Ho Hum, Bayern Dispatched, Here Come United

Despite a night that will live long in Villans’ memories, Unai Emery immediately switched his focus from Bayern Munich to Manchester United following his side’s massive 1-0 victory under the floodlights. One hopes the players soon followed suit. But it was certainly something to savor, knocking off the German giants in the competition once again in what seemed like a fixture of destiny.

Bayern started brightly, pressing hard and hunting in packs. And while Villa could occasionally play through, Bayern maintained a 2-1 ratio of possession throughout the match. But that seemed to have been expected, and Villa were largely content to go long as often as not to bypass the pressure. Ollie looked to have the better of Bayern’s CBs, and indeed was brought down on a break that more than likely would’ve yielded a clear goal-scoring opportunity. The ref bottled it, not even awarding a foul. Pau Torres then seemed to have opened the scoring, but Jacob Ramsey had wondered offside during the move.

As the second half wore on, it appeared both sides just might have been willing to settle for a draw until Torres played in Captain Chaos who coolly bypassed Neuer with a fabulous, instinctive finish. From there, it was Emi Martinez’s time to play the hero as Bayern pushed for a point.

Lots more to be said, but I think it already has been. Everyone stepped up and dug in. They stuck to the plan and yielded few big chances. And a raucous, roaring Villa Park enjoyed a historic evening that only confirmed Villa know who they are and what they’re about. We may not boast the biggest names, but neither are we cowed. With Emery at the helm, we’re going to stand a chance.

Then you know it’s real because United come calling at the weekend. You won’t hear Emery whinging about it, either. I have no idea what to expect, but I do know ten Hag’s job may well be on the line and it’ll be interesting to see whether his players will fight for him. I’ve not watched them much, but I’ve read about the poor displays, lethargy, disjointed pressing, basically being all over the shop. Doesn’t seem like they’ve shown much affection for him so far. But you never know.

What I also know is that for whatever reason, United have long been one of those bogey sides for us. I also remember Emery’s first game in charge.

So while the disappointing draw with Ipswich has been wiped right out of Villans’ minds after Wednesday’s heroics, Villa stand a real chance of starting to change the balance between them and one of the chief antagonists. They should be flying high, and I wouldn’t really want to bet against them.

Over to you.