Boro vs Aston Villa Match Thread

[andyh]

I think if we can get the next one it’s game over.

[DB]

Bossing it so far. Need to carry on like this and take our chances 2nd half

[Deano's Mullet]

Excellent so far. Boro have no tempo and playing at home like a Bruce or Pulis side. Need a second though cos they will have one golden chance at least you  would think.

[CT]

Really good, disciplined first half from us. We're more than deserving to be ahead and have had a stonewall penalty denied on Tammy.

Second goal might do it for us if we keep this going.

[john2710]

I can't believe the difference in how we play now compared to under Bruce. I knew we were better than what Bruce served up but the difference is remarkable with the same players.

We've been ahead at HT before & lost, we need at least another. They will pile on the pressure in the 2nd half.

[john e]

Never a pen for McGinn

I’d have given it

and I didn’t even see it

[themossman]

Never a pen for McGinn

I’d have given it

and I didn’t even see it

I’d back you 100% and I didn’t either.

[manic-road]

1 nil a poor return for our dominance.

But isn't it great to have that dominance with some decent football.

[VillaLoyal]

Best 30 minute away spell of the season for me.  We made them look every inch the second tier team they are.  I almost feel sorry for the Boro fans having to watch that.  Another level of negative from Bruce.  We on the other hand look a modern, expansive footballing team with some genuinely good players. 

We still have a dodgy keeper and a defensive fuck up in us though, which is why we need another goal or 2.

Yes what a contrast Smith is to the Pulis/Bruce football teams

Did we EVER play like this under Bruce??...

[CT Villan]

Playing really well, cast-iron penalty for Tammy.

We dropped the pace a little in the last few minutes and allowed Boro back in. Have to say, Hourihane is great in possession, but scares the crap out of me when they run through the middle at us.

[jcsutv]

Villa manager getting his tactics spot on apparently. O'Neil away used to get his tactics spot on until Emile came along. Think that is the last time I heard that from a commentator. Gabby at Hull 0-1. This is so much better. Come on Villa.

[four fornicholl]

Dean Smith and Jack Grealish really want it!!

[Dave P]

Just hope this doesn’t mirror the Norwich game. Sure we’ve learnt lessons since then.

[Toronto Villa]

Imagine being a Boro fan putting up with that week after week. No wonder despite being decently placed in the table fans don’t want to go and watch. Eye bleeding stuff.

[Flamingo Lane]

That was a half of football I really enjoyed.  Considering we conceded 5 at home a few days ago, I love the confidence we are playing with.  Grealish I think is playing really well, his ability to find space - and time a simple but effective pass - is excellent.  I like that he doesn't feel the need to dribble every time he receives the ball.  He and McGinn complement each other so well.  Boro I'm sure will come out firing on all cylinders second half, but I do like what I'm watching here.