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Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-1 Aston Villa |
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Written by Administrator
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Saturday, 24 October 2009 |
One goal and one point each in a derby game that just didn't live up the the hype and expectations.
O'Neill, as expected stayed with the XI that started and did so well in the Chelsea game but Luke Young, back from injury was named in the squad for the first time this season.
The Villa might have gone ahead inside the first minute when a long Friedel goalkick evaded everyone to bounce into the path of the rushing Agbolahor. Unfortunately the in-form striker could only strike a tame effort straight at Hennessy in goal.
Wolves countered and a long through ball to Doyle saw Dunne tug at the player who, commendably try to stay on his feet. It would have been a harsh penalty if given, though.
The rain started becoming a steady downpour which did not help the sometimes frenetic play with both sides giving the ball away.
The home side had the edge in position and momentum as the Villa struggled to compete with their opponents energy and the conditions in a thoroughly forgettable first half.
The second half started in bright sunshine and the Villans picked up the pace and Sidwell really should have done better when the ball was worked into the left corner by Ashley Young and Milner. The ginger haired midfielder completely mistimed his free header from 8yds when the cross was whipped in.
More unimaginitive midfield play followed from both sides and imagination and guile were at a premium.
Young screwed a 20yd effort wide of the far post and Sidwell might have atoned for his earlier miss when a corner droppred to him inside the box but his scorching effort was blocked by Dunne.
Warnock was needlessly booked following two exchanges with the assistant ref.
Carew, who had been well marshalled by the centre-backs was replaced by Heskey with 20 mins remaining.
Just when it looked like the game would stay scoreless the Villa conjured up the opener.
The ball was played in from the left across the box to Heskey. He might have taken a shot but played the ball into Agbonlahor's feet on the edge of the six-yard box. Despite a poor first touch he was left clear as Craddock's momentum allowed the forward to swivel and tuck the ball into the net in front of the once again vociferous travelling faithful.
Wolves immediately pressed for the equaliser and they didn't have to wait too long.
Three minutes after going behind they pushed men into the box and a rash challenge by Sidwell brought down Milijas. Waiting for an advantage, that didn't materialise ref Walton pointed to the spot.
Ebanks-Blake's spot kick was lashed high and straight, giving the Villa 'keeper no chance.
The last 7 minutes contained more excitement that the first eighty and if someone was going to get the three points it might just have been Wolves.
No more goals were forthcoming hoewwever, and a point a piece seemed to be fair.
Wolves battled for their reward while Villa, who did not look like last week's heroes, managed to grind out theirs.
Tuesday sees the second of a four games away from home when they travel to Sunderland for the 4th round of the Carling Cup when O'Neill will probably make a series of changes.
Next week we travel to Everton before a midweek visit to the east end of London to play the Hammers.
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