We have been told that this would be a season of consolidation, a season that would feature highs and lows. In the past week the club has most certainly experienced both.
Against Southampton the team couldn’t do anything right. Sure they had a lead thanks to Darren Bent tapping home a scuffed shot, but Villa really didn’t look great at any point. As soon as Southampton raised their level of play, Villa was left in the dust. That was one of those games that left supporters with an empty feeling.
Going into the Manchester City game, I, along with probably most of you, had no idea what to expect going in. Stuck at the office, and fed up with the club’s iPhone app, I followed the match on twitter. As soon as Mario Balotelli scored after Villa wasted numerous chances, I expected the flood-gates to open. The football gods were surely going to punish the club for wasting those early chances.
In coming back from 1-0 and 2-1 deficits the club showed character we haven’t seen in years. I can’t think of a similar performance even during the Martin O’Neil era. Most of the club’s big wins in recent years involved scoring early and/or against the run of play followed by holding on for dear life. Just to take the game to extra time after getting up off the canvas twice—on the road, against a better opponent—was an accomplishment we haven’t seen in a long time.
It would’ve been so easy to play for penalties under these circumstances. I’d bet my life that any of our previous three managers would’ve done exactly that. Personally I was wishing that our shootout specialist Brad Guzan was in the game. I can’t express how glad I am to have a manager and team that goes for the win every time. Being rewarded with two goals and a truly famous win was gratifying for everyone connected with the club.
The draw was also kind as Swindon away is a game Villa should win and ensure passage to the quarterfinal. It won’t be a walkover, but if I hear a pundit say again that its a “tricky tie” or a possible “banana skin” I might vomit. Man City, Everton, Newcastle, and either Chelsea or Manchester United will be out after this round. Villa have a fair shot at silverware and a return to Europe.
Going into the season one of my benchmarks for a successful season would be to regain the title of “Kings of the Midlands.” Wining the derby and showing Ben Foster who the biggest club in the region really is would be a good start. It’ll also be interesting to see if Gabby starts. He has only just returned from injury and played 120 minutes on Tuesday. I might be inclined to rest him and have him start on the bench instead of risking injury as tired players are more susceptible to them.
Form is temporary, class is permanent. Here’s to the Villa proving that on Sunday.
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