It’s always worthwhile to take a trip to Brighton. Except when it’s not, when you fall foul of the parking attendant’s book and collect a parking fine! That’s what happened to me when I lived down souf and decided to take a trip there on March 25th, 1972 to see the new-look Villa team. They had just gone through 11 games undefeated and had not long acquired Ian Ross and Chris Nicholl. And it was Ray Graydon’s first season.
Brighton, in fact, were doing well back then in that division (lying third), just as they are doing well now. But I still felt that Villa, being top of the table and with their recent acquisitions and Bruce ‘the Cannon’ Rioch in their ranks, would be shooting down a few seagulls.
Well, it was a disappointment. Despite a 20-yarder that was put home by Brucie, Brighton won the day 2-1. I remember someone got stabbed in the crowd, and then I collected that parking ticket! But Villa only lost one more game in the rest of the season (2 defeats in 23 games) to finish top of the old Division Three. Funny that the other game they lost in that run (again 2-1) was also on the south coast, at Torquay, but a month later Villa squashed ’em 5-1 at Villa Park having already been promoted through Charlie Aitken’s goal at Bradford.
So, 44 years later we visit them again in a lower division. And, as we all know, before the latest Brucie arrived we would not have been having thoughts of the possibility of getting a win at the second-placed club, who are five points ahead of the third team and chasing Newcastle hard. In fact, I wonder how many Villa fans think now that Villa have a chance of winning?
In fact, though I expected Villa to win back then in ’72, I don’t expect them to win this time. It’s a long trip down to Brighton, but provided Villa put in a spirited performance, I do expect a draw. We have the firepower with Codger up there and one or two useful assistants, so I think we’ll at least manage to increase Brucie’s unbeaten run.
Psychologically, it’s so important to keep this unbeaten run going and to raise confidence. In fact, as we all know, Villa have spent so much money in assembling this squad that it’s galling not to see them scrapping it out at the top of the table, but money alone is clearly not the answer. Brucie has proved that it’s old-fashioned man-management techniques that will win the day (plus some talent and energy, of course) and to my mind he has answered the emergency call extremely well. Reservations about his capability of taking the club to the very top of the top tier remain, but for the moment I feel it’s wise just to enjoy the ride: the future will take care of itself, I believe.
So, they’re off to see the sea! Let’s hope Villa don’t manage to catch a crab!
The Author
John Lerwill
I'm a Villan of more than 60 years standing and an occasional writer on Villa history. For me there is only one football club worth supporting, but I am now wondering whether I will again see anything like the pageant that was paraded under Ron Saunders or even that by Big Ron and Brian Little. My glass, however, is always half-full! Click here for my Villa website.Comments 170
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Went to all those games, Brighton and Cumbes blamed the sun for getting in his eyes, strange as it was very cloudy that day.
Torquay at home and Brian Little scored 3 and missed a penalty i think.
Bradford and Aitken took his goal really well, think he scored winners at Tranmere on a Fri night and Halifax too, may be wrong as me marlies are malfunctioning at the mo.
Whats Spud doing going after Ashley Young ? wasn’t he the bloke who said ” No way that Ashley Young is better than Gary McSheffery.” Surely we can tempt Doncaster for this superstar.
Jordan Rhodes ?? always finished behind Ross in the scoring stakes but Spud loves second raters, perhaps he’s not heard about Russian, someone should point him out before he leaves.
The Middlesboro’ 3rd choice keeper ? Guzan keeping him off the bench, keep going for quality Spud.
Steame- Young mate should change his name if he wants Spud to buy him, even at 31 he might get looked over if he’s very lucky
No Jedinek so who will play in midfield? Ashers thats who
Brighton could well be the best footballing side in the league, I expect spud to bore them and us to death before applying the master stroke of pushing Ashley Westwood into the area literally and the ball ricocheting in off his Norman wisdom cap before he gets up and does his full repertoire of his best comic prat falls.
Steamer
You have a short memory mate . 72/73 . Small Heath skins and you in your levis and docs and that fucking cardie. And who was the only one who spoke to you . Sat by you on the trains to away games .wiped ya gob on the way home on the buses cuz you’d be dribbling your vodka . Gave you the extra pennies when you moaned about paying 1s6d for a pint .took the blame and a slap off my mom when you got red boot polish off YOUR docs on my moms settee . Go stand in the corner of your lounge (like they used to make you do in the white swan pub) and have a good think of who took your side in those dark days and never once did l laugh at your cardie. Ungrateful arse you are . Oh and last one . You forget the piggyback l gave you when we done a runner from the Jarna curryhouse . My long term memory is in tact.
ST75:
I’m sorry that you have to deal with the effects of the brain hemorrhage every day of your life. I, like everyone else on the blog, wish you nothing but the best.
Huh! England have clearly been watching the Villa to learn how to give away late goals!
Still, I reckon the recent performances show enough promise for ‘our’ Gareth to be appointed permanently. And when he’s finished with them he can take over from SB! No?
NO
🙂
Just asking!
Nothing at all in Southgates career to suggest that he’d make even a club manager, mmmm ok he’s a cockenee and a yes man thats all, to be honest i couldn’t see him getting a job with any EPL club.
Papers going overboard about the draw with Spains reserves.
Good hiding for us on Friday, Hughton will probably out think Spud which isn’t difficult, 3-0 at the best.
JL,
To be honest i think that even the fact that Sarfgate is in the top 100 candidates shows the paucity of half decent managers/coaches available, the clubs don’t bother with English bosses and when you look at the likes of Hodgson, Taylor, Brollyman, Sam etc its easy to see why. Also the fact that the folk who run footy in this country have worse mental health problems than St75 is a factor.
Best version of Wild Horses from Leon Russell who sadly passed away on Sunday, great talent.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0H7qFT8U5uo
Willie Nelson, Ray Charles & Leon Russell, does music get any better ?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2UW4ELmVD9M
Although it galls me I have to agree with Steamer on our Gareth, he would not be considered for any jobs in the premier and most championship clubs would not look at him but the Engerland national job well fill your boots the jobs yours with the added bonus of him being a very cheap option.
Lets be honest all the top football managers would not touch the England job with a very long barge pole except to get a massive pay off due to the fact that the chances of winning any sort of tournament in the next 100 years are slim to none.
I have been to the Amex stadium just to add to the total of grounds new or old that I have been to and I can tell you it is very typical of new stadia, soulless and lacking in atmosphere, it is set in the middle of nowhere with no boozers within range of a cruise missile, I hate these places stuck on a trading estate next to B & Q, although instead of getting a pint before the game you can purchase a 6ft Lap fence panel which I have always found handy.
SWV
going to be very tough at brighton. No Jedi who is playing very well. MOM after scoring 2 for oz yesterday.
Kodja, ayew, adomah all been travelling around too, hopefully will be fit enough.
can only see bruces 1st defeat im afraid, 2-1 brighton.
SWV,
Did 78 league grounds before they became lego land kits, most have been demolished Roker, Ayresome Bolton etc but one i really want to see crushed is still contaminating Somalia Heath, any match day will do. Still chuckle at Dave Ismay’s joke at the PFA awards when he mentioned that someone broke into St. Andrews and decorated the place.
Steamer 75 I’m sure I’ve read on this site your reference to your brother Rof, my apologies if I’m wrong.
If I’m right and as you say your long term memory is sound then your the bloke I stood with you on the old open end at the City Ground 1973, which was a bit scary in those days. You stood out a bit because of your David Bowie haircut (Ziggy Stardust era) with the blond streaks and the drop earring . All the Forest lot were singing your surrounded to the Villa fans on the open end.
We departed before the end of a game that was drifting towards 1-1, the Villa scored as we were outside the ground which resulted in a high speed dash back to Nottingham Station. Vic Crowes last season in charge. Long time ago.
Again sorry if its not you
And Steamer,
I went to Southend, 1st round FA Cup, on a bus you hired with Bootsy, Reggae Ray, Arnie…remember him, joined the Army about 1973, never saw him again, and many others, that day frightened me witless. we got beat 1-0. Villa out the Cup in November, Alvechurch in round 2, happy days…..not.
Archie,
I think that was the year it went off big style on the terraces, it was 1-1 and it was pretty hairy but Forest were happy with a draw – until Charlie Aitken went off on a weaving run and put away the winner, Forest went mad fighting everywhere police horses on the terraces, happy days.
I was with Hicky on the Trent Bridge after the game when it kicked off it was a rough place to go in those days, I think the next season we got the whole of our coach arrested, some Forest fans followed about ten of us from the ground maybe about 30 of them we had parked our bus at the bottom of a cul de sac, we got to the top of this road and got into them with the rest of our lot waiting behind the bus, some of their lot took a right hiding, Pete the greek was one who got nicked.
By the way that was ST75 with that haircut he was a weird looking individual and I am pleased to report nothing has changed.
SWV
So it looks like another quality appointment at VP, ex-nose Paul Trollope, why not go for Barry Fry or Francis being as the place is being infiltrated by the low class crepe. If the dummies were so good why have the vermin been so crepe since 1875 ? Spud OUT.
Archie,
Arnie won millions on the Lottery a few years ago, great bloke, still comes up from Kent for the odd game.
Afraid some of our regulars from that era are Holte Enders in the sky, i bet Bootsy is up there moaning about Spudhead being anywhere near VP.
Strange that despite the violence in that period most supporters would say how enjoyable the game was then, the sterile crepe they call footy today would be laughed at.
SWV – you’re right, Forest wasnt the friendliest place to go and getting back to the station that day was pretty hairy. I remember going to Forest, maybe that day, in my long leather ‘gestapo’ coat and my mate had the same. Not the best thing to wear when you’re running around over the Trent Bridge like a madman. Seem to remember Hicky had the same coat ………….
Archie – and talking of Hicky, he came down to Sarfend for that cup game on the football special which we were on – we went to the Southend end as we had heard Chelsea were coming down to join up with the Villa and shouted up to the lads inside hanging over the edge of the terracing- you’re going to get done as we have Chelsea joining us. The lads leaning over said ‘we are Chelsea’! We then knew that it was going to be a long day ……… the walk back to the station was a nightmare ……..
But as Grumpy Steamer said – the whole football thing was more enjoyable even though there was the aggro all around the game.
Brighton wasnt friendly either and we took a bit a of a beating there as well – didnt they have a load of greasers who were a bit nasty?
oldvilla
OV,
Bloody hell everyone had one of those coats remember Groombridge and Fast Eddie wearing one for years like you said not great gear for having a row in.
The Old Goldstone ground was a dump but cannot remember much hassle there but my memory ain”t the best a bit like ST75.
Those were great days yeah lots of trouble but sometimes you gave it and others you took it, cannot stand these new stadiums now, far too quiet for my liking and if you get caught fighting you are looking at a jail sentence and a ten year ban, in those days the copper would clip you around the ear and told you to piss off.
SWV
Old Villa,
With Hicky it may have been the matching silver docs that made him stand out. Of course with his snot carpet and that coat he was bound to attract the nickname ‘Adolf’ and for his 60th some of the troops did one of those Hitler parodies on Youtube.
The Brighton thing may have been afters from a year or so earlier when the troops booked a coach one Summer and landed in Brighton to give the resident greabo’s some mod/skin ultra violence, that certainly wasn’t the Summer of Love.
From The Gilded Cage, remember that ?
Steamer, ST75, SWV, OldVilla, Archie, etc.:
I always find your old “war stories” so interesting — there certainly was a price to be paid for being a Villa fanatic in those days … I’d be willing to bet that you blokes gave back a bit more than you took, though! Still, must’ve been the time of your lives, wasn’t it?
Tex,
Never mind the sea of denim at Anfield, the Holte was easily the most atmospheric stand in England, 28,000 fanatical semi-sociopaths screaming at you. Gordon Hill, the old Untied winger said he hated playing at VP because of the hate streaming from the Holte. Operating at 10% now, crepe.
Any of you fella’s remember Blackpool around that era, when they made us leave our Doc’s and our belts at the bloody turnstiles and watch the match in our socks, a couple of lads woz bare foot as they didn’t have any clean socks and there pants would fall when jumping around. Had to drink that pig swill Brew 10 after the game. One more place where the beer wern’t worth drinking or the women worth shagging, at least the local ones anyway.
Hate Blackpool except when we’re playing up there, went the night after the lights went out once, like a morgue, another terrible tip.
Oh phuk !!!!
Yes archie thats me and yes Roffs my brother. I had silver docs and sometimes wore a bowler that l had sprayed silver and baked and l knocked a nose spark out with it once. I got Boots docs sprayed gold for him . Me and steamer have commented that we think you know more about us than your letting on. Lol. Arnie is ok l have him on facebook. Hes getting better. Yes he won money but was leeched on. We saw Reggae Ray some months back he hasnt changed much still the good ole reggae. I was with hicky at the nose game. Still see all the old lads. I wrote in that villa hooligan book but it was hijacked imo. Theres loads the steamers done and lm intigued with the pete the greek thing. Imo it was groombridge who started and finished most rucks. Was with groombridge at wembley .l always had a lot of time for him and had some great times and laffs with him . Roff was the youngest steamer allowed . I do chuckle when l hear lads saying lm a steamer l have the hat mentuoned in the book with all the originals on it. Thank fuck there was no mobile phones and cctv in those days.
Oh and thanks to all with your comments on my brain . Even with that disability l can run rings round steamer and the nob down bristol
Have a good weekend all . Im being talked into going to brighton .
Jenny xxxxx
And wheres Frem ??
Did a lot of charity stuff too.
Okay, educate a poor illiterate Texan.
When you nice fellows mention “Docs,” I’m assuming you’re talking Doc Martens (dms’), same as sung about on “The Young Ones.” Am I correct, and did they make steel-capped ones?
Nice to see you guys getting reacquainted. Seems like the dog’s bollox in the day.
John, thanks for the article about Brighton.
I remember aggro Brighton fans causing trouble on the train from Brighton when I was going to Battle a few years ago.
I’d be extra careful there.
Trinity,
Hope all the dust has settled down under.
Texas,
It was the best time to watch football and yes we had some fantastic times it actually meant something to fight for your colours something a lot of people cannot get their heads around, all the Villa lads at that time knew one another and we would take two full coaches to most of the big games now 100 lads all like minded and from some of the roughest estates in Brum were going to be a handful.
One thing I will say we never bullied anyone, never vandalised property it was always fighting against those who was like minded, just something about those times, you defended your end and your territory call it tribalism or call it what you want but it was the done thing.
ST75,
The nob down in Brizzle how very rude I would pull you up on that but you have probably forgot by now.
SWV
Steamer & Steamer 75
I used to drink in the Imperial Hotel, White Swan Edmund Street in the early seventies then latterly in the Aston Tavern and occasionally the Aston social club. I was always with Goldy and Kleptoe and a few others. Early eighties your crew used to come in the Aston Tavern we all knew each other so there was lots of chat and banter and general p!ss take.
Steamer last time I saw you was at Witton Cemertery about five years ago, maybe longer. One of our old pals was burying his wife, a bloke called Bob, won’t give his full name but I have no doubt you remember. I was with my wife I think you were with Roscoe and a lot of the old firm. Anyway you recognised me straight away and shook my hand.
So yes, I was always there or close to it. I let it all go around the early eighties, started working in education so had to start behaving myself. Still attended home games as an ST holder until 2003.
I just go to the odd game these days, still my team though.
Arch,
Strange that i hadn’t seen you for donkey’s years and was actually quite surprised, but recognised you straight away. Seem to be going to too many funerals though.
Tex,
Yes mate, Dr Martens, the skins used to strip the dye from them and polish them bright red, it took hours, some went further and sprayed them gold or silver. In general the attire was 1) Harrington jacket 2) Ben Sherman or Jaytex checked shirt 3) White sta-prest Levi’s, in Winter a Crombie or sheepskin coat was the norm. Villa fans were voted 4th ?? best dressed fans in the country a couple of years ago, the vermin came in at around 90, they wouldn’t have been that high if it wasn’t for charity shops and farmers scarecrows.
Another gem from Blocked Blogger AV –
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zhWxbEU2mM
great storys chaps
Im a 90’s child of the prem/sky era…missed all the fun!
Jedi could play!
Bacuna and amavi fit.
I’m a child of the late 70s by the time i could afford to travel to VP in the 90s, it was well sanitised all seater stadia at that stage, missed out on seeing the old Holte in all its glory as all the tickets were sold prior to me joining the local supporters club but at least got to see the magnificence of the old Trinity.
Can’t wait to see how we do against a very good (at this level) Brighton side, true progress or new manager syndrome.
Yet to surprise my wife over a Chinese that she’ll be treated to Friday night football
Got my tickets for Leeds Villa sorted, behind enemy lines but can’t wait to see how we play in the flesh, any idea how many away end Villans will be there.
UTV
DOR,
Sold out every away game till now, so i ‘spose its in the 3,500 area.
Tough game, they seem to be hitting a bit of form.
Steamer: I think it was you that posted a couple of songs as a memorial to the passing of the great Leon Russell, who was also one of my favorites.
Here’s my favorite of his, which is IMO one his mist soulful
*oops, accidentally hit the Post Comment button*
… one of Leon Russell’s most soulful songs, and one of the most genuinely romantic songs I’ve ever heard:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=5xDyq_RcSo8
Steamer and SWV: from the way you describe ST75’s dashing attire, he must have been quite the hit with the ladies … so, was he?
Evening each
Been on it all afternoon, the tot that is. I know, I should be ashamed of myself, but there you go. Another funeral, but, celebrating a life, your right Steamer thats all we seem to do now.
On another note for you lifers who enjoy a curry….I ate at Acbars Hegley Road West last night, I have to say …..I can’t I’m still speechless. …..The food is first class, Karahi fish…lovely. Fourteen of us sat down for dinner and they treated us royally so much food and they do a family nan bread which is the size of a small dining room table!!! You have to go and try.
Anyway i’m off to have a cup of tea, prepare food for later and build up a second head of wind before I go back over the club before they miss me.
Life is good…..
Arch
Tex,
Never heard that one before but its going on my ipod, loved it. You really had a golden era regarding singer/songwriters in the 60-80 period, JD Souther’s one of my faves, James Taylor, Phil Ochs, Lowell George etc
St75 had his moments but finally got lucky with the lovely Tracey, they’re a really good unit with a lovely daughter.
Steamer: JD Souther is also one of my faves, co-wrote some fantastic songs with Don Henley and Glenn Frey of the Eagles (which, although it was a band, functioned basically as the front for two of the most brilliant songsmiths of those days, Messrs. Henley and Frey). As you say, Taylor was also one of the great ones as was Jackson Browne; Phil Ochs and Lowell George I’ve yet to check out, so thanks for the recommendations, mate.
As for other terrific American songwriters which operated within the confines of 70’s & 80’s bands, — Jonathan Cain, Neal Schon and Steve Perry of Journey wrote some all-time classics (and were all world-class musicians to boot).
So Archie, which one of the Terrifying Triplets (Steamer, SWV and ST75) owes YOU 20 quid?!?! lol!
Calderwoos targeted as number 2. Current btighton assistant and been told by brighton to stay away from tomoz game. Rounds number one man.
Been with hughton all his clubs, could be decent if we got him.
That escalted quickly. Calderwood more or less confirmed. Brighton statement saying he has resigned. Good appointment that.
Tex,
those guys were in a league of their own and respected and revered by most……and I’m convinced they ALL owe me 20 squid, but then again I think that about most people.
good luck to all making the journey to Brighton tomorrow …bring us back 3 points
Archie
you must have been rich in them days , if l had £20 off you l wouldnt have gone into work for 2 weeks ,
l really wished steamer lived in my house , Good Unit ! your here for 10 mins at most , and then its only to have one of them fancy shite coffees .
had my moments !!! you cheeky fuck , mind l never got married till l was 42 , too selfish l think , l worked went down the villa ,drank, played footie and back to work , girlfriends at the time gave up on me , happy great times though and met some great people on the way , would l change anything ?? Yeah saying hello to that arse swv around 75 .
maybe we sshould put a few of our exploits up , not all were rucking , had some brilliant laffs along the way , in the villa hooligans book l put about my 21st birthday , going to leeds in Foxy’s car with Roff(my brother) John Britton (and his bottle of vodka) Melv (our leader R.I.P ) , but in the book the arse editor cut some , but brilliant if surreal day ,
wish id done the night game against Portsmouth , and how a certain hard man ran and left me and Roff and Goddard after bringing them to our pub , which was the Manor off the Lichfield Rd , Godsey bought it up a few years ago in the social . but thats another story .
Archie
l kid you not that steamer still has that grey cardie he used to wear in the Imp Hotel around 73/74 , was you there when the barmaid was convinced it was 10p for a brown and mild , poor kid and she was German , never stood a chance ))
well lm dropping over to that arse end steamer later
Arch,
The cheques in the post.
ST75 one with the ladies blimey I haven’t heard that before he went out with some ugly women/men/ feel free to fill in the gap, mind you I went out with the barmaid from the Hole who was a monster and she brutalised me in the back of her mini, it was the only time I should have carried a weapon.
I suppose some will say it was the bad old days when football violence was in its pomp but that was just the side bar to what actually happened, yes there was fighting but the togetherness, the camaraderie the friendships that lasted a life time it will never get replicated, those guys stood together ( most of the time Pompey) and looked after each other, it was not just Saturday we used to meet in the week and drink together it was more than football.
That buzz when you was on the coach travelling to Utd or Liverpool when you know it was going to go off was a massive drug you became addicted, there wasn”t many drugs around at the time not any that was affordable, we used to drink some weird stuff ( Groombridge on Bulls Blood ), some will always call it the bad dark days I will always call it the best time of my life.
SWV
Rocket fuel was a decent tipple.
Recommend the new Metallica CD, on Youtube now or for our Black Country friends that’s Yowtube.
Steamer,
Blimey that rocket fuel was a belter remember having one on my birthday but that was the last thing I remembered for a while, they ought to send the recipe over to Ibiza it would sort a few of those knob heads who think it is fun to dance to Techno Jazz Funk Shithouse music.
By the way do you remember what went in it?
SWV
ST75,
That grey cardigan of Steamers was originally Black, he wore it all those years in the blind hope that at one stage during that century it might come into fashion, obviously that never happened unless you worked behind the counter of that shitty little café in Coronation Street.
Didn”t Rigby wear a chic version on Rising Damp?
SWV
In an era where everyone is described as ‘a legend’ Elton John lists the people and records on which Leon Russell played, from Crosby through Sinatra to the modern epoch, amazing –
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXP_iCzuI30
Swv
Now l know your lying. That thing from behind the bar would never have got in a mini . Mini 40 ton lorry ! Yes . Car ! Your having a laff . One of lifes puzzles she was . How the fuck did it get through the doors never mind behind the bar !!! God she was ugly and she abused the word UGLY. even big H had his doubts whether it would take five punches or ten to deck her. Now lets see how brave you are . Name one ugly bird l went with as lm still in contact with them all and l would so love to see you face them and say it.
Nah mate Fanta was one ugly bird I give you that in fact you are spot on she took ugly to a completely new level so I give you that one, but face any of those Neanderthals that you brought in the Broadway not a chance, I would rather run around naked in Kabul shouting ” Pig Roast anybody”.
SWV
Vodka, Pernod, Creme de Menthe and a drop of lemonade ( in a pint glass ).
Those cardigans set a new trend, where do you think Bob Geldhof got his fashion ideas ?
Can’t see us getting points tonight, comfortable win for B&HA and hopefully Spud will resign after.
can only see a defeat too. be delighted with a point
I think the big clue was her name her parents gave her . You dont get given a name like that because it sounds nice. I think her parents must have fed her with a catapult . Watched eating a packet of crisps once . She looked like a camel chewing a wasp . God your kids would have been ugly . Orrible orrible thoughts. Now can l assure the other lifers this is not a piss-take . Its all true .
Swv- was Fanta short for elephant by any chance?
world has changed a lot since the 70’s/80’s, a night always included at least one fight in every pub you visited. Every now and then you’d here a glass go, its how you knew you were out, different times different standards and 11 o’clock drinking hours. You are more likely to be accosted by a women these days or knife wielding crack head. Rarely see a fight in a pub though cos nobody comes out until gone eleven, in the old days you all gathered at the same burger van at kick out it was bound to get boisterous, people seemed to have more respect but more bottle back then, a riot was a riot and you stood up for your rights now people don’t bother to vote.
I’d love a point or three at the coast, but afraid it might get as ugly as SWV’s barmaid from the Hole!
Nevertheless, things do seem on an upward trajectory. Can’t wait to see who we target as reinforcements come January.
Mark,
Agree with every point you make on TVB, some folk are burying their heads in compost, Spud has no history of entertaining or attacking footy, using academy players or building a club, the same folk will be moaning in 2 or 3 years.
This Martin Glen is a knob, no wonder the game in this country is going down the gurgler, and Sarfgate has been proved a liar over Wazzagate who should be booted not only because he’s a lying scouse tw@ but because he’s crepe.
Tex,
Apparently we can’t spend because of FFP or whatever it is so Spud will be looking at Hulls reserve team for loanees.
steamer- absolute Paul Anchors
Cannot believe gabby is starting FFS, Murphy three times the player
Hmmm hutton, westy and gabby in same team. Only maens one thing . Defeat
Allways said that Spud is an idiot, you only have to look at that fat git to see he’s hugely overweight, i think Spud wants to prove a point and he’s on a loser, the gobshite won’t last 45 minutes.
Hmmm … have to say I never thought I’d see GA handed a Villa starting nod again!
Murphy 20 times the player.
The more folk complain the more Spud is determined to play these gobshites, he really is a clueless fuckwit.
Hutton is bloody rubbish…
UTV
what a knob bruce is
hutton has 3 simple chances to cross fucks up everyone of them
flabby who should have never started again has one run shoots far too early
agree big time steamer on bruce and young players mutton and flabby should be in a butchers window not on the football field
gabby not looking the part upfront – i would hope ayew takes his place fairly soon , the sensible option
You have to ask what the fraud is doing in the team never mind the club.
Thank the lord for injuries in this instance, couldn’t believe Gobby came back out for 2nd half. Only just noticed Wastewood was on the pitch too, where was he all the first half?
Mark,
WOC – Gabby looks trim !!!!!!! WTF is he on ?
Mark,
That Anderson likes his cliches, mind he needs them ’cause he certainly knows f-all about footy.
Wonder if Spud will be in for Robbie Keane, sorry, forgot he’s not 6′ and can play a bit.
Jesus Murphy,
Two quality players come ion in Ayew and Grealish(who’s been superb) and surprise bleedin surprise we boss proceedings against a top championship team who’ve been strong at home.
Sigh
UTV
Agree, when you have crepe like Wimpwood and Slimfast you can’t afford to leave talent on the bench, bet Spud takes the credit though.
Haha spud has no history of attacking, entertaining side.
Away to high flying brighton, best performance ive seen for years. Second half superb. Fittest ive seen a villa side for yonks.
Lack of goals continues and, although last 20 mins were an improvement, inability to retain possession is unacceptable.
Wastewood, Flabby and Amavi are atrocious. Why is Kodjia stuck on left wing?
Jacks been ill all week. ( has played jack all other times available)
Ayew always played too….back from int duty, balancing attack.
The question is away to brighton with 20 left he makes positive subs!!
Bruce
Unbeaten tick
Hard to beat tick
Got us fit in 2 months tick
Im no massive bruce fan but some of the slUrs against him on here are utter bs
Andrew,
Yeah Gabby looks fit, half a game with entertainment doesn’t make Spud the new Pep, talk to the vermin and even they couldn’t stand his crepe anti football.
There is more energy and commitment under Bruce; I’ve no complaints given the shit that went before.
He’s doing Ok with the squad he has but they’re just not good enough to win games consistently
Well i have seen the matches and imo its not been anti footy. If he was like that you wouldnt be throwing the kitchen sink at them away. Do a pulis and shut up shop surly? Same against blackburn and fulham….going for it.
My concerns gabby westy hutton as ever. And where is tisch
Negative shite tick
Condones gobbing in players faces – tick
Rewards the worst fraud in Villas history – tick
Bullshites the fans with guff about “dark places” and “a really horrible place” – tick.
Only signs mediocre 30 year old players – tick
Never was and never will be a genuine EPL boss – tick
2/3 years from now you’ll want him out… if he’s still here after all he has a history of walking out.
Life before bruce. No fitness, weak mentally, poor subs, poor formation.
Bruce
433 gets best out of jedi.
After 2 months fit as ive seen
Subs very very good
Baker in
Amavi in
Team shape organised.
Thats all i know
Bruce aint signed anyone yet tick
Not seen anything negative. Bearing in mind its the shitty champ footy never going to be amazing. Tick
Geniune epl boss… Wigan and sunderlands highest finishes
Gabby i hate. Bruce to be fair to him is trying to get everyone on board by getting gab onside. Seems to be working as the team are working hard.
Want to know what tisc has done wrong. How can he be worse than westy. Jack looked awesome when on.
Adomoah mom and amavi did well against knochart there main man. Jedi very good considering the travels.
Rb and mid needed in jan.
Steamer, you say that we’ll be fed up of our style of play under Bruce in 2-3 year’s time. He’ll only still be here after 2-3 years if we’re at least mid table in the Premiership. . . . I can’t see Xia sticking with him unless he brings successful results.
Right now the aim is promotion and if he achieves that then he deserves praise from every Villa supporter (except for those who are more interested in being proved right than seeing their team succeed)
Right now he’s doing a bit better than that as we’re actually (surprisingly) playing decent football too.
Just saw golinis save at the end again. Top bloody save that.
What will be will be re bruce. Imo the impact he has made in 2 months is very good. Everyting i was wanting from villa even when rdm here. First hings first he has sorted the spine shape, organisation out. Basics. Imo now with calderwood on board the next few months will see the forwards worked on and putting teams to bed.
The biggest thing has been fitness. To see us run that brighton team over in the second half is great. Fittest teams been for years. Gg running aroung like a terrior! Sad thing is this is all so bloody basic. Subs, tactics, fitnees. We have not had it for years. Guess thats why we are mid table in the champ!!
Not hung up at all about bruce being here or not. Happy we are going down the route of getting a settled behind the scenes team. Calderwood is rounds man and if bruce leaves will only be 2 or 3 staff going, not the whole works. Sensible. If bruce dont get it right he will be gone. The dr wont muck about
AlwYs respected hughton and liked his style which makes me excited having calderwood as number 2. Meant to be decent. Linked with the brighton midfielder who is good, may nab him in jan with calderwoods help
Paul Whiting: say what you will about Westy, or even Hutton (although he’s certainly no great shakes going forward, statistically speaking he’s fairly solid defensively) … but I utterly disagree that Amavi is “atrocious” — since he’s begun to recover from his gruesome injury, he’s shown flashes of real talent that proves he’s miles better than Sissy or any other LB we’ve had in years.
another draw, 2 more points lost bruce has lost 4 out of 6 points from the lead ground hog day again
not a bad result with team bruce picked hutton total liability worst footballer to wear shirt in my 40 years watching, gabby enough said about him , on to westwood another match he starts we don t win ,reason he ain t any good for a midfielder even at this level too lightweight pushed about gives away stupid fouls ,his booking came from him been turned over in possession
what has happened to tish ,
with steamer on this young players will leave when likes hutton gabby and westwood start
What the hell is this myth about young players. I have supported villa all my life and 2 stand out players who made it coming through the youth are gabby and barry!!! And barry was from brighton. Oh grealish now of course and vassell? 4 in over 23 years supporting villa! If we have any youngsters good enough they will make it. We have more to worry about than that at the mo. Christ if giving youth and home grown players a chance we had gg, jack and gabby play who are bummie lads villa fans and baker another youth product. Not many clubs have local players like that
James bruce has 12 points out of 18. Thats not ground hog day
Hello all.
I listened to the match via AVTV at 8:45 AM local time this morning. It sounded like a good match that Villa were up for. Hope away fans comment here.
We need wins, but can’t complain about a point away at a place that has been a fortress for Brighton. Villa is, l believe, on the up.
Those international breaks are annoying. Too many.
Lee Hendrie, plus Albrighton,Johnson, Graham, probably 8-10m worth and numerous others who weren’t given many/any opportunities by crap managers who had similar policies as Spud. You’d be hard pushed to name a single product who has held a place down at any club spud has mismanaged. If RHM can’t even get on the bench with this pile of crap then no wonder he wants out and what message does that send to any kid at the academy ?
Isn’t anyone concerned that Spud hasn’t noticed how fat the parasite is ? he continues to delude himself about his non-performances and the idiot/desperate fans buy the bs, the standards at Aston Villa have dropped so far and some folk through their ignorance haven’t noticed.
Steamer: ” half a game with entertainment doesn’t make Spud the new Pep”
You’re just annoyed because your match predictions are always wrong! 🙂
I thought Villa are beginning to show the ability and confidence you’d expect after this undefeated run. We’ll see better yet. In fact I’ve not been that impressed with the the two top teams in the division and found it hard to believe that Brighton beat Norwich 5-0 a couple of weeks back. If Villa can get their level of improvement to translate into more wins then …
The only player I’d really like to see replaced is Hutton. He works hard but shows little class.
Steamer
Villa’s standards dropped years ago. This team, given its talent, should win more games. I think they will.
I do wonder how Gabby could have gotten so unfit. What was he doing? He was stuffed at half time. He has played over 300 times for Villa, mostly in the Prem. He is still in his 20s, yet…
Part of me was hoping he’d score the winner today.
As for Bruce his job is to get Villa promoted. One would think at this level more younger players could be used, but winning comes first. It is difficult because there are no easy matches in this league for a team like Villa.
During the week l eard Spinks saying about Gabby ” Running around like a headless chicken ” thats from a pro not a fan out the stands ,
a mate of mine runs a kids/youths team and it seems a few teams have come looking at one lad and he has told the kid dont go to the villa , and l said to him , why cause your a nose , his reply was look how the kids get treated at villa , name a player who hasnt had to move away to become a regular . he had me ! Grealish l will give you .
i will say this and that will be the last from me on this issue , l hate the thought of that fucking parasite pulling on a villa shirt , and if he scored would l applaud ? would l fuck , westwood !!! i give up .
well lm off to see a bloke about a car . seems my mate has found his stolen car . and l hate fucking thieves .
andrew
villa played well v newcastle result draw
v brighton result draw
villa lose points after been ahead under rdm
bruce
villa don t win when westwood starts
not much changed
as for youth
if we have not got a right back at the club better than hutton youth coaches should be shot as for
mr villa gabby how hebdun murphy is not even in squad its crazy ,read last night after gabby went off villa had players moving about 9gabby doesnt move)
Second half showed we have the players to actually play, I think we lost our way under RDM with all that was going on new regime, new squad, late arrivals and a lot of bad luck with the woodwork pens etc. The fitness is nothing more than a mentality change except gabby who has lost 13lbs!!! wasn’t planning on playing for anyone
James l
Not much changed.
Under bruce
Win away first time in 14 months.
Win a game coming from behind first time in 13 monhs.
Stopped conceding last min goals.
Scoring late winning goals.
Not lost in 6 scond best record i think
How is hat not change??!!
A point against brighton is fine. The draws that are not good were the ones being at home and conceding in last min against forest, huddy etc.
Who cares if gabby is 14 stine or 9 stone. Still going to be a crepe player. Rhm needs to go on loan. Aint starting over ross, ayew, kodger.
Mark
The differnce is rdm was shit. Poor tactics, subs and man management. Too nice. Never even raised his voice at em even after all those late goalls. Would not speak to them until the monday.
Bruce has made good subs at right times and set the team up better. No idea why we are are looking sharper, fitter but good to see. About time.
Here we go again – negative comments for an unbeaten team since the new manager (whoever he is) came in.
James G – do you ever ever ever say anything positive about things in your life? Can you ever see anything remotely good about things? Its like a stuck record.
Steamer – as JL said, you’re just pi$$ed off that all your predictions are wrong every week lol ….
So – I think its time for me to disappear from this site as I really can’t be doing with the comments being made. It’s not even a discussion, it’s just the smae old moans after every game. God help us if we ever lose again, the site would go into meltdown.
Tara all, do you believe in the Villa?
oldvilla
Oldvilla,
Hope you’re not gone yet – you’re one of the sane ones! 😉
Don’t let the likes of James and Steamer upset you … half of what Steamer says is just to get people worked up I think.
There are a few here that think as you do.
Dont go old villa! Its all good and we are villans together.
I feel like i come across as a bruce super fan…i really aint but like i said last night the comments and needless negativity about him is bs. Because he managed blues?
The reality and facts are all good at the mo. Like i said previously.
Villa got a new sports medical chap today. Forget his name. Son of ex scottish player, from everton.
What i love is we are building a football club again. All from scratch. Getting the right experienced people in in the right areas. And takng time over it. Well done doc
Stay OldVilla,
and make sure there are more positive people on here, and agree with JL, that Steamer is just a windup merchant, and if JG won a Peugeot in a car raffle, he would not be happy because he did not win the Beamer…..!!!
Not a great game last night, but a great team performance, where everyone was paying for each other. I have not seen such a together team at Villa for many, many years, so let’s give Steve Bruce his due. Time we had a British manager that bhas played at the top and knows what is required to win.
The club is also making it’s best efforts and letting the fans tell them what they want most from the club.
I’ll gladly add my voice to those asking OldVilla to stay!
Though I am certainly not a pessimist, I also wouldn’t call myself an optimist — and certainly not a “happy clapper.” What I would call myself is a realist; for example, while I have defended Westwood and Hutton to some extent because I felt that each offers a certain degree of value in restricted and limited circumstances, I’d be quite happy to see them replaced with better and more well-rounded players.
If there is such a thing as a “happy clapper”, then it’s polar opposite must also exist — and, for lack of a better term, I’m going to suggest calling it an “unhappy chanter”; i.e., one who continuously and tiresomely chants the same old worn-out bromides regardless of any countervailing statistics or facts.
Villa is unbeaten in six under the new manager, and opposing managers keep referencing how well-organized we are during their post-match comments (such as Hughton did yesterday). We are more fit, better drilled, harder playing, more enthusiastic, and smarter on the pitch — and with much better results to boot. As a realist, I do not expect perfection; these steady improvements are noteworthy and welcome enough for now. Upwards and onwards …
But again, as a realist, I’ll also readily concede that I was gobsmacked that GA not only was readmitted into the side but was actually inserted into the starting lineup! Though that would never have happened under my watch were I the skipper, I understand and accept that there will always be some dross mixed in with the gold.
Oldvilla,
Steamer – as JL said, you’re just pi$$ed off that all your predictions are wrong every week lol
What about the one i predicted in 2013 ?
Seriously, stay, i’m packing up anyway but before i go can i make one more comment ? when i see that lion rampant stretched over those rolls of flab it disgusts me that 1) Villa have a manager stupid enough to let this happen 2) A large section of Villa supporters actually condone this. Sorry, not in my name, this club is now dead to me.
well if being positive is all we have to do whats the point of a blog? is it just to agree on everything and not discuss the finer points? moaning for moaning sake no, making a point to discuss is what it is about otherwise it might as well be twitter.
Of course a blog needs people to have differing opinions or it becomes boring and dies.
Although I frequently disagree with Steamer’s comments on here I do still read all of them, as his bile is regularly served with a good dollop of sharply observed humour.
There are others who just serve unadultarated negativity and, old villa, I reckon the best antidote to that is just see their name at the top of the comment and skip to the next one . . . it works for me anyway.
robbo- opinions are just that and I’m sure everyone see’s everyone else’s as wrong to a degree, hard to always know where they are coming from, they are valid for them though.
My posts are sometimes just writing down thoughts and seeing where it goes, a bit of exploring if you like, people can make what they want of them and do. The minute we start to instruct or restrict others its finished, nothing gets up peoples noses more than that, Worse still not everyone has a sunny disposition in life 😉
Mark: “well if being positive is all we have to do whats the point of a blog? is it just to agree on everything and not discuss the finer points?”
I think that’s what Paul et al meant, to be honest. Being “positive” can be read in a wider sense.
Being “positive” surely includes rank constructive discussion on the merits and demerits of a topic, *not* simply being a “happy clapper” or (conversely) being a “unhappy chanter” (good one, Texas!) as you suggest, Mark.
Steamer,
I dont think I could exist on here without your daily dose of pessimistic good humour, and the exchanges with ST75, SWV and many others.
Sad that we seem to be missing a few lately, including Frem, Jenny and several others,. Let us hope that they all pop up soon, and certainly before Xmas.
always read this blog ,rarely post but have to agree with steamer and st75 about gabby he is robbing a living off us ,he used to scare teams with his pace ,but he lost that now and his first touch is awful ,one on one he aint got a clue,poor footballer.now weatwood have we won a game with him starting,ok he is a trier but he is just not good enough.bruce was not my choice of manager but hes got us playing as a team for the first time in years,but why is he playing gabby before a brillant yourseter like russan.wake up mr bruce before we lose another good kid.
OV – Steamer
I really hope neither of you leave AVL as it would be a huge loss
its a game that stirs up debate, opinion and different interpretations all of which will have other agreeing or not
I totally get why seeing gabby in a villa shirt will upset some plus i dont think he is a very good player
Bruce has done great so far but i also dont buy in to his gabby was terrific chat , thats a worry for me
roll on the next window as we are in desperate need of midfield quality
There are two sides to the ‘Gabby’ story.
1) can he be useful to us on the pitch?
2) does he deserve another chance?
There seems to be general agreement that when he had his pace he scared oppositions and that pushed them backwards to avoid balls behind their defence.
He put on weight, got older and lost his pace, and with that, he lost his key benefit to the team.
Bearing in mind that sprinters tend to keep their speed till their late twenties, early thirties (Usain Bolt is the same age as Gabby) there’s no reason that he can’t regain his speed if he trains properly.
He can still hold the ball up well so I reckon that if the manager feels he has a part to play then I’m prepared to defer to his greater footballing knowledge
As for the second point, does he ‘deserve’ another chance. . . . that’s a harder question and I admit I’m still not sure of the answer to it.
Gabby
Let’s remember that Gabby played yesterday because Mac was suspended and Ayew had received a knock whilst away, I understand.
Yes, Bruce could have played a youngster but at this stage I’d guess that Bruce is looking for experience to get us out of the bottom few. We’re still 16th.
And though Gabby may have lost some pace, I don’t think he’s lost that much. He was certainly running in very quick to close down their keeper and defenders on Friday.
JL- I think gabby played because Bruce thought we would get pegged back so he wanted to play on the counter, the writing was on the wall by half-time that if we sat it out and created nothing we would probably lose so we went on the attack and fair play for that. Gabby has lost a stone yet didn’t out pace anyone, he’s quick over 2-3m then fades, he used to leave players 10 yards behind after giving them a head start thats the difference as he doesn’t seem to have the required guile to use what he now has. As Robbo said in different words its self inflicted.
also gestede appears to be redundant along with the youth
Mark: “Gabby has lost a stone yet didn’t out pace anyone”
Well, as I saw it he was not playing on the wing and didn’t see the situation occur where he could outpace anyone. Other than that time in the first half when he intercepted a bad pass but chose to shoot instead of trying to get past the next man.
I accept he’s not the same player as before but he did play a useful role in closing keeper/defenders down and laying off a couple of useful passes.
I think he’d get better the more games he plays, but he probably won’t get the chance except as sub.
Another point which has not been mentioned with regard to Gabby, is that if he is fit and plays, that he then increases in value, and is more likely to be of interest to other clubs…..You only sell goods by placing them in the shop window, not gayhering dust in the basement, and the January window is coming up. If Gabby can be sold it frees up money for wages, etc. It could be a very shrewd move to let him go, Hutton and Westwood are the same, and could also move on, giving Bruce the power to bring in some new blood…!!!!
Paul,
Good point, but don’t forget that Gabby will be needed in January while our African contingent are off to warmer climes.
But perhaps they’ll be back before the end of January…
He may also be teaming up with Ashley Young when he returns in January….!!!
JL But he’s playing no9? bit of a handicap to have no threat as we did first half, kodjia is by far our best in that position, if we need a hold up man we have a very athletic tall and strong bloke called Davis that does just that. We have lacked goals and gabby is unlikely to improve that.
I must say I was very impressed with Adomah’s crossing and dead balls deliveries, kind of balls getstede would love, he’s not going to africa
Mark,
Yes he was playing #9. Is that a problem if the boss mainly wanted to contain Brighton first half?
Brucie has already talked about Codger playing wingside saying something to the effect that it’s a tactic that the French use (I think he said French) and that Codger is adaptable in that way.
So if that’s his view, that’s his view – and an informed view I suggest. As it was the tactic worked fairly well first half, except it was a dull 45 minutes.
As far as the youth are concerned, then when it comes to hitting the first-team it’s very much a hit or miss affair. Many don’t do too well when they get that far. It even goes to the heads of some and think they’ve “made it”. I don’t think now is the right time – maybe later, when we’ve got promotion. As I recall it, even Brian Little didn’t get his debut until Div 3 promotion was a certainty.
Watching Boro vs Chelsea and Adama undoubtedly has world class talent, absolutely electric running with the ball. That being said if we get promoted then Adomah will have played a big part in that, been consistently one of our better players.
UTV
JL yes he did say the French thing but for most of the first half Amavi had his work cut out because Kodjia isn’t a natural defender at all and considering he has the most accurate shooting stats in the team and is both quick and slippery surely its a waste? Green could do that job better or Ayew and to be honest fro what kodjia did in defence Grealish. With the talent we have up top goal scoring wise it just baffles me.
on a separate note new information about our mitochondria, considered to be a bacteria that joined us and produces energy for us through a substance called ATP. They now know they control our DNA in part too and get this they use light to communicate. Several bandwidths energise them like infar-red and ultra violet b or create Vit-d and other hormones but white light like LED’s confuse there signalling to each other and cause harm and upset the circadian rhythm, fascinating stuff, might well be what the Chinese call CHI in part?
Agree mark up top we should be dong better. Imo we will soon start punishing teams. Gabby aint gong to keep out jack and ayew so no need to panic.
Bruce said first job was to get us defensively sound and good shape. Mission accomplished and we must now start working on attatck. For me ayew has to start. But to fit jack in do we abandon 433 to go 4231 and have the problem with jedi.
Think against balackburn in last hime game ross started up top…bruce does seem to lke kodger on one of he wings. Id lke an attack of
Adomah. Jack. Ayew
Kodjer
Maybe play 4231 at vp when teams will sit back and 433 away?
Ronnie Biggs . . . Adama impresses in flashes but the jury’s still out for me. He may become great but he’s a bit of a one trick pony atm and will need to add a lot more to his game.
I remember when Gabby first burst onto the scene . . . .
Ronniew watching game too. Adama certainly exciting to warch but very raw. Different player to adomah, adomah alot cuter, takes set pieces etc. Reminds me of solano
I feel that this report is fairly on the ball… (oops, sorry for the pun!) …
http://www.avillafan.com/24394/point-well-made-brighton-hove-albion-1-1-aston-villa/?
Andrew- maybe the 4231 experience was just a step to far with a team getting to know each other? second half was pretty much that formation and we tore it up, it may be the way going forward now we look more drilled defensively and jedi looks more mobile than first thought.
JL- good report, doesn’t mention gabby and praises the players that came on 😉
Mark,
Yep! 😉
Evening Lifers,
3 or 4 years ago maybe more, a cultured centre half who could really play the game came to my house during our usual Christmas drinking and eating spree that takes place at our house every December. His name, Paul Futcher. I had an old Villa v’s Chester programme which featured the Futcher twins when we played them in he FA cup in the early 70’s I gave him the programme and wished him luck. He said he would have loved to have played for the Villa because they are a great club.
Paul Futcher great player great man is desperately ill and is toughing it out like the man he is and I wish him well like all Villans on this site. All the best Paul…tough guy.
Old Villa
Don’t worry. Steamer is Villa through and through and wishes only the best for the club and its community. Steamer knows a lot about Villa. He isn’t always right, but that doesn’t matter. He was right for years about Villa’s direction. And I have learned abit from him and others on here including yourself.
UTV
Mark, it’s been known for years that light can affect our health, and that’s not just the SAD that affects some people during winter months.
Light therapy has been used for years but it seems that we’re now starting to understand the mechanisms behind it and the part played by mitochondria.
Scientific knowledge and advances are accelerating more rapidly than ever before and, I don’t know about you, but I seem to switch between finding it exciting and frightening and I’m not sure which emotion is the most appropriate.
Was it Stephen Hawking who recently said that the reason we haven’t found other intelligent life is because when it evolves that far it always discovers the means to destroy itself?
Well that was a game of 2 halves only our second half started when Gabby came off.
The positives as I see it
Very energetic performance, hadn’t seen energy levels like that in a long time, but we are the second most expensive squad in the league, even a positive has an issue with it
Drew away against a promotion hopeful, sorry not much to go on
Adomah brilliant despite having Gabby ahead of him, Amavi once he remembered to defend first
Gollini, no blame for the goal but competent otherwise, a set piece that worked
Friday night meal went down a treat with my wife (not Villa related) but a positive nonetheless
The negatives
Amavi took a while to learn that Knockaert was a decent winger and wasn’t getting much support from Kodija, surely this would have been prepared for during training
Hutton – plays with no brain, capable of tackling the player in front of him but can be bypassed by good movement and going forward had opportunities to release the ball and seen only Flabby so passed back to Brighton
Flabby, for the love of Paul McGrath, there should be no debate about this weasel, one trick pony 10 years ago and that was pace, now to be given a lone striker role smacks of Bruce making sure he fails or Bruce shares Hutton’s brains. The runs he made were into blind alleys and when getting an opportunity to hold up the ball I seen only one successful attempt
Westwood, I had high hopes that the championship would see him flourish having been outgunned in a period where Villa were at their lowest in the prem. He appears to have retreated into his shell, where touches are kept simple, tackling is average and forward distribution minimal. Unfortunately places more pressure on Jedinak, needs a break and we need legs in the middle, come back Tish
Bruce – was never pushed by his arrival, still not, happy to see Villa not being beaten or winning but had we a bit of balls we could have gone a different direction and developed a football ethos (sorry broken record) what we have is a bruiser of a player, getting lads to play quicker but with that same old approach of no risk taking. Why not take a risk on Toner or RHM and get the glory from picking youth players who would die for Villa, why die on the sword of Gabby as being your season’s story of bringing him back from the brink to star for Villa.
Dr.T in his public protestation that he was disappointed with Gabby not leaving for a loan deal should have stood tall and not allowed any manager to try and redeem him, just sell him to kfc for a chicken box
I’m in a peculiar position of being happy with the results even the draws but not happy with how we get them, it’s quite frustrating that i’m neither 100% behind everything that Villa does nor massively angry in having no ability to change things.
Roll on Dec 3 when I get to see Villa in the flesh
DOR
brilliant post best i have read anywhere for a long time, if i could put my words so well maybe i woundnt get abuse from robbo and few others
mark k
good points on TVB mess that RDM came into players signed late only coming to fitness now,bad eggs to get rid off , it was a hard club to manage
and back to GABBY losing a stone weight in month of november what other club would put up with him the doc should have paid him off after transfer window closed
Thanks very much James, much appreciated
Never mentioned Kodija playing on the wing bar not supporting Amavi, what a waste of a talent, means his starting position was too far from goal, would have been much better to start with Grealish on the wing and Kodija in the lone striker role.
We seen how much more attacking Kodija was when Grealish came on. Reminds me of RDM stumbling upon a formula in the second half v Newcastle and then not continuing with it. Watch this space with Bruce, unfortunately his own ego re Flabby will prove decisive and we’ll use the same v Leeds. God knows at home to Cardiff.
No doubt rdm walked into a bloody tough job does not excuse bad man management, subs, tactics.
Think bruce will go 4231 like our last home game.
For me bacuna has to be rb if not starting in mid
Goalini
Bacuna Chester Baker Amavi
Jedi GG
Adomah Jack Ayew
Kodger
Very happy with the fitness, shape and organisation and its a sign of how positive I’m getting that I now want us to start destroying teams. Instead of thinking we are going to chuck away a win!
Want us to be hitting 3 goals at vp. Bruce and Calderwood next challenge is goals.
Only gripes so far is westy, hutton playing. Gabby still here and no tisc.
Not fussed with kodger on the left or righ of a 3. Does not appear set in stone and is a threat anywhere
i like the way conte has chelsea set up we could go the same
gollina
chester baker elphik
bacuna jedi gardner amavi
adoamh codja ayew/grealish
Andrew- If Bruce is prepared to forgive Gabby who else would be still around stinking the places out if he had spent the money? Villa was a huge responsibility and pressure for RDM and his first major rebuild. I can’t defend RDM’s decisions but this is his side whatever results Bruce gets. And don’t forget he had way more pressure from Dr Xia on players behaving/ putting a shift in etc, Bruce so far nothing.
DOR- You just described how I feel weirdly nonplussed
Robbo- think I’m more excited by the studies proving what been known for years than the footy 🙂
I think mankind may already of sealed its fate in a way, nature doesn’t stand still, poke it and it will change, sometimes in the most unpredictable ways. We are at this moment poisoning the world and ourselves, the role the gut biome plays, stem cell therapy and light therapy hopefully will become mainstream soon rather than later. How come your so interested? I’ve read up on this stuff for years now
Mark, Ive always been interested in environmental issues and was one of 11 students who took. the UK’s first environmental biology degree course back when global warming and ozone layer holes were pure theory.
What’s really depressing is that 40 years later there are ‘still’ people in power who refuse to accept the evidence in front of them.
Robbo- balancing the books and there wallets take precedent, there can be no other answer for their stupidity
r0bb0: “… 40 years later…”
Yes, that’s when I was bringing up the topic of ecology quite often and people looked at me with blank faces and wondered what the Ecology (now Green) Party was all about!
As you say, at that time it looked as though alternative issues would come more to the fore, but Maggie and Ronnie rather got in the way.
As Mark says, the issue of light having an inherent influence on life in all kinds of ways has been scientifically studied for a long time now, but still (sadly) disconnected from the ancient teachings.
I am concerned that expectations of reaching the playoff places, let alone an automatic promotion place, are running ahead of our actual performance. When SB took over, we were 17th. Now, six weeks later and after a run of reasonably good results, we are 16th. This shows how competitive this league is and I think it is going to take a prolonged run of winning games to move meaningfully up the table. If we, in 16th place, have promotion ambitions, we can be certain that many clubs above us will share the same hopes. We are in for an emotional roller coaster.
Frankfurt Villan: I agree — we’re playing so much better yet have barely budged up the table. The next dozen matches or so will tell us all a lot; none are against top teams, and all are in theory winnable. If we can get firmly into the top 10 by the end of January, I believe we’ll have a good shot of getting a playoff place.
Don’t expect dramatic rises up the table, the league is so close that winning doesn’t mean much if 7 of the 15 sides above you also win. Need to be patient and remain unbeaten with more wins and we’ll slowly rise up the table.
Think our first 10 games have put paid to automatic promotion but we have a chance of play-offs but only a chance.
Villa’s Sticky Position!
I would say we are where we are in the table simply since we made a poor start to the season and it would have taken a hell of a run to take us further up the table.
However, we have had a good 6-match run where we’ve again learnt how to win, so the signs are good.
All it will take is a couple of successive wins to propel us into near contention for a play-off place … and then we’d still have 20-odd games to improve on that.
yes the champ is very tight and being 16th just shows how badly we did under rdm.
being now 4 points from 6th though shows the ground we have made.
before bruce came we were bottom 3 and miles off play offs.
What we need to see is scoring some goals now and putting teams to bed.
Fair enough bruce wanted to shore things up straight away, but now we must punish teams. With our attack force there is no excuse.
Back to back wins will see us top 8 easy, Huddersfield and Norwich have tailed right off. the genius off wagner seems to be waring off….no wins in 6!
we had 10 points when bruce took over, sitting 19th. 10 points from 6th place.
nowrich were 2nd and Huddersfield top.
Lots lots of football to be played. dec to jan will be playing twice a week again. game on!
Andrew- Ironic Huddersfield have gone backwards since Wagner was linked with Villa? maybe the players know the truth and the togetherness and trust has gone? just a theory. Our only way of clawing back the points is to beat those in the top ten when we meet them we have beaten 2 lost 2 and drawn with 4 not good enough. we have though only lost 3 overall.
Just as an interesting side note, Jurgen Klinsmann is out as the US boss, to be replaced by prior manager Bruce Arenas. Arenas was the skipper who led America to it’s best WC display, a QF appearance in 2002.
Hey guy’s, what’s all this talk of people dropping off the site?? It’s all the different points of view that got me interested a couple of years back, and went out to get signed up so i could join in and take an active part. Yes, most of us didn’t want Mr Potato Head, but now he’s in we have to support him and lets all be honest, he has surprised us on how quickly has the players working together. Now I don’t often agree with Steamers views, but boy would i miss his cynicism if he dropped off the site. So lets all play together nicely in the sand box!!!!!
John, back in the early eighties I had to leave our branch of friends of the earth because I was pro nuclear.
It seemed to me back then (and it’s even clearer now) that the biggest threat comes from global warming and nuclear offered a means of generating large amounts of low carbon energy.
I have a low tolerance for people who just complain without offering solutions and environmentalists who are against all large scale power generation of any type are doing the ‘green cause’ a huge disservice.
The same principle can be applied to so many situations including supporting a football club. Finding something to be unhappy about is the easy bit, any fool can do that . . . suggesting and implementing the solutions is far harder.
It’s just as easy (and equally foolish) to be positive about absolutely everything. . . . and I know there have been times in the last few years when I’ve strayed a bit too far down that path too.
Canadian Villan: I love the wide variety of viewpoints pin this site as well. Hope that everyone decides to stay.
R0bb0: I’m sure our mutually shared point of view is out of favor these days, but if the Frenchies can get over 70% of their electricity safely from nuclear then so can the rest of the West. Every nuclear disaster has occurred at old, out-dated, poorly designed facilities. Our French cousins use top-of-the-line designs, site them well, build them properly, and then constantly upgrade them with new technology.
Supporting your team all used to be so much easier before social media. . . you got excited in the build up to the game . . . you made your way to the ground with the thousands of others . . .. you heard the noise as you approached villa park . . . . You watched and supported . . . . you came away happy or sad in your own little world.
Now everything is dissected and everyone’s an expert (happy to admit that excludes me mind you)
r0bb0: “It seemed to me back then (and it’s even clearer now) that the biggest threat comes from global warming and nuclear offered a means of generating large amounts of low carbon energy.”
Agreed … my primary concern, however, is about the disposal of waste from nuclear plants.
But the following (recently updated) statement perhaps allays some fears…
http://www.world-nuclear.org/information-library/nuclear-fuel-cycle/nuclear-wastes/radioactive-waste-management.aspx
However, the statement that nuclear waste is less than fossil fuel waste is not too re-assuring if we consider the impact of radiated waste if it’s mishandled. Plus the unknown effect on the earth after being dumped into infill sites over a number of years.
John, I worry about nuclear waste too and protested and marched against it back in the days when it used to be dumped at sea. It’s far more controlled now, but also its effects are small and localised compared with what is coming from global warming. Even the disaster of Chernobyl was minor compared with the islands that are already disappearing, coral reefs that are dying etc etc.
Anyway . . . We should probably find a different forum to discuss this eh? 🙂
Canadian Villa,
There is a problem with football blogs although we all want the best for our team passions have a tendency to run high, we all have a differing view of how our club should be run, who should manage it and ultimately who should play, if we was all to pick our starting eleven not many would pick the same side, its one of lifes conundrums.
Steamer is very passionate about our club and possesses a gallows humour I have rarely seen in a football fan, I remember going to an away game on our coach and asked him how he thought we would get on today and he said we would get turned over 5-0.
Later that day coming back from Oldham having won 6-0 I looked at him and said ” you are not very good at this predicting lark are you”.
I will get ST75 to go round his place and give him a clip around the earhole and to tell him to get his sorry arse back here because they don”t like him over on TVB guess what he upset some of those tools as well.
SWV (the voice of reason)
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