the stage is set

 

We arrive at Villa Park two and a half hours early and the place is already rammed and buzzing. It's the last game of the season and what a way to end.

 

After a terrible start under Stephen Gerrard the Villa owners take decisive action. Unai Emery is appointed as Head Coach at the end of October and the turn-around begins. From languishing just above the relegation zone we now have the chance to qualify for European football. Our destiny is in our hands. If we beat Brighton today we secure that last European spot.

 

The mood is expectant.  

 

 

 

faces in the crowd

 

 

I'm an inveterate people-watcher and I love to see the expressions and gestures supporters make at football matches. The glorious game provides an excuse to let go and celebrate joyously ... or not, depending on the result.

 

It's a privilege to be part of the crowd and many of the supporters I photograph I've stood beside for many years. That doesn't stop me enjoying each new game though, there's always another picture to be taken.

 

 

 

 

aston villa 1 v 0 southampton

Not our finest moment, it has to be said, but a scrambled goal by Jacob Ramsay is enough to claim the win against a lack-lustre Southampton. Only our second victory of the current campaign.