What the hell was that!? Not only did the Toon look like an actual outfit in all areas, but unheard qualities like playing for 90 minutes, closing down and a physical presence seemed to be there in abundance. Most Newcastle fans will have spent the majority of pre-season worrying about what looked like a very difficult time ahead, while moaning about the lack of big signings (there weren’t even the traditional crazy transfer rumours for players who would never come to St James’.) While a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford doesn’t mean all of our problems are over; it does suggest that this season may be ok after all.
The most pleasing aspect was how the three new guys performed who, by all doing their part, were the reason for Newcastle’s well organised display. Jonas Gutierrez gave a man of the match performance going forward and tracking back that will guarantee Spidey his cult status in less than a month. Danny Guthrie surprised everyone with an excellent centre midfield display, while Fabricio Coloccini threatened to form a half decent centre back partnership with Taylor…It will never last.
As for the team as a whole, the gradual introduction of passing football by King Kev is there for all to see. Martins turned up, which is always a bonus, holding the ball well and taking his goal very nicely indeed. The defence were solid for most of the game, while the midfield had a nice aggressive streak, matched with a pleasant bit of flair. It was, unbelievably, a team display. The Magpies didn’t even have to make a sub. With players still to come back from injury and the possibility of a few more signings, some welcome early season momentum may well be on the cards.
Yes, there was the trademark of conceding an instant equaliser after taking the lead and, Man Utd did have more than a few unfortunate injuries before and during the match, but damn it, most fans would have taken a 3-0 defeat so who cares.