Blog: Hope at Villa

Everyone was shocked when we lost last week, but perhaps we shouldn't have been, writes Villa blogger Gregg Williams, as we haven't won 3 league games in a row since February 2004.

If we have European ambitions we have to pick up points on our travels, and the fact that we didn't even look like scoring was cause for concern.

Inevitably it was our attacking players who drew most of the criticism.

John Carew looked tired and Luke Moore, arguably the best finisher at the club, didn't get a real chance on goal.

Gabby Agbonlahor struggled to make an impact on the right, but to be fair I think most Villains would agree he's more comfortable up front.

I don't think we've quite worked out our best team for these tough away games, but Martin is learning about our young players all the time and he will get it right before too long. What of Maloney, our homesick Scot?

Martin has quite rightly told him he needs to fight for his place, and I hope he does.

The lad obviously has ability and it's a shame his promising start to the season has been spoiled by his outbursts in the press.

He can play a big part in what can hopefully be a successful season for us, as can Patrick Berger, who returned to action with the reserves on Tuesday night.

If he can stay fit for a while we'll certainly have options, but that's a big if!

The crushing disappointment of the Man City defeat can be a distant memory if we can beat Everton on Sunday.

They are a strong side who have had a decent start to the season, it won't be an easy game, but I'm confident.

Here's hoping for another atmosphere like the Chelsea game, and the same result too.

Villa fans, do you agree with Gregg, Have your say below the blog.