"Good luck sorting out Aston Villa" was my words when I met Graham Taylor as he was walking towards the VIP entrance at Highfield before Coventry-Millwall last season. Although I didn't have much faith in him even then... So I knew he would need it.

I got a seat near the executive area that day (us Scandinavians know how to get a good deal from the girls in the VIP-reception/ticket office, even if we arrive 10 minutes before kick off!!!). I could see a few prominent faces. Quite close to me was a manager with ambition. He had taken an average Premiership side to the top a few times with little or no help from his board. He had finally had enough of all the missed opportunities and "resigned" a few months earlier. I had faith in him. You guess who... About 10 seats below sat the "YES-man" who I fear will take us down, if not this, probably next season. The next day I could see our new "star striker" GT had just bought and has shown so much faith in since. We lost 1-0 against Leeds that day. And we also play them at our last game of this season at Elland Road. Could be a very big game. And Graham has shown this is not his type of games (16.09.02 and 03.03.03).

I guess I'm a "yid" in April: Sat Apr 05 2003 Barclaycard Premiership Tottenham v Birmingham 15:00 Sat Apr 12 2003 Barclaycard Premiership Leeds United v Tottenham 15:00

And probably even more a fan of Southampton and James Beattie... Sat Apr 05 2003 Barclaycard Premiership Southampton v West Ham Utd 15:00 Sat Apr 19 2003 Barclaycard Premiership Southampton v Leeds United 15:00 Mon Apr 21 2003 Barclaycard Premiership Birmingham v Southampton 15:00

Sat May 03 2003 Barclaycard Premiership Southampton v Bolton 17:35

Go Saints..!

Looking for a concert I had recorded, I went through som video tapes on Sunday. Suddenly the highlights from Villa-Fulham appeared. One Angel started the game and scored. He was subbed at half time. (See the picture if you don't remember what he looks like)

His replacement, Allbäck, who I haven't seen much of either, scored also.

Graham, I guess you prefer "your way" and 6'7" waste of space... It's your choice and it could take us down. Sad isn't it? But you'll get your money anyway from Uncle Doug, don't worry. Is it 30 silver pieces or even more a week?

Good news. We escaped a fine for 03.03.03. I was there and I don't regret going. It was the best atmosphere I have experienced at VP. Shame about the team and tactics though...

Dion Dublin: Why didn't you give Savage a REAL headbutt when you're going to get sent off anyway? I must admit that the bastard is a master in getting players sent off...

Got to see a few examples of police brutality too after the game. They didn't have any control at all, just charged anyone (including me).

And as always; I like to finish on a positive note...

Emin

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