Newcastle Club Focus – Derby victory continues positive vibe for Pardew’s men
Newcastle’s dominance over local rivals Sunderland continued as they left Wearside with their first win of the season on Saturday. Despite mixed fortunes for the two clubs over the summer period, the Magpies picked up from where they left off in the last campaign. They showed a greater aptitude for the derby battle and just about deserved all three points. The result means that Sunderland have enjoyed just one home victory over the Geordies since a win back in 1980.
In the build up to the game much of the talk had been about Steve Bruce’s new look side and many considered them favourites for the 145th Tyne-Wear derby. But despite the loss of a number of important experienced players in the summer, Alan Pardew’s side showed plenty of trademark spirit and determination. New signings Yohan Cabaye and Gabriel Obertan were given their first taste of a north-east derby and were not overawed by the experience. Cabaye showed a willingness to get involved while Obertan’s pace caused problems on the break. The game’s major talking point came when Newcastle were denied what appeared a clear penalty for a handball on the goal line. If that had been awarded then the complexion of the match could have changed greatly with the hosts reduced to 10 men.
In the end, it was left to Ryan Taylor to provide the moment of inspiration in a match that had been more about effort than an abundance of chances. The former Wigan player has occupied a number of positions at St James’ Park and currently finds himself as the club’s most experienced left back. His ability from deadball situations is one of his main assets and he proved it with a perfect freekick from the edge of the area. He also played his part in a solid defensive display to make it two clean sheets from two games. Captain Fabricio Coloccini one again led by example to keep the Black Cat’s dangerous attackers at bay.
Manager Alan Pardew can feel satisfied by his side’s unbeaten start to the season despite critics writing off their chances. The feeling is that more new signings are still needed but four points from two tricky fixtures should provide a much needed confidence boost. After the game Pardew admitted that he would be joining his players in their post-match celebrations. He said: "It brings everyone together, my staff are looking forward to going to town tonight and sharing it with the fans and I will join them for one or two and enjoy it, and that is what it is all about sometimes.”
The result leaves the Magpies in the top six in the embryonic league table which is some turnaround given a series of problems in pre-season. Saturday’s derby win will have ensured the players will receive a resounding reception at the next home game. Up next though is a League Cup trip to Scunthorpe on Thursday night. This may allow Pardew to give some of his underused players a much-needed run out.
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