Afternoon all The last time I sat down to do a minute-by-minute report, it was for the Derby of Europe. This time it's the Midlands derby. Well, a Midlands derby anyway. I expect less moments of individual brilliance than at the former but also less moments of hilarious calamity, what with how Nelson Dida isn't playing. While I'm setting myself up and grabbing the team news, here's what Stuart James had to say on Villa's brand, spanking new defence - the best in the league. By the way ... What's the world coming to when the best defence in the Premier League has still conceded seven goals in eight games? Only they and Chelsea (eight goals conceded in nine games) have let in less than a goal a game. Can we take this as a positive reflection on improved attacking or a damning indictment of top-flight defences? Meh, it's more... [read full story]
