soccer

Aston Villa 1-3 Newcastle - the fans' verdict

[BBC]

We asked for your thoughts after Saturday's FA Cup game between Aston Villa and Newcastle.

Here are some of your comments:

Aston Villa fans

Matthew: Given the injury crisis Villa are facing and the number of changes Emery made, there are a lot of positives in the way we played for much of the match. But the number of gilt-edged opportunities we're gifting the opposition is a real concern - especially when our game plan relies on defensive solidity and exceeding our very low xG values.

Paul: We shot ourselves in the foot twice. Firstly, with the sending off and secondly, with the lazy play for the third Newcastle goal. We're really starting to feel the absence of McGinn, Tielemans and Kamara. With them on the pitch, it becomes comfortable. Worried our season will start to fizzle out now if we're not careful.

Keith: Memo to Mr Emery: Please tell your defenders to stop trying to play keep-ball in their third of the pitch. It inevitably leads to disaster, as shown by the third goal from Newcastle. Too many goals have been conceded this way. Are we to miss out on a Champions League place on goal difference again?

Gavin: A moment of madness changed the game. But only slightly disappointed, as we've got bigger fish to fry - top five and the Europa please, Unai.

Newcastle fans

Geoff: Excellent discipline from Newcastle. Away from home and playing a top team they ran Villa ragged. They looked sharp. They were full of running. This display and midweek against Spurs has put the away hoodoo to bed. Trippier didn't look so sharp but the others were really active and gave us a fine win.

George: Much better in last two away games. Woltemade needs to keep up front and not come deep into midfield. Gets in the box and hey presto... goal. Osula up front needs balls played over defence to run on to, not to feet. Defence much better with Big Dan Burn in it. Tonali must be kept out of the clutches of other clubs. With no Bruno, he is crucial to our defence and attack.

Liam: To come away with the win - despite still playing against 13 men in the second half - is a massive result. It's probably worth us focusing on the cup now, with our league form so patchy. Watch us get City, Arsenal or Liverpool, away, in the next round...

Ken: To keep calm after linesman and referee clangers they must be applauded for a master class of very good football and a much deserved win.

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