Another Vital Match Report v Baggies

Villa V WBA (1-1) Bent, Long Att. 34,489 MOM. Delph

We started the game at a very low tempo which is no surprise seeing the lads were at a high tempo for 120 minutes in Manchester 5 days before. It was for all to see that there was a small hangover from Tuesday but one we can also let them off for. It took us about 15 minutes to get going and it was really influenced by the tenacity and running of Brett Holman who for me played yet another MOM game again, brilliant throughout.

We had the best of the following 30 minutes and really Benteke should of had a few, we should have gone into half time in the lead at 2-0 and I think we would of gone on to win, this was however not what happened. Personally I think Benteke's hold up play and the way he bought the midfield into play was good at times, but frustrating in spells which didn't help with a few groans from the crowd you could see in his body language it was getting to him.

West Brom definitely started the second half brightly and deservedly took a 1-0 lead minutes before they had a goal ruled off for offside, you would of thought the defence would have picked up on Long getting into so much space and having no defender around him, they didn't however.

One concern from the game was the defence did seem to be out of position alot, but remember none of these players have played together for long, including Guzan, so I think with time this will come. Guzan was good throughout, Lowton passed a few astray but still had a solid performance to add to his great start, Vlaar and Clark will become a good partnership with time but still were found in no mans land a few times. Star player for me in defence was definitely Joe Bennett good going forward and quick at getting back, reminds me of Ashley Cole when he burst on the scene as he has alot of energy.

1-0 down and then a great triple substitution, something we lacked last year was a bench, Bent, N'Zogbia and Bannan. All 3 played there part in the build up and the execution of the goal, I though Bannan was great when he came on and I am not a big admirer. Bent made lovely finish in his homeland the 6 yard box.

1-1 really a fair result in the end.

The midfield for me Delph, KEA and Holman were again very good but little creativity may be one small concern, however with Delph in the side we have someone who can get on the ball make things happen and good god he puts in a shift. MOM went to Delph a little surprised by the Villa faithful as we expected Holman, but Delph did do good. {feel free to vote for the Vital Villa man of the match in the current poll folks. ed}

Gabs had a quieter game than Man City but for me still had a good game, Gabs and Bent v Tottenham me thinks.

Overall bright signs if you compare to McLeish we have an attacking team which is young passionate and hungry and things really can only get better.

The football we are playing at times is sensational and the buzz around the place is amazing. The Holte end is back roaring again and I really hope we do well in the C1 cup. I still think we will kick into gear late Nov.

Lets get behind the lads and keep them going.

Cheers and all feedback whatever it is welcome.

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