Stoke City v Aston Villa Match Thread

[PeterWithesShin]

Well that was the classic case of, a half of 2 halves.

[usav]

we will pay for not taking these chances.

[sfx412]

How are we not 5 up ?

[Matt C]

Good performance but should have scored more. The favourite scapegoat Downing is having a fine game.

[Can Gana Be Bettered!?!?]

got to say i dont agree with posters who complain of lack of passing and movement and hoofing, tonight ive seen more movement and passing than i ever did under O'Neill, this game could/should of been won by half time, some fantastic stuff played last 20 mins imo

The passing and movement was shit up until we scored the goal. I don't think anybody complained since the goal went in, because they had no need to.

[Dante Lavelli]

Wow - a breath taking last 15 minutes.  Good stuff.

[Can Gana Be Bettered!?!?]

we will pay for not taking these chances.

That's the positive spirit that needs to be relayed to the dressing room.

[Somniloquism]

Sometimes it looks like Ash couldn't deliver a fucking pizza.

And sometimes he can play like he did seconds from the end.

As soon as we realised that we can pass the ball Stoke haven't know what hit them. Unfortunately no one to convert the chances we have had since.

[TheEgo]

Anyone mentioned how relaxed KMac looks now? tracksuit, jumping around and enjoying himself, stark contrast to leaning against the dug out in his suit. He definately is better suited to coaching. That said we could be third after tonight, so who knows??

[Jimbo]

Much improved last 20 mins, but the first 25 were dreadful. One more goal should do it.

[supertom]

Downing, when he's up for it and brimming with confidence has the mark of a playmaker about him. He's looking good at the moment.

[RonBurgundy]

Thoughts on the first half:

Concerned after 10 minutes, hugely impressed after 45
Gabby is reinventing himself as a winger - two fantastic crosses
Kudos Downing
Should be 3-4 up - ever the pessimistic Brummie, please don't let that bite us on the arse

oh and Delap has a fucking towel

[JJ-AV]

How are we not Four up?

Cracking first half after we settled. The front four have been fantastic, Gabby especially we've missed him so much.

Ash, Downing and Albrighton been lively. Need to get the second early in the second half 'cos they'll come out stronger and have options on the bench to change it.

[Rudy Can't Fail]

After what can only be described as a dull match between two midtable Championship sides, we break away and score. We finally seem to have found a bit of confidence, it's just a shame the referee blew for half time. We need to keep this up second half, keep creating the chances and we'll walk away with the three points.

Special praise for Gabby on two fantastic crosses.

[supertom]

Sack Houllier and give Kmac the job.