PeteStan

Yes welcome Gabor. Desperate times. Robert Olejnik is an excellent young prospect and has had some good games for the reserves but I am far from sure he is ready to step up to the Premiership where performance and not making mistakes is key. It will be interesting to see who gets the nod on Saturday! Makes you realise how good Tommy really is and how consistent he has been for us in the last 3+ seasons.

Sorry but we were second best throughout with little positive to take from this game. City looked so much bigger, stronger and quicker to the ball than VILLA and our lack of width and few options took their toll. Here's hoping we are actually better away from home at the moment otherwise December might be a struggle. If anyone can sort it out its MON. Keep the faith. Up the VILLA!

Spot on this post! A wonderful, wonderful day in the swirling rain and wind at a tired old stadium. A classic battling performance from everyone in claret and blue, true grit with that little bit of class to take the points. Winning is sweet but as all VILLA fans know those away wins never come that often and therefore are always so special. I'm proud of all our players today, young and old they gave everything in the cause, which is all we ask. And Martin, I don't care about the hype about you. You're true class and thanks, you have given us all back our pride!

Not a classic by any means, but 3 pts and 6th place can't be too bad after last seasons dross. Plenty of effort being put in now. JPA ran for everything and poor Chris Sutton, who showed a lot of classy touches, looked absolutely shot at the end. Laursen, again in an occasional appearance, looked different class at the back. Great to have Gavin Mccann back, we look so much more competetive when he plays even if his distribution can sometimes let him down. Next two Premiership matches are away. Wouldn't it be nice to get that first ellusive away win now? Anyway well done lads I thought it was a good effort. A pity the ridiculously changing kick off times meant that more couldn't be there to cheer you on!

The run had to come to an end some day. We all know the lack of depth in the squad and it was very well illustrated at Anfield where we just couldn't compete in midfield. Gavin 'the mighty' McCann was once again sorely missed. The fans were, once again, magic though and great to see a manager who took particular time and effort to come across after the final whistle, just as on Tuesday, and recognise that support. Well done Martin, pure class! We just need to get back on track right away next Sunday and build on this excellent start to the season, particularly given the lack of quality and depth in the squad.