The Hallmark Of Champions

Last updated : 22 December 2008 By Tom Vickers

It seems that Villa have finally found out how to win ugly - and what a pretty sight it is.

The Claret and Blue went third on Saturday after a hard fought 1-0 win at West Ham and after Arsenal drew with Liverpool, Villa now find themselves three points clear of fifth spot.

This is in no small part due to two recent late wins at Everton and of course at Upton Park. However, in neither game did Villa play to their full potential.

At Goodison Park, Villa started and ended the game in unbelievable fashion. In between two stunning goals from Steve Sidwell and Ashley Young, Everton dominated proceedings.

The Claret and Blue were lacking strength and lacking direction. But, with the Toffees failing to make their chances stick, Villa took advantage. Young scored two quite brilliant goals to finish off David Moyes' men.

At West Ham, it was a more timid yet similarly intriguing story as James Milner's late cross deflected kindly off of Lucas Neill and into Robert Green's net.

Villa had played well in the first 45 minutes but after the break key men disappeared. Yet, one man stood strong. Brad Friedel kept out Carlton Cole and kept the Hammers at bay. Again Villa snatched the three points.
The hallmark of Champions? Perhaps.

But, surely no one really believes that the title is possible. A few weeks ago they were struggling with the realisation that fourth spot is a possibility.

Now, fans are faced with pundits telling them that Villa, yes Aston Villa, could just sneak under the radar and snatch the most unlikely of titles.

It seems many have joined the Fabio Capello fan club. There are so many sycophants surrounding Villa Park at the moment that the circling vultures are struggling to find their way ahead of the transfer window.

Terry Venables, the man who led England to their equal best finish in a major tournament since the nation won the World Cup in 1966, honestly feels Villa have a chance.

Reporters at Villa games are discussing Liverpool and Chelsea as 'rivals' to Martin O'Neill's young charges.

It's craziness! Or is it?
 
Why can't Villa do it?

Fact: The squad fears no one. Fact: Gabriel Agbonlahor and Ashley Young are feared by even the most experienced centre backs. Fact: Villa are organised to perfection by a managerial genius.

If the side can achieve consistency and no injuries occur (OK big if) then Villa could do it.

If they played as well at home as they do away then a Partridge on top of the Premier league Tree they would be.

No one seems to want to win the title this season but make no mistake Villa fans would cherish it.

Could they really do it? Maybe not, but by aiming for the top they may just find that it is easier to finish fourth. And that would be simply superb.