Former favourites (and veterans) Hughie Gallacher and Albert Mclnroy are in the Gateshead team beaten by United in what is one of many games played across the country in aid of the Jubilee Benevolent Fund.
Gateshead - 30,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Clifton, Pearson.
Scorers: Birkett, Cairns - Smith
04m - BIRKETT heads into an open goal after the Gateshead defence is well beaten (1-0).
SMITH equalises with a grand oblique shot (1-1) and the rest of the half is evenly contested.
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Gateshead 1
The teams continue to be on a par but CAIRNS grabs a second late on (2-1).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Gateshead 1
Despite last season’s near disaster, the 38,000 attendance is the second best in the country. Before the game the crowd stands bareheaded in memory of Veitch. Mather admits that he "was relieved by the final whistle" as United successfully withstand a late barrage from their visitors who were unlucky not to get a draw.
Plymouth - SJP - 38,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Bowden, Cairns, Clifton, Mooney.
Scorers: Clifton, Birkett - Lane
Wright, Birkett and Clifton all make their debuts.
05m - CLIFTON gives United an early lead (1-0) and for the first twenty minutes United are well on top with the right-flank of Birkett and Bowden causing the visitors lots of problems.
Swinburne fails to hold Fletcher's swift shot and LANE equalises (1-1).
Almost immediately, BIRKETT works his way from the wing, evading numerous challenges before finishing well (2-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 2 Plymouth 1
Plymouth are the more progressive side and in the last fifteen minutes they make a concerted effort to equalise. The closest they come is when Hullett beats Swinburne but hits a post.
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Plymouth 1
Position: 3rd
United are poor in a disappointing reverse.
Luton (21st) - Kenilworth Road - 17,689
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Cairns, Park, Clifton, Mooney.
Scorers: Clifton - Gordon og, Stevenson
Park comes in for the injured Bowden.
Half-time: Luton 0 Newcastle 0
Full-time: Luton 2 Newcastle 1
Position: 13th
The home side monopolise the play for the first twenty minutes but are weak in front of goal. Newcastle start to get a foothold, but the defences prevail. Both sides are guilty of passing up decent opportunities.
Sheff. Utd (9th) - Bramall Lane - 30,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Park, Clifton, Mooney.
Half-time: Sheff. Utd 0 Newcastle 0
Full-time: Sheff. Utd 0 Newcastle 0
Position: 13th
Everything goes wrong against the Throstles. Park is carried off after only 18 minutes and just after the break the concussed Swinburne has to go off too with the already limping Clifton having to take over in goal. The visitors earn the applause of the home crowd for their plucky display.
West Brom (9th) - Hawthorns - 17,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Park, Clifton, Mooney.
Scorers: Mooney, Stubbins – Burgin, Heasalgrave (2), Jones (2).
Early on MOONEY opens the scoring with a shot all along the ground (1-0).
Four minutes later BURGIN screws in a clever equaliser (1-1).
18m - Park has to be helped off after suffering a deep cut at the back of the knee.
39m - United's ten men are competing well but HEASALGRAVE heads in (1-2).
43m - Burgin's centre strikes Ancell on the back and lands perfectly for HEASALGRAVE (1-3).
44m - STUBBINS pulls one back (2-3).
Half-time: West Brom 3 Newcastle 2
46m - JONES' shot hits the inside of the upright before it is collected by Swinburne, but the officials rule the ball had crossed the line before the custodian retrieved it (2-4).
47m - It is apparent that Swinburne is suffering from concussion and he too has to retire leaving United to play with only nine men for the last 43 minutes. Clifton who has been limping quite badly himself has to take over in goal.
68m - JONES scores a fifth (2-5).
Full-time: West Brom 5 Newcastle 2
Position: 15th
A great first-half sees United beat the table-toppers.
Burnley (1st) - SJP - 30,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Bowden, Stubbins, Cairns – Hornby, TBC
Cairns and Bowden are back to replace the injured Park and Clifton.
04m - BOWDEN sets United on their way with a header (1-0) and they play with splendid enthusiasm.
25m - HORNBY equalises in simple fashion (1-1).
29m - STUBBINS restores the lead (2-1).
Soon after CAIRNS adds a third (3-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 3 Burnley 1
tbc (3-2)
Full-time: Newcastle 3 Burnley 2
Position: 12th
Cairns scores four as United completely outclass the Throstles. The scoreline could have been even more emphatic if keeper Adams (who saved a Mooney penalty) had not played so brilliantly.
D2: West Brom (7th) - SJP - - 31,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Cairns (4), Stubbins - Jones
15m - CAIRNS breaks the deadlock (1-0).
Newcastle are dominating with their clever football and determination. They are helped by the fact that left-half McNab suffers a strain which hinders him for the rest of the game.
Half-time: Newcastle 1 West Brom 0
51m - JONES scores a shock equaliser (1-1).
United up the pressure and CAIRNS puts them ahead again (2-1).
STUBBINS (3-1).
CAIRNS (4-1).
.CAIRNS (5-1).
Full-time: Newcastle 5 West Brom 1
Position: 6th
United are unlucky not to get a draw as their craft matches Tottenham's speed, but despite having the greater of the play and being more thrustful in attack United are beaten by a penalty.
Tottenham (9th) - White Hart Lane - 40,531
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Whatley (pen)
It's a well-contested first-half and Hooper does well to stop a terrific Stubbins shot.
42m - WHATLEY scores from the spot (0-1).
Half-time: Tottenham 1 Newcastle 0
Both sides create numerous chances after the break; Morrison misses an open goal for the Londoners and Sproston clears a United effort off the line with Hopper beaten.
Full-time: Tottenham 1 Newcastle 0
Position: 9th
Gordon breaks his leg after only ten minutes, but despite being a man down (and two-men down for a short period), United deservedly win through a Cairns goal just before half-time.
Southampton (20th) - SJP - 35,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Cairns
10m - United's injury jinx strikes again as Gordon breaks his leg.
Denmark is also missing for a while getting treatment but Newcastle are the better side and just before the interval CAIRNS scores with the ball taking a slight deflection off a Southampton defender (1-0).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Southampton 0
Full-time: Newcastle 1 Southampton 0
Position: 7th
The Magpies' offside game catches Coventry on numerous occasions, but when MacDonald beats it he can simply walk the ball into the net.
Coventry (16th) - Highfield Road - 18,774
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Woodburn, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: MacDonald
Woodburn comes in for Gordon. Before the match commences the Bishop of Coventry leads a short service of Thanksgiving for peace for the players and spectators.
18m - MACDONALD (set free by Barratt) evades the offside trap and can simply walk the ball into the net (0-1).
Coventry are in the ascendancy now but United fight back as the half comes to an end.
Half-time: Coventry 1 Newcastle 0
Both sides attack at will and there are many narrow escapes.
Full-time: Coventry 1 Newcastle 0
Position: 9th
Nottm. Forest (12th) - SJP - 31,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Woodburn, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Cairns (3), Birkett
Half-time: Newcastle 4 Nottm. Forest 0
Full-time: Newcastle 4 Nottm. Forest 0
Position: 7th
Cairns scores three more as United - who are much the better all round team - make light work of bottom placed Tranmere. He is the top scorer in the country.
Tranmere (22nd) - SJP - 33,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Woodburn, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Cairns (3), Mooney (2), - Buckley
06m - MOONEY slams the ball past the wall from a free-kick just outside the area (1-0) and for the next twenty minutes United are all over the visitors and are unlucky not to score more.
BUCKLEY scores a surprise equaliser (1-1).
CAIRNS and MOONEY (3-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 3 Tranmere 1
Newcastle continue to dominate and although Lewis plays well in goal there are a number of narrow escapes.
64m - CAIRNS heads home (4-1).
CAIRNS (5-1).
Full-time: Newcastle 5 Tranmere 1
Position: 3rd
United have only won once at Upton Park since the War and they have to settle for a draw in an entertaining game in which both sides defend magnificently.
West Ham (12th) - Upton Park - 23,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Woodburn, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Cairns - Ancell og
15m - Although Swinburne gets his hand to Fenton's cross he only succeeds in pushing it onto ANCELL's head and the ball rebounds into the net (0-1).
Both sides are going for goal but the defences stand firm.
Half-time: West Ham 1 Newcastle 0
West Ham keeper Conway comes out to deal with a long ball from Woodburn but his attempted clearance lands at Stubbins' feet and he unselfishly sets up CAIRNS who scores despite the presence of two defenders on the line (1-1).
Full-time: West Ham 1 Newcastle 1
Position: 3rd
Newcastle have more of the play but the visitors have more shots on goal. With minutes remaining a brilliant run from Denmark sets up Cairns to head in the winner. Straight after the game Denmark is sent home to bed with a fever brought on by tonsillitis. The win takes Newcastle into second place, a couple of points behind Fulham.
Bradford (9th) - SJP - 40,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Woodburn, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Cairns
The visitors take the game to Newcastle and create some good chances, but towards the interval United become more thrustful and Stubbins forces two excellent saves out of Parr.
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Bradford 0
Newcastle do most of the attacking but Bradford are dangerous on the break and possibly have the better chances. Richardson is lucky that the referee misses him handle the ball in the area.
88m - Denmark picks up the ball on the edge of United's penalty area and goes off on one of the most spectacular runs seen at St James' for many a season. He evades tackle after tackle until he is twenty yards from goal. Hallard tries to clear into touch but the ball goes straight to Mooney who centres and as seven players go for the ball CAIRNS heads in (1-0).
Full-time: Newcastle 1 Bradford 0
Position: 2nd
A first home defeat for Wednesday and a first victory on the road for United. There is little to choose between the sides for most of the game but Cairns scores twice in as many minutes during a short period of United dominance after the break.
Sheff. Wed. (8th) - Hillsborough- 25,358
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Woodburn, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Cairns (2)
Bowden has one brilliant shot but the defences are on top.
Half-time: Sheff. Wed. 0 Newcastle 0
55m - United are attacking concertedly and CAIRNS heads a grand goal from a Birkett centre (1-0).
56m - CAIRNS repeats the trick off a Mooney centre (2-0).
Full-time: Sheff. Wed. 0 Newcastle 2
Position: 2nd
The biggest crowd of the day sees United deservedly beat the leaders and take over at the top of the table.
Fulham (1st) - SJP - 63,962
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Woodburn, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Bowden, Birkett - Rooke (pen)
All players wear black armlets in respect of the recently deceased FA Chairman, Mr Pickford.
It is a closely fought game, but it is noticeable that United are shooting on sight.
29m - BOWDEN has a couple of excellent efforts saved before opening the scoring following a corner (1-0).
42m - BIRKETT scrambles in a second (2-0).
Half-time: Newcastle 2 Fulham 0
The visitors are hampered by an injury to Keeping who is sent to limp around at outside-right. United pen Fulham back for long periods, but keeper Turner is in splendid form.
ROOKE scores a penalty (2-1).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Fulham 1
Position: 1st
United have lost their last five games at Ewood Park and with Clarke netting a hat-trick they are soundly beaten again in what is a tough debut for Benny Craig.
Blackburn (4th) – Ewood Park - 21,300
Swinburne, Craig, Ancell, Bradley, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Clarke (3)
New signing Benny Craig takes the place of the injured Richardson.
07m - CLARKE converts Waddle's centre (0-1).
Newcastle are making sharp thrusts but Blackburn are having most of the play and CLARKE scores a second (0-2).
.The Lancastrians are in total control and CLARKE completes his hat-trick (0-3).
Half-time: Blackburn 3 Newcastle 0
Bradley and Wright swop sides but although United do most of the attacking they cannot breakthrough the home sides solid defence.
Full-time: Blackburn 3 Newcastle 0
Position: 2nd
United are pegged back twice as they are held by a Millwall side which plays with a level of speed and craft that unsettles the Magpies.
Millwall (6th) - SJP - 37,000
Swinburne, Craig, Ancell, Garnham, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Clifton, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Mooney, Clifton - Fisher (2)
Newcastle are the more thrustful side in the first half hour and they take the lead when MOONEY crashes a free-kick into the net from just outside the area (1-0).
United slacken off and FISHER equalises (1-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Millwall 1
69m - CLIFTON beats Pearson at the second attempt (2-1).
Millwall - who have never given up - equalise again; FISHER once more the scorer (2-2)
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Millwall 2
Position: 3rd
After a poor start City are playing as well as any team in the division and they are far too good for United who have Swinburne to thank for keeping the score down to four.
Man. City (14th) - Maine Road - 45,000
Swinburne, Fairhurst, Ancell, Garnham, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Clifton, Mooney.
Scorers: Cairns - Milsom (2), Herd (2)
City are coping better with the heavy ball and United have no answer to their quick-fire raids.
32m - Doherty sets up MILSOM (0-1).
45m - CAIRNS equalises (1-1).
Half-time: Man. City 1 Newcastle 1
City continue to be the more methodical side and MILSOM scores again (1-2).
United try and get back into the game but their shooting is wayward although Cairns is unlucky to see an effort hit an upright.
HERD scores with a tremendous drive (1-3).
Another superb drive from HERD (1-4).
Full-time: Man. City 4 Newcastle 1
Position: 5th
Struggling Bury have lost seven of their nine away matches so far and Mooney and Clifton both net hat-tricks as United saunter home.
Bury (17th) - SJP - 28,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Garnham, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Clifton, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Mooney (3 - 1 pen), Clifton (3)
Richardson is back from injury and Bowden is recalled too.
10m - MOONEY (1-0).
27m - MOONEY scores from the spot after Clifton is fouled (2-0).
CLIFTON (3-0).
Bury's Livingstone is injured and is moved to outside-left.
Half-time: Newcastle 3 Bury 0
48m - CLIFTON with a clever goal (4-0).
60m - CLIFTON (5-0).
MOONEY (6-0).
Full-time: Newcastle 6 Bury 0
Position: 5th
Swansea (21st) - Vetch Field - 15,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Garnham, Denmark, Wright, Rogers, Clifton, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Clifton
CLIFTON scores early on (1-0).
Half-time: Swansea 0 Newcastle 1
Full-time: Swansea 0 Newcastle 1
Position: 4th
Mooney gives United the lead after only three minutes and although the home side hold the balance of play they cannot break United's resistance.
Plymouth (14th) - Home Park - 17,861
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Garnham, Denmark, Wright, Rogers, Clifton, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Mooney
03m - MOONEY scores with a great shot (1-0).
The home side are doing most of the attacking but the Newcastle defence is very strong and Swinburne is rarely troubled.
Half-time: Plymouth 0 Newcastle 1
Plymouth continue to press and Dougan hits the top of the bar but Swinburne and the defence perform admirably.
Full-time: Plymouth 0 Newcastle 1
Position: 2nd
Mooney and Clifton both score twice against struggling Norwich but the visitors played well apart from their shooting and did not deserve to lose so heavily.
Norwich (21st) - SJP - 46,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Garnham, Denmark, Wright, Rogers, Clifton, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Mooney (2 pens), Clifton (2)
Norwich start well and give United numerous problems with their fast, open football.
23m - Ancell lofts a free-kick into the goalmouth and Halliday is judged to have pushed Clifton as they challenge for the ball. MOONEY hits the penalty into the roof of the net (1-0).
.Norwich fight back and Ancell has to make a superb headed clearance facing his own goal.
41m - Cairns' shot is pushed out by custodian Hall but CLIFTON dashes in the head through (2-0).
Half-time: Newcastle 2 Norwich 0
For twenty minutes Norwich are again on top and are unlucky not to score.
70m - Clifton is fouled in the area (or Mackrell handles) and MOONEY scores from the spot again (3-0).
Rogers and Cairns combine to set up the uncovered CLIFTON who scores from close quarters (4-0).
Full-time: Newcastle 4 Norwich 0
Position: 2nd
Sheffield United have the same points as Newcastle and have won over half their away matches. The straw was swept off the pitch in the morning and with the sun shining the ground is very soft in places. And to make matters worse the ground starts to harden again in other parts when the sun goes down. Although neither side scores it is a thrilling game played on a frozen hard ground.
Sheff. Utd. (3rd) - SJP - 47,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Garnham, Denmark, Wright, Rogers, Clifton, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
The visitors adapt better to the conditions and are the better side for the first twenty-five minutes. A Hampson pile driver luckily strikes Swinburne on the leg.
Newcastle have chances too; Bowden and Cairns in particular hitting fine shots.
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Sheff. Utd 0
The end-to-end play continues although Newcastle are the most thrustful side now.
When United get a free-kick, six opposition players link in front of the taker Mooney. His shot lifts and strikes one of them on the head knocking him out.
In the last fifteen minutes United throw off their restraint and storm the visitors goal, but Sheffield defend resolutely.
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Sheff. Utd 0
Position: 2nd
The Magpies lose for the first time at home in a shock defeat. Both teams play with a rare enthusiasm despite the very heavy ground, but United struggle to impose themselves and have to play half the game with ten men after Denmark fractures an eye bone.
Chesterfield (12th) - SJP - 34,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Garnham, Denmark, Wright, Rogers, Clifton, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Kidd
After the thaw and heavy rain the ground has inches of mud down the middle of the field.
.Chesterfield come close when Denmark's pass back to Swinburne gets stuck in the mud and Milligan dashes in to shoot against an upright.
Just before half-time Denmark collides with a colleague and has to be assisted from the field with what looks like a bad eye injury.
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Chesterfield 0
KIDD takes a free-kick from about almost forty yards out. The sphere barely lifts off the ground, but as Swinburne comes out to meet the ball it bounces a couple of yards in front of him and skids at great speed into the net (0-1).
Ten-man United try desperately hard to fight back but cannot score.
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Chesterfield 1
Position: 3rd
Once again the pitch is in a terrible state, the ground is so muddy that the goalmouths have been covered in peat. The Londoners start well but United take the lead just before the break and this has a demoralising effect upon them.
Brentford (D1) - Griffin Park - 27,551
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Carver, Wright, Birkett, Clifton, Scott, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Clifton, Mooney
Cairns is sensationally dropped and replaced by Scott who makes his debut and Birkett returns in place of Rogers. Gordon and Carver replace the injured Garnham and Denmark.
Both sides soon switch from short to long passing and the Londoners are the better side for much of the first period.
But just before the break Mooney crosses on the run and CLIFTON hits a first time shot (1-0).
Half-time: Brentford 0 Newcastle 1
The goal seems to demoralise the home team and United take the initiative.
55m - MOONEY breaks from half-way and as James dithers on the goal-line United's outside-left barges him over and finishes with a shot which goes in off a post (2-0). he Magpies are firmly in control until the end.
Full-time: Brentford 0 Newcastle 2
D2: Burnley (13th) - Turf Moor - 11,098
Swinburne, Fairhurst, Ancell, Gordon, Carver, Wright, Birkett, Clifton, Scott, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Billingham, Dryden
The directors decide to stick with the same eleven but Richardson is not fit and is replaced by Fairhurst.
17m - Carver blocks Brocklebank's shot but BILLINGHAM follows up to score from a narrow angle (0-1).
Newcastle's play is fast and clever but they fail to take any of the opportunities that they create.
Half-time: Burnley 1 Newcastle 0
Burnley are on top now and Swinburne has to make a number of saves.
59m - Billingham sets up DRYDEN who nets with a first time shot into the corner (0-2).
Full-time: Burnley 2 Newcastle 0
Position: 3rd
United have three "goals" ruled out for offside in a hard fought encounter against their Third Division adversaries who played some excellent football against the faster paced Magpies.
Cardiff - Ninian Park - 42,060
Theaker, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Carver, Wright, Birkett, Clifton, Scott, Bowden, Mooney.
The director's drop another selection surprise by dropping Swinburne and handing Theaker his debut.
The Welshmen are the most aggressive side for much of the first-half but struggle to make clear cut chances
Newcastle overcome their unsteadiness and start to call the pace; Mooney having a goal disallowed for offside.
Half-time: Cardiff 0 Newcastle 0
Cardiff are on top again and the United goal has a couple of amazing escapes.
As the game draws to a close United go all out for victory and have two further efforts ruled out for offside. One in particular proves controversial as the referee initially allows Clifton's header before disallowing it on advice from the linesman.
Full-time: Cardiff 0 Newcastle 0
United score three times in the last eight minutes to break the stubborn resistance of the Welshmen who have given them two tough games. Mather admits "you gave us a real shock and I have not had such a big fright this season".
Cardiff - SJP - 44,649
Theaker, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Carver, Wright, Park, Clifton, Scott, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Mooney, Park, Gordon, Clifton - Pugh
Park is preferred to Birkett in what is the only change to the team.
United take the game to their visitors and Park has a decent penalty shout turned down.
28m - Clifton heads the ball across and MOONEY dashes in and hits a left foot screamer which is as fiery as his red hair (1-0).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Cardiff 0
62m - United are well on top however when Wright makes a mess of a back pass PUGH nips in to equalise (1-1).
82m - Mooney crosses and with the Cardiff defenders caught off guard PARK dashes in hits a terrific drive into the net (2-1).
85m - GORDON brilliantly dribbles through and scores with a cross-shot (3-1).
90m - CLIFTON takes a flying leap and heads the ball into the net in spectacular fashion (4-1).
Full-time: Newcastle 4 Cardiff 1
The wing men excel, but the inside and centre-forwards make little headway against an experimental Southampton defence. It is a hard fought game in which United play well, but disappoint upfront.
D2: Southampton (18th) - The Dell - 13,000
Theaker, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Carver, Wright, Birkett, Clifton, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney.
Cairns and Birkett are recalled.
Half-time: Southampton 0 Newcastle 0
Full-time: Southampton 0 Newcastle 0
Position: 5th
United are thrashed at home by their promotion rivals but they have to play two-thirds of the game with ten men after Bowden fractures his cheekbone. The referee is also knocked out during the game as the ball hits him in the jaw; although United continue their attack and score the goal is disallowed.
Coventry (3rd) - SJP - 45,000
Theaker, Fairhurst, Ancell, Gordon, Kelly, Wright, Park, Stubbins, Clifton, Bowden, Mooney.
Scorers: Crawley (2), Davidson, Taylor
Fairhurst and Kelly (making his debut) replace the injured Richardson and Carver. The attack is re-organised with Clifton being tried in the centre and Park and Stubbins replacing Birkett and Cairns. There is an artic snap in the air but the pitch is quite soft having been covered by straw.
Newcastle make most of the early play but cannot find a way through.
Half-way through the half Bowden's fast ball hits the referee on the jaw and the official falls to the ground. United continue with the attack and Stubbins nets the ball. However, once the referee recovers he restarts with a drop ball which arouses a protest from the crowd. As he had blown his whistle as he had fallen and the senior linesman had followed suit this is the correct decision.
32m - The visitors start to assert themselves and CRAWLEY scores (0-1).
A couple of minutes later United's injury jinx strikes again as later Bowden is kicked in the face and forced to retire.
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Coventry 1
Despite being a man down The Magpies force the play for ten minutes and are unlucky not to score.
69m - DAVIDSON scores with a lightning drive (0-2).
77m - TAYLOR cleverly beats a couple of men before netting (0-3).
90m - CRAWLEY scores his second from a Taylor centre (0-4).
Full-time: Newcastle 0 Coventry 4
Position: 7th
Newcastle give the cup-holders a tough game but eventually lose out in a game where all three goals are of the soft variety.
Preston - SJP - 62,327
Theaker, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Carver, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Clifton, Mooney.
Scorers: Cairns – Beattie, Mutch
Preston are the Cup holders. Richardson and Carver have recovered from injury and Cairns and Birkett are recalled.
13m - The game starts at a fast pace and BEATTIE heads in after his first header rebounds back to him off the crossbar (0-1).
32m - Mooney sends in a cleverly placed free-kick, CAIRNS heads towards goal and although Holdcroft has it covered he lets the ball slip through his grasp (1-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Preston 1
Theaker palms out a centre but only succeeds in sending the ball straight to MUTCH who slams it low and true to its billet (1-2).
Full-time: Newcastle 1 Preston 2
Mooney misses a penalty altogether as United are deservedly beaten by struggling Nottingham.
Nottm. Forest (20th) - City Ground - 7,000
Theaker, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Stubbins, Cairns, Clifton, Mooney.
Scorers: Fryer, Crawshaw
Denmark has recovered from his fractured cheekbone and replaces Carver.
Forest start well and Ancell almost scores an own goal when he passes back to Theaker - who has already advanced from his goal - and misses the goal by inches.
.25m - FRYER is just outside the penalty area as he drives a wonderful shot just inside the angle of post and crossbar (0-1).
Half-time: Nottm. Forest 1 Newcastle 0
56m - CRASHAW scores a second (0-2)
Full-time: Nottm. Forest 2 Newcastle 0
Position: 7th
The Magpies score three times in ten first-half minutes to comfortably see off the dismal wooden-spoonists.
Tranmere (22nd) - Prenton Park - 9,000
Theaker, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Park, Clifton, Cairns, Stubbins, Pearson
Scorers: Clifton, Gordon, Stubbins
The forward line is completely revamped. There is a constant drizzle which leaves the ground slippy and the ball greasy. United's first-time passing methods are more suited to the conditions.
22m - Stubbins and CLIFTON combine well before the latter named hits an unstoppable shot from close in (1-0).
27m - The home defenders make a mess of clearing Park's centre and GORDON drives in a powerful low shot (2-0).
32m - STUBBINS makes it three in ten minutes when Lewis can only punch Park's corner straight to him and he drives low into the gaping goal (3-0).
United are now in control and the home crowd becomes rather sarcastic.
Half-time: Tranmere 0 Newcastle 3
Newcastle ease through the half although their combination wanes with players starting to play too individualistically.
Full-time: Tranmere 0 Newcastle 3
Position: 7th
It is a colourless display from United and a game which falls well below expectations. With calmer finishing United would have won by many more.
West Ham (12th) - SJP - 30,000
Theaker, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Park, Clifton, Cairns, Stubbins, Pearson
Scorers: Pearson (pen), Cairns
29m - PEARSON scores from the spot (1-0) and the visitors start to fade badly.
Half-time: Newcastle 1 West Ham 0
57m - CAIRNS scores with a great shot (2-0).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 West Ham 0
Position: 5th
United concede early and lose Clifton for half an hour and despite dominating the play for long periods poor finishing lets them down.
Tottenham (11th) - SJP - 18,500
Theaker, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Park, Clifton, Cairns, Stubbins, Pearson
Scorers: Hall
05m - HALL heads through.
14m - Clifton is stretchered off after a collision with home custodian Hooper. It is feared he has broken his leg.
Half-time: Tottenham 1 Newcastle 0
Clifton returns (he had just jarred his knee); Hall is also lame for the visitors.
Tottenham are content to sit back and defend their lead but it is bad finishing from United that really ensures the score remains the same.
Full-time: Tottenham 1 Newcastle 0
Position: 5th
Both sides play well despite the slippery conditions underfoot. Bradford make most chances, but United hit the woodwork twice and Wright scores the winner.
Embed from Getty ImagesBradford (15th) - Valley Parade - 10,148
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Carver, Woodburn, Park, Scott, Cairns, Wright, Mooney
Scorers: Wright
The directors make big changes with Clifton injured and Theaker, Denmark, Stubbins and Pearson all dropped.
Bradford City are the better side but are guilty of missing some decent chances.
Half-time: Bradford City 0 Newcastle 0.
A long clearance by Swinburne is picked up by Cairns who plays in WRIGHT and he has no difficulty in beating Farr (1-0).
Full-time: Bradford City 0 Newcastle 1.
Position: 4th
United are level on points with the Owls so it is a crucial battle. Wednesday are the better side and deservedly take the lead. But Scott equalises after the break and with only three minutes left debutant Frost scores the winner. United are now in a promotion spot.
Sheff. Wed. (3rd) - SJP - 29,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Carver, Wright, Park, Scott, Frost, Clifton, Mooney
Scorers: Frost, Scott
New-signing Frost is handed his debut.
The Owls are the better side and deservedly take the lead through a splendid header from Walter MILLERSHIP (0-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Sheff Wed 1
Wednesday are still the better side but SCOTT scores with a lightning header from Park's cross (1-1).
87m - Mooney centres and FROST neatly turns the ball towards goal. Keeper Smith falls on the ball but slides over the line (2-1).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Sheff Wed 1
Position: 2nd
Second bottom Norwich are the better side in the first period and take the lead, but Clifton equalises just after the break.
Norwich (21st) - Carrow Road - 7,700
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Carver, Wright, Park, Scott, Frost, Clifton, Mooney
Scorers: Clifton
18m - Friar's corner is converted by FURNESS (0-1).
Half-time: Norwich 1 Newcastle 0.
47m - CLIFTON scores from a Mooney centre (1-1).
Position: 2nd
United hand on to second place but there are only 4 points separating them from 10th placed Tottenham and they have played more games than any of their promotion rivals.
Fulham (7th) - Craven Cottage - 20,000
Swinburne, Richardson, Ancell, Gordon, Carver, Wright, Park, Clifton, Cairns, Bowden, Mooney
Scorers: Clifton - Woodward
Cairns and Bowden are recalled.
Newcastle attack well but their shooting is poor.
Half-time: Fulham 0 Newcastle 0.
56m - WOODWARD picks up a loose ball and opens the scoring (0-1).
57m - CLIFTON is on Park's centre in a flash and scores with a well-aimed shot (1-1).
Full-time: Fulham 1 Newcastle 1.
Position: 2nd
The Magpies make a great start against the leaders and are 2-0 ahead after only six minutes; however, mistakes allow Rovers to pull level before the break. United are one point ahead of third placed Wednesday, however they have three games in hand.
Blackburn (1st) - SJP - 42,000
Swinburne, Craig, Ancell, Gordon, Carver, Wright, Park, Clifton, Scott, Bowden, Mooney
Scorers: Clifton, Scott - Weddle, Rodgers
Craig comes in for Richardson (groin injury) and Scott replaces Cairns. The game is broadcast on the radio.
United start very aggressively and have the Blackburn defence all over the place.
Clifton jumps over the ball and SCOTT scores (1-0).
06m - CLIFTON adds a second (2-0).
19m - WEDDLE's header goes in off an upright (2-1).
43m - Swinburne is caught out of position and RODGERS heads the equaliser (2-2).
Half-time: Newcastle 2 Blackburn 2
Rovers defend well and keep United at bay.
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Blackburn 2
Position: 2nd
Bowden becomes the fourth player to be used at centre-forward in the last four games. United once again struggle and have to come from behind with Cairns grabbing the equaliser. Sheffield Wednesday win and move above United; as the Owls still have three games in hand they are looking clear favourites to grab the second promotion slot.
Millwall (14th) - The Den - 26,000
Theaker, Craig, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Park, Clifton, Bowden, Cairns, Mooney
Scorers: Cairns - Richardson
Denmark, Theaker and Cairns are recalled.
05m - Chiverton is lucky to see his mis-placed back pass hit a post.
42m - RICHARDSON head in (0-1).
Half-time: Millwall 1 Newcastle 0.
CAIRNS equalises (1-1).
Full-time: Millwall 1 Newcastle 1
Position: 3rd
Chesterfield are still in with a chance of promotion themselves and the match attracts a record attendance at Saltergate. Before the game one of the home club's directors makes an appeal to the crowd to sign up for National Service. In a thrilling first period the home side score twice and with both sides tiring in the warm sun there is no way back for the Magpies. United lack method and their marksmanship is only occasionally impressive.
D2: Chesterfield (5th) - Saltergate - 30,968
Theaker, Craig, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Park, Clifton, Bowden, Cairns, Mooney
Scorers: Milligan (2)
04m - Theaker is charged by Lyon but the referee rules that the ball did not cross the line. Newcastle are on top but guilty of over-elaboration.
22m - MILLIGAN is sent through and hits the ball home (0-1).
24m - Hughes' cross is headed through by MILLIGAN (0-2).
Half-time: Chesterfield 2 Newcastle 0.
Play slows in the warm weather and the home side ease through the game.
Full-time: Chesterfield 2 Newcastle 0.
Position: 5th
Although United attack determinedly they are let down by weak finishing and City, who play the better football, deservedly win. The Magpies drop to 7th and all hope of promotion is gone.
Man. City (9th) - SJP - 23,000
Theaker, Craig, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Clifton, Bowden, Cairns, Stubbins, Mooney
(Cairns)
Stubbins replaces Park as the forward line is rejigged once more.
37m - DOHERTY (0-1).
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Man. City 1
HEALE (0-2)
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Man. City 2
Position: 6th
After a bright start by United the Shakers take control and the lead; Ancell's free-kick earns a point with 12 minutes left.
Bury (15th) - Gigg Lane - 6,000
Theaker, Craig, Ancell, Pears, Denmark, Wright, Pearson, Clifton, Frost, Stubbins, Mooney
Scorers: Ancell - Roberts
Pears makes his debut and Pearson and Frost are recalled.
12m - Hulbert's low, hard centre is smacked in by ROBERTS (0-1). Bury are well on top and make Newcastle look slow and cumbersome.
Half-time: Bury 1 Newcastle 0
78m - ANCELL scores from a free-kick (1-1).
Position: 9th
With the aid of a strong wind in the first half United attack strongly but their finishing leaves a lot to be desired. With the sides reversed Swansea (who are not yet safe from relegation) come more into the game and pick up two valuable points.
Swansea (19th) - SJP - 14,000
Theaker, Craig, Ancell, Pears, Denmark, Wright, Pearson, Stubbins, Frost, Clifton, Mooney
Scorers: Clifton - Richardson, Meer
Newcastle have a strong wind behind them, but although they pen Swansea back for long periods they are guilty of missing numerous chances.
Half-time: Newcastle 0 Swansea 0
RICHARDSON (0-1).
63m - CLIFTON (1-1).
MEER (1-2).
Full-time: Newcastle 1 Swansea 2
Position: 9th
The visitors still have an outside chance of promotion and both teams play open tactics. United win their first game since mid-March.
Luton (4th) - SJP - 10,341
Theaker, Craig, Ancell, Gordon, Denmark, Wright, Birkett, Scott, Frost, Clifton, Pearson
Scorers: Clifton, Pearson (pen)
40m - CLIFTON heads through (1-0).
Half-time: Newcastle 1 Luton 0
PEARSON (2-0).
Full-time: Newcastle 2 Luton 0
Position: 9th
The game is a benefit for centre-half Wass but his game starts badly when - within minutes of the start - he misjudges the strength of the wind and his attempted back-pass ends up as a goal.
York - Bootham Crescent
Scorers: Wass og, Cairns, Isaac - Milner
04m - Wass misjudges the strength of the wind and the keeper cannot reach his back pass (1-0).
CAIRNS (2-0)
MILNER (2-1)
Half-time: York 1 Newcastle 2
ISAAC (3-1)
Full-time: York 1 Newcastle 3
Barnsley finished as champions of the Northern Section of Division 3. It is a benefit for Asquith and he scores a first-half hat-trick.
Barnsley - Oakwell
Theaker, Craig, Ancell, Garnham, Denmark, Pears, Litchfield, Clifton, Frost, Cairns, Pearson.
Scorers: Clifton - Asquith (3), Steele
02m - ASQUITH runs between two defenders and coolly heads home (0-1)
14m - ASQUITH cracks the ball home high into the net (0-2).
Pearson sets up CLIFTON to screw the ball home (1-2).
20m - STEELE heads in (1-3).
34m - ASQUITH completes his hat-trick with a well-placed header (1-4).
Half-time: Barnsley 4 Newcastle 1
A fairly even second period brings no further goals.
Full-time: Barnsley 4 Newcastle 1
Former Grimsby and United star "Tich" Appleyard kicks-off the Hospital Cup game at Blundell Park. Both sides give it a go and Newcastle lead 2-1 at the break but the home side fight back to win.
Grimsby - Blundell Park
Theaker, Craig, Ancell, Henderson, Denmark, Garnham, Pears, Clifton, Frost, Cairns, Preston?.
Scorers: Pearson, Cairns - Beattie, Crack, Glover.
06m - Tweedy saves a lightning shot only for PEARSON to race in and convert (1-0).
09m - Crack hits the bar with a corner and when United fail to clear BEATTIE scores (1-1).
The home side are temporarily down to ten men; and whilst they are CAIRNS scores (2-1).
Half-time: Grimsby 1 Newcastle 2
61m - CRACK takes a corner which Theaker can only palm into the net (2-2).
62m - GLOVER (2-3)
Half-time: Grimsby 3 Newcastle 2