Derby day has arrived, and Villa find themselves on four points, in 15th after yesterday’s action, and West Brom are 6th on 10 points. While the bragging rights are significant, and no one wants to go to work and get abuse, the three points are important for their own sake. Win, and Villa keep up with the pack. Lose, and the pressure only returns.
After a stirring midweek display saw us put four past City at the Etihad for a memorable League Cup win, the big thing for Villa is to do it again. Winning is a habit at the end of the day, and big wins have to be followed up with any kind of win. Not saying it’s do or die, it’s just a really good opportunity to build on what surely has to be a confidence-building performance, keep pace in the table, and show the sort of week-in, week-out mental toughness the team needs to establish to realize its potential. Although a win would likely only see us move up one place (due to goal differential), it’s the point total we need to be working on.
And then, of course, after the City win, Lambert will have some selection decisions to make. He’s said Bent’s spot isn’t guaranteed, and with Gabby and Benteke playing well, it’s good to hear that sort of common sense. I’ve not seen a team sheet at the time of writing, but I’d be tempted to give Gabby and Benteke another run out alongside each other. Gabby certainly made his case, and I see no reason for him to ride the bench if he’s on form and has his head up. And Benteke already offers more than Bent in terms of total contribution. One would also like to see CNZ build on his Tuesday performance.
So…For everyone going to the match, sing loud and long, I’d imagine the supporters will be right behind the side from the off after Tuesday.
For the rest, leave your us lineups, predictions, and reactions throughout as the game unfolds. We’ll have review up shortly after the conclusion. I’m going for a home win, 3-1 Villa.
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