bjorn

Another great story by you, Brian.

Keep it up

Brian of Nazareth

thanks very much for the kind comments

Thursday 15th – The Sun

Villa fail to break down Frogs.
By I.M.A. Simpleton

Aston Villa’s European adventure is still alive after a good draw with Troyes FC, who come from France. Ronny Johnsen was brilliant in defence and was a starting point for any Villa attack but they could not break down a difficult French side.

The French defence, who seemed even more resistant to the Villa attack than eating good old BRITISH beef, were boring and unadventurous. Their style of play was a very cautious one which was a surprise given the home advantage they had. Maybe they were intimidated by their superior ENGLISH opponents.

Their tactics showed no risk taking and were the typical cautious approach of the French. All they could muster was a long shot at Peter Enckelman’s face which will leave him needing make up over night. Villa however, showed true British grit but just couldn’t hit the old onion bag.

Final Score 0-0

The Sun’s Star: Ronny Johnsen – did everything a defender could and more.

Brian of Nazareth

Saturday 17th – Telegraph Supplement

As the 2002-2003 season approaches the Daily Telegraph brings you a preview of all 20 Premiership clubs.

Arsenal

Arsène Wenger’s side will once again be considered favourites amongst the bookies for the title this season with their strong pacy attack and formidable midfield. The addition of Rafael Marquez to the squad will strengthen an already strong midfield when as expected his work permit arrives. Thierry Henry will once again lead from the front and his goals will be crucial to any silverware that come Arsenal’s way this season. Their one problem could arise from a problematic defence that is both aging and lacking in quality as the old guard has still not been effectively replaced.

Star Man – Patrick Vieira– the robust midfielder will be crucial to a successful year for Arsenal. Probably the best central midfielder player in the country if not the world. Hard working, determined and skilful.
One To Watch - Jermaine Pennant -This youngster has been tipped for a long time to make a big impact on the Premiership. This is a make or break season for the youngster.

Predictions

Premiership: 2nd
FA Cup: Winners
League Cup: 4th Round
Champions League: Quarter Finals



Aston Villa

There has been a fresh lift given to this sleeping giant of the midlands. The atmosphere is a much more positive one following the departures of the old board including Doug Ellis and Mark Ansell that caused so much friction and angst amongst fans and even managers. With a new board, led by successful businessman and Villa fanatic Howard Hodgson the future could be bright. The signing of Kim Kallstrom will certainly add quality to Villa’s weakest area – their midfield. A solid defence and a wealthy of options upfront would point to a decent squad. However injuries to the squad would hit Villa hard as they lack depth to sustain good momentum for an entire season, which means the cups are likely to be the biggest source of success. It will be interesting to see how fan Rod Davies copes as the manager now.

Star Man – Olof Mellberg this commanding centre back had an excellent season last year and his partnership with Ronny Johnsen will prove vital to a successful Aston Villa side.
One to Watch – Stefan Moore. This young striker smashed club records in the reserves last year with almost 50 goals and this season could see the emergence of a first class forward.


Predictions

Premiership: 6th
FA Cup: Semi-finals
League Cup Winners
Intertoto – Winners / UEFA Cup – 4th Round



Birmingham City

Newly promoted Birmingham will be looking to achieve anything higher than 17th this year in their first season back in the top flight in 17 years. It will be a tough campaign for Steve Bruce’s side but they do have some very good players their and the finances to attract players of sufficient calibre to keep them in the top flight. Injuries and suspensions could play a vital role in their success this season. Of course for the fans the derby matches with Aston Villa will also be reasons to be happy or depressed. Let’s hope the fans behave themselves in these potential vitriolic clashes.

Star Man Christophe Dugarry– the enigmatic Frenchman will be very important to the Blues this year as his skill and goals will be essential. Consistency and mood swings are a potential problem however.
One to Watch – Darren Carter the young midfielder recently signed a long term contract and of course he was the man who struck the winning play off penalty against Norwich to get Blues here, the most expensive kick in football as it was called. There is certainly potential within him and he could possibly develop into a real star.

Predictions

Premiership – 15th
FA Cup – 3rd Round
League Cup – Quarter Finals


Blackburn Rovers

Graeme Souness’ side has put together a very capable squad in his time at Ewood Park and the one time Premiership Champions will looking to establish themselves as a top six side. With European football earned last year through their League Cup success over Tottenham Hotspur this season has the potential to be a very successful one for the Lancashire side. The partnership between Andy Cole and Dwight Yorke will be vital if the club want to be challenging for domestic honours on a regular basis again.

Star Man Damien Duff The highly rated Irishman will be critical in ensuring European football next year again and with front men of the calibre of Sukur Yorke and Cole to provide to, there is certainly the quality to latch onto his service. A big season though might lead to bigger fish come calling.
One to Watch Martin Taylor This young centre has established himself over recent seasons as one of the best young centre backs in the league and following on from call ups to the U21 side this season is a big one for the towering and strong defender. Consistency is vital.


Predictions

Premiership 7th
FA Cup Quarter Finals
League Cup – 4th Round
UEFA Cup – 3rd Round



Bolton Wanderers

Well Sam Allardyce’s side having performed heroics last season to avoid relegation will again be in for a struggle. So far Phil Gartside’s favourite manager hasn’t added to his squad and he could face trouble for this. However Sam is known for getting the best out his players and is a great motivator, which is why unsurprisingly he was linked with the vacant managerial position at Aston Villa earlier this summer. The squad is filled with quality experience with the likes of Campo and Djorkaeff to lift the squad. Remaining injury free and consistent is going to be the major factor in the outcome of Bolton’s season, which is likely to prove just as emotional for the fans as last year.

Star Man Jay-Jay Okocha. The dazzling Nigerian has an arsenal of skills about him and it is this array of qualities that Bolton will rely on to grab them the vital points. Able to score from almost anywhere he wouldn’t look out of place at any of the other 19 clubs.
One To Watch - Kevin Nolan. The England Under 21 midfielder burst on the scene with some starry eyed performances but he has failed to live up to expectations and tailed off last year. However there’s no questioning the talent in this boy and this season he could be pivotal in the Bolton midfield.

Predictions
Premiership 18th
FA Cup 4th Round
League Cup 2nd Round

Brian of Nazareth

Charlton Athletic

One of the most well run clubs in the Premiership, Charlton have snuck in quietly and have now established themselves as capable of competing regularly with their counterparts. However Alan Curbishley cannot afford to stand still if they are to remain a Premiership side. With another quiet summer, the club will have to hope for an injury free season and a high level of consistency if they are to make progress this season. More players will prbably be needed however to ensure they club has sufficient cover for players who suffer injury or loss of form.

Star Man Richard Rufus. The centre back has a vast amount of experience for his age and was pivotal in Charlton’s success last year. He leads the line well and has been tipped to represent England before. Whilst not quite that good it is indicative of how well he has performed. More of the same is needed.
One To Watch Scott Parker. This promising midfielder has displaced Mark Kinsella as the central figure in midfield and at 20 is well placed to progress to the highest level. He still has a lot of work to do but in this Charlton side it is highly likely he’ll shine.

Predictions

Premiership 16th
FA Cup 4th Round
League Cup – quarterfinals


Chelsea

It is well known that Ken Bates craves success and Champions League football and he has certainly invested heavily in the squad. Quality emanates from all areas of the squad from Carlo Cudicini in goal to Jimmy Floyd Hasselbank up front. Chelsea have all the ingredients for a successful season but they have a history of serious inconsistency. Defeats to minor European sides have been all too common for the London side and whilst they have beaten the best in the league they tend to struggle to overcome the weaker sides. However with no additions to the squad this year there is more consistency within the squad and Claudio Ranieri is likely to be celebrating for one reason or another come May.

Star Man Gianfranco Zola. The diminutive Italian continues to light up the Premiership and in what could be his swansong year in England, Zola is likely to be there again tormenting defences with his mix of the delightful and sublime.
One To Watch [i] Carlton Cole. This young striker is widely tipped by the club to be a star for the future who could replace the moody no 9 Jimmy Floyd Hasselbank.

Predictions

Premiership – 3rd
FA Cup – Runners Up
League Cup – Semi Finals
UEFA Cup – semi finals

Everton

Another sleeping giant of the past are hopefully of a change of fortunes. The Merseyside club have only spent 4 years outside the topflight in their history and will be celebrating their 100th year in the top flight this year. However with the recent Appointment of David Moyes, the fans and staff are looking forward to a season for the first time in a while as moods have changed. A good young manager and some good youngsters indicate a better future for the previously relegation threatened club. However David Moyes will have to be at his best to get the most out of an average set of players and with limited funds, progress should be steady this year.

Star Man Joseph Yobo – This young defender could prove to be a key signing by David Moyes. The Nigerian is highly rated by many managers, although not Marseilles it seems. Needs to be a rock at the bock to support a weak midfield.
One to Watch [i] Remember the name: Wayne Rooney. This highly rated youngster is being tipped to become a legend at both club and country level. His performances for the youth team last year were outstanding and he is widely regarded to make an immediate impact this season.

Predictions

Premiership 13th
FA Cup 5th Round
League Cup Semi Finals


Fulham
Chairman Mohammed Al Fayed is known for his large bank balance and ownership of Harrods. If his club Fulham are to progress then he is going to have to get out his check book and invest in his side if his ambitions of European football are to be realised. This year’s adventures abroad are already over and their one major signing of Mark Kinsella is not the kind of calibre that will see them match the ambitions they aim for. Jean Tigana will have to rely on his French contingent to be at their best for most of the season if European football is to be assured. Instead the squad are perfectly capable of being sucked into a relegation battle unless they are very careful.

Star Man Steed Malbranque. The French midfielder from Lyon is a very promising player with a great ability to terrorise defences and score outrageous goals. Will be crucial to Fulham surviving these season.
One To Watch Zatyiah Knight. The young defender has shown promise in since his spell at Peterborough and now he is developing into class centre back and in a big season for Fulham his performances could be key.

Predictions

Premiership 19th
FA Cup 3rd Round
League Cup 3rd Round


Leeds United

Well John McKenzie has taken a risk with the appointment of unproven manager Paul Appleton as manager so this year could well be a difficult season for the Yorkshire side. With finances suffering after serious over spending on players and wage bills rising, add to that the maintenance of club goldfish and the club is unlikely to add the necessary quality to the squad that is needed to seriously challenge the top teams again. However a good UEFA Cup run could help that situation. There ae still plenty of good players at Elland Road but for how long the club can keep them depends largely on any success that can be achieved this season.

Star Man Harry Kewell is going to be key for Leeds United this season. With pace to burn, a powerful shot and skill in abundance the Australian attacker will have to be on top form to enjoy silverware this season. Either that or he’ll have to move – which is always a strong possibility.
One to Watch James Milner. The young midfielder has been tipped to succeed at a high level and with a weak first team midfield ahead of him there is always the chance of breaking through this year. If he does it will be interesting to see how he copes.

Predictions

Premiership 12th
FA Cup Quarter Finals
League Cup Runners Up
UEFA Cup Quarter Finals

Brian of Nazareth

Liverpool

After qualifying for the champions league last year, Gerard Houllier will be looking to take the club even further and a title challenge is the least that will be expected by the fans given the progress already made since the Frenchman took sole charge of the club. The squad appears to be strong in all areas but it will be interesting to see how the new arrivals cope with the demands of English Football. There’s a difference between Sapporo and Middlesbrough for a start. If all the players are on top of the game Liverpool are certainly capable of beating anyone consistency has been a problem for the Scouse side.

Star Man Steven Gerrard. Although Michael Owen is a quality England striker, it is the work and creativity that stems from the midfielder that will be crucial to Liverpool. Vital in supplying the other strikers with the chances to score. An off form Gerrard will hinder Liverpool severely.
One To Watch John Welsh The young defender has been tipped to succeed at the highest level. If so then this is to be the season he shows it. Pacy, hard working and a firm tackler – he has the attributes to live up to his billing. He just has to prove it now.

Predictions

Premiership 5th
FA Cup Semi Finals
League Cup quarter finals
Champions League – 2nd Group Stage


Manchester City

Newly promoted Manchester City will want to prove that they are by no means here to make up the numbers. With plenty of support financially the club has invested heavily in the squad and with Kevin Keegan at the helm, their squad would appear too strong to be fighting a battle at the bottom end of the Premiership whilst also not quite experienced or strong enough to mount a European charge. Cup success is the best City can hope for this season – although if Nicholas Anelka and Robbie Fowler can establish a successful partnership they could surpass all expectations and prove to be quite a surprise package.

Star Man Robbie Fowler– nothing beats natural talent and this man has plenty of it. Surprisingly rejected by Houllier and struck by injuries, Fowler has work to do to regain his form, but, when he does, Premiership defences beware. A true talent.
One To Watch Shaun Wright-Phillips This promising attacking midfielder has a lot to learn, but he also has the talent to work with. Pacy and lethal, if he gets a good consistent run in the side he will be a handful for most sides.

Predictions

Premiership 14th
FA Cup – 5th Round
League Cup – 3rd Round


Manchester United

Well, the most successful side in the Premiership’s History must surely be considered strong favourites to be right in the thick of the title race come may. Quality runs through the squad from back to front. The midfield will clearly be very important in supporting Van Nistelrooy up front, and with no new faces in the summer he certainly has the pressure to score firmly upon him. However he is a proven goal scorer as he showed last year and with a penchant for winning penalties almost every match, continuing his fine scoring record should be no problem. If there are doubts about this is side then it is the defence but I don’t think anyone will question Sir Alex Ferguson’s ability as a manager.

Star Man There’s so many to choose from but Roy Keane will be vital to winning the midfield battles. No one works as hard as the Irish man and this could be his last real chance to be a part of a Champions League winning team.
One To Watch Another Irishman, young John O’Shea could prove to be Ferguson’s gem in the defence. Very promising and versatile, he could quite easily become the next Roy Keane.

Predictions

Premiership 1st
FA Cup quarter finals
League Cup – 3rd Round
Champions League – Runners Up


Middlesbrough

Steve Gibson has invested millions of pounds into his club over recent years and he will be hoping for a return on his investment under Steve McLaran The former Derby, Manchester United and part time England coach has spent wisely, building from the back with Gareth Southgate and Ugo Ehiogu – long term partners back in their Aston Villa days. The purchase of youngsters such as Chris Riggott and Malcolm Christie is a good balance with the experience of quality players such as Juninho. There are good players here but they need to start gelling together effectively for a European challenge to be a serious consideration. Too good to go down – probably, but only time will tell.

Star Man Juninho – when fit the little samba star is a delight to behold and the trickery will certainly be needed by Middlesbrough if they are to start winning matches against ‘lesser’ opposition. If he stays fit – he will be a vital asset.
One to Watch Paul Robinson – another young player bought in from division one – this time from Watford. The defender has the attributes to go on to win major honours and whether that is with Middlesbrough, no one can say but he will play an important role in the success of the north east club.

Predictions

Premiership – 9th
FA Cup – 3rd Round
League Cup – 4th Round


Newcastle United

The Magpies will be hungry for success this year after qualifying for the Champions League least year. Despite the club’s stature they still haven’t won meaningful silverware for decades and Sir Bobby Robson will be desperate to correct this statistic. With a quality midfield and a front line led by the retired England striker Alan Shearer they should do well. The season will also be a big test of Titus Bramble and Jonathan Woodgate in defence as providing a solid base will be very important to a successful Newcastle side. The recent signings of Olivier Dacourt and Muzzy Izzet will add squad depth to an already rich midfield.

Star Man Although Alan Shearer will be a critical element for the Geordies; the key man will be Gary Speed in the centre of midfield. The Welshman will play a crucial holding role and is an excellent linkman from defence to attack.
One to Watch Hugo Viana. The Portuguese midfielder arrived from Portugal for a costly fee and as a result has a lot to live up to. However going on performances for the U21s, including a terrific game against England, this boy could develop into something very special for Bobby Robson’s side.

Predictions

Premiership 4th
FA Cup Quarter finals
League Cup 4th Round
Champions League – first group stage

Brian of Nazareth

Southampton

Perennial relegation strugglers, Southampton have found a saviour in Gordon Strachan. The former Coventry manager has done a creditable so far in lifting the image of the southerners. They still have some way to go if they are to be established as a solid mid table or top half side, but there is no longer an automatic link with relegation fodder. With Strachan getting so much out of an ordinary bunch of players, consistency will be important to reaching the top half. With added quality in Beattie and the Svenssons’ it will be a period of consolidation for the Saints and their fans shouldn’t have to worry too much about a relegation battle.

Star Man – James Beattie. His goal tally will account for a significant proportion of the Saints overall total and he will have to be on top form to propel the Saints much beyond 9th or 10th. On a personal note an International call up may not be too far away if he can perform consistently.
One to Watch Fabrice Fernandes. The young French winger will add some creativity and inspiration not seen since the retirement of Matt le Tissier. Fast and with a good eye for goal he has the potential to be a real surprise this year.

Predictions

Premiership 11th
FA Cup 5th Round
League Cup 2nd Round


Sunderland

This year will be a tough one for the Black Cats as they attempt to recover from last year’s 17th. Fans are more demanding than ever nowadays and after overachieving 2 years ago, nothing less than mid table will do for the fans. Sadly in light of the other teams who have been promoted and the increased talent of clubs of similar stature, this season could easily be one of woe for the Sunderland fans. The stadium befits top class football, but unless significant investment is made into this side, this won’t come from the home side. There are plenty of youngsters here who with proper coaching could develop into something promising, but at present they aren’t up to standard and if the club relies too heavily on them then the club is in for a rough ride this year and new manager Howard Wilkinson will be under greater pressure than ever before.

Star Man Kevin Phillips. An England international who surely needs to be plying his trade elsewhere if he is make a realistic challenge for the England squad. He will have to be at his best to save Sunderland from mediocrity or worse, relegation.
One to Watch Matthew Piper. Signed from Leicester the young midfielder faces a big season with the Black Cats. He has been built up to be star player of the future- but in a poor Sunderland side it will be a test of character and ability to shine in unfortunate conditions.

Predictions

Premiership – 20th
FA Cup – 3rd Round
League Cup – 2nd Round


Tottenham Hotspur

The fans at White Hart Lane haven’t won a major trophy for over 10 years now and with neighbours Arsenal seemingly improving year by year, picking up Championships and FA Cups, there will be an overwhelming desire to develop a squad which can challenge for North London supremacy at the very least, with a cup or two for good measure. At present Glenn Hoddle does not have the resources to cope with the big guns and a combination of wise investment and good coaching will be required if Tottenham are to make any inroads into the top 6 side. A weakness up front could prove to be the significant flaw this year.

Star Man Stephen Carr. The Irish right back has progressed enormously since he began here as a trainee, so much so in fact that he is considered by many to be the best right back in the league. Another good year will be important for Spurs and perhaps even more so for Carr, who might be prepared to leave if honours look a long way off at White Hart Lane
One to Watch . Ledley King. The young defender has developed into an assured centre back and with Glenn Hoddle’s guidance; he has the potential to be an extremely talented and accomplished defender.

Predictions

Premiership – 8th
FA Cup – 5th Round
League Cup – Quarter Finals


West Bromwich Albion

The newly promoted “ Boing Boing Baggies” will be facing their sternest test this year in the Premiership but with Gary Megson at the helm they certainly have a manager capable of getting the most out of his personnel. This he will have to do and more to keep the Hawthorns side from slipping back into the Nationwide. Whilst he has been busy stocking up his reserves, signing several youngsters, it is senior squad where the most work is needed. Competent some of the players may be but there are too many who are simply not of sufficient standard to maintain West Brom’s place in the top flight and the addition of Port Vale’s Marc-Bridge Wilkinson will do little to allay fears of a quick drop. However if anyone can perform miracles it’s Gary Megson.

Star Man Jason Koumas. The Welsh winger will be pivotal to whether West Brom stay up or not this season and as one of the few squad members who could survive in the top flight, a move to a bigger club could materialise if he can prove it with West Brom.
One to Watch Adam Chambers. The versatile midfielder who can also play in defence is another talent who could enjoy relative success in the top flight. A strong pacy figure, he is also likely to be the source of many of West Brom’s goals.

Predictions

Premiership 17th
FA Cup – 4th Round
League Cup – 2nd Round


West Ham United

Glenn Roeder performed a miracle last season in recovering from a dreadful start to finish high up in the standings. Yet, considering the players the club has, they should not be in that situation in the first place. A midfield to envy and supremely talented forwards should not be struggling – which is why the defence is such a shambles. This could be West Ham’s undoing again this year if Thomas Repka and Christian Daily don’t shape up fast. The end of last season showed promising signs however – and as long as this continues the Hammers should be well safe of any relegation woes.

Star Man Joe Cole. The extremely talented midfielder has the ability to become a star for England in the Paul Gascoigne mould, but hopefully without the added side effects. Able to create chances from nothing, Cole needs to work on limiting his show boating to the minimum if he is to be at his most effective.
One to Watch Glen Johnson. The young right back is said to be close to breaking into the first team, and considering Gary Breen appears to be his competition – an appearance should materialise sooner rather than later. Assured, a good crosser and with a maturity beyond his years, it is clear why coaches at Upton Park are enthusing about his prospects.

Predictions

Premiership – 10th
FA Cup – 5th Round
League Cup – 3rd Round

Brian of Nazareth

Monday Sport – 20th August

The Sun – Super Goals
by Ed Lesstwit

In a ravishing display of brilliant football this weekend 21 goals were scored with 14 of them from the home sides which means 9 were scored from the away end Sun readers!

The most exciting match by far was at Anfield, where Newcastle held Liverpool to a 3-3 draw, with Michael Owen ( 26 ) and El Hadji Diouf ( 30, 47 ) putting the home side into a big 3-0 win, but Newcastle came back strongly as goals from Shola Ameobi ( 72 ), a Salif Diao own goal ( 73) and an Alan Shearer bullet ( 76 ) sealed an astonishing comeback. Further chances came and went, including a missed penalty for both sides with Michael Owen and Alan Shearer having their attempts saved well, before the ref blew for full time. A real corker of a match.

Elsewhere on the opening day, there were home wins for West Ham over Chelsea, Charlton over newcomers Birmingham City and Tottenham over West Brom. Everton were the only team to succeed away from home as they defeated Blackburn Rovers 2-1.
The Sunday games produced an excellent victory for Aston Villa, who defeated a strong Middlesbrough side by 3 goals to 1 and the first Manchester derby spoils went to the Red Devils who overcame their neighbours at Old Trafford quite easily with a 2-0 victory.

See pages 28-30 for full match reports.

New Boss sees Brilliant Display
by Jacob Benton

As the fans flocked to see Rod Davies’ first Premiership match in charge their was an air of expectancy around the ground. 41007 filled the ground, which is even more impressive given the match was on Sky TV as well. This was the beginning of a new dawn for Villa fans and the players certainly sent them home happy with a top notch performance.

Middlesbrough for all their worth, never got the game together and players, Gareth Southgate, Ugo Ehiogu and George Boateng were constantly booed throughout which certainly seemed to affect their game, regardless of what they may tell you.

However despite the praises the Birmingham side received it took a long time before they stepped up a gear or four to dispose of the North East side. It was Marcus Allback who opened the season’s account for Villa with an accurate shot from an acute angle, beating Schwarzer at his near post. Once that goal went in though the match really kicked off with chances a plenty for both sides until Villa doubled their lead.

It was another from Allback, this time from the spot after Chris Riggott was adjudged to have pushed the Swede over, although replays will show this was a slightly harsh decision. The typically cool Swede tucked the penalty away with firm precision – but just when it seemed Villa would go on to dominate the match they handed Borough a lifeline – through a bizarre Ronny Johnsen own goal. The Norwegian was under no pressure when he brought the ball out of the penalty area. Clearly unable to see who to pass to he flicked the ball back towards Enckelman, or so he thought, but the Finn was taken completely unawares and could only watch the ball bounce over the line for 2-1.

After the break though it was one way traffic and the fans finally breathed a sigh of relief on 78 minutes when Mustapha Hadji sealed the points with a fine acrobatic effort to send the Villains into raptures. The Middlesbrough threat had been put out and the final minutes were a cruise.

Sun Star Man Marcus Allback – central to Villa’s success today as defenders struggled to cope with the big man’s presence. 2 goals which were well deserved and a magnum to boot means a fine day all round for the 28 year-old.

Tuesday 20th August – Daily Mail

Soccer Snapshots

With the transfer window closing in just a few days, clubs across the country are busy finalising and completing deals. Once again at Aston Villa, Michael Dawson is said to want a move away from the City Ground and another young Swede, Alexander Farnerud has been telling Swedish papers that he wants to follow in the footsteps of his friend Kim Kallstrom and join Aston Villa.

It is unknown if Davies has the money to swoop for both but with Hodgson’s business supposed to be enjoying considerable success, finding any extra money might not be such a problem.

Muzzy Izzet will finally complete his move to Newcastle later today after agreeing terms. The midfield ace has been wanting out of Leicester for some time now, but his wages have always become an obstacle for an interested sides in the past. He should be registered in time for tomorrow’s clash with Aston Villa.

Brian of Nazareth

Thursday 22nd Birmingham Post

Allback Strikes as Hitz Proves Point
by John Riggert

Aston Villa continued their fine start with an impressive point at St. James Park, not traditionally a happy hunting ground for the Villains with 8 defeats and just the one victory in past years up north.

However for long periods of the game Newcastle were the better side and will no doubt feel aggrieved that they didn’t take all 3 points, especially after a first half where they outscored Villa in almost every department, from shots to possession, but could not beat a resolute Peter Enckelman in the Villa goal.

The game began in fine spirits as chances aplenty were created for both sides, with Villa’s Kim Kallstrom going closest with a 20 yard drive that forced a fine tip over from Shay Given. At the other end however, Gary Speed, with a firm header and a volley from 14 yards was closest to opening the scoring for the Geordie side.

Yet as the game wore on towards half time the home side swept forward more often and any Villa attack was swiftly dealt with. Alan Shearer, leading his side for the 75th time, hit the crossbar with a superb 30-yard free kick and moments later scuffed a shot when it seemed easier to score. The half time whistle couldn’t come soon enough for Villa.

Based on the second half display you have to question why Davies cannot get his players to do that on a regular basis and why it needs a halt time jolt now and again to get them going, as Villa played much better in the second half, winning more of the ball, making their attacks account and began imposing themselves upon the game.

In spite of this renewed effort, for the first 5 minutes it appeared to be merely a continuation of the first half as Newcastle piled the pressure on the Villa defence and eventually scored. Alan Shearer beat Ronny Johnsen in the air to head past Enckelman and the traditional defeat at St James Park seemed set to continue.

Then, Davies introduced Thomas Hitzlesperger to the action replacing a surprisingly poor Ian Taylor. It was probably a key moment in the game as the young German set about tearing into the heart of the Newcastle midfield, winning ball and battle successfully. After the match even Sir Bobby Robson credited the performance of the young midfielder.

“He was a real live wire that young kid there, and he certainly gave them a little impetus. Unfortunately my boys didn’t seem to know what had hit them”(laughing at the hilarious pun he had told). The lack of more action for the young German may be a surprise to some outside of Aston Villa but with Ian Taylor usually at his very best, it has been tough for Hitzlesperger to really hit the mark (ed – enough with puns! )

Villa then continued to put pressure on the Newcastle goal as their football was a treat to behold. Swift counters and inch perfect passing opened up the home side’s defence and chances fell in quick succession to Darius Vassell who shot straight at Given, and Allback who miscued. Was it going to be one of those days?

With anxiety reaching new levels of sweat, the Villains finally made their pressure count with 4 minutes to go as a counter attack, led by Kim Kallstrom forced a corner. Taken by Kachloul, the ball swung over and landed square on the forehead of Marcus Allback who beat Given from close range to tie the match. A deserved point from Rod Davies’ side then, but imagine what this side could do if they can consistently produce this second half display. With Liverpool visiting Villa Park on Saturday it will be interesting to see which Villa turns up.

Newcastle 1 Aston Villa 1 (Allback)

Post Man Of The Match Well for Villa it has to be Thomas Hitzlesperger. It is doubtful whether Villa would have gained anything from the game had it not been for his introduction as he added the fighting zest in midfield. Special mention must also be made for Kim Kallstrom and Marcus Allback who were once again in very good form – and it’s another goal for the Swede.

King Jeff

Any particular reason you've picked Man U to go out early in the League Cup?

This is an absolute gem, Brian, keep it up

Brian of Nazareth

Having completed all the predictions I realised I had 3 runners up for the League Cup ( as well as 4 semi finalists ) So I had to phone up the Daily Telegraph and ask them to correct their glaring error. A York City is now on the cards apparently

Oh and a big thanks for the very kind words

Sunday 24th – The Guardian
Awesome display leaves critics floundered
by Brian Cohen

Aston Villa’s Darius Vassell put a stop to critics of both himself and Rod Davies once and for all yesterday with a scintillating performance in front of the Holte End, grabbing a hat trick as Aston Villa, surprisingly, disposed of their more illustrious guests quite comfortably.

On a beautiful sun soaked afternoon in Birmingham, fans before the game were talking about their side’s prospects for the season and how far they could realistically go this season under an inexperienced manager. Fans who did not support the VFC movement, or DEA (Doug Ellis Apologists ), will surely have their doubts quelled further about Rod Davies’ appointment this afternoon following a fine display from the Midlanders.

Given the manner in which Villa started the Newcastle match in midweek, manager Rod Davies was clearly eager to start brightly from the whistle, and that they most certainly did as Darius Vassell, keen to subside critics of his scoring record at club level, opened the scoring with superb curling shot from 20 yards after just 5 minutes.

Mark Delaney carried the ball forward down the right side of the pitch before playing inside to Ian Taylor, the combative midfielder playing alongside Thomas Hitzlesperger, who then chipped the ball forward to Juan Pablo Angel up front, in the team ahead of a weary Marcus Allback. Angel then had a shot charged down but Vassell picked the ball up, dodged two tackles, slowed, looked up and picked his spot to perfection. A delightful goal from the young international.

Liverpool, looking shell shocked, tried to hit back fast but their composure had been dented by the goal and following a Liverpool corner, Aston Villa broke well and fast, as incisive passing cut through a still edgy Liverpool midfield. Mustapha Hadji, then took the ball down the right wing before sending in a low cross where Vassell connected with it and beat Jerzy Dudek for the second time in 10 minutes.

Villa, now 2 to the good, were cruising. The fans, unsurprisingly, were in jubilant mood and chants in praise of the manager and of their young hero forward began echoing round the stadium, well except for one small section. If it hadn’t been for wasteful finishing, Villa could have been even further ahead by the break but a Vassell scuffed attempt and a Juan Pablo Angel header were both miserably off target.

At the other there was little action for Peter Enckelman as for much of the half he was a spectator, and a distant one too, such was Villa’s dominance in this first period.

Yet in the second half Villa were forced to work for their victory as Liverpool, suitably chastened by Gerard Houllier, started the second half in similar fashion to how Villa did in the first with neat attacking play down the centre of the park that breathed fresh hope into the travelling Liverpool fans. 5 minutes into the second half and they had a goal to cheer about.

Salif Diao, who had had a quiet game up till this point created the chance with an energetic performance in the centre of midfield. Winning the ball from Ian Taylor, he carried it forward slightly and released an accurate through ball for El Hadji Diouf to latch onto. The Senaglese forward then beat a static Jlloyd Samuel before unleashing a firm drive beyond the reach of Peter Enckelman, the Finn evidently shocked by the sudden need to move in this match.

The goal re-opened the encounter as a close contest and Liverpool surged forward in the next 10 minutes desperately seeking an equaliser, however Enckelman, now fully alert, performed well to keep out the threats from Steven Gerrard and Michael Owen as it was Villa’s turn to lose their way slightly. However the introduction of Marcus Allback helped to turn the match back in the home sides favour.

With a target man now up front for Villa, their style of play changed slightly and the approach was less focused on silky passing rhythms but rather a more direct approach to the front men. Not quite route one, but something akin to it. It enabled Villa to bypass a midfield battle they were clearly struggling with and as Marcus Allback threatened the Liverpool defence with his physical presence, the tide began to turn back in Villas favour.

With 15 minutes to go, the result was sealed and many a Villain went home quite contented, with the state of their club. Olof Mellberg, collecting the ball from Enckelman, brought the ball forward before executing a long searching ball towards Kim Kallstrom on the wide right of the field. Kallstrom, who has been making an exciting start to his Villa career, crossed in for Allback who flicked the header onto Darius Vassell who finished with aplomb to complete a well deserved hat trick and hand 3 more points to Rod Davies and Aston Villa.

From this point on the remainder of the match was all Villa as they searched in earnest to compound the misery on a deflated Liverpool side. No further goals did arrive however, but it mattered not as the final whistle was blown and the team in Claret and Blue were sent off the pitch with a standing ovation from their delighted fans.

Afterwards in the post match conference, Davies had a special word or two for his young forward. “ Darius was superb this afternoon. He ran all over the park, creating trouble for the Liverpool defence who just couldn’t handle his pace and trickery. Three very well taken goals were merely the icing on the cake for him this afternoon and it just proves what a talent he really is. I’m sure he’ll continue to terrorise defences like that in the future… well I certainly hope so!”

Aston Villa 3 Liverpool 1 Vassell 3, Diouf

So after 3 matches, Aston Villa are now top of the Premiership table, a dream start for many villains then. If the club can hold on to their stars, such as Man of the Match Darius Vassell, then the club do indeed have a bright future.