NUFC 1969/70 - Season Matches

A very low-key friendly; Harvey insists that "all it wants is a bit of oil on"

Hearts - SJP - 21,000

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Sinclair, Robson, Davies, Arentoft, Foggon

Scorers: Robson

38m - Foggon's shot is blocked and ROBSON slots home easily (1-0).

42m - McFaul saves Winchester's penalty with his legs.

Half-time: Newcastle 1 Hearts 0

Full-time: Newcastle 1 Hearts 0

Newcastle knock the ball around comfortably in the first-half without creating much and Hull take the lead just after the break. There is no real response from United until the very end.

Hull - Boothferry Park - 8,559

McFaul, Craggs, Guthrie (Clark), Elliot (Ross), McNamee, Moncur, Sinclair, Robson, Davies, Arentoft, Foggon

Scorers: Simpkin

14m - Robson hits the underside of the bar.

40m - McFaul saves a penalty from Houghton.

Half-time: Hull 0 Newcastle 0

46m - Hull skipper SIMPKIN cracks in a 25-yarder.

Guthrie suffers an injury and has to be carried off.

90m - Elliot is unlucky when he hits the bar.

Full-time: Hull 1 Newcastle 0

Jimmy Smith makes his first appearance, but he is well off the pace and United struggle without the dash and thunder of the injured Robson.

Hibs - Easter Road - 15,309

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton (McNamee), Moncur, Sinclair (Elliot), Dyson, Davies, Smith, Foggon (Arentoft)

Half-time: Hibs 0 Newcastle 0

Full-time: Hibs 0 Newcastle 0

There is no place for record signing Jimmy Smith with Harvey suggesting he needs some time to adjust to the pace of English football. United put in a decent defensive performance, but when Craig has to depart injured, Hurst scores before they have time to re-organise. Although United fight back well they lack the killer punch.

West Ham - Upton Park - 33,323

McFaul, Craig (Duffy), Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Sinclair, Robson, Davies, Arentoft, Foggon

Scorers: Hurst

Scott is recovering from injury and new-signing Smith is not fit enough for first-team action.

Half-time: West Ham 0 Newcastle 0

66m - Craig suffers a hamstring injury making a challenge and from the resultant corner HURST scores (0-1).

Full-time: West Ham 1 Newcastle 0

Position: 21st

With the attack displaying its Fairs Cup power and pace United dominate the match and even the temporary withdrawal of Davies just before the break with a cut head does not disrupt their flow.

Sheff. Wed. (18th) - SJP - 41,341

McFaul, Craggs, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Scott, Robson, Davies, Arentoft, Foggon

Scorers: Foggon, Robson (2) - Warboys

Craggs comes in for the injured Craig and the fit-again Scott replaces Sinclair.

Davies rises high to head a Burton free-kick into the path of ROBSON who hammers his shot past the advancing Springett (1-0).

25m - FOGGON races onto the ball and cracks a tremendous left-footer past Springett's right hand (2-0).

Davies has to leave the field for a number of minutes for treatment on a head wound.

Half-time: Newcastle 2 Sheff. Wed. 0

67m - Some slackness creeps into United's play and Eustace's half-volley is headed in by WARBOYS (2-1).

71m - Foggon sets off on a great run and lays the ball back to the edge of the area for ROBSON who blasts it into the roof of the net (3-1).

79m - Scott hammers in a shot which comes back off the angle.

Full-time: Newcastle 3 Sheff. Wed. 1

Position: 11th

It is a tough and tight game; City attack vigorously after United take an early lead and the Magpies have to defend grimly for most of the match. Visiting winger Summerbee is full of praise: "Newcastle are second only to Leeds in terms of hardness, but they play it fair".

Man City 0 (10th) - SJP - 46,860

McFaul, Craggs, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Scott, Robson, Davies, Arentoft, Foggon

Scorers: Robson (pen)

04m - Scott is upended as he bursts into the box and ROBSON slams the spot-kick past Corrigan (1-0).

10m - Robson has the ball in the net again but the effort is dubiously disallowed for an infringement by Davies.

Half-time: Newcastle 1 Man City 0

Full-time: Newcastle 1 Man City 0

Position: 7th

The Owls have only won twice this year and lost all three games so far this season, but despite dominating after the break, Newcastle are faint-hearted upfront.

Sheff. Wed. (22nd) - Hillsborough - 41,341

McFaul, Craggs, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Scott, Robson, Davies, Arentoft, Foggon

Scorers: Eustace

32m - Ford hits the inside of the post.

34m - A long-range pile-driver from EUSTACE (0-1).

Half-time: Sheff. Wed. 1 Newcastle 0

75m - Smith makes his first competitive appearance when he replaces Arentoft.

Full-time: Sheff. Wed. 1 Newcastle 0

Position: 9th

A superb defensive performance sees United keep the game goalless at Old Trafford.

Man. United. (20th) - Old Trafford - 53,267

McFaul, Craggs, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Scott, Robson, Davies, Arentoft, Foggon

39m - McFaul diverts Charlton's shot onto an upright and pounces on the rebound.

Half-time: Man. United. 0 Newcastle 0

Full-time: Man. United. 0 Newcastle 0

Position: 10th

The first thirty minutes are more than comfortable for the Gunners, but once Newcastle equalise they take control and tear Arsenal apart in the second-half. The programme includes a statement advising that the Boys Gate will be closed for the game against Derby due to the continued pitch encroachments by youngsters, however it doesn’t stop a number of them coming on after Newcastle equalise.

Youtube highlights

Arsenal (8th) - SJP - 47,208

McFaul, Craggs, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Scott, Robson, Davies, Arentoft, Foggon

Scorers: Davies, Foggon, Robson - Robertson

26m - Graham heads a free-kick to an unmarked ROBERTSON to score with a rasping first-timer (0-1).

34m - Gibb crosses hard and low and DAVIES blasts in with terrific force through a crowded penalty-area (1-1).

56m - Craggs lofts in a high cross and FOGGON is waiting at the far-post to crash the ball past Wilson (2-1).

80m - Foggon and ROBSON combine brilliantly before the latter blasts in a 20-yard half-volley (3-1).

Full-time: Newcastle 3 Arsenal 1

Position: 8th

Jimmy Smith is handed his first start against Division 2 pace-setters Sheffield United. It is a dreadful performance with the Magpies resorting to desperate, thoughtless and rough play.

Sheff. United (D2:1st) - Bramall Lane - 22,101

McFaul, Craggs, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Scott, Robson, Davies, Smith, Foggon

Scorers: Woodward, Tudor

Jimmy Smith is handed his full debut.

01m - WOODWARD's swerving corner goes straight in oast a bemused Craggs and McFaul (0-1).

29m - Woodward's piercing pass finds TUDOR at the far post and he times his jump perfectly to loop a header over McFaul (0-2)

Half-time: Sheff. United 2 Newcastle 0

75m - Wednesday 'keeper Hodgkinson has to depart with Woodward taking over in goal.

Full-time: Sheff. United 2 Newcastle 0

Bottom-placed Ipswich have failed to score at home so far but sloppy defending gifts the home side two goals in the first twenty minutes.

Ipswich (22nd) - Portman Rd - 22,101

McFaul, Craggs, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Scott, Robson, Dyson, Arentoft, Foggon (Elliott)

Scorers: Wigg, O'Rourke

Dyson replaces Davies who has an ankle injury.

10m - Former Magpie Charlie Woods sets up WIGG (0-1).

18m - More poor defensive work allows Woods to be the provider again, for O'ROURKE (0-2).

Half-time: Ipswich 2 Newcastle 0

Full-time: Ipswich 2 Newcastle 0

Position: 9th

Smith makes his long awaited full League debut against newly promoted Derby County. The Rams go to the top of the League having ended United's unbeaten home run which has stretched back for 26 matches. County are in control for most of the game with their combination of fast open attacking and strong, resilient defence.

After the game an estimated two thousand United fans battle with the visiting supporters. A large group attack the Derby Supporters’ coaches at the Gallowgate Bus Station. Pebbles, coins and half-bricks are thrown and windows on two (out of four) of the coaches are smashed. Every policeman available - along with five dogs - is sent to the scene but with both sets of fans sporting the same colours they find it difficult to stop the violence. A number of people are given on-the-spot treatment for minor injuries but no arrests are made.

Derby (2nd) - SJP - 39,382

McFaul, Craggs, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Scott (Arentoft), Robson, Davies, Smith, Foggon

Smith comes in for Arentoft who drops to the bench.

Scorers: McFarland

Half-time: Newcastle 0 Derby 0

48m - MCFARLAND heads home a Mackay free-kick (0-1).

72m - Scott badly twists his ankle and is replaced by Arentoft.

Full-time: Newcastle 0 Derby 1

Position: 12th

Davies is in barnstorming form against struggling Dundee United, scoring with two trademark headers and hitting the bar with another couple. The score in no way reflects the Magpies superiority. Dundee United's manager says Davies is "the greatest I've ever seen" (in the air) and Harvey claims when he is in this sort of mood "he's a forward-line on his own". United coaches are attacked by Scottish hooligans.

Dundee United - Tannadice - 21,000

McFaul, Craggs, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Arentoft, Smith

Scorers: Davies (2) - Scott

16m - Davies soars unbelievably high to head Barton's free-kick against the bar.

23m - From a Craggs free-kick Davies heads against the bar again.

There is a short delay when some supporters at the Newcastle end encroach on the pitch chanting "we want trouble".

Half-time: Dundee United 0 Newcastle 0

57m - Craggs sends in a perfect cross and DAVIES speeds between two defenders to head past a helpless Mackay (1-0).

62m - From a deft cross by Robson DAVIES superbly heads in just under the angle (2-0).

75m - United fail to clear from a free-kick and Cameron crosses for MITCHELL to head past McFaul (2-1).

Full-time: Dundee United 1 Newcastle 2

Everton return to the top of the table with a deserved win on Tyneside as Husband gets a brace with two typically opportunist goals. United only really threaten for a short period after Elliot's equaliser. Once again there is significant trouble. With the Boys’ Gates closed again, youngsters try to climb over the walls. Extra police are drafted in for the game, but although they clear the area trouble continues in town. Two Everton coaches are severely damaged, shop and car windows are smashed, scooters are stolen and lots of fights break out.

Everton (3rd) - SJP - 37,094

McFaul, Craggs, Guthrie, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Arentoft, Davies, Elliott, Sinclair

Scorers: Elliot - Husband (2)

17m - Davies heads a Craggs cross against the bar.

22m - HUSBAND cleverly evades Burton's tackle and lifts his shot inside the far post as McFaul advances (0-1).

37m - West cannot hold a cracking shot from Sinclair and ELLIOT is on the rebound in a flash to hammer the ball into the net (1-1).

Half-time: Newcastle 1 Everton 1

50m - Craggs hesitates and HUSBAND gallops through to hit a low shot across McFaul who completely misjudges his dive.

Full-time: Newcastle 1 Everton 2

Position: 15th

Not a classic by any means, but with Wyn Davies giving former Gallowgater John McGrath a torrid time United are well worth a point at The Dell with Robson scoring his first goal of the season. Harvey declares that “Southampton were so bad and we had so much of the game we should have had a hatful"

Southampton (17th) - The Dell - 19,130

McFaul, Craggs, Guthrie, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Arentoft, Davies, Elliott (Duffy), Sinclair

Scorers: Robson - Channon

05m - CHANNON intercepts Craggs' back-pass and rounds McFaul (0-1)

Half-time: Southampton 1 Newcastle 0

55m - Guthrie crosses and ROBSON smacks the ball into the roof of the net (1-1)

Full-time: Southampton 1 Newcastle 1

Position: 14th

The first-half is very poor and although United take the lead the goal inspires the visitors and they are clearly the better side; the only surprise is that it takes them so long to score. Joe Harvey describes the game as a "stinker".

Wolves (4th) - SJP - 19,130

McFaul, Craggs, Guthrie, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Duffy, Davies, Arentoft, Sinclair

Scorers: Robson (pen) - McCalliog

29m - Munro is penalised for pushing Davies and ROBSON blasts his penalty straight down the middle (1-1)

Half-time: Newcastle 1 Wolves 0

69m - MCCALLIOG heads in off the post from a Wagstaffe corner (1-1).

88m - Parkin's 30-yard shot crashes back off the bar.

Full-time: Newcastle 1 Wolves 1

Position: 14th

Hundreds of extra police are drafted in to police the game. The Scots play the more skilful and determined football and Newcastle only really come good in the last ten minutes when Dyson scores.

Dundee United - SJP - 37,470

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Smith, Foggon (Arentoft)

Scorers: Dyson

Harvey takes a gamble on Craig's fitness.

42m - Dundee forward Reid shoots against the foot of the post.

Half-time: Newcastle 0 Dundee United 0

90m+2 - Gibb's cross is delicately flicked over a defender by Smith and DYSON scores from close-in (1-0).

Full-time: Newcastle 1 Dundee United 0

Harvey has stated that Smith will be given an extended run in the side and a brilliant first-half performance by the mercurial Scot sets the Magpies on their way to a convincing victory in which they play with professionalism and maturity.

Crystal Palace (16th) - Selhurst Park - 28,407

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Smith, Arentoft

Scorers: Robson, Davies, Dyson

There is a four-minute delay at the start due to the non-appearance of one of the linesmen.

26m - A superb through-ball from Smith sets Gibb away and his firm cross is blasted in by ROBSON (1-0).

Half-time: Crystal Palace 0 Newcastle 1

60m - Robson crosses to DAVIES whose header deflects in off a defender (2-0).

76m - Davies flicks on a Smith free-kick and DYSON scores (3-0).

Full-time: Crystal Palace 0 Newcastle 3

Position: 12th

United go on the defensive at Maine Road but their approach is undone when Lee scores from the spot with two minutes left on the clock.

Man. City (9th) - Maine Rd - 32,172

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Dyson (Burton), Davies, Smith, Arentoft

Scorers: Robson - Young, Lee (pen)

34m - YOUNG hits a screaming drive into the net from 20-yards out (0-1).

Half-time: Man. City 1 Newcastle 0

71m - Corrigan can't hold a low cross from Craggs and ROBSON darts in to hammer the ball high into the net (1-1).

88m - Arentoft is harshly judged to have fouled Doyle and LEE blasts the penalty into the corner (1-2).

Full-time: Man. City 2 Newcastle 1

Position: 12th

Liverpool have come for a draw and despite almost constant United attacking a combination of effective defence and brave goalkeeping by Lawrence keeps them out until Foggon scores. Liverpool make concerted efforts to equalise but McFaul pulls off some excellent saves.

Liverpool (2nd) - SJP - 44,576

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Arentoft, Foggon

McNamee won back his place in the side when Burton went down with the flu but now the big Scot has succumbed to the bug allowing Burton back in.

Half-time: Newcastle 0 Liverpool 0

FOGGON causes Liverpool loads of problems with his skill and strong running and it is he who slots coolly past Lawrence after bursting past Smith and Strong (1-0).

Full-time: Newcastle 1 Liverpool 0

Position: 11th

United's defence keeps The Spurs at bay in the first-half, but after the break Greaves scores twice to put Tottenham in control.

Tottenham (10th) - White Hart Lane - 33,286

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Arentoft, Foggon

Scorers: Robson - Greaves (2)

Half-time: Tottenham 0 Newcastle 0

54m - Smith loses possession when trying to mug Mullery who passes to GREAVES who side-steps Moncur before hitting a low cross-shot past McFaul (0-1).

74m - United start to throw more and more men forward and are caught out when a long clearance finds GREAVES on the half-way line and he holds off Burton before rounding McFaul (0-2).

85m - A chipped cross from Smith is headed downwards into the net by ROBSON (1-2).

Full-time: Tottenham 2 Newcastle 1

Position: 12th

Despite facing a strong wind, United successfully keep the score goalless in the first-half. But they are abysmal in the second forty-five and Osgood calmly side-foots home. "We had far too many slap-happy operators" suggests Harvey in what is the worst performance of the season so far.

Chelsea (11th) - SJP - 40,088

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Scott, Robson, Davies, Smith, Foggon

Scorers: Osgood

Half-time: Newcastle 0 Chelsea 0

58m - OSGOOD calmly side-foots home after good work from Cooke (0-1).

Full-time: Newcastle 0 Chelsea 1

Position: 15th

United are content to sit-back in the first-half and Burnley struggle to create any decent chances. After the break the defence retains its magnificent solidity whilst United become more dangerous with lightning counter-attacks. Burnley hit the woodwork twice in a storming finish to the match.

Burnley (12th) - Turf Moor - 16,444

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Cowan (Arentoft), Thompson

Scorers: Davies

Foggon, Smith and Scott are all axed and replaced by Dyson, Thompson and Cowan (the latter two making their debuts).

Half-time: Burnley 0 Newcastle 0

73m - A quick break-away ends with Gibb being fouled just outside the box. He takes the kick himself and DAVIES cracks in a low shot from close-in.

88m - Casper hits the inside of the post.

89m - Dobson hits the bar.

Full-time: Burnley 0 Newcastle 1

Position: 13th

The Wearsiders are at the foot of the table. A strong wind and Sunderland's early exuberance makes for a scrappy but even first forty-five and United have to wait until just before the break to take the lead. They are largely in control after that although there is some bad feeling during the game. notably when Davies makes a crude and unnecessary challenge on Montgomery. The Welshman is surrounded by several Sunderland players and appears to exchange blows with Heslop.

Sunderland (22nd) - SJP - 56,317

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Arentoft, Sinclair

Scorers: Davies, Dyson (2)

43m - DYSON's 25-yard shot deflects in off Heslop (1-0).

Half-time: Newcastle 1 Sunderland 0

61m - DAVIES scoops in after Dyson mis-kicks Moncur's cross (2-0).

70m - Montgomery catches an Arentoft cross and Davies is guilty of a bad challenge on the young keeper prompting an angry reaction from the Sunderland players.

87m - Arentoft heads Craig's cross down to DYSON to score with a rapier-like shot (3-0).

Full-time: Newcastle 3 Sunderland 0

Position: 13th

Len Ashurst testimonial

Sunderland - Roker Park - 6,470

Scorers: Moncur, Scott - Tueart (2), Clark (og) Mongomery (pen)

05m - MONCUR (1-0)

CLARK own goal (1-1)

TUEART (1-2)

Half-time: Sunderland 2 Newcastle 1

MONTGOMERY penalty (1-3)

TUEART (1-4)

SCOTT (2-4)

Full-time: Sunderland 4 Newcastle 2

Despite scoring early, complacency allows Forest to equalise. But once United regain the lead they are well in control. It is a comfortable win against a very weak Forest side.

Nottm. Forest (15th) - SJP - 24,307

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies (Scott), Arentoft, Sinclair

Scorers: Dyson, Craig, Hindley og - Hilley

07m - Hennessey slips while trying to play the ball out and DYSON robs him before unleashing an unstoppable shot from an acute angle (1-0).

37m - With McFaul on the deck, HILLEY taps in after Lyons' header comes back off the post (1-1).

41m - CRAIG unleashes a tremendous shot; it is only his second ever League goal (2-1).

Half-time: Newcastle 2 Nottm. Forest 1

55m - HINDLEY (under pressure from Dyson) heads into his own net (3-1).

Full-time: Newcastle 3 Nottm. Forest 1

Position: 11th

Harvey is delighted with the "magnificent display of professional football" of his patched up team in securing a draw in a damp squib of a game.

Porto - 25,000

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Arentoft, Guthrie (Scott)

Sinclair is dropped (after a poor performance against Forest) and Harvey opts to play an extra defensive player in Guthrie.

Half-time: Porto 0 Newcastle 0

Full-time: Porto 0 Newcastle 0

Without Dyson and Davies Newcastle's attack has no punch and after the first 20 minutes the game is dominated by the Sky Blues who are unlucky to hit the woodwork three times. Hundreds of United fans spend the evening drinking in Coventry and there are a number of calls for assitance from publicans.

Coventry (12th) - Highfield Road - 31,825

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Scott, Arentoft, Guthrie

Scorers: Hunt (pen).

Half-time: Coventry 0 Newcastle 0

80m - HUNT scores from the spot after Burton's mis-timed challenge on him is punished (0-1).

Full-time: Coventry 1 Newcastle 0

Position: 12th

Two inches of snow on the ground and a biting wind make for very difficult playing conditions. Plucky Porto play bravely, but United are tighter in defence and faster in the tackle and command the game. However, they fail to take full advantage of the speedy wing play of Scott and Foggon and have to rely on a single Scott goal mid-way through the first-half.

Porto 0 - SJP - 25,000

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Arentoft, Guthrie, Scott

Scorers: Scott

22m - Arentoft's raking pass finds SCOTT who skips around a defender before shooting into the far corner (1-0).

Half-time: Newcastle 1 Porto 0

85m - Porto's 'keeper is carried off in agony and - having used all their subs - they have to play out the match with ten men.

Full-time: Newcastle 1 Porto 0

Stoke are unbeaten at home this season and it is easy to see why as some of their attacking football is a delight to watch. But United’s brilliant defence is brave and defiant. As the game wears on the home side and their supporters become increasingly frustrated and with five minutes left Robson grabs an unlikely winner.

Stoke (8th) - Victoria Ground - 17,767

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Scott, Robson, Davies, Smith (Guthrie), Foggon

Scorers: Robson

Half-time: Stoke 0 Newcastle 0

85m - A lightning break ends with ROBSON ruthlessly sweeping the ball in (1-0).

Full-time: Stoke 0 Newcastle 1

Position: 13th

Moncur marshals another superb defensive performance from the red-shirted Magpies and Derby appear to be running out of ideas but as full-time approaches the Rams score twice in quick succession.

Derby (6th) - Baseball Ground - 30,057

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Scott, Robson, Davies, Foggon, Hindson

Scorers: Hinton, McGovern

Hindson replaces the axed Smith.

Half-time: Derby 0 Newcastle 0

84m - HINTON hits a 30-yard screamer which hits the top left-hand corner of the net (0-1)

86m - Hinton crosses for a diving MCGOVERN to head in (0-2).

Full-time: Derby 2 Newcastle 0

Position: 14th

Southampton are on the defensive for the vast majority of the match and often have nine or ten men around their goal. They defend doggedly and courageously and The Magpies cannot find a way to score. It is the first time that United have failed to net in a home tie and Harvey admits that the pressure of needing to score had got to the players.

Southampton (19th) - SJP - 38,163

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Arentoft, Scott (Foggon).

Half-time: Newcastle 0 Southampton 0

Full-time: Newcastle 0 Southampton 0

The pitch is covered in snow and this holds up the ball in a tepid first-half. After the break United play a quicker, shorter-passing, game which is better suited to the conditions and coast home.

Ipswich (18th) - SJP - 19,411

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Arentoft, Ford

Scorers: Dyson, Robson (2), Ford

Half-time: Newcastle 0 Ipswich 0

48m - Debutant Ford's in-swinging cross is headed down and in by DYSON (1-0).

59m - After a great run Ford lays the ball back to Dyson whose shot is pushed onto the underside of the bar only for ROBSON to score with a diving header. (2-0).

63m - FORD controls Robson's corner and rifles the ball home (3-0).

ROBSON (4-0).

Full-time: Newcastle 4 Ipswich 0

Position: 13th

Second-placed Leeds are undefeated in their last eighteen League games and have only lost three times in a season and a half. Newcastle are brilliant in the first forty-five and go two goals ahead. Leeds pull one back after the break but United hold on for a superb victory in front of the delirious Boxing Day crowd. Five players are booked by the substitute referee Quinn and Harvey says that he will report his handling of the game.

Leeds (2nd) - SJP - 54,517

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, Burton (McNamee), Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Arentoft, Ford

Scorers: Davies, Robson - Giles

10m - DAVIES beats Charlton in a race for the ball and hoists the ball over the out-of-position Sprake (1-0).

36m - Davies nods the ball back across the face of the goal and ROBSON scores from six-yards (2-0).

Half-time: Newcastle 2 Leeds 0

GILES shot from 25-yards beats McFaul low down to his right (2-1).

Burton is carried off with bad groin strain.

Full-time: Newcastle 2 Leeds 1

Position: 12th

United's defensive "Iron Curtain" smothers and suffocates the Arsenal attack at Highbury. The Gunners fail to make many clear cut chances although a George pile-driver clips the outside of the post. The Magpies are happy to sit back with Dyson being asked to forage upfront on his own.

Arsenal (10th) - Highbury - 54,517

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Arentoft, Ford

Half-time: Arsenal 0 Newcastle 0

Full-time: Arsenal 0 Newcastle 0

Position: 12th

Far too many players have an off-day and Newcastle are well beaten in the end.

Southampton (19th) - The Dell - 19,010

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Dyson (Scott), Davies, Arentoft, Ford

Scorers: Channon, Saul (2)

38m - Saul distracts McFaul and CHANNON takes advantage (0-1).

Half-time: Southampton 1 Newcastle 0

51m - Channon sets up SAUL (0-2).

85m The same pair combine for SAUL to wrap-up the scoring (0-3)

Full-time: Southampton 3 Newcastle 0

The Saints are the better side and deservedly go ahead in the first-half. United ride their luck; the officials miss Clark handle on the goal-line and then Southampton hit the bar. Then with six minutes left a Robson equaliser takes Newcastle through on the away goals rule.

Southampton (19th) - The Dell - 25,182

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Young (Guthrie), Ford

Scorers: Robson - Channon

30m - CHANNON heads in Paine's free-kick (0-1).

Half-time: Southampton 1 Newcastle 0

65m - Referee Gow and his linesmen fail to see Frank Clark fisting the ball off the line for what was a certain penalty. The crowd behind the goal are not impressed and McFaul has to endure some missiles thrown in his direction during the rest of the match.

Ron Davies cracks a header against the bar.

84m - The ball is bouncing around the home penalty are like a pinball until ROBSON bangs it home (1-1).

Full-time: Southampton 1 Newcastle 0

United - uncharacteristically - take the game to fifth-place Wolves with a brilliant display of positive, attacking football in the first-half, but despite their dominance they only score once and Wolves equalise just before the break. Smith plays well and Harvey says: "it has taken some time but he is now learning to be a competitor. He had a great game".

Wolves (5th) - Molineux - 29,665

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Guthrie, Ford

Scorers: Guthrie - Curran

24m - GUTHRIE flashes a great shot into the top corner from just outside the box; it is his first goal for the club. (1-0).

43m - A harsh free-kick decision enables Wagstaffe to cross to CURRAN who heads in from six-yards (1-1).

Half-time: Wolves 1 Newcastle 1

Full-time: Wolves 1 Newcastle 1

Position: 11th

Everton are second having won 13 out of 14 at home, but United's blanket defence frustrates them with the player's stubbornness and willingness to run and cover for the full ninety minutes proving highly effective.

Everton (2nd) - Goodison Park - 42,845

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Guthrie (Arentoft), Ford

Half-time: Everton 0 Newcastle 0

Full-time: Everton 0 Newcastle 0

Position: 11th

Struggling Palace give United some of their own treatment by adopting an unadventurous policy which results in a desperately dull game and another goalless draw. Palace leave only one man upfront and that is defender Hynd. Newcastle's functional through-the-middle football is unadventurous in the extreme; Ford suffers an ankle injury.

Crystal Palace (21st) - SJP - 36,008

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Arentoft, tbc

Half-time: Newcastle 0 Crystal Palace 0

Full-time: Newcastle 0 Crystal Palace 0

Position: 11th

The first ever Friday evening match at SJP. A number of lower league clubs have begun to play matches on a Friday evening in an effort to boost attendances but the League has banned this practice for 1969/70 unless there are ""exceptional circumstances". In this case Sunderland are due to play Everton at home on Saturday.

West Brom (13th) - SJP - 32,054

McFaul, Craig (Thompson), Clark, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Elliott, Dyson

Scorers: Dyson

DYSON (1-0).

Half-time: Newcastle 1 West Brom 0

Full-time: Newcastle 1 West Brom 0

Position: 10th

United meet Southampton for the fifth time and it is a fascinating tactical battle in which United gradually attain control.

Southampton (18th) - SJP - 30,738

McFaul, Gibb, Clark, Elliott, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Thompson, Dyson (Ford)

Scorers: Smith, Davies - Channon

10m - The visitors start well and are unlucky when Saul hits the bar.

28m - United gradually shackle the Saints attack and SMITH heads his first senior goal for the club when Davies nods Robson's free-kick to him (1-0).

Half-time: Newcastle 1 Southampton 0

80m - Clark sends in a long cross and DAVIES - moving away from goal - back-flicks it in with his head (2-0).

90m - CHANNON scores after a goalmouth scramble (2-1).

Full-time: Newcastle 2 Southampton 1

Position: 9th

The Anfield pitch is covered in snow but after some initial problems both teams adapt well. It is one-way traffic for virtually the whole game with Liverpool attacking with pace and skill and United - and Moncur in particular - defending superbly. Liverpool come close on numerous occasions, particularly when Guthrie clears off the line and when Callaghan hits the bar.

Liverpool (8th) - Anfield - 38,218

McFaul, Clark, Guthrie, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Thompson, Ford

Half-time: Liverpool 0 Newcastle 0

Full-time: Liverpool 0 Newcastle 0

Position: 9th

Fr: Dundee U 3 Newcastle 2 - 38,218

Scorers: Moncur, Dyson, Robson - Wilson, Mitchell

Half-time: Dundee U 0 Newcastle 0

26m - MONCUR

75m - DYSON

80m - WILSON

82m - ROBSON

85m - MITCHELL

Full-time: Dundee U 2 Newcastle 3

Newcastle once again surrender midfield and rely on the defence to hold the fort. With Moncur in brilliant form once more the tactics secure another draw despite ceaseless raids from the third-placed home side. The Magpies have now gone nine games unbeaten in the League and have only conceded four goals in the last eight games.

Chelsea (3rd) - Stamford Bridge - 35,341

McFaul, Clark, Guthrie, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Thompson, Ford

Half-time: Chelsea 0 Newcastle 0

Full-time: Chelsea 0 Newcastle 0

Position: 9th

Within ten minutes United concede a disastrous own goal when Thompson stretches out a leg (as Jimmy Pearce shapes to shoot) and - although he only toe-pokes it - the ball goes through McFaul's hands and legs. The setback seems to infuse the team with a sloppiness and indecision from which they cannot recover.

Tottenham (13th) - SJP - 34,827

McFaul, Craig, Clark, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Thompson (Dyson), Ford

Scorers: McNamee - Thompson og, Chivers

10m - THOMPSON stretches out a leg as Jimmy Pearce shapes to shoot and - although he only toe-pokes it - the ball goes through McFaul's hands and legs (0-1).

Half-time: Newcastle 0 Tottenham 1

Full-time: Newcastle 1 Tottenham 2

Position: 10th

England manager Sir Alf Ramsey is one of the spectators in what is a breathtaking performance by United in which they could have easily doubled their goal tally. United dominate after taking an early lead and although the Hammers score against the run of play Newcastle reassert their authority. The Magpies climb to 5th although they and Arsenal have played more games (35) than any other team.

West Ham (17th) - SJP - 27,726

McFaul, Craig, Craggs, Gibb, McNamee, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Davies, Foggon, Dyson

Scorers: Davies, Robson, Dyson, Foggon - Eustace

Craggs comes in for the injured Clark and Foggon replaces Thompson.

08m - DAVIES heads in a Craig free-kick (1-0).

27m - McNamee's headed clearance goes straight to EUSTACE who volleys in off the post (1-1).

40m - Dyson heads on a long goal-kick for ROBSON to net (2-1).

Half-time: Newcastle 2 West Ham 1

74m - An excellent move is interrupted when Robson is tripped in the box but before the referee blows-up DYSON drives the ball into the net (3-1).

Foggon hits a 35-yard screamer into the net which is ridiculously disallowed due to a team-mate being in an offside position.

87m - FOGGON beats three men in a brilliant run before flicking the ball in (4-1).

Full-time: Newcastle 4 West Ham 1

Position: 5th

Anderlecht include four players who played for Belgium against England a couple of weeks ago and also have Dutch international Mulder and Swedish international Nordahl. Newcastle are lucky to escape with a two goal defeat in Brussels as Mulder destroys United in a performance that coach Smith describes as their worst for 18 months. Only an inspired display from McFaul prevents a rout. An undaunted Harvey declares: "now we shall see how big these Belgian hearts are on Tyneside next Wednesday".

Anderlecht - 30,000

McFaul, Craggs, Guthrie, Gibb, McNamee (Burton), Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Smith (Elliott), Foggon

Scorers: Desanghere, Puis

With Craig also injured, Craggs and Guthrie form an inexperienced full-back pairing. Moncur is carrying a knee injury which restricts his movement and McNamee is still having hamstring problems. A thousand or so fans make the trip.

Mulder speeds down the right and pulls the ball back for DESANGHERE whose shot almost bursts the net (1-0).

Half-time: Anderlecht 1 Newcastle 0

62m - Gibb gives away a free-kick which PUIS converts with a cracking 25-yard, angled drive (2-0).

Full-time: Anderlecht 2 Newcastle 0

Although Newcastle play very well and are the better side they have to settle for a point. They are unlucky in that the officials fail to see Astle clearly handle the ball in the build-up to the second West Brom goal.

West Brom (15th) - Hawthorns - 19,641

McFaul, Young, Guthrie, Gibb, Burton, Cowan, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Ford, Foggon

Scorers: Dyson, Robson - Astle (2)

Smith and McNamee both picked up knocks against Anderlecht so Cowan, Young and Guthrie are all drafted in.

DYSON intercepts a back-pass, rounds the keeper and cracks the ball home (1-0).

30m - McFaul saves a fierce drive from Brown, but ASTLE follows-up (1-1).

Half-time: West Brom 1 Newcastle 1

51m - ASTLE clearly uses his hand to control a deflected Suggett shot. All the players, including Astle himself, stop until he realises that the referee hasn't noticed and he side-foots it in from six yards (1-2). The United players are in a blind fury.

77m - ROBSON finishes off an excellent team move by blasting in from twelve yards (2-2).

Full-time: West Brom 2 Newcastle 2

Position; 6th

After their mauling in the first leg few people give United a chance of Fairs Cup progression. But with a strong wind behind them Robson scores twice in the first twenty minutes and when Dyson makes it 3-0 six minutes from time the Magpies are on their way to the semi-finals. But four minutes later the Belgians pull one back and the Magpies are out on the away goals rule. Harvey concedes that the players lost concentration after their third goal believing they had won. Meanwhile, the victorious Anderlecht party are none too happy with Newcastle's approach accusing them of "brutality".

Anderlecht - SJP - 30,000

McFaul, Craig, Clark (Young), Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Guthrie, TBC

Scorers: Robson (2), Dyson - Nordahl

04m - With a strong wind behind them United go straight on the attack and Clark's free-kick is headed by Davies to ROBSON who heads it over the keeper (1-0).

ROBSON hits a sensational 30-yard shot which rockets into the net before Trappeniers moves (2-0).

24m - Clark suffers a knee injury and is replaced by Young.

Half-time: Newcastle 2 Anderlecht 0

84m - Moncur floats a free-kick into the box and DYSON darts forward to glide the ball home (3-0).

88m - Burton fails to cut out Mulder's cross-field ball and NORDAHL cracks a superb left-foot drive past McFaul (3-1).

Full-time: Newcastle 3 Anderlecht 1

Stoke are one of United's rivals for a place in next year's Fairs Cup. Robson is excellent; scoring twice and setting up Davies for the third.

Stoke (10th) - SJP - 28,485

McFaul, Gibb, Young, Elliott, Burton, Cowan, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Foggon, Ford

Robson (2-1 pen), Davies - Ritchie

16m - Bloor handles in the area and ROBSON dispatches the penalty (1-0).

Half-time: Newcastle 1 Stoke 0

52m - RITCHIE volleys in an equaliser (1-1).

ROBSON's shot is saved by Banks but he scores from the rebound (2-1).

Robson sets up DAVIES (3-1).

Full-time: Newcastle 3 Stoke 1

Position: 6th

lt is the 100th Tyne Wear derby and Sunderland are in bottom place and in grave danger of relegation. Only a world class performance from Sunderland custodian Montgomery prevents a United victory. Wyn Davies has a goal chalked off after he shoulder charges Montgomery into the net. He claims it was a legitimate challenge, but referee Fussey says he disallowed it because Davies barged into his chest. This was not the case, but he did charge him when he was airborne so the goal should not have been allowed anyway.

Sunderland (22nd) - Roker Park - 51,950

McFaul, Craig, Guthrie, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Smith, Foggon

Scorers: Smith - Park

Half-time: Sunderland 0 Newcastle 0

51m - SMITH hits a first-time half-volley which screams through the crowded area into the net (1-0).

75m - Park's shot smacks against the underside of the bar and TUEART heads home (1-1)

Full-time: Sunderland 1 Newcastle 1

Position: 6th

A frantic start brings four goals in the first twenty minutes and United's record of having never conceded more than two in a League match all season is in severe jeopardy. With the pitch muddy and heavy there is no way that the game can continue at such a frenetic pace and it gradually peters out. With all the three remaining games at home Harvey is confident that "we can still make Europe again next season".

Nottm. Forest (14th) - City Ground - 21,360

McFaul, Craig, Guthrie, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Smith, Foggon

Scorers: Dyson, Robson - Hilley, Rees

02m - DYSON runs in on the blind side of the defence to blast high into the net (1-0).

07m - HILLEY slides in from 6-yards (1-1).

13m - REES scores with a glancing header (1-2).

18m - ROBSON mis-hits his shot and former United keeper Hollins dives over the ball (2-2).

Half-time: Nottm. Forest 2 Newcastle 2

Full-time: Nottm. Forest 2 Newcastle 2

Position: 6th

United lack flair and drive and Moncur scores an own-goal in a very disappointing defeat. Harvey remains upbeat about qualifying for Europe claiming: "We're not out of it yet".

Burnley (15th) - SJP - 33,264

McFaul, Craig, Guthrie, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Elliott (Cowan), Foggon

Scorers: Moncur og

30m - Thomas's free-kick strikes MONCUR on the back leaving McFaul bemused (0-1).

Half-time: Newcastle 0 Burnley 1

Davies' tremendous drive hits the upright.

Full-time: Newcastle 0 Burnley 1

Position: 6th

A wind impacted and often comical win over a disjointed Manchester United. Robson scores a hat-trick (including two penalties in three minutes) and Moncur ends up in goal after McFaul suffers concussion after a late challenge by Fitzpatrick. The incident provokes a melee in the United goal with Fitzpatrick against the back of the net and the referee gamely holding back five Black and Whites who want a quiet word with him. Man United keeper Stepney plays most of the game concussed after he is injured by Davies when he scores United's second.

Man. United (8th) - SJP - 43,024

McFaul (Arentoft), Craggs, Guthrie, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Smith, Foggon

Scorers: Smith, Davies, Robson (3) - Charlton

34m - ROBSON scores with a typical opportunist effort (1-0).

35m - Manchester 'keeper Stepney suffers a head injury as DAVIES nets (2-0).

Half-tlme: Newcastle 2 Man. United 0

63m SMITH hits a glorious volley (3-0).

66m - CHARLTON (3-1).

80m - McFaul has to go off with Moncur taking over in goal.

84m - James' dangerous challenge on Davies is punished and ROBSON scores from the spot (4-1).

87m - Stepney barges Dyson over and ROBSON completes his hat-trick with another penalty (5-1).

Full-time: Newcastle 5 Man. United 1

Position: 6th

In their final match United re-emerge as credible Fairs Cup qualification candidates with a commanding performance against one of their rivals.

Coventry (6th) - SJP - 32,858

McFaul, Craig, Guthrie, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Dyson, Davies, Smith, Foggon

Scorers: Foggon, Dyson, Robson, Gibb

34m - Coop's back-pass is intercepted by ROBSON who stabs into the empty net (1-0).

38m - DYSON side-foots home Robson's cross from the bye-line (2-0).

Half-time: Newcastle 2 Coventry 0

GIBB drives home from the edge of the box (3-0).

85m - FOGGON finishes after a one-two with Robson (4-0).

Full-time: Newcastle 4 Coventry 0

Position: 7th

A friendly match played as part of the Jimmy Smith transfer deal. The Magpies are undone by some slack finishing and an excellent performance from The Dons keeper Bobby Clark.

Aberdeen - SJP - 10,300

McFaul, Craig, Guthrie (Cowan), Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Cowan (Hindson), Dyson (McGovern), Smith, Foggon (Johnson)

Scorers: Graham

08m - Harper crosses and GRAHAM'S downward header leaves McFaul helpless (0-1).

Half-time: Newcastle 0 Aberdeen 1

Full-time: Newcastle 0 Aberdeen 1

United take control from the start and almost toy with the opposition in a very comfortable victory. Robson gets a hat-trick and Dyson registers a brace.

Chicago - 3,000

McFaul, Craig, Craggs, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Dyson, Guthrie, McGovern.

Scorers Robson (3 - 1 pen), Dyson (2)

01m - Dyson's powerful drive is tipped onto the bar and ROBSON follows-up (1-0).

04m - Smith slips ROBSON through (2-0).

10m - Robson is felled in the area but his penalty is saved.

23m - Chicago are awarded a penalty for a Gibb handball but miss the target.

Half-time: Chicago 0 Newcastle 2

ROBSON scores a penalty (3-0).

Smith sets up DYSON (4-0).

89m - DYSON (5-0).

Full-time: Chicago 0 Newcastle 5

Another very easy win for United.

Victoria Royals - 1,800

Scorers Gibb, Robson (pen), Smith

28m - GIBB scores with a low 20-yard drive (1-0).

40m - ROBSON scores easily from the penalty spot (2-0).

Half-time: Victoria Royals 0 Newcastle 2

73m - SMITH stabs home after a defensive mix-up (3-0).

Full-time: Victoria Royals 0 Newcastle 3

The Canadians are by no means outclassed and after taking the lead could have scored more before United turned the game around.

Victoria Royals - 2,335

McFaul, Craggs, Craig, Gibb, Burton, Moncur, Robson, Smith, Dyson, Cowan, Foggon.

Scorers Foggon, Robson - Robinson

10m - ROBINSON heads in from a corner (0-1).

13m - Dyson's shot smacks against the bar.

43m - There is a goalmouth scramble and FOGGON nets (1-1).

Half-time: Victoria Royals 1 Newcastle 1

ROBSON drives in from 25-yards (2-1).

Full-time: Victoria Royals 1 Newcastle 2

A ding-dong struggle in which United take a two-goal lead then concede three before bouncing back to win again .

Vancouver Spartans - 6,000 approx

McFaul, Craig, Craggs, Cowan, Burton, Moncur, Johnson, Young, Dyson, Guthrie, Robson.

Scorers: Robson (2), Dyson, Young - Milner, Johnson, Hansen

07m - ROBSON (1-0).

22m - DYSON scores from Robson's expertly flighted corner (2-0).

35m - MILNER drives home from 20-yards (2-1).

Half-time: Vancouver Spartans 1 Newcastle 2

46m - JOHNSON heads through (2-2).

51m - A corner is slotted home by HANSEN (2-3).

63m - ROBSON (3-3).

76m - YOUNG (4-3).

Full-time: Vancouver Spartans 3 Newcastle 4

A fifth successive tour victory.

Seattle Tacoma - 6,000 approx

39m - Robson crosses for YOUNG (1-0).

45m-CARR (1-1).

Half-time: Seattle Tacoma 1 Newcastle 1

73m CRAIG (2-1).

Full-time: Seattle Tacoma 1 Newcastle 2

The Magpies record a much more comfortable victory over the Spartans this time.

Vancouver Spartans - 2,847

Scorers: Robson, McGovern, Dyson

ROBSON (1-0)

MCGOVERN (2-0)

Half-time: Vancouver Spartans 0 Newcastle 2

DYSON (3-0)

Full-time: Vancouver Spartans 0 Newcastle 3

Jimmy Smith is superb as United score three goals in fourteen first-half minutes to enable them to hammer the Germans

Eintracht Frankfurt - 6,000

McFaul, Craig, Craggs, Young, Cowan, Gibb, Robson, Smith, Dyson, Guthrie, Foggon.

28m - FOGGON hits a 20-yard pile-driver (1-0).

40m - Gibb engineers an opening for ROBSON (2-0).

42m - CRAIG smacks in a superb 23-yard effort (3-0).

Half-time: Eintracht Frankfurt 0 Newcastle 3

ROBSON heads in (4-0).

Full-time: Eintracht Frankfurt 0 Newcastle 4