Sunderland

Great result. And no fluke; we were way the better side. Gabby and Benteke were on fire, but if anything it was the other performances which made it great. N'zogbia played the best I've seen him in a Villa shirt, driving forwards everytime he had the ball, just as in his Wigan days, Bacuna did great runs in support down the wing and his crossing was superb. Lowton's making a claim for the left back position. Delph and Celeverly kept things positive in midfield. And with only three defenders fit the defence kept a clean sheet easily.

I supported Lambert a lot when he was here, even though I was frustrated at a number of his decisions, and not just Bent; Lowton had a good first season then couldn't get a game, Bacuna had a good first season and likewise couldn't get a game. But it's becoming obvious that these were just poor decisions.

Sherwood is obviously tops both as a manager and as a coach. He's not getting carried away but still manages to be very positive. It's working wonders with the players. And he's put together a good backroom team to provide the support. We'll still have ups and downs between now and the end of season, but we'll survive, and there's more good stuff to come.

Liked bringing on the 16 year old at the end!