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Stephenson and Robinson both score braces with Mirandinha and Robertson also chipping in.
MIRA GRABS HAT-TRICK AS UNITED SLAM SWEDES - Mirandinha scores his first hat-trick for the club in an easy victory over the part-timers. Robinson (2) and Roeder get the others.
In dreadful conditions United cruise to victory with goals from Robinson (2), Jackson and Mirandinha.
MIRA ON TARGET AGAIN - After an even and goalless first half; Mirandinha, Hendrie, Robertson and O’Neill are all on target.
UNITED’S GOALS DRY UP - An inexperienced side dominate without scoring against the part-timers.
UNITED END TOUR IN FINE STYLE - Darren Jackson and Mirandinha net as United come from behind against the Third Division side.
UNITED DISAPPOINT IN SCOTS MIST - A depressing fog makes life chilly for United’s tee-shirted fans and the team fails to warm them up in a disjointed performance.
Dundee - Dens Park
Beasant, Cornwell, Tinnion, Roeder, Thorn, Scott, Hendrie, Jackson D, Mirandinha, Robertson, Craig (Bogie 74)
Scorers: Campbell, Craib
Half-time: Dundee 0 Newcastle 0
54m - CAMPBELL (0-1).
75m - CRAIB (0-2).
Full-time: Dundee 2 Newcastle 0
UNITED GO ON GOAL SPREE - Fourth Division Peterborough have the better early chances before being swamped after the break with Mira scoring four.
Peterborough - London Road
Beasant, Jackson P, Wharton, McCreery, Thorn (Tinnion 45), Scott, Hendrie, Robertson, Mirandinha, Jackson D, O’Neill, Robertson, Wharton
Scorers: Mirandinha (4), O’Neill
13m - O’NEILL (1-0).
Half-time: Peterborough 0 Newcastle 1
53m - ROBERTSON (2-0).
55m - MIRANDINHA (3-0).
57m - MIRANDINHA (4-0).
61m - MIRANDINHA (5-0).
65m - WHARTON (6-0).
80m - MIRANDINHA (7-0).
Full-time: Peterborough 0 Newcastle 7
LUCKY THIRTEEN FOR MIRA - Mirandinha takes his pre-season haul to thirteen in this testimonial for Simon Garner.
Blackburn - Ewood Park
Beasant (Kelly 45), Jackson D, Tinnion, Bogie, Jackson P, Scott, Hendrie, Robinson (Cornwell), Mirandinha, Wharton, O’Neill
Scorers: Hendrie, Mirandinha - Ardiles, Garner
05m - HENDRIE (1-0).
24m - ARDILES (1-1).
31m - GARNER (1-2).
Half-time: Blackburn 2 Newcastle 1
52m - MIRANDINHA (2-2).
Full-time: Blackburn 2 Newcastle 2
IT CAN ONLY GET BETTER, CAN’T IT? - Six Thousand travel to the all-ticket match at Goodison Park in anticipation, but the early season optimism is punctured within 34 seconds when Cottee (making his debut) scores with his first touch. He goes on to notch a hat-trick and Mirandinha limps off after only sixteen minutes on a day when United's play often borders on the inept. It is the heaviest opening day defeat since the 1950s. H
Everton - Goodison Park - 41,560
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion, McCreery, Jackson P, Thorn, Hendrie, Robertson, Mirandinha (Jackson D 16), Wharton, O’Neill
Scorers: Cottee (3), Sharp
01m - COTTEE (0-1).
30m - COTTEE (0-2).
Half-time: Everton 2 Newcastle 0
61m - COTTEE (0-3).
84m - SHARP (0-4).
Full-time: Everton 4 Newcastle 0
Position: 19th
O’NEILL GRABS UNITED WINNER - A lacklustre performance in which the Magpies are second-best for most of the game. O'Neill nets the winner in extra time.
Wimbledon - SJP - 41,560
Beasant, D Jackson, Tinnion, McCreery, Jackson P, Thorn, Hendrie, Robertson, O’Neill, Wharton, Cornwell
Scorers: O’Neill
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Wimbledon 0
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Wimbledon 0
109m - O’NEILL (1-0).
Extra-time: Newcastle 1 Wimbledon 0
RELIEF FLOWS OVER FOR GAZZA - The new West Stand opens as Gazza makes a quick return. Newcastle take a two-goal lead within the first nineteen minutes with goals from Darren Jackson and Thorn only for Waddle and Fenwick to reply after the break. Gascoigne suffers lots of abuse from the crowd, is pelted with mars bars from the Gallowgate Corner then subbed towards the end after struggling. And the police have to move in when Chris Waddle is also pelted with mars bars, coins and bits of rubble when he prepares to take a corner from the same part of the ground. Youtube highlights
Tottenham (13th) - SJP - 32,977
Beasant, Anderson (Craig), Wharton, McCreery, Scott, Thorn, Hendrie, Bogie, O’Neill, Jackson D, Robertson
Scorers: Jackson D, Thorn - Waddle, Fenwick
19m - Darren JACKSON (1-0).
33m - THORN (2-0).
Half-time: Newcastle 2 Tottenham 0
46m - WADDLE (2-1).
64m - FENWICK (2-2).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Tottenham 2
Position: 17th
PROMISING DRAMA ENDS AS TRAGEDY - Designated by Derby as a "Gold" match, Robert Maxwell's method of making the most loyal away fans pay more. Hebberd scores a spectacular first and old boy Paul Goddard seals the victory eleven minutes from the end. McFaul says it is time for the younger players to “show a bit of character”. Youtube highlights
Derby (9th) - Baseball Ground - 16,014
Beasant, Anderson, Wharton, McCreery, Scott, Thorn, Hendrie, Bogie, O’Neill, Jackson D, Robertson
Scorers: Hebberd, Goddard
Half-time: Derby 0 Newcastle 0
HEBBERD (0-1).
79m - GODDARD (0-2).
Full-time: Derby 2 Newcastle 0
Position: 19th
UNITED FLOP IN LITTLE AND LARGE SHOW - The high-flying Canaries are second after three successive victories and they cruelly expose the limitations of the United side. It is a shambolic performance in which they are almost totally lacking in method, ideas and incisiveness. Inevitably chants of "what a load of rubbish" and “sack the board” are regularly aired before jeering the players off the pitch. United slump to the bottom of the table. Youtube highlights
Norwich (2nd) - SJP - 22,801
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion, McCreery, Scott, Thorn, Hendrie, Bogie, O’Neill (Stephenson), Jackson D, Robertson
Scorers: Gordon, Fleck
38m - GORDON (0-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Norwich 1
67m - FLECK (0-2).
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Norwich 2
Position: 20th
BATTLING UNITED GO OUT IN EXTRA TIME - Although the Magpies are forced on the defensive for most of the game and don’t get a shot on target until 82 minutes, Mirandinha misses a great chance two minutes before the end of normal time.
Man United (D1:8th) - Old Trafford - 14,968
Beasant, Cornwell, Wharton, McCreery (Mirandinha 75), Scott, Thorn, Hendrie, Stephenson (Tinnion 115), Bogie, Jackson D, Robertson
Scorers: Bruce, McClair
Half-time: Man United 0 Newcastle 0
Full-time: Man United 0 Newcastle 0
91m - BRUCE (0-1).
101m - MCCLAIR (0-2).
Extra-time: Man United 2 Newcastle 0
UNITED HAVE LITTLE REASON TO CELEBRATE - Although United battle well it is another uninspiring performance in which United’s “subbuteo” strike force struggle to get into the game. United come from behind to lead after Charlton's Paul Miller is sent off for spitting with the Magpies bench celebrating wildly after their second. Robert Lee grabs a late equaliser with a thunderous shot. Youtube highlights
Charlton (16th) - Selhurst Park - 6,088
Beasant, Cornwell (Bogie), Wharton, McCreery, Scott, Thorn, Hendrie, Stephenson, Mirandinha, Jackson D, Robertson (Tinnion)
Scorers: Jackson D, Tinnion - Williams, Lee
Virus rules out Anderson and O’Neill.
45+m - WILLIAMS (0-1).
Half-time: Charlton 1 Newcastle 0
72m - JACKSON (1-1).
78m - TINNION (2-1).
85m - LEE (2-2).
Full-time: Charlton 2 Newcastle 2
Position: 19th
UNITED WERE RUBBISH ADMITS WILLIE - The kick-off is delayed for fifteen minutes to allow all the travelling supporters to get in, but they must have wished they hadn’t bothered. United suffer a torrid first-half roasting as they simply cannot cope with the Blades’ direct tactics. The only surprise is that they only concede twice and despite improving after the break they fall further behind. A furious McFaul locks his players in the dressing room for an hour and when he emerges he simply says “we were rubbish, what more can I say” after an "embarrassing" and "awful" defeat against the Third Division leaders. Coach John Pickering allegedly “went bananas”. Youtube highlights
Sheffield United (D3:1st) - Bramall Lane - 17,900
Beasant, Anderson, Wharton, Jackson D, Scott, Thorn, Hendrie, Cornwell, O’Neill (Robertson), Mirandinha, Tinnion
Scorers: Deane (2), Stancliffe
05m - DEANE (0-1).
33m - DEANE (0-1).
Half-time: Sheffield United 2 Newcastle 0
77m - STANCLIFFE (0-1).
Full-time: Sheffield United 3 Newcastle 0
LIVERPOOL KOP IT AS UNITED DEFY HISTORY - A 45th birthday present for McFaul as (9-1 shots) United amazingly secure their first win at Anfield for 34 years against a Liverpool side unbeaten at home for 18 months. Gillespie gives them an early lead but profligate finishing and Beasant’s long limbs prevent them from adding to their total. Hendrie equalises and Mirandinha converts a penalty. The Brazilian is accused of goading The Kop with his celebration, he responds by saying "l was just showing them my badge". McFaul is "so proud" of his players. Youtube highlights
Liverpool (2nd) - Anfield - 39,139
Beasant, Anderson, Wharton, McCreery, Scott, Thorn, Hendrie, Jackson D, Mirandinha, O’Neill (Robertson), Stephenson
Scorers: Hendrie, Mirandinha (pen) - Gillespie
03m - GILLESPIE (0-1).
29m - HENDRIE (1-1).
Half-time: Liverpool 1 Newcastle 1
83m - MIRANDINHA penalty (1-2).
Full-time: Liverpool 1 Newcastle 2
Position: 18th
THE DAY PATIENCE FINALLY SNAPPED - The same eleven slump to an awful defeat against a Coventry side who have lost all their away games so far. Experienced journalist Brian McNally says it is “the most disorganised, dispirited home display I have seen in thirty-three years of watching Newcastle”. All the goals are scored in the first period when some fans leave. At the break the players are booed off and abuse is hurled at the directors with Police having to move in to quell the trouble. The players are booed as they return and the second half brings sit down protests and chants of "sack the board" and "Johnny Hall." Coventry moves are applauded and Newcastle players are jeered. After the match fans demonstrate outside the main entrance and have to be cleared by mounted police and dog handlers. Others rampage through Eldon Square scattering shoppers in their wake. Youtube highlights
Coventry (8th) - SJP - 22,896
Beasant, Anderson, Wharton, McCreery, Scott, Thorn (Cornwell), Hendrie, Jackson D, Mirandinha, O’Neill (Robertson), Stephenson
Scorers: Regis, Speedie, Gynn
14m - REGIS (0-1).
35m - SPEEDIE (0-2).
45m+ - GYNN (0-3).
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Coventry 3
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Coventry 3
Position: 19th
MANAGERLESS UNITED GO DOWN FIGHTING - United, playing with spirit and enthusiasm, dominate for long periods. But despite winning they cannot level the aggregate score. The supporters chant Arthur Cox’s name and it is thought that the Board are so confident of getting their man that they have not approached anyone else. Youtube highlights
Sheffield United (D3:2nd) - SJP - 14,520
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion, Jackson D (Bogie), Scott, Thorn, Stephenson (Robertson), Hendrie, Mirandinha, Wharton, O’Neill
Scorers: Hendrie, Mirandinha
43m - HENDRIE (1-0).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Sheffield United 0
46m - MIRANDINHA (2-0).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Sheffield United 0
SORRY UNITED ARE TOTALLY LACKING IN SELF-BELIEF - Although the Hammers are the only side beneath United they win easily with Beasant preventing a thrashing. United are disorganised and dispirited. Michael O'Neill finishes with a broken nose after he is elbowed in the face in an off-the-ball incident involving Paul Ince.
West Ham (20th) - Upton Park - 17,765
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion, McCreery (Robertson), Scott, Thorn (Bogie), Stephenson, Hendrie, Mirandinha, Jackson D, O’Neill
Scorers: Dickens, Stewart (p)
Half-time: West Ham 0 Newcastle 0
57m - DICKENS (0-1).
83m - STEWART penalty (0-2).
Full-time: West Ham 2 Newcastle 0
Position: 20th
MIRA MAGIC AS UNITED RESTORE THEIR PRIDE - A Pallister own goal and a brace from Mirandinha brings a first home win of the season and lifts United off the bottom. Although the Teessiders spurn a number of chances it is a deserved victory. Youtube highlights
Middlesbrough (9th) - SJP - 23,927
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion, Jackson D, Scott, Cornwell, Stephenson, Hendrie, Mirandinha, O’Neill, Payne (Robertson)
Scorers: Mirandinha (2) , Pallister og
11m - PALLISTER own goal (1-0).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Middlesbrough 0
50m - MIRANDHINA (2-0).
85m - MIRANDHINA (2-0).
Full-time: Newcastle 3 Middlesbrough 0
Position: 18th
Despite controlling the game for an hour, United lose and despite still being managerless, McKeag says “there is no panic”. Youtube highlights
Nottingham Forest (9th) - SJP - 24,675
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion, Jackson D, Scott, Cornwell, Stephenson, Hendrie, Mirandinha, O’Neill, Payne (Robertson)
Scorers: Chapman
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Nottingham Forest 0
64m - CHAPMAN (0-1).
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Nottingham Forest 1
Position: 18th
FRANCIS MAKES SUGGETT SUFFER - Although United show considerable improvement after the break veteran Trevor Francis inspires QPR to a comprehensive victory. United’s strikeforce continues to look embarrassingly lightweight and Suggett is desperate to sign a target man. Youtube highlights
QPR (15th) - Loftus Road - 11,013
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion (Payne), McCreery, Scott, Thorn, Stephenson, Hendrie, Robertson, Jackson D, O’Neill
Scorers: Maddix, Allen, Falco
11m - MADDIX (0-1).
30m - ALLEN (0-2).
Half-time: QPR 2 Newcastle 0
83m - FALCO (0-3).
Full-time: QPR 3 Newcastle 0
Position: 19th
UNITED HAVE LOST THEIR WAY TO GOAL - A very similar match to the last home game, United enjoy plenty of possession, but huff and puff without creating more than one clear cut chance and pay the price when Bould scores. Youtube highlights
Arsenal (2nd) - SJP - 24,033
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion, McCreery, Cornwell, Thorn, Robertson (Robinson), Hendrie, Mirandinha, Jackson D, Payne
Scorers: Bould
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Arsenal 0
70m - BOULD (0-1).
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Arsenal 1
Position: 20th
FANS VENT THEIR FRUSTRATION - United are thrashed 4-0 by the high-flying Londoners. Fans chant “we’re so bad it’s unbelievable” and “now you've got to believe us, we'll never score a goal”. Then when McDonald heads in just before the end, but the effort is disallowed for offside, they change the words to: “now you've got to believe us, we've nearly scored a goal”. After the game some Newcastle fans attack the Millwall director’s suite, where they believe the United directors are. A door is kicked down and a couple of windows are smashed. Sports Minister Colin Moynihan, Margaret Thatcher’s main ally in the plans to introduce a compulsory ID scheme, is there as a guest of the club and witnesses the trouble first hand. He says: "this reinforces my conviction that further measures have to be taken to secure the future of the game". Youtube highlights
Millwall (4th) - The Den - 15,767
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion, McCreery, Cornwell (Jackson D), Thorn, O’Brien, Hendrie, McDonald, Roeder, Wharton (Mirandinha)
Scorers: McLeary, Hurlock, Cascarino, O’Callaghan
26m - MCCLEARY (0-1).
45m - HURLOCK (0-2).
Half-time: Millwall 2 Newcastle 0
CASCARINO (0-3).
O’CALLAGHAN (0-4).
Full-time: Millwall 4 Newcastle 0
Position: 20th
ARMCHAIR FANS NOW KNOW THE AWFUL TRUTH - Before the game Newcastle are presented with a cheque of £750,000 (the highest amount paid) by the Football Grounds Improvement Trust. The grant has helped pay for the new Milburn Stand. Roeder and Wharton are dropped. United draw a blank for the fifth game in a row in what is a very poor game. There are demonstrations before, during and after the game. A "sack the board" banner is displayed before the match starts. “Sack the Board” is chanted repeatedly along with "and now you gotta believe us, they're going to wreck the club". Youtube highlights
Manchester United (12th) - SJP - 20,350
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion, McCreery, Cornwell, Thorn, Hendrie, O’Brien, McDonald, Mirandinha, Payne (Wharton)
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Manchester United 0
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Manchester United 0
Position: 20th
ALL THEY ARE SAYING IS GIVE US A GOAL - Another scoreless match on the plastic at Luton, mainly as a result of the Hatters shocking finishing. Although away supporters are banned there are about twenty or so United fans in attendance.
Luton (16th) - Kenilworth Road - 8,338
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion, McCreery, Cornwell, Thorn, Hendrie, O’Brien, Jackson D, Mirandinha (Gourlay), Payne
Half-time: Luton 0 Newcastle 0
Full-time: Luton 0 Newcastle 0
Position: 20th
UNITED BACK IN LAND OF THE LIVING - A banner states "Save Our Club" and although United are outplayed for large portions of the game they record their first win for six weeks. Hendrie scores United's first goal for 588 minutes and then scores the winner ten minutes from time. Smith admits: "there is pressure here and I don't think the players are good enough to handle it. I now know the size of the job here”. Youtube highlights
Wimbledon (18th) - SJP - 20,146
Beasant, Anderson, Tinnion, McCreery, Cornwell, Thorn, Hendrie, O’Brien, Jackson D (McDonald), Mirandinha (Wharton), Brock
Scorers: Hendrie (2) - Gibson
41m - HENDRIE (1-0).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Wimbledon 0
51m - GIBSON (1-1).
81m - HENDRIE (1-0).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Wimbledon 1
Position: 20th
LUCKLESS NEWCASTLE BOW OUT - Wilkinson scores the winner three minutes from time after McDonald had lobbed in an equaliser.
Watford () - Vicarage Road-
Scorers: McDonald - Holden, Wilkinson
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Wimbledon 0
51m - HOLDEN (0-1).
64m - MCDONALD (1-1).
87m - WILKINSON (1-2).
Full-time: Watford 2 Newcastle 1
O'NEILL COULD SAVE £1m SAYS JIM - Much more entertaining fare when Southampton visit. Two from Le Tisser help the visitors to a 3-1 lead then O'Neill comes off the subs bench to score twice (the last in injury time) to rescue a point for United just as the mood is turning ugly again. Youtube highlights
Southampton (6th) - SJP - 19,986
Beasant, O’Brien, Tinnion (Bogie), McCreery, Thorn, Roeder, Hendrie, McDonald, Mirandinha (O’Neill), Wharton, Brock
Scorers: O’Neill (2), Brock, - Le Tissier (2), Rod Wallace
08m - BROCK (1-0).
17m - LE TISSIER (1-1).
28m - LE TISSIER (1-2).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Southampton 2
54m - Rodney WALLACE (1-3).
65m - O'NEILL (2-3).
88m - O'NEILL (3-3).
Full-time: Newcastle 3 Southampton 3
Position: 18th
MAGNIFICENT NEWCASTLE WIN IN STYLE - United introduce their new full back pairing at Hillsborough and spurred on by a large following they come from behind to win with goals from O'Neill and McDonald. Youtube highlights
Sheffield Wednesday (12th) - Hillsborough - 25,573
Beasant, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery (O’Brien), Thorn, Roeder, Hendrie, O’Neill (Mirandinha), McDonald, Wharton, Brock
Scorers: McDonald, O’Neill - Hirst
02m - HIRST (0-1).
10m - MCDONALD (1-1).
39m - O'NEILL (2-1).
Half-time: Sheffield Wednesday 1 Newcastle 2
Full-time: Sheffield Wednesday 1 Newcastle 2
Position: 18th
WADDLE THE INSPIRATION AS SPURS END UNITED'S RUN - United's five-game unbeaten League run comes to an end at White Hart Lane, they don't play that badly but they are let down by poor finishing. Gascoigne is out injured, but Waddle is once more on target against his old club. Youtube highlights
Tottenham (11th) - White Hart Lane - 27,739
Beasant, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery (O’Brien), Scott, Roeder, Hendrie, O’Neill (Mirandinha), McDonald, Wharton, Brock
Scorers: Walsh, Waddle
21m - WALSH (0-1).
WADDLE (0-2).
Half-time: Tottenham 2 Newcastle 0
Full-time: Tottenham 2 Newcastle 0
Position: 19th
CONTROVERSIAL DECISION COSTLY FOR UNITED - Roared on by the home support, United perform reasonably well, but a vintage performance by Rams 'keeper Shilton mixed with some watered down United finishing lets them down. Referee Keith Hackett annoys the crowd with some of his decisions, particularly when he denies United a penalty when Hendrie is sent sprawling in the box. Youtube highlights
Derby (8th) - SJP - 30,555
Beasant, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Hendrie, McDonald, Mirandinha (O’Brien), Wharton (O’Neill), Brock
Scorers: Wright
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Derby 0
48m - WRIGHT (0-1).
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Derby 1
Position: 19th
ITS TOUGH FOR CENTRE-FORWARDS AT NEWCASTLE - The FA Cup brings Second Division Watford to Tyneside and in a scrappy game played at a frenetic pace United's lack of firepower costs them dear. Struggling centre-forward Rob McDonald is the main target of the fans' abuse.
Watford (D2:4th) - SJP - 24,217
Beasant, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, O’Brien, Hendrie (Mirandinha), McDonald, O’Neill (Bogie), Wharton, Brock
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Watford 0
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Watford 0
Watford (D2:4th) - Vicarage Road - 24,217
Beasant, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, O’Brien, Hendrie (Mirandinha), McDonald, O’Neill (Bogie), Wharton, Brock
Scorers: Brock, Mirandinha (p) - Redfearn (2-1p)
02m - REDFEARN (0-1).
45m - BROCK (1-1).
Half-time: Watford 1 Newcastle 1
52m - MIRANDINHA penalty (2-1).
63m - REDFEARN penalty (2-2).
Full-time: Watford 2 Newcastle 2
Extra-time: Watford 2 Newcastle 2
VILLA TEAR APART TIMID UNITED - Tommy Wright and Frank Pingel (although he admits he is only “half-fit”) make their debuts. A Mira penalty gives United the lead, but suicidal defending sees them tumble back down to bottom spot.
Aston Villa (16th) - Villa Park - 21,010
Wright, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, O’Brien, Hendrie, Payne (Pingel), Mirandinha, Wharton, Brock
Scorers: Mirandinha (p) - Gray A, Daley, McInally
MIRANDINHA penalty (1-0).
Half-time: Aston Villa 1 Newcastle 1
Full-time: Aston Villa 3 Newcastle 1
Position: 20th
NEWCASTLE CUP MARATHON GOES TO ANOTHER REPLAY - At a passionate Gallowgate, United try desperately hard, particularly in a barnstorming second-half performance, but are once more let down by poor finishing although ‘keeper Coton is in fine form for the Hornets.
Watford (D2:3rd) - SJP - 28,370
Wright, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Hendrie, O’Brien, Bogie (McDonald), Wharton (O’Neill), Brock
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Watford 0
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Watford 0
Extra-time: Newcastle 0 Watford 0
CRUEL LUCK AS OWN GOAL FLOORS UNITED - Although the Magpies are the better side Coton once more keeps them out. And a Holden shot deflects in off Roeder with six minutes of extra-time remaining to end the gruelling saga with Watford which has lasted for seven and a half hours.
Watford (D2:3rd) - Vicarage Road - 15,115
Wright, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Hendrie, O’Brien, Bogie (McDonald), Wharton (O’Neill), Brock
Scorers: Roeder (og)
Half-time: Watford 0 Newcastle 0
Full-time: Watford 0 Newcastle 0
114m - ROEDER own-goal (0-1).
Extra-time: Watford 1 Newcastle 0
NEWCASTLE NOW NEED A MIRACLE - United are playing their fourth game in eight days, including the two Cup ties that went to extra time. It is a disjointed and demoralised performance against fellow relegation strugglers Charlton for whom Robert Lee scores both goals. It is the fourth home game in a row that they have failed to score and Jim Smith says: "it's not the Board who give away silly goals and miss easy chances. We have to get a settled side. We are now tracing a life or death situation and I have to get it right”. The attendance drops below 20,000 for the first time during the season and there is a sit-down protest towards the end of the game. After the match a 250-strong crowd demonstrates in Strawberry Place. When the police move in to break it up bricks, bottles, stones, coins and cans are hurled at them and two are injured.
Charlton (18th) - SJP - 19,076
Wright, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, O’Brien, Hendrie, Payne (Pingel), Mirandinha, Wharton, Brock
Scorers: Lee (2)
42m - LEE (0-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Charlton 1
80m - LEE (0-2).
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Charlton 2
Position: 20th
SMILES FOR SMITH - AT DOUBLE - Danish TV are covering the match and countryman Pingel scores his first goal in an entertaining draw. Mirandinha - the star of the show - scores one and hits the post with an audacious 40-yard half volley which comes back of the inside of the upright. The Magpies play with pride and passion and Smith, who also found out he had two new granddaughters before the game, says “we will stay up if we repeat that level of performance over the last fifteen games”.
Liverpool (4th) - SJP - 30,966
Wright, Scott, Sansom, McCreery, Anderson, Roeder, Hendrie, Pingel, Mirandinha, O’Brien, Brock
Scorers: Mirandinha, Pingel - Rush, Aldridge
03m - MIRANDINHA (1-0).
15m - RUSH (1-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Liverpool 1
49m - PINGEL (2-1).
50m - ALDRIDGE (2-2).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Liverpool 2
Position: 19th
UNITED EQUIPPED TO BEAT THE DROP - Smith adopts a new 5-3-2 formation in which Roeder operates immaculately as a sweeper. Gary Brazil makes his debut as United record a shock first win of the New Year away at third-placed Coventry. It is the first win in ten games.
Coventry (3rd) - Highfield Road - 16,577
Wright, Scott, Sansom, McCreery, Anderson, Roeder, Hendrie, Pingel, Mirandinha (O’Neill), O’Brien, Brazil
Scorers: Hendrie, Mirandinha (pen) - Pingel (og)
Half-time: Coventry 0 Newcastle 0
50m - HENDRIE (1-0).
52m - PINGEL own goal (1-1).
69m - MIRANDINHA penalty (2-1).
Full-time: Coventry 1 Newcastle 2
Position: 19th
Pingel Scores the only goal.
DERBY RIVALS SHOW THEY CAN BOTH BEAT THE DROP - A closely fought encounter against an out-of-sorts Boro. Samson plays as sweeper and United play a swift counter-attacking game. O’Brien scores his first goal to give United the lead, but slack marking allows Slaven to equalise. Newcastle are five points from safety.
Middlesbrough (13th) - Ayresome Park - 16,577
Wright, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Hendrie, Pingel, Mirandinha (Brazil), O’Brien, Brock
Scorers: O’Brien - Slaven
30m - O'BRIEN (1-0).
Half-time: Middlesbrough 0 Newcastle 1
62m - SLAVEN (1-1).
Full-time: Middlesbrough 1 Newcastle 1
Position: 19th
STAY-AWAY FANS HAVE RIGHT IDEA - A Pitiful crowd comes to see United take on the Danish champions and the ones who stayed away called it right. Both teams are aimless and lethargic and it is one big yawn from start to finish.
Brondby - SJP - 3,338,
Wright, Ranson, Sansom, Tinnion, Scott, Thorn, Brazil, Pingel, O’Neill, O’Brien, Brock
Scorers: O’Brien, Brazil
43m - O'BRIEN (1-0).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Brondby 0
56m - BRAZIL (2-0).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Brondby 0
NEWCASTLE HAVE THAT DOOMED APPEARANCE - David Seaman keeps United out and two sucker punches bring a disastrous defeat at home against one of their relegation rivals. It is an abject performance in which the players lapse into the disorganisation and dis-spiritedness of the pre-Smith days. Many of the crowd have left before Ranson's consolation. Smith apologises to the fans and admits that "harsh words" were spoken in the dressing room after the pathetic performance. Roeder aggravates his hamstring.
QPR (16th) - SJP - 21,665
Wright, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Hendrie (Mirandinha), Pingel, Brazil, O’Brien (O’Neill), Brock
Scorers: Ranson - Clarke, Stein
Half-time: Newcastle 0 QPR 0
64m - CLARKE (0-1).
71m - STEIN (0-2).
73m - RANSON (1-2).
Full-time: Newcastle 1 QPR 2
Position: 19th
BATTLING UNITED EARN DESERVED POINT - In the first half Forest dominate possession and take the lead through a hotly disputed penalty, but Kelly’s brilliance and a battling performance keep United in the match. The Magpies match their hosts after the break and Brock secures a well-earned draw.
Nottm F (5th) - City Ground - 20,800
Kelly, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Thorn, Hendrie, Pingel (Wharton), Brazil (O’Neill), O’Brien, Brock
Scorers: Brock - Clough (pen)
Tommy Wright (whose new baby is ill) is replaced by Kelly and Thorn returns from injury.
33m - CLOUGH penalty (0-1).
Half-time: Nottm. Forest 1 Newcastle 0
63m - BROCK (1-0).
Full-time: Nottm. Forest 1 Newcastle 1
Position: 19th
SUPER UNITED RUN MERSEYSIDERS RAGGED - United adapt to the unpredictable gale much better and record their first home victory for three months as they brush aside the lethargic Toffees. Mira celebrates the first goal with a little jig around the corner flag. “We could have beaten virtually any team in the country” says Smith. United are now within three points of safety and within five points of the seven clubs above them.
Everton (11th) - SJP - 20,933
Kelly, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Thorn, Hendrie, Pingel (Brazil), Mirandinha (O’Neill), O’Brien, Brock
Scorers: Mirandinha, O’Brien
19m - MIRANDINHA (1-0).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Everton 0
53m - O'BRIEN (2-0).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Everton 0
Position: 19th
NEWCASTLE CALLING THE TUNE - Salvation has suddenly become a possibility as United once again upset one of the title challengers. Second-placed Norwich are shocked as Mirandinha and O'Brien get the goals once again to leave the inflatable canaries looking a little flat. Newcastle are now only one point behind safety and the next two games are against the teams directly above United, so there is all to play for.
Norwich (2nd) - Carrow Road - 22,440 0
Kelly, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Thorn, Hendrie, Pingel (O’Neill), Mirandinha (Brazil), O’Brien, Brock
Scorers: Mirandinha, O’Brien
27m - MIRANDINHA (1-0).
Half-time: Norwich 0 Newcastle 1
52m - O'BRIEN (2-0).
Full-time: Norwich 0 Newcastle 2
Position: 19th
UNITED - THE GREAT UNPREDICTABLES AGAIN % - The disjointed Magpies hit the self-destruct button after a disastrous start which sees them 2-0 down after 13 minutes. Mirandinha raises hopes with a penalty twenty minutes before the end but United cannot find another goal. Wednesday confirm their victory in injury time. United have only lost 3 of their last 9 games, but they have all been at home against relegation rivals.
Sheffield Wednesday (17th) - SJP - 31,040
Kelly, Ranson (O’Neill), Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Thorn, Hendrie, Pingel (Brazil), Mirandinha, O’Brien, Brock
Scorers: Mirandinha (p) - Barrick, Pearson, Hirst
03m - BARRICK (0-1).
13m - PEARSON (0-2).
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Sheffield Wednesday 2
70m - MIRANDINHA penalty (1-2).
90+m - HIRST (1-3).
Full-time: Newcastle 1 Sheffield Wednesday 3
Position: 19th
PENALTY OF PAIN - A last minute penalty, controversially given against Kelly, is converted by Ruddock to give Southampton their first win since November and deny United a point. However the Saints deserve the win on the balance of play against the hugely ineffective Magpies.
Southampton (18th) - The Dell - 16,175
Kelly, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Hendrie, Pingel (O’Neill), Mirandinha (Sweeney), O’Brien, Brock
Scorers: Ruddock (p)
Half-time: Southampton 0 Newcastle 0
90m - RUDDOCK penalty (0-1).
Full-time: Southampton 1 Newcastle 0
Position: 19th
WADDLE STEALS SHOW WITH DOUBLE STRIKE - Kenny Wharton's testimonial match. Waddle scores twice, Pingel and Mirandinha net for United.
Keegan Xl - SJP -
Kelly (Wright), Ranson, Sansom, Kristensen, Scott, Roeder, Hendrie, O’Neill, Pingel (Carter), Mirandinha, Brazil
Shilton, Fenwick, Pallister, Bruce, Anderson, Wharton, Keegan (Clark), Gascoigne, Waddle, Saunders, Walsh
Scorers: Pingel, Mirandinha - Waddle (2)
16m - WADDLE (0-1).
26m - PINGEL (1-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Keegan Xl 1
70m - WADDLE (1-2).
80m - MIRANDINHA (2-2).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Keegan Xl 2
UNITED LOOK DOOMED FOR SECOND DIVISION - Bjorn Kristensen makes his debut as United are easily swept aside by fellow strugglers Villa. It is a wretched performance in which they are totally lacking in self-belief and confidence. They fall away as soon as Villa take the lead and could have conceded many more. Jim Smith laments: “At the moment we have killed ourselves off - St. James’ Park has become a bit of a jinx.”
Aston Villa (14th) - SJP - 20,329
Kelly, Ranson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Hendrie, Kristensen, Mirandinha (Sweeney), O’Brien, Brock
Scorers: O’Brien - Gray, Platt
33m - GRAY (0-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Aston Villa 1
74m - PLATT (0-2).
80m - O'BRIEN (1-2).
Full-time: Newcastle 1 Aston Villa 2
Position: 19th
UNDESERVED DEFEAT THAT PALES INTO INSIGNIFICANCE- Brock is flu-ridden whilst Ranson is injured and Mira dropped in a much changed side which battles bravely before succumbing to a suspiciously offside looking Marwood goal. David Roche comes on for his first game. Now 4 points from safety with only 5 games left. Smith says if we can repeat this level over the next five games we can still beat the drop". But everything is overshadowed by the terrible events at Hillsborough.
Arsenal (2nd) - Highbury - 38,023
Kelly, Kristensen, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Hendrie, Pingel (McDonald), Thorn, O’Neill, Sweeney (Roche)
Scorers: Marwood
Half-time: Arsenal 0 Newcastle 0
MARWOOD (0-1).
Full-time: Arsenal 1 Newcastle 0
Position: 19th
DESPERATE UNITED ARE DOOMED - A minute's silence in respect poof those who lost their lives at Hillsborough (ruined by one idiot) is held before the kick-off. The game itself is shockingly poor.
Luton (18th) - SJP - 18,493
Kelly, Kristensen (Wharton), Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Hendrie, Sweeney, Thorn, O’Neill (Mirandinha), Brock
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Luton 0
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Luton 0
Position: 19th
HOW THE MIGHTY ARE FALLEN - Denis Wise is the chief tormentor as United collapse at Plough Lane. Chief tormentor is Dennis Wise who also scores from the penalty spot. It is an appalling display and "Sack the Board" and "John Hall's Black and White Army" get their usual airing. Relegation is virtually certain now and Smith admits "our form has been nothing short of disgraceful." With three games left United are six points behind Charlton (and safety) who also have a game in hand. Smith is not throwing the towel yet "we have 3 matches remaining and we must make every effort to stay up". Pingel reacts aggressively towards Smith when he is substituted.
Wimbledon (9th) - Plough Lane - 5,206
Kelly, Kristensen (Ranson), Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Pingel (McDonald), Sweeney, Thorn, O’Neill, Brock
Scorers: Wise (pen), Miller, Jones, Cotterill
25m - WISE penalty (0-1).
Half-time: Wimbledon 1 Newcastle 0
72m - MILLER (0-2).
80m - JONES (0-3).
83m - COTTERILL (0-4).
Full-time: Wimbledon 4 Newcastle 0
Position: 19th
NEWCASTLE ARE BACK IN DIVISION TWO - It is vital for United to beat the Hammers to retain the mathematical possibility of survival and to stay clear of bottom spot. It is a spineless, sloppy and uninspired performance and a cordon of police ring the Director's Box at the end of the game. Season Tickets are hurled and ripped up and just after the Hammers’ winner the crowd cheers fan Joseph Mattinson who holds up the game as he rips up his shirt and kicks it around the centre-circle.
West Ham (20th) - SJP - 14,202
Wright, Anderson (Kristensen), Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Lormor, Sweeney, Thorn, Pingel (McDonald), Brock
Scorers: Lormor - Keen, Ward
02m - LORMOR (1-0).
06m - KEEN (1-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 West Ham 1
79m - WARD (1-2).
Full-time: Newcastle 1 West Ham 2
Position: 19th
FANS VENT ANGER ON BELEAGUERED BOARD - The last home game becomes a mass demonstration with sit down protests, season ticket tossing, scarf burning and even a mini pitch invasion. The players enter the field to a chorus of boos. The match is an irrelevance brightened up by cracking goals from Sheringham and Anderson. Injured Mira spends the first half in the directors box before watching the match with fans in the West Stand and is reduced to tears by their support.
Millwall (8th) - SJP - 14,435
Wright, Anderson, Sweeney, McCreery, Scott, Roeder, Lormor, Wharton, Thorn, O’Neill, Brock
Scorers: Anderson - Sheringham
42m - SHERINGHAM (0-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Millwall 1
52m - ANDERSON (1-1).
Full-time: Newcastle 1 Millwall 1
Position: 20th
HOW THE OTHER HALF LIVE, UNITED - The home side's listless performance is still two good for Newcastle whose season is summed up by two appalling misses. O'Neill misses a sitter and gets in the way of a goal bound Lormor shot. At the finish the United supporters applaud the team off and sing “we’ll meet again”.
Man. United (11th) - Old Trafford - 30,379
Wright, Anderson, Sansom, McCreery, Scott, Thorn, Lormor (Roche), Sweeney, Roeder, O’Neill (Howey), Brock
Scorers: McClair, Robson
Half-time: Man. United 0 Newcastle 0
74m - MCCLAIR (0-1).
82m - ROBSON (0-2).
Full-time: Man. United 2 Newcastle 0
Position: 20th