same amount of time and I did read your post. My point being, which granted I may not have articulated very well, how can you judge the performance, approach, style of play with half the team out. I would rather judge what that style of play for the season is going to be with bailey, Traore, McGinn, Watkins, available along with Beindua and Ings.
I really like Connor and what he has done for the club, but I don’t think either him or Nakamba starting would of changed much today.
I think Smith and the team deserve a break with this one.
Post by: gpbarr on August 28, 2021, 06:34:11 PM
Target - my MOTM today
Tuenzebe - good solid game
Konsa- no one passes the ball back to the goalie more than him
Hause - one of the worst players I’ve ever seen at trying to control a football, like watching a cat playing with a balloon
Ings - quiet day but no service
Buendia- great goal, keeps getting caught in possession hope he adjusts
El Ghazi - tried all game
Carney - did well, at least tried to move the ball forward unlike Marv
all other players not mentioned- ok but non descript
Smith - difficult with players missing 5.5/10
Also so much for Brentford’s lovely football style, thought we were playing the old Wimbledon in the second half at times
not a great deal of football played by either team to be fair though very stop/ start game
I think the Brentford reference is a bit silly. We have all seen what happens to promoted teams who come up and try to play lovely football - they get hammered and go straight back down. I thought they played it right today and fair play to them.
With our missing 6 first team picks, and a forced last minute switch to 4141, we did ok. Sooner we get everyone on the pitch the sooner our results will pick up.
Post by: Monty on August 28, 2021, 06:35:06 PM
On Conor and Marvelous, the point was more that they've spent more time playing together and with the coach, so would presumably take some displacing if there were reservations about Young or Chuck knowing their roles.
Post by: rougegorge on August 28, 2021, 06:36:16 PM
Chukwuemeka will improve and he's very young, but I thought it was tough to play him in such a pivotal role given the absentees, and the game passed him by.
Hourihane would've been a better bet in the circumstances or the midfield we ended up with Nakamba, and Luiz more advanced.
Anwar played quite well, but we didn't give Danny Ings much service. We were better when Ollie came on.
Cash was poor and lacked defensive judgment and their goal was a poor one to concede.
Brentford were happy with a point as you would be having just come up, and they were well drilled, fit and energetic, but nothing more on the day.
I was expecting at least 7 points from the first 3 games, but we don't deserve more than the 4 we have got.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on August 28, 2021, 06:39:47 PM
Post by: john e on August 28, 2021, 06:39:52 PM
Target - my MOTM today
Tuenzebe - good solid game
Konsa- no one passes the ball back to the goalie more than him
Hause - one of the worst players I’ve ever seen at trying to control a football, like watching a cat playing with a balloon
Ings - quiet day but no service
Buendia- great goal, keeps getting caught in possession hope he adjusts
El Ghazi - tried all game
Carney - did well, at least tried to move the ball forward unlike Marv
all other players not mentioned- ok but non descript
Smith - difficult with players missing 5.5/10
Also so much for Brentford’s lovely football style, thought we were playing the old Wimbledon in the second half at times
not a great deal of football played by either team to be fair though very stop/ start game
I think the Brentford reference is a bit silly. We have all seen what happens to promoted teams who come up and try to play lovely football - they get hammered and go straight back down. I thought they played it right today and fair play to them.
With our missing 6 first team picks, and a forced last minute switch to 4141, we did ok. Sooner we get everyone on the pitch the sooner our results will pick up.
Its them that go on about it all the time though that’s all I’m saying
In reality not trying to play football at all in the second half just spoil which I didn’t think was there style
Like you say probably did the right thing but don’t pretend your the new Barca 2008
Post by: john2710 on August 28, 2021, 06:41:08 PM
Brentford kept the ball, killed & spoiled the game.
Referee was weak & every bit as bad as he was in the championship.
All things considered a fair result.
Post by: brontebilly on August 28, 2021, 06:43:41 PM
Also what the hell was that defwnding fir brentfords goal? Its unbelievable a premier league defence gives a dangerous striker completely unmarked. Wtf
I thought Brentfords defending for our goal was funny. Their defender picked a very strange time to drop off Buendia and he made him pay.
Post by: CT on August 28, 2021, 06:45:21 PM
Brentford were pathetic. Marshalled by Johanssen, he had his team falling over, holding their faces at the slightest touches. I don’t pay good money to watch a team NOT take a throw in.
The referee was an absolute joke. He clearly forgot the memo on letting the game flow, stopping it at every opportunity. His decision making was horrific.
The injuries keep piling up too, that’s becoming a major concern.
Post by: Villa Lew on August 28, 2021, 06:46:28 PM
Post by: Big Ming on August 28, 2021, 06:48:06 PM
Unless our luck with absentees improves we are going to struggle with the upcoming run of tougher looking games.
Our football has been turgid.
Post by: john e on August 28, 2021, 06:48:24 PM
I don’t think they would have made an hapeth of difference apart from slowing the game down even more
Post by: Monty on August 28, 2021, 06:48:30 PM
Post by: itmustbe_it is! on August 28, 2021, 06:52:04 PM
Considering the team, we had, an ok performance, but Dean left it far too late to bring Ollie on, should have been on the hour, he looked very good the short time he was on the pitch. Was impressed with Brentford, will give a load of teams a tough game. Here's hoping we see a much different line up at Chelsea.
I didn’t think Ollie looked very fit at all , I don’t think he’d have got very long out of him hence bringing him on “too late”
Post by: ozzjim on August 28, 2021, 06:52:42 PM
We went in with the wrong 11. Nakamba should have started alongside Doug. Young playing centre mid for the first time at 36 was a strange and desperate decision to keep drive in the midfield. It didn't work.
Brentford went very direct vs Arsenal, there was no reason to not play Hause and win the aerial battle. Picking Axel I found a bit harsh on the way Hause played and kept several clean sheets last season.
We didn't keep the ball and pass to each other at all, it was so frustrating to watch.
I don't want Smith out at all, but we need to move forward in the way we play. We created practically nothing beyond the goal and Ings chance. Before today we had 4 attempts on target and 4 goals. It's nowhere near good enough going forward, and that's not just about players out, it's tactically how you approach the game. I hope the new coach coming in freshens things up.
Post by: john e on August 28, 2021, 06:52:50 PM
Considering the team, we had, an ok performance, but Dean left it far too late to bring Ollie on, should have been on the hour, he looked very good the short time he was on the pitch. Was impressed with Brentford, will give a load of teams a tough game. Here's hoping we see a much different line up at Chelsea.
I didn’t think Ollie looked very fit at all , I don’t think he’d have got very long out of him hence bringing him on “too late”
He looked pretty lively to me
Post by: ozzjim on August 28, 2021, 06:53:47 PM
I thought the ref was a dunce. I don't blame Brentford for doing what they do, but it was like there was a double standard out there at times. Maybe subconsciously the ref knows that Brentford have a physical 'style' so he let them get away with more than us, but it was bizarre.
Toney and Wissa should have been sent off. Both took physical beyond with several bookable moments.
Post by: charleeco7 on August 28, 2021, 07:02:53 PM
Buendia was good for 70 mins and would have come off if it wasn’t for konsas injury. All things considered it’s not a bad point but we have a tough run of games coming up.
Good to see ollie back though.
Post by: wittonwarrior on August 28, 2021, 07:03:01 PM
Post by: sickbeggar on August 28, 2021, 07:06:34 PM
Because good managers create a style of play and that endures through injuries etc. Monty is spot on, we look totally devoid of tactical nous or style of play without Jack. I get that players are out but....
We went in with the wrong 11. Nakamba should have started alongside Doug. Young playing centre mid for the first time at 36 was a strange and desperate decision to keep drive in the midfield. It didn't work.
Brentford went very direct vs Arsenal, there was no reason to not play Hause and win the aerial battle. Picking Axel I found a bit harsh on the way Hause played and kept several clean sheets last season.
We didn't keep the ball and pass to each other at all, it was so frustrating to watch.
I don't want Smith out at all, but we need to move forward in the way we play. We created practically nothing beyond the goal and Ings chance. Before today we had 4 attempts on target and 4 goals. It's nowhere near good enough going forward, and that's not just about players out, it's tactically how you approach the game. I hope the new coach coming in freshens things up.
yep. Spot on. wrong team selected. couldn't keep possession, out-passed by Brentford. Injuries or not, you need to do a bit better than that.
Post by: Allan C on August 28, 2021, 07:06:55 PM
Absolutely spot on. Every team will struggle with our current level of injuries/sickness I think in the same position last season we would have lost that todayThere was a moment towards the end where the Scouse co-commentator tried to sum things up. He said 'both teams have set their stall out for the season: Brentford, they keep the ball, they press aggressively; Aston Villa...well...they're trying to move into this post-Jack Grealish era now...erm..."
And that about sums it up for me. I know we had injuries, a draw isn't a bad result considering those. But what is our style of play? Can anyone actually tell me what our plan is? How do we attack, how do we press, how do we beat the opposition press, how do we move in the final third. We must be the team whose players spend the longest average time on the ball, because a player will just get it, everyone will run away from them, and they'll end up tapping it sideways or playing one of those shit slice-chips into the channels or up to well-known target man Danny Ings.
I don't think we want to be some sort of long-ball team. But we don't have any actual positional patterns, or movements, or strategies. We're aimless. And the period of play with the 2 up top - I know it was a disjointed end to the game, I know everyone goes long at the end anyone, but it's probably the least coherent passage of play I've seen from any team this season. Please, coaches, sort it out.
Sorry just don’t agree. How can possibly judge the style of play, formation etc when up to 6 players who would be expected to start or possibly start were out injured or ill. The squad depth that has been built, allowed us to at least compete today. Apart from Man City and Chelsea, I can’t think of another team who wouldn’t struggle without 6 first teamers and that includes Man U and Liverpool.
On top of that we have 3 new players in the team today if you include Tuanzebe and a kid making his first start.
Four points from 9 not an ideal, but Jesus some perspective is needed. Let’s see what’s happening after 10 games with our main players back.
Post by: DB on August 28, 2021, 07:07:39 PM
Oh and the ref got worse the more the match went on...
Post by: wince on August 28, 2021, 07:15:38 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on August 28, 2021, 07:25:15 PM
Post by: mrfuse on August 28, 2021, 07:26:56 PM
Poor team selection In hindsight Carney is not ready and targget had another shocker. On the performance alone happy with a point Did very little to try and win it
Very Harsh, thought target did well enough. It was cash that didn't play so well.
Chukwuemeka was fine didnt do as much I'd have hoped but certainly didn't look out of place.
Post by: richtheholtender on August 28, 2021, 07:32:10 PM
Surpised chucks getting negative feeback. For a 17 year old i think he sid well 1st half
I think the suggestion is that we didn't need to play him. He did do well for a 17 year old but did he really do well taking his age out if the equation? He needs to be developed before being put in like that especially having played the other night.
Post by: sickbeggar on August 28, 2021, 07:35:40 PM
Post by: LukeJames on August 28, 2021, 07:39:06 PM
Post by: N'ZMAV on August 28, 2021, 07:54:28 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on August 28, 2021, 07:55:30 PM
We pretty much missed our central spine from last season. I know it's disappointing not to beat a newly promoted team but Brentford are clearly the best of the three to come up and will comfortably finish well clear of 18th, they are certainly much better than Newcastle.
Didn't like the way we ended the first half but DS used subs o.k in second and really can't remember Brentford creating a clear chance in second. Mind you we didn't either until injury time.
Just felt like one of those early season games where both sides were happy to take a point from an hour onwards. As soon goes on it may become two points dropped but we just look a bang average mid table team at present. More fair to judge when everyone is fit anyway.
After 585 days I was just happy to be back and enjoyed the game regardless of the result.
Post by: Ian. on August 28, 2021, 08:05:05 PM
Poor team selection In hindsight Carney is not ready and targget had another shocker. On the performance alone happy with a point Did very little to try and win itI thought Targett looked excellent after a bit of a nervy start.
Post by: Ads on August 28, 2021, 08:06:22 PM
Probably easier to talk about the referee as there was so little attacking play from the moment we nearly scored in the first half (and probably should have) till Ollie Watkins worked the keeper late on.
I felt they upped the physical side of things second half and ran through our midfield too easily. The Nkamba sub was a timely one.
Felt Dougie played well, as did AEG. We lacked drive and we lacked quality in the final third.
But its hard to really know where we are truly at as a side, if not a squad, when all these were either out or incapable of starting this game and the previous two; Watkins, Traore, Bailey, Trezeguet, Ramsey, McGinn, Sanson and Mings.
I wasn't expecting great things given the injuries and that was largely born out with the display. Lovely goal from Buendia, feel he is improving.
The full backs don't get up as much and the amount of crosses we're putting in is severely diminished on last season.
4 points from these 3 games isn't great, but I'm loathed to be too critical given the significant clutch of quality players we seem to be without.
Post by: SoccerHQ on August 28, 2021, 08:07:44 PM
That was a struggle. We're not looking much like top four material at the moment. Thankfully we scored soon after them because we looked unlikely to score after that.
If that is your benchmark for the season you're going to be massively disappointed my friend.
When players and managers say we want to qualify for europe it's more realistic to understand that as finishing 7th or winning a league cup unless you can point me to any interview where a player has said CL is the target.
Last season we only looked close to that level when you know who was playing. He's gone and pretty much all our spine from last season was unavailable to start today.
Think once everyone is fit we'll hopefully look like a bottom top half standard team so should be in mix for 7th as you don't need unbelievable form to be in shake up for that.
Post by: SoccerHQ on August 28, 2021, 08:11:26 PM
Too often we just delay the pass and move slows down. Only time we looked decent in second half were AEG and Targett creating overloads on the left but Targett's crossing was pretty poor today.
Post by: N'ZMAV on August 28, 2021, 08:11:33 PM
Not great.
Post by: Aldridge Villa on August 28, 2021, 08:11:47 PM
Post by: Ian. on August 28, 2021, 08:15:42 PM
1 point from 6 against promoted teams.Maybe. But we took a fair few point from top six teams last season and not much from bottom six clubs. Who knows, but a fully fit team could be pretty effective.
Not great.
Post by: andyh on August 28, 2021, 08:16:36 PM
I though we did ok with very makeshift team against a team playing against the previous manager with a point to prove.
My overriding thought is that the referee completely spoiled the second half with a comical display of referring.
My other overriding thought is that we are going to be a much different and better team after the international break.
Post by: Beard82 on August 28, 2021, 08:17:18 PM
We haven't had a lot of luck - I think we had a plan, that was based around Joe, and then Joe decided that he wanted out. Undoubtedly we have made some exciting signing - but think we have been caught out. For all the talk of having multiple plans 1 for Joe staying and 1 for Joe going, I think the plan we enacted was basically measured disaster management.
Think we are in a bit of a rebuilding stage, trying to see if Plan B will float - and unfortunately this hasn't been helped by Coaches leaving, injuries and illness.
I also wonder if they are nervous of the 19/20 season - and thinking too many changes might cause more problems then they solve.
I guess by fear is, I loved the Villa we had - boyhood fans as manager and captain - but always at the back of my head I thought that Joe would leave, and Dean wouldnt be quite up to it...
Post by: CT on August 28, 2021, 08:18:36 PM
Poor team selection In hindsight Carney is not ready and targget had another shocker. On the performance alone happy with a point Did very little to try and win itI thought Targett looked excellent after a bit of a nervy start.
I had Matt Targett down for MOTM.
Post by: SoccerHQ on August 28, 2021, 08:20:00 PM
Blimey.
I though we did ok with very makeshift team against a team playing against the previous manager with a point to prove.
My overriding thought is that the referee completely spoiled the second half with a comical display of referring.
My other overriding thought is that we are going to be a much different and better team after the international break.
We will need to be. Chelsea and Man. United away is very tough and even in good seasons it's a struggle to get more than 1 point from. Everton have started well and will be more difficult to break down under Benitez than previous seasons.
Think our season will properly start in October so that's when I'm judging DS as hopefully everyone is fit by then and he should've worked our our best 11 and formation. At the moment it's pretty mix and match each game due to injuries and everything so he hasn't had a fair hand so far and is doing his best.
Post by: mrfuse on August 28, 2021, 08:22:16 PM
Even with a full strength team playing newly promoted teams early isint what I would like.
How can we start to look like a decent team with all the injuries and illnesses. Give Dean a chance to bed down the new players and then see what we look like.
Post by: UK Redsox on August 28, 2021, 08:24:37 PM
I assume that nicking the ball after a keeper throws it in the air is some form of obstruction that I wasn’t aware of. We thought it was a goal
Disappointed in Chuk the Younger. He didn’t have much involvement.
Targett did ok after a ropey start, but still gets caught past the ball.
Would have liked to see JPB come on.
Shame for Cam that he didn’t quite make it on.
Great to see Leeg for the first time in a couple of years.
Post by: manic-road on August 28, 2021, 08:27:15 PM
Brentford were pretty physical, Ivan Toney looked a handful and with half the spine of last weeks winning team missing we did ok.
Post by: mrfuse on August 28, 2021, 08:27:36 PM
Targett did ok after a Rooney start, but still gets caught past the ball.
I know Target might not be fully fit but that's a bit harsh
Post by: mr underhill on August 28, 2021, 08:30:49 PM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on August 28, 2021, 08:31:05 PM
Emi 1 worries me a bit at the moment. A couple of times today, he could have come to gather the ball but stayed back.
I assume that nicking the ball after a keeper throws it in the air is some form of obstruction that I wasn’t aware of. We thought it was a goal
Disappointed in Chuk the Younger. He didn’t have much involvement.
Targett did ok after a Rooney start, but still gets caught past the ball.
Would have liked to see JPB come on.
Shame for Cam that he didn’t quite make it on.
Great to see Leeg for the first time in a couple of years.
Easy to forget you're not a born footballist. Yes, you have to allow a goalkeeper to clear the ball. Tis the law.
Post by: Louzie0 on August 28, 2021, 08:31:21 PM
I would think F’s a guru, but unfortunately the rest of the prognostications (Ings) didn’t happen and that is down to service, as others in here have said. However, almost there, and there’s always next time!
I thought we did well considering the number of first choices Deano didn’t have available and the team were playing to support each other very well, like Targett.
Surprised, yes, that Ollie didn’t come on a bit earlier, but maybe that has more to do with his fitness than DS’s late sub routine. DS and the coaches were also reacting to the ref waking up towards the end.
Post by: Steve67 on August 28, 2021, 08:41:47 PM
Post by: SamTheMouse on August 28, 2021, 08:41:52 PM
But it means that compared with last season, we are up the grand total of one Ashley Young and one Axel Tuanzebe. Logically, we can expect to finish pretty much where we did last year.
Post by: richtheholtender on August 28, 2021, 08:44:56 PM
Last year we had Joe, and Purslow explicitly said we have replaced him with three players. Fair enough.
But it means that compared with last season, we are up the grand total of one Ashley Young and one Axel Tuanzebe. Logically, we can expect to finish pretty much where we did last year.
This. Which at the risk of sounding ungrateful is disappointing.
Post by: Beard82 on August 28, 2021, 08:46:12 PM
The thing is, its the club that have set the bar higher in our expectations -not usLast year we had Joe, and Purslow explicitly said we have replaced him with three players. Fair enough.This. Which at the risk of sounding ungrateful is disappointing.
But it means that compared with last season, we are up the grand total of one Ashley Young and one Axel Tuanzebe. Logically, we can expect to finish pretty much where we did last year.
Post by: itmustbe_it is! on August 28, 2021, 08:47:42 PM
I rarely agree with the often negative post match views on here, maybe I'm just a natural optimist, or maybe I'm just not great at watching football.
I thought Cash was much better than the first two weeks, Targett was good after the first 10-15 mins.
I thought Carney did well first half - I'm pleased he played. We've seen Nakamba and Luiz together enough to know it doesn't create much.
Ashley Young in midfield - only other option really would have been Hourihane and I think he'd have been a passenger.
El Ghazi was up for the physical battle today and could have scored with the shot when he cut inside - he's fighting for his place and I like that.
Ings worked his bollocks off and contributed to the Buendia goal.
Buendia has improved each week and the goal was class - if that was Joe scoring that for Man Shitty MOTD would be wetting themselves all night.
Ollie looked a threat when he came on , though I didn't think he was moving freely.
Tuanzebe and Konsa looked like they needed to play together more , no surprise there.
Martinez looked like he was playing behind a defence he didn't have as much confidence in as usual - again, no surprise there.
Put Mings, McGinn, Bailey and Watkins in the team, with Traore coming off the bench and its a different result for me, for sure.
Post by: richtheholtender on August 28, 2021, 08:50:07 PM
The thing is, its the club that have set the bar higher in our expectations -not usLast year we had Joe, and Purslow explicitly said we have replaced him with three players. Fair enough.This. Which at the risk of sounding ungrateful is disappointing.
But it means that compared with last season, we are up the grand total of one Ashley Young and one Axel Tuanzebe. Logically, we can expect to finish pretty much where we did last year.
Exactly. As I said to a mate of mine earlier, when a boxer fights another boxer and he's on the ropes you don't tell him he can have a breather to her his strength back. You deliver the killer blow. We needed to act this summer and we haven't really, we've just replaced Joe. Arsenal, Everton etc are there for the taking.
Post by: Footy-Vill on August 28, 2021, 08:55:02 PM
Would add.
Thought Cash was poor today in his defending
Konsa may have the pressure of captain and playing ex club but did some loose passing and needless fouls. Had a struggle at times defending when usually been so good. Maybe the injury was there all game
Particularly enjoyed El Goalzi tracking back on Canos
And of course Buendia goal
Carney Chukwuemeka started well and has a okay beyond his years but was right to be replaced
Great to see Watkins and hoped he would net the winner.
Looking forward to him and Ings playing on counter Vs Chelsea anf surprising a few teams this season.
Fair play to Brentford
Post by: Footy-Vill on August 28, 2021, 08:55:35 PM
Cash 5.5
Konsa 6
Tuanzebe 6.5
Targett 6
Luiz 7
Carney Chukwuemeka 6.5
Young 6.5
El Ghazi 7
Buendia 7
Ings 6
Subs: Nakamba 6.5
Watkins 7
Hause unscored.
Post by: ez on August 28, 2021, 08:58:54 PM
The window's not shut yet 😉The thing is, its the club that have set the bar higher in our expectations -not usLast year we had Joe, and Purslow explicitly said we have replaced him with three players. Fair enough.This. Which at the risk of sounding ungrateful is disappointing.
But it means that compared with last season, we are up the grand total of one Ashley Young and one Axel Tuanzebe. Logically, we can expect to finish pretty much where we did last year.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 28, 2021, 09:05:47 PM
A month or so ago I’d have been disappointed with 4 points out of 9 with our first 3 fixtures. With our current injuries, 4 points without being great , is far from a disaster and probably represents a true reflection of performances to date. Onwards and upwards 👍
That's a fair assessment though I always thought up until about the 70th minute the 3 points were there for the taking. Brentford probably feel the same but while they seemed to be giving it their all, we couldn't get out of second gear. My guess is we'll have the reverse of last season; pretty poor up until Xmas and kicking on playing catch-up thereafter.
Post by: Damo70 on August 28, 2021, 09:26:40 PM
Post by: Richard E on August 28, 2021, 09:36:18 PM
Post by: Ads on August 28, 2021, 09:39:34 PM
So far we have played three teams who will quite probably be struggling in the bottom six this season and we have struggled against two of them.
We didn't struggle today, we laboured. I don't agree that Brentford played the ball out well, they created nothing second half and created 2 chances all game. Would we have laboured with a team of;
Martinez
Targett
Mings
Konsa
Cash
Dougie
McGinn
Buendia
Bailey
Ings
Watkins
We'll never know, but I'd suggest probably not.
Post by: Richard E on August 28, 2021, 09:41:10 PM
Post by: robbo1874 on August 28, 2021, 09:41:46 PM
We're boring as fuck to watch and we have been in all 3 games so far this season. Slow ponderous build up around midfield and the back until we inevitably launch it up one of the flanks for somebody to chase.i thought it was a good game to watch- very tight. Reminds me of a bit like watching MOTD in the 80’s and there’d be all these slinging tackles going in and the ref only blows up if someone’s leg falls off!
I haven't enjoyed watching any of our League games so far this season.
Post by: LeonW on August 28, 2021, 09:47:46 PM
Post by: Ads on August 28, 2021, 09:50:09 PM
Post by: LeonW on August 28, 2021, 09:52:50 PM
They were best at alleviating pressure by being a bunch of shit house ******.
They certainly were. Was it Wissa? Some chap they brought on, all he did was foul. Should have been off.
Post by: Proposition Joe on August 28, 2021, 09:53:43 PM
A lot of doom merchants on here. Couldn't go today so had to listen on 5-live. Their take was two good sides battling it out and could have gone either way - an enjoyable game, which fizzled out towards the end. I think we have allowed the 'let's challenge the top six' mantra get to us. Top ten? Maybe. Right direction? Definitely. Shit performance? Not from what I was hearing. I may stand corrected after watching the re-run, but for now we have lots to look forward to.
I am not one to be a doom-monger (I hope), but for "Right direction?" I'd answer "let's see" right now. In all of Smith's games sans-Grealish, I have yet to identify a pattern to our play, or a method to create chances from open play. If this does not change, I'd put us in the Newcastle-Burnley-Southampton-Brighton bracket, ie 11th to 15th place.
Post by: Drummond on August 28, 2021, 09:57:50 PM
Post by: UK Redsox on August 28, 2021, 09:59:27 PM
I assume that nicking the ball after a keeper throws it in the air is some form of obstruction that I wasn’t aware of. We thought it was a goal
Easy to forget you're not a born footballist. Yes, you have to allow a goalkeeper to clear the ball. Tis the law.
True, but even the lifers around me thought that the goal would stand.
Anyhow, I’ve now had a Season Ticket for almost half my life :)
Post by: ChicagoLion on August 28, 2021, 09:59:37 PM
I doubt any one could have predicted we would field that team this season.
The performance was disjointed against a team that were intent on spoiling and shithousery.
Surprised Tunzabee played ahead of Hause. Hope the break enables us to get our best X1 on the pitch.
It has not been a great start to the season.
Post by: Risso on August 28, 2021, 10:00:00 PM
Anyone help me find a programme from the match today please? Want it as a memento of my son's first match. They'd sold out in the Trinity and I couldn't find one after either.. Thanks,
It was two of my daughters’ first game today, too. I’ll have a look and see if we’ve got a spare programme.
Post by: Legion on August 28, 2021, 10:00:25 PM
Post by: Legion on August 28, 2021, 10:01:23 PM
Post by: UK Redsox on August 28, 2021, 10:03:25 PM
Awful game and dreadful referee.
I doubt any one could have predicted we would field that team this season.
The performance was disjointed against a team that were intent on spoiling and shithousery.
Surprised Tunzabee played ahead of Hause. Hope the break enables us to get our best X1 on the pitch.
It has not been a great start to the season.
The most inconsistent refereeing display that I’ve seen in ages. Very similar incidents resulting in completely different decisions.
Post by: sickbeggar on August 28, 2021, 10:03:50 PM
Post by: Legion on August 28, 2021, 10:10:47 PM
Emi 1 worries me a bit at the moment. A couple of times today, he could have come to gather the ball but stayed back.
I assume that nicking the ball after a keeper throws it in the air is some form of obstruction that I wasn’t aware of. We thought it was a goal
Disappointed in Chuk the Younger. He didn’t have much involvement.
Targett did ok after a ropey start, but still gets caught past the ball.
Would have liked to see JPB come on.
Shame for Cam that he didn’t quite make it on.
Great to see Leeg for the first time in a couple of years.
Same, apart from Emi. Thought he did OK. He has to be allowed to release and dstribute the ball so it was a foul. Ref was atrocious.
Post by: LamBeast on August 28, 2021, 10:11:15 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on August 28, 2021, 10:12:33 PM
i can not agree with the 2 good side’s battling it out either. It was 2 poor sides and the longer the game went on the worse the football got.A lot of doom merchants on here. Couldn't go today so had to listen on 5-live. Their take was two good sides battling it out and could have gone either way - an enjoyable game, which fizzled out towards the end. I think we have allowed the 'let's challenge the top six' mantra get to us. Top ten? Maybe. Right direction? Definitely. Shit performance? Not from what I was hearing. I may stand corrected after watching the re-run, but for now we have lots to look forward to.
I am not one to be a doom-monger (I hope), but for "Right direction?" I'd answer "let's see" right now. In all of Smith's games sans-Grealish, I have yet to identify a pattern to our play, or a method to create chances from open play. If this does not change, I'd put us in the Newcastle-Burnley-Southampton-Brighton bracket, ie 11th to 15th place.
They wanted to waste time , generally frustrate and cheat. We just kept going long to either AEG or Ings, unsurprisingly without success.
Post by: PaulWinch again on August 28, 2021, 10:13:48 PM
Post by: Damo70 on August 28, 2021, 10:15:20 PM
So far we have played three teams who will quite probably be struggling in the bottom six this season and we have struggled against two of them.
We didn't struggle today, we laboured. I don't agree that Brentford played the ball out well, they created nothing second half and created 2 chances all game. Would we have laboured with a team of;
Martinez
Targett
Mings
Konsa
Cash
Dougie
McGinn
Buendia
Bailey
Ings
Watkins
We'll never know, but I'd suggest probably not.
I don't know how you differentiate between struggling and labouring but I am worried at what I have seen from us so far in the league.
Post by: ChicagoLion on August 28, 2021, 10:15:56 PM
completely lost the plot.Awful game and dreadful referee.
I doubt any one could have predicted we would field that team this season.
The performance was disjointed against a team that were intent on spoiling and shithousery.
Surprised Tunzabee played ahead of Hause. Hope the break enables us to get our best X1 on the pitch.
It has not been a great start to the season.
The most inconsistent refereeing display that I’ve seen in ages. Very similar incidents resulting in completely different decisions.
Post by: LamBeast on August 28, 2021, 10:16:52 PM
Post by: LukeJames on August 28, 2021, 10:22:56 PM
We're boring as fuck to watch and we have been in all 3 games so far this season. Slow ponderous build up around midfield and the back until we inevitably launch it up one of the flanks for somebody to chase.i thought it was a good game to watch- very tight. Reminds me of a bit like watching MOTD in the 80’s and there’d be all these slinging tackles going in and the ref only blows up if someone’s leg falls off!
I haven't enjoyed watching any of our League games so far this season.
Ok sound, MOTD in the 80's. Describes it well.
Post by: Damo70 on August 28, 2021, 10:23:10 PM
Post by: Legion on August 28, 2021, 10:24:50 PM
I was concerned about how the Ashley Young move would work out and so far my fears seem to be right.
Same here.
Post by: Footy-Vill on August 28, 2021, 10:30:44 PM
Last on MOTD tonightWe're boring as fuck to watch and we have been in all 3 games so far this season. Slow ponderous build up around midfield and the back until we inevitably launch it up one of the flanks for somebody to chase.i thought it was a good game to watch- very tight. Reminds me of a bit like watching MOTD in the 80’s and there’d be all these slinging tackles going in and the ref only blows up if someone’s leg falls off!
I haven't enjoyed watching any of our League games so far this season.
Ok sound, MOTD in the 80's. Describes it well.
Post by: RamboandBruno on August 28, 2021, 10:32:53 PM
The gobsmacking thing is Smith presumably had days knowing McGinn was out and that's what he came up with? An injury in the warm up and I could understand it.If NcGinn was out due to either contracting covid or being track and traced, smith could if found out yesterday at some point.
What would your suggestion have been out of interest? The only real alternative I can see is Hourihane and Nakamba, I don’t see that changing the game dramatically.
A points ok under the circumstances. We’ve got more than half a first team to come back.
Post by: levico on August 28, 2021, 10:36:05 PM
It’s going to get worse before it gets better.
Top half ? Doubtful
Post by: Legion on August 28, 2021, 10:38:45 PM
Post by: Gareth on August 28, 2021, 10:39:57 PM
Post by: Exeter 77 on August 28, 2021, 10:46:44 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on August 28, 2021, 11:03:04 PM
Post by: adrenachrome on August 28, 2021, 11:04:30 PM
We were missing Mings, McGinn, Ramsey, Bailey and Watkins for most of it. When you take that into consideration we did OK.
That's how I saw it as well. Quite enjoyed it to be fair.
Same here.
Mings, McGinn and Watkins were our spine last season.
Nonetheless, we had better get going soon.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on August 28, 2021, 11:04:40 PM
I was concerned about how the Ashley Young move would work out and so far my fears seem to be right.
Same here.
Although I do think he's been pressed into a bit more service than anyone, including himself, would have expected or hoped necessary.
Post by: PaulWinch again on August 28, 2021, 11:14:19 PM
Post by: TonyD on August 28, 2021, 11:14:24 PM
Bit screwed with injuries.
But 2 points lost.
TICK TOCK
NEED A QUALITY ASS KICKING MIDFIELDER FFS.
Post by: Drummond on August 28, 2021, 11:22:48 PM
Anyone help me find a programme from the match today please? Want it as a memento of my son's first match. They'd sold out in the Trinity and I couldn't find one after either.. Thanks,
It was two of my daughters’ first game today, too. I’ll have a look and see if we’ve got a spare programme.
Cheers mate! Hope they enjoyed it!
My lad in the car in the way home said it was one of the best days of his life. His face when we scored...
Post by: john e on August 28, 2021, 11:24:44 PM
Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?
Why did he do that Zulu sign
Post by: Legion on August 28, 2021, 11:25:38 PM
Post by: Drummond on August 28, 2021, 11:27:06 PM
Saw Chukwuemeka leaving the players entrance as we were leaving the ground at 6ish and just had to shout to say 'well played on full debut' because frankly he did. I thought at times his movement was a bit slow but its to be expected. There were some great touches, and some of turns were McGinn like.
Post by: Drummond on August 28, 2021, 11:28:00 PM
You can have mine if Risso does not have a spare.
Thank you.
Post by: Drummond on August 28, 2021, 11:32:38 PM
And just what have we done to deserve so many absences/injuries?
Mings
McGinn
Sanson
Traore
Bailey
Watkins (he'd have started if fully fit)
Davies
When we're fully fit I think we'll do well.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 28, 2021, 11:33:12 PM
Post by: TonyD on August 28, 2021, 11:37:04 PM
When I saw the lineup before the match I was worried, but I thought they did ok.When they come back we will kick ass.
And just what have we done to deserve so many absences/injuries?
Mings
McGinn
Sanson
Traore
Bailey
Watkins (he'd have started if fully fit)
Davies
When we're fully fit I think we'll do well.
Post by: adrenachrome on August 28, 2021, 11:37:38 PM
Last point of the night, my god, Villa Park looked beautiful today and the fans despite only having a couple of songs, were bloody loud.
Late Summer/Autumn is always when VP and its surrounding area is at is most majestic.
Post by: ROBBO on August 28, 2021, 11:43:47 PM
I'm still nonplussed at not getting a dfm in and think we will pay a price for it, but with half a team missing i think we did okay.
Post by: Matt C on August 28, 2021, 11:53:25 PM
As it is.
Post by: olaftab on August 29, 2021, 12:00:52 AM
Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?Sorry but why?
He's good strong player and I wish him well.
Post by: Ads on August 29, 2021, 12:02:13 AM
Post by: aj2k77 on August 29, 2021, 12:12:41 AM
Post by: Legion on August 29, 2021, 12:18:44 AM
Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?Sorry but why?
He's good strong player and I wish him well.
Why wish him well?
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 29, 2021, 12:31:10 AM
Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?Sorry but why?
He's good strong player and I wish him well.
Why wish him well?
I’ve got a mate who’s well in at Brentford who says he’s a remarkably nice fella. As the only other person he’s said this about previously was Watkins I’m inclined to believe him.
Post by: tony scott on August 29, 2021, 04:50:37 AM
Post by: Villafirst on August 29, 2021, 05:25:23 AM
Post by: pelty on August 29, 2021, 05:56:38 AM
Post by: LamBeast on August 29, 2021, 05:58:16 AM
Post by: Hillbilly on August 29, 2021, 08:08:18 AM
How anyone can think that AEG had a good game is beyond me. Slow, ball caught beneath his feet too much, and did I mention how slow he is. I wish I never had to see him start another game. I like his heart and desire to contribute, but he is nowhere near good enough.How anyone can think he didn't is beyond me. I think we're quits.
Post by: Drummond on August 29, 2021, 08:18:05 AM
How anyone can think that AEG had a good game is beyond me. Slow, ball caught beneath his feet too much, and did I mention how slow he is. I wish I never had to see him start another game. I like his heart and desire to contribute, but he is nowhere near good enough.
He did well yesterday, took on, and beat, his man a few times, caused problems too. When we have others back he wont be first choice I suspect but with the goals he's scored and his attitude, he deserves to stay.
Post by: Drummond on August 29, 2021, 08:18:51 AM
When I saw the lineup before the match I was worried, but I thought they did ok.When they come back we will kick ass.
And just what have we done to deserve so many absences/injuries?
Mings
McGinn
Sanson
Traore
Bailey
Watkins (he'd have started if fully fit)
Davies
When we're fully fit I think we'll do well.
I forgot Ramsey too.
Post by: Risso on August 29, 2021, 08:20:06 AM
Post by: Lsvilla on August 29, 2021, 08:27:22 AM
And Trezeguet.When I saw the lineup before the match I was worried, but I thought they did ok.When they come back we will kick ass.
And just what have we done to deserve so many absences/injuries?
Mings
McGinn
Sanson
Traore
Bailey
Watkins (he'd have started if fully fit)
Davies
When we're fully fit I think we'll do well.
I forgot Ramsey too.
Post by: CT on August 29, 2021, 08:32:28 AM
Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?Sorry but why?
He's good strong player and I wish him well.
Why wish him well?
I’ve got a mate who’s well in at Brentford who says he’s a remarkably nice fella. As the only other person he’s said this about previously was Watkins I’m inclined to believe him.
Celebrating our main rivals hooligan firm in front of the Holte End. He can go and fuck himself.
Post by: ozzjim on August 29, 2021, 08:35:11 AM
Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?Sorry but why?
He's good strong player and I wish him well.
Why wish him well?
I’ve got a mate who’s well in at Brentford who says he’s a remarkably nice fella. As the only other person he’s said this about previously was Watkins I’m inclined to believe him.
Celebrating our main rivals hooligan firm in front of the Holte End. He can go and fuck himself.
Spot on
Post by: ChicagoLion on August 29, 2021, 08:51:10 AM
what did he do?Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?Sorry but why?
He's good strong player and I wish him well.
Why wish him well?
I’ve got a mate who’s well in at Brentford who says he’s a remarkably nice fella. As the only other person he’s said this about previously was Watkins I’m inclined to believe him.
Celebrating our main rivals hooligan firm in front of the Holte End. He can go and fuck himself.
Post by: Ads on August 29, 2021, 09:01:49 AM
Post by: Risso on August 29, 2021, 09:16:40 AM
Scored the biggest goal in his career and celebrated by running up to the biggest crowd packed stand he's ever played in front of and made a Z sign with his hands and generally gave it the big one. Just a no mark.
And he's interviewed saying he knew exactly what he was doing as his agent is a Blues fan. What a massive bellend.
Post by: john e on August 29, 2021, 09:21:15 AM
Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?Sorry but why?
He's good strong player and I wish him well.
Really, scores a goal and does a Zulu sign in front of the Holte end
You can’t get anymore knobish than that
Post by: Demitri_C on August 29, 2021, 09:56:20 AM
Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?
Why did he do that Zulu sign
Villa fans gave him no aggro at all and he did the lulu sign to wind villa fans up. His agents a bloser apparently but still you reap what you sow. Creep
Post by: Vegas on August 29, 2021, 09:59:22 AM
Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?
Why did he do that Zulu sign
Villa fans gave him no aggro at all and he did the lulu sign to wind villa fans up. His agents a bloser apparently but still you reap what you sow. Creep
Yep, a bit of a strange one. To be honest that sort of thing doesn’t bother me that much though, I get much more wound up by players like Fernandes with his acting / diving.
Post by: Ketzster on August 29, 2021, 10:17:34 AM
It’s a bad start with the games we’ve got coming up. 4 points from 3 might become 4 points from 9 with the games we’ve got.
Post by: clash city rocker on August 29, 2021, 10:29:51 AM
Scored the biggest goal in his career and celebrated by running up to the biggest crowd packed stand he's ever played in front of and made a Z sign with his hands and generally gave it the big one. Just a no mark.
And he's interviewed saying he knew exactly what he was doing as his agent is a Blues fan. What a massive bellend.
Well he wouldnt get the same feeling at the sty doing it in front of a couple of dozen blokes and a dog.
Post by: darren woolley on August 29, 2021, 10:32:27 AM
Post by: Stu on August 29, 2021, 10:32:46 AM
I thought they were much the better side in the second half. As has been said before, we don't seem to have a style of play and we go long frequently because there is no midfield to speak of.
Ref was shit, Toney should have been sent off, but I'm more concerned about our performance here. I'll take the point.
Post by: Nev on August 29, 2021, 10:35:54 AM
I can't really see us bettering 11th at the moment, maybe by a couple of places either way but progress is going to be difficult particularly if our spending is done. We all know what we need in midfield.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on August 29, 2021, 10:37:32 AM
Scored the biggest goal in his career and celebrated by running up to the biggest crowd packed stand he's ever played in front of and made a Z sign with his hands and generally gave it the big one. Just a no mark.Even funnier was on the interview his risible explanation interspersed with the worst pronunciation of "Birmingham " I've ever heard.Absolute cocksocket.
Post by: colin69 on August 29, 2021, 10:41:39 AM
We were far too slow all over the pitch, Ings was getting pissed off being so isolated, but the crap referee and the constant time wasting by Brentford didn’t help the flow of the game.
Need our injured players back ASAP and that midfield needs sorting.
Post by: exigo on August 29, 2021, 11:09:04 AM
Some things never change.
Post by: Drummond on August 29, 2021, 11:15:57 AM
Great atmosphere. Terrible referee.
Some things never change.
Indeed.
Post by: cdbearsfan on August 29, 2021, 11:22:12 AM
Post by: Chris Smith on August 29, 2021, 11:31:24 AM
You would hope by the time we play Chelsea the line up will be much nearer to full strength.
Post by: olaftab on August 29, 2021, 11:35:34 AM
OK sitting up in Witton End I didn't see that. So he's is terribly immature and easily influenced. He definitely should have got the second yellow and an early use of our superb showers.Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?Sorry but why?
He's good strong player and I wish him well.
Really, scores a goal and does a Zulu sign in front of the Holte end
You can’t get anymore knobish than that
Post by: olaftab on August 29, 2021, 11:37:59 AM
Why not? He's a young man who has worked hard to become a decent top level footballer and if he gets any better we are due to give some more cash to Brentford as usual in the near future so he could be playing for us.Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?Sorry but why?
He's good strong player and I wish him well.
Why wish him well?
Post by: Nunkin1965 on August 29, 2021, 11:42:34 AM
Why not? He's a young man who has worked hard to become a decent top level footballer and if he gets any better we are due to give some more cash to Brentford as usual in the near future so he could be playing for us.Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?Sorry but why?
He's good strong player and I wish him well.
Why wish him well?
He's a decent player who will give defenders a problem when they are up against him.
Think he'll do well for them this season.
Post by: CT on August 29, 2021, 11:46:33 AM
Great atmosphere. Terrible referee.
Some things never change.
Indeed.
Some absolute throbbers from Brentford on Twitter, in fact, loads of them, saying the ref was our twelfth man and that it was Buendia and AEG diving. Not their players at all.
Staggering.
Post by: Chris Smith on August 29, 2021, 11:54:17 AM
Why not? He's a young man who has worked hard to become a decent top level footballer and if he gets any better we are due to give some more cash to Brentford as usual in the near future so he could be playing for us.Toneys abit of a prick isnt he?Sorry but why?
He's good strong player and I wish him well.
Why wish him well?
Would you be happy if Watkins scored at Goodison and started singing YNWA in front of the Gladwys Street End? It was a childish thing to do from a player who is not quite as good as he thinks he is. He’s also 25 so hardly a wet behind the ears kid.
I wasn’t watching him so didn’t see it at the time but have seen the pictures this morning. He’s a prick.
Post by: cdbearsfan on August 29, 2021, 11:54:36 AM
Post by: olaftab on August 29, 2021, 12:06:07 PM
Would you be happy if Watkins scored at Goodison and started singing YNWA in front of the Gladwys Street End? It was a childish thing to do from a player who is not quite as good as he thinks he is. He’s also 25 so hardly a wet behind the ears kid.You obviously have not read my reply to john e above or below depending on your settings. And wishing him well sits both ways. Hopefully he will improve as a player and human being.
I wasn’t watching him so didn’t see it at the time but have seen the pictures this morning. He’s a prick.
Post by: Flin5tone on August 29, 2021, 12:06:27 PM
Needed a Beer after that first half and was presented with a CAN then poured in a plastic cup , no wonder the queue was so long with it taking a minute to pour the can into a PLASTIC cup, so much for taking care of the environment .
Post by: CT on August 29, 2021, 12:13:12 PM
Absolutely Terrible performance and I worry what will happen when we come across the better teams. Why on earth didn't Dean bring Watkins on earlier? Looked much better when he came on the pitch
Needed a Beer after that first half and was presented with a CAN then poured in a plastic cup , no wonder the queue was so long with it taking a minute to pour the can into a PLASTIC cup, so much for taking care of the environment .
Email the club.
Post by: Exeter 77 on August 29, 2021, 12:29:21 PM
I didn't notice it yesterday but in days gone by that would have been classed as incitement. I bet he wouldn't be as keen to make a crossed arm hammers gesture at Millwall.Scored the biggest goal in his career and celebrated by running up to the biggest crowd packed stand he's ever played in front of and made a Z sign with his hands and generally gave it the big one. Just a no mark.
And he's interviewed saying he knew exactly what he was doing as his agent is a Blues fan. What a massive bellend.
Post by: CT on August 29, 2021, 12:31:25 PM
I didn't notice it yesterday but in days gone by that would have been classed as incitement. I bet he wouldn't be as keen to make a crossed arm hammers gesture at Millwall.Scored the biggest goal in his career and celebrated by running up to the biggest crowd packed stand he's ever played in front of and made a Z sign with his hands and generally gave it the big one. Just a no mark.
And he's interviewed saying he knew exactly what he was doing as his agent is a Blues fan. What a massive bellend.
…and doing it because his agent supports a team he couldn’t even pronounce. What a weapon.
Post by: wince on August 29, 2021, 12:37:38 PM
I didn't notice it yesterday but in days gone by that would have been classed as incitement. I bet he wouldn't be as keen to make a crossed arm hammers gesture at Millwall.Scored the biggest goal in his career and celebrated by running up to the biggest crowd packed stand he's ever played in front of and made a Z sign with his hands and generally gave it the big one. Just a no mark.
And he's interviewed saying he knew exactly what he was doing as his agent is a Blues fan. What a massive bellend.
…and doing it because his agent supports a team he couldn’t even pronounce. What a weapon.
A total fuckknuckle. Bloser agent will probably get a commemorative teatowel from our unwashed neighbours. As for the game, We ain’t getting in Europe anytime soon given performance past 3 games. Yes, greasball has gone but to have no real identity or pattern of play? This feels like the first year in championship and I’m sick of waiting for players to gel, rebuilding etc. But international break at least hasn’t stopped our momentum and hopefully injured players will be back.
Post by: Ads on August 29, 2021, 12:39:29 PM
Brentford were the most biased fans I can remember, claiming for absolutely everything. You can tell they're new to attending matches. No doubt they'll forget about football again when they're back playing the likes of Barnsley and Small Heath every week.
Yeah proper rent a crowd mob. Usually bring 500 but all crawled out the woodwork, the plastic twats.
Post by: Mister E on August 29, 2021, 12:47:50 PM
Positives: Axel's defending and excellent passing out of defence was a pleasant surprise.
Buendia's continuing - if unsurprising - improvement in play and influence.
The generally-solid performance from the 2 fullbacks.
Ashley Young's cool / calm display.
Ing's dogged persistence.
Some worries: Konsa's injury (sustained from a corner that should not have been given).
Lack of forward momentum (AEG threatened in fits and starts and is not a long-term starter).
Luiz's slow ball-distribution.
Smith's game-management.
We weren't as bad as some make out given the availability of players and will build our performances and results steadily.
Post by: West Derby Villan on August 29, 2021, 01:08:48 PM
Post by: RamboandBruno on August 29, 2021, 01:08:53 PM
I didn't notice it yesterday but in days gone by that would have been classed as incitement. I bet he wouldn't be as keen to make a crossed arm hammers gesture at Millwall.Scored the biggest goal in his career and celebrated by running up to the biggest crowd packed stand he's ever played in front of and made a Z sign with his hands and generally gave it the big one. Just a no mark.
And he's interviewed saying he knew exactly what he was doing as his agent is a Blues fan. What a massive bellend.
There was a bloke going nuts about it by me in the Holte, whereas otherwise it was general bemusement, but to be fair I couldn’t tell what he was doing at first. Part of me doesn’t give a shit, but a different time and that causes a problem with elements of the crowd. He probably doesn’t have any real idea of the violence between some of our supporters and their zulus in the past, if he does and still did that, he’s an absolute twat.
Post by: TonyD on August 29, 2021, 01:21:51 PM
He is where near good enough at this level. Not even as a squad player.And Trezeguet.When I saw the lineup before the match I was worried, but I thought they did ok.When they come back we will kick ass.
And just what have we done to deserve so many absences/injuries?
Mings
McGinn
Sanson
Traore
Bailey
Watkins (he'd have started if fully fit)
Davies
When we're fully fit I think we'll do well.
I forgot Ramsey too.
Post by: Zouch Villa on August 29, 2021, 01:47:23 PM
I do worry how that Villa team would stand up against better opposition, so just hope we get some players back plus some absolutely needed additions for our next game. If not, and we continue in this manner, I can’t see Smith surviving beyond Christmas.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on August 29, 2021, 02:02:20 PM
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on August 29, 2021, 02:08:24 PM
Positives:
Watkins is back, and will be fit when the international break is over. He made a big difference when he came on, and linked up well with Ings.
Target was back to something like last seasons form, and will be properly match fit after the break.
Buendia is getting better every game, and starting to develop chemistry with his team mates.
Tuanzebe looked a better player than in his last spell, and played well. With hie and Hause as backups we will cope with any injuries in defence pretty well this season.
Luiz and Cash both starting to improve in form and fitness.
Decent debut from young Carney, and the experience gained will have done him good.
Negatives - Young is not a central midfield player. Injury to Konsa.
We are 11th, same as we finished last season, but having had a dreadful pre season and a load of injuries to contend with. When Bailey, Traore, Watkins to come into the team and possibly another signing to come we will definitely improve. If those lot all click then it is possible we will finish higher than last season.
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 29, 2021, 02:13:47 PM
Fair enough. My problem is less today in isolation, but the fact that it's looked the same for years when there's no Jack Grealish. Last week's midfield have all had plenty of time to learn the style together, but there wasn't evidence of it. I hope today is an aberration going forward - the problem is, for now, that it's not one if you look back.
On Conor and Marvelous, the point was more that they've spent more time playing together and with the coach, so would presumably take some displacing if there were reservations about Young or Chuck knowing their roles.
Dean Smith’s ability (or inability) to find a winning formula without Grealish will either make him or break him. There won’t be an in between. This club has come a long way under him in a short space of time, and for that we should be grateful. But for where we want to go coming in mid table or worse only has on consequence for the manager. But right now for me, he gets a pass simply because so many players are out.
Post by: clash city rocker on August 29, 2021, 03:04:57 PM
Fair enough. My problem is less today in isolation, but the fact that it's looked the same for years when there's no Jack Grealish. Last week's midfield have all had plenty of time to learn the style together, but there wasn't evidence of it. I hope today is an aberration going forward - the problem is, for now, that it's not one if you look back.
On Conor and Marvelous, the point was more that they've spent more time playing together and with the coach, so would presumably take some displacing if there were reservations about Young or Chuck knowing their roles.
Dean Smith’s ability (or inability) to find a winning formula without Grealish will either make him or break him. There won’t be an in between. This club has come a long way under him in a short space of time, and for that we should be grateful. But for where we want to go coming in mid table or worse only has on consequence for the manager. But right now for me, he gets a pass simply because so many players are out.
Because of the one that never was one of us through all his bullshit Smith has had to fire fight at the start of the season when you look at the absent players. Cut him some slack for the time being.
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 29, 2021, 03:23:45 PM
Fair enough. My problem is less today in isolation, but the fact that it's looked the same for years when there's no Jack Grealish. Last week's midfield have all had plenty of time to learn the style together, but there wasn't evidence of it. I hope today is an aberration going forward - the problem is, for now, that it's not one if you look back.
On Conor and Marvelous, the point was more that they've spent more time playing together and with the coach, so would presumably take some displacing if there were reservations about Young or Chuck knowing their roles.
Dean Smith’s ability (or inability) to find a winning formula without Grealish will either make him or break him. There won’t be an in between. This club has come a long way under him in a short space of time, and for that we should be grateful. But for where we want to go coming in mid table or worse only has on consequence for the manager. But right now for me, he gets a pass simply because so many players are out.
Because of the one that never was one of us through all his bullshit Smith has had to fire fight at the start of the season when you look at the absent players. Cut him some slack for the time being.
Isn’t that what I’ve said? And as has been pointed out many times, whenever Jack didn’t play we looked for the most part awful. So that’s his challenge once everyone is back and settled is to make us look a side that has cost a lot of money to assemble. And he won’t have a lot of time to do it. That’s the job.
Post by: Villafirst on August 29, 2021, 03:31:53 PM
Post by: clash city rocker on August 29, 2021, 03:38:47 PM
Fair enough. My problem is less today in isolation, but the fact that it's looked the same for years when there's no Jack Grealish. Last week's midfield have all had plenty of time to learn the style together, but there wasn't evidence of it. I hope today is an aberration going forward - the problem is, for now, that it's not one if you look back.
On Conor and Marvelous, the point was more that they've spent more time playing together and with the coach, so would presumably take some displacing if there were reservations about Young or Chuck knowing their roles.
Dean Smith’s ability (or inability) to find a winning formula without Grealish will either make him or break him. There won’t be an in between. This club has come a long way under him in a short space of time, and for that we should be grateful. But for where we want to go coming in mid table or worse only has on consequence for the manager. But right now for me, he gets a pass simply because so many players are out.
Because of the one that never was one of us through all his bullshit Smith has had to fire fight at the start of the season when you look at the absent players. Cut him some slack for the time being.
Isn’t that what I’ve said? And as has been pointed out many times, whenever Jack didn’t play we looked for the most part awful. So that’s his challenge once everyone is back and settled is to make us look a side that has cost a lot of money to assemble. And he won’t have a lot of time to do it. That’s the job.
Not disagreeing Toronto. We know football is results driven. 3 games in and it's not that bad. Imagine being an arse now. We have come a long way in a short space of time relatively speaking and I am enjoying it. As a villa fan you should know better than anyone that it's the hope that kills you. As all on here...VTID
Post by: VILLA MOLE on August 29, 2021, 03:41:32 PM
Fair enough. My problem is less today in isolation, but the fact that it's looked the same for years when there's no Jack Grealish. Last week's midfield have all had plenty of time to learn the style together, but there wasn't evidence of it. I hope today is an aberration going forward - the problem is, for now, that it's not one if you look back.
On Conor and Marvelous, the point was more that they've spent more time playing together and with the coach, so would presumably take some displacing if there were reservations about Young or Chuck knowing their roles.
Dean Smith’s ability (or inability) to find a winning formula without Grealish will either make him or break him. There won’t be an in between. This club has come a long way under him in a short space of time, and for that we should be grateful. But for where we want to go coming in mid table or worse only has on consequence for the manager. But right now for me, he gets a pass simply because so many players are out.
Because of the one that never was one of us through all his bullshit Smith has had to fire fight at the start of the season when you look at the absent players. Cut him some slack for the time being.
Isn’t that what I’ve said? And as has been pointed out many times, whenever Jack didn’t play we looked for the most part awful. So that’s his challenge once everyone is back and settled is to make us look a side that has cost a lot of money to assemble. And he won’t have a lot of time to do it. That’s the job.
Not disagreeing Toronto. We know football is results driven. 3 games in and it's not that bad. Imagine being an arse now. We have come a long way in a short space of time relatively speaking and I am enjoying it. As a villa fan you should know better than anyone that it's the hope that kills you. As all on here...VTID
In fairness they have just played Man City and Chelsea , but I guess it is the manner of their defeats
Post by: Drummond on August 29, 2021, 03:41:41 PM
Absolutely Terrible performance and I worry what will happen when we come across the better teams. Why on earth didn't Dean bring Watkins on earlier? Looked much better when he came on the pitch
Needed a Beer after that first half and was presented with a CAN then poured in a plastic cup , no wonder the queue was so long with it taking a minute to pour the can into a PLASTIC cup, so much for taking care of the environment .
They should have used a paper cup.
Watkins wasn't fit enough to play longer, he's been injured.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on August 29, 2021, 03:50:36 PM
Brentford were the most biased fans I can remember, claiming for absolutely everything. You can tell they're new to attending matches. No doubt they'll forget about football again when they're back playing the likes of Barnsley and Small Heath every week.
Yeah proper rent a crowd mob. Usually bring 500 but all crawled out the woodwork, the plastic twats.
Our train back to Euston was full of Brentford and they were good natured, knowledgeable and friendly. A step up from the stereotypical plastic Chelsea boorish wannabes, Hertfordshire Spurs arseholes or pretend cockney, Essex West Ham fans who usually travel up from London. And after so many failed attempts and having their squad plundered by the big clubs, I say fair play to them
Post by: Ads on August 29, 2021, 03:53:39 PM
Post by: clash city rocker on August 29, 2021, 04:26:59 PM
Post by: Rory on August 29, 2021, 04:46:05 PM
I say fuck them and the other 91 that ain't Villa.
Agreed.
Post by: Richard E on August 29, 2021, 06:28:23 PM
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on August 29, 2021, 08:37:00 PM
His prerogative, obviously, but Toney didn’t take the knee before kick off.Another attention grabbing attempt probably.
Post by: KevinGage on August 29, 2021, 08:43:50 PM
His prerogative, obviously, but Toney didn’t take the knee before kick off.
What was with the Zulu nonsense n'all.
There's no obvious connection to the shower o'shite down the road.
Maybe Rico Henry or one of the brains trust there suggested it.
Post by: The Edge on August 29, 2021, 08:55:06 PM
Apparently his agent is a nose so he did it for the bantz. Just their usual obsession with us. I've only seen the highlights on MOTD so can anyone tell me why they were denied a goal when their player nicked the ball off Emi M? He had clearly released the ball so to my understanding he had every right to go for the ball. Or am I missing something?His prerogative, obviously, but Toney didn’t take the knee before kick off.
What was with the Zulu nonsense n'all.
There's no obvious connection to the shower o'shite down the road.
Maybe Rico Henry or one of the brains trust there suggested it.
Post by: john e on August 29, 2021, 08:58:24 PM
My daughter thought he was sending love to someone
if he did and thought tell you what I'll troll the Holte end with a sign of the local rivals hooligan firm then he deserves a ban for life
But I don't think he did a bit like Gasciogns flute playing, no idea
Post by: ChicagoLion on August 29, 2021, 09:31:17 PM
Of course he knew, his agent told him.
Post by: tomd2103 on August 29, 2021, 09:32:27 PM
In fairness to Toney he probably didn't even realise the connotations of the Zulu sign like many of the Villa fans on the day
My daughter thought he was sending love to someone
if he did and thought tell you what I'll troll the Holte end with a sign of the local rivals hooligan firm then he deserves a ban for life
But I don't think he did a bit like Gasciogns flute playing, no idea
He said it was his agent's idea, so I wouldn't have thought he would have been naive enough to make a gesture that would be captured all over the media without asking the meaning behind it.
Post by: brian green on August 29, 2021, 10:14:50 PM
Post by: olaftab on August 29, 2021, 10:21:21 PM
I've only seen the highlights on MOTD so can anyone tell me why they were denied a goal when their player nicked the ball off Emi M? He had clearly released the ball so to my understanding he had every right to go for the ball. Or am I missing something?This is being discussed ad nauseam on Emi thread however I also think he was a lucky boy to get away with it. As he released the ball their forward nicked it. Fair challenge in my eyes.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on August 29, 2021, 10:29:22 PM
Toney that is.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on August 29, 2021, 10:32:36 PM
Post by: Risso on August 29, 2021, 10:36:35 PM
I've only seen the highlights on MOTD so can anyone tell me why they were denied a goal when their player nicked the ball off Emi M? He had clearly released the ball so to my understanding he had every right to go for the ball. Or am I missing something?This is being discussed ad nauseam on Emi thread however I also think he was a lucky boy to get away with it. As he released the ball their forward nicked it. Fair challenge in my eyes.
I posted the rules in the Emi thread. You can’t go for the ball if a keeper is bouncing it or just releases it so it wasn’t a fair challenge.
Post by: clash city rocker on August 29, 2021, 11:09:17 PM
I'd cut him some slack. He clearly didn't know what it meant and he was acting on the advice of his dickhead agent. We'll need to learn to love him once we sign him (as Dave W suggested) next year.
I wouldnt sign the shit now if our prem life depended on him.. fuck an arsehole that displays that yet alone in front of the holte. May his days slowly peter out as he finishes up playing for Mansfield
Post by: The Edge on August 29, 2021, 11:31:09 PM
If those are the rules then fair enough but to me it's a very fine margin as to when the ball is considered to be "in play". I don't think he should take that risk again when there's a striker in such close proximity.I've only seen the highlights on MOTD so can anyone tell me why they were denied a goal when their player nicked the ball off Emi M? He had clearly released the ball so to my understanding he had every right to go for the ball. Or am I missing something?This is being discussed ad nauseam on Emi thread however I also think he was a lucky boy to get away with it. As he released the ball their forward nicked it. Fair challenge in my eyes.
I posted the rules in the Emi thread. You can’t go for the ball if a keeper is bouncing it or just releases it so it wasn’t a fair challenge.
Post by: Rory on August 30, 2021, 12:47:23 AM
Some kind of Nazi or other discriminatory salute, okay, but I'm not sure I give too much of a shit about some chicken-legged, beer-bellied thugs' thing.
Might as well be a secret knock to gain entry to some teenage masturbatory treehouse fraternity.
Post by: astonvilla82 on August 30, 2021, 06:35:09 AM
Post by: OzVilla on August 30, 2021, 07:31:24 AM
As for the weird celebration, do people really sit around now coming up with hand signs to make them look hard? Kids today eh, who knew.
Post by: The Edge on August 30, 2021, 07:56:48 AM
They are well drilled and full of confidence. We are still trying to put the pegs in the right holes. 1-1 was a fair result. Ref has a shocker though.I suppose if your football club is an utter irrelevance and a steaming pile of dog shit you have to look for other ways to make your existence known.
As for the weird celebration, do people really sit around now coming up with hand signs to make them look hard? Kids today eh, who knew.
Post by: RamboandBruno on August 30, 2021, 08:24:09 AM
They are well drilled and full of confidence. We are still trying to put the pegs in the right holes. 1-1 was a fair result. Ref has a shocker though.I suppose if your football club is an utter irrelevance and a steaming pile of dog shit you have to look for other ways to make your existence known.
As for the weird celebration, do people really sit around now coming up with hand signs to make them look hard? Kids today eh, who knew.
His agent probably thought, stick one to the Holte End and any publicity is good publicity for his client. Not sure it’s had the desired effect really, other than a relative handful of people on the Holte going mad and a few of us discussing here, it hasn’t exactly gone viral. Seems an irrelevance to me But I don’t use Twitter etc so what do I know.
Post by: KRS on August 30, 2021, 09:34:53 AM
Post by: martin o`who?? on August 30, 2021, 12:36:53 PM
So how on earth did he come up with it if he didn’t know what it meant?"If you score run to the Holte and do this in front of them - it doesn't mean anything honest" - my arse.
Of course he knew, his agent told him.
Post by: Chris Smith on August 30, 2021, 01:21:41 PM
If those are the rules then fair enough but to me it's a very fine margin as to when the ball is considered to be "in play". I don't think he should take that risk again when there's a striker in such close proximity.I've only seen the highlights on MOTD so can anyone tell me why they were denied a goal when their player nicked the ball off Emi M? He had clearly released the ball so to my understanding he had every right to go for the ball. Or am I missing something?This is being discussed ad nauseam on Emi thread however I also think he was a lucky boy to get away with it. As he released the ball their forward nicked it. Fair challenge in my eyes.
I posted the rules in the Emi thread. You can’t go for the ball if a keeper is bouncing it or just releases it so it wasn’t a fair challenge.
It would be farcical without that rule, all the opposition would need to do is put a player on the keeper and they’d never be able to kick it again.
Post by: Bad English on August 30, 2021, 01:56:50 PM
Post by: TelfordVilla on August 30, 2021, 02:09:57 PM
Who really gives a shit what Toney did by the Holte? I'm more annoyed by our defenders (and Chuck, who was dithering around near him if memory serves. I'll let him off though as it was his debut and he's a nipper) who gave him space he could have played a round of golf in as the ball came over.that is likely to happen with a makeshift back 4
Post by: ozzjim on August 30, 2021, 02:32:32 PM
Post by: RamboandBruno on August 30, 2021, 02:36:03 PM
Why was Bamford doing the same sign 24 hours later? Is he a Zulu warrior too?
He used to hang out with the zulus in his parents Staffordshire mansion.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on August 30, 2021, 03:07:21 PM
Why was Bamford doing the same sign 24 hours later? Is he a Zulu warrior too?
He used to hang out with the zulus in his parents Staffordshire mansion.
I think it is meant to annoy us , I am impressed they can spell
Post by: martyn ellis on August 30, 2021, 03:53:15 PM
Post by: Ads on August 30, 2021, 06:40:42 PM
Post by: martyn ellis on August 30, 2021, 06:52:03 PM
Post by: martin o`who?? on August 30, 2021, 06:52:59 PM
Post by: sid1964 on August 31, 2021, 08:07:00 AM
Still trying to work out what our set piece maestro has the team working on, so far I have seen long throw ins which takes me back to watching Wimbledon and Stoke also our corners and free kicks are still no different than they were in the previous 20 years!
Post by: dcdavecollett on September 14, 2021, 02:07:05 AM
And yes, the ref was awful...