Aston Villa v Middlesbrough Semi Final 2nd Leg: Pre-Match Thread

[TaxDodger]

I may sound like, and in fact be, a miserable git, but if we win I really hope we don't run on the pitch. The concept of a pitch invasion after the Play Off Semis, when you haven't actually got promoted yet has always confused me.

[Mister E]

I'd definitely play Jedi if he is feeling ok.  I would hope the atmosphere and enormity of the game would help carry him through.

Yep. With Bamford likely to start for them, he'd be an obvious starter. By all means, get Whelan on as a replacement on 55-60 minutes ...

[Rudy Can't Fail]

Can't decide whether or not we should bring on Bunn when it goes to a penalty shoot out.

[sirlordbaltimore]

Daren't predict the result, and daren't get carried away talking like the job is already done like some either.

It's going to be a long night tomorrow with some swings and ulcer inducing moments i'm sure.

[tomd2103]

I may sound like, and in fact be, a miserable git, but if we win I really hope we don't run on the pitch. The concept of a pitch invasion after the Play Off Semis, when you haven't actually got promoted yet has always confused me.

See you on there at 9.35 tomorrow night?

[Chico Hamilton III]

I may sound like, and in fact be, a miserable git, but if we win I really hope we don't run on the pitch. The concept of a pitch invasion after the Play Off Semis, when you haven't actually got promoted yet has always confused me.

Happened after the Bradford game in 1988. To be honest, I hope it happens again tomorrow if we win. 

[footyskillz]

I really believe we will do it tomorrow, but it will be tight, yet why have I got that feeling from exam results day when you are waiting to go in and open the envelope? I suppose it makes life exciting....UTV

I agree. Any reason on your beliefs? though I  kinda understand that feeling for the excitement and anticipation you're having.

The majority of the villa players are experienced and can handle such feelings.

Though Bree could be a concern on dealing with occasion he will be fully supported by the villa faithful.

For me the experience tells and is a major reason will be successful.

Similarly I feel same with Derby qualifying tonight. An experienced squad can work wonders

[Bully2345]

I may sound like, and in fact be, a miserable git, but if we win I really hope we don't run on the pitch. The concept of a pitch invasion after the Play Off Semis, when you haven't actually got promoted yet has always confused me.

Absolutely agree. It kills any opportunity for the players to celebrate as a team with the fans as well as being completely premature

[Percy McCarthy]

Boro rarely score first away from home and do more scoring second half.

I think out of all the stats 91% of villa matches and home have either been a win 61% or a draw 30%

Are things going to change so dramatically in one 90 mins.

I like to think not.

Some stats for the record :


Boro 23 matches away have in 9 times conceded 6 goals within 15 mins

That must be a record. Let’s hope tomorrow is the tenth time they concede 6 goals in the first 15 minutes. I’ll relax then.

Ha OK that would be great but I meant have conceded 6 times in first 15 minutes of matches on the road. (football field)

Nice one footy.

[JUAN PABLO]

4 0 villa

we will score first , Boro will go FFS and then we will turn it on like the dingles performance

[Marlon From Bearwood]

Does anyone know whether the Gordon Gowans bar / family fun zone is open before tomorrow’s game?

[QuintonVilla]

I may sound like, and in fact be, a miserable git, but if we win I really hope we don't run on the pitch. The concept of a pitch invasion after the Play Off Semis, when you haven't actually got promoted yet has always confused me.

It would be tinpot. We're Villa, not Small Heath.

[Jon Crofts]

Can't decide whether or not we should bring on Bunn when it goes to a penalty shoot out.

Which it won't.

[walsall villain]

Can't decide whether or not we should bring on Bunn when it goes to a penalty shoot out.

Can’t advise, never seen him take one

[Rudy Can't Fail]

Can't decide whether or not we should bring on Bunn when it goes to a penalty shoot out.

Which it won't.

Quite but you know we have this habit of doing things the difficult way.

I hope it goes as JP predicts above. We bloody deserve it.