NUFC - 1970/71 Matches

The match against the Irish part-timers could be viewed as an opportunity to end the run or another potential embarrassment. Dinnis knew another loss was out of the question and demanded a clean sheet at the very least. He got that but the game will be remembered for the serious crowd trouble (prompted by the United fans raising a union Jack) which sees United 'keeper Mahoney struck by a missile thrown from the crowd and - soon after - the players having to leave the field for ten minutes whilst order is restored. Bottles, cans and blocks of wood were being hurled around and the united dressing room windows were smashed as they waited to return.

17/09 - Dl: Birmingham (A) Lost 0-3 (0-0) 18,953

Mahoney, Craig D, Kennedy, MacLean(Oates), Bird, Nattrass, Barrowclough, Cannell, Burns, callachan, Craig T

0-l [Connolly 47] 0-2 [Bertschin 65] 0-3 [Bertschin 75]

18/09 - "I'm no cheat" - blasts Tommy Cassiddy in the Sunday Sun. "I was shocked by the way the manager talked about me publically. The words hurt me as an individual, not as a professional. As a pro I know they were rubbish".". As the pressure builds there are rumours that former Middlesbrough manager lack Charlton (who has just declared that he is ready to return to management) and former Sunderland Bob Stokoe could be asked to replace Dinnis. Indeed there are some suggestions that Charlton has already been sounded out. One person definitely arriving at the club is Pop Robson's father-in-law "rhythm and balace expert" Len Hepple.

21/09 - Dinnis has failed in attempts to sign numerous players and in his desparation to sign someone, anyone, before Saturday's game he travels to Edinburgh to watch the Scotland U21 side. He is clearly impressed and makes enquiries for a number of players including David Narey from Dundee United.

22/09 - Tannadice boss Jim Maclean is not impressed. "He will not be moving to Newcastle in view of the way Newcastle have acted this week and that goes for any other Dundee United player they may be interested in".

24/09 - Dl Coventry (H) Lost 1-2 (1-1) - 22,484

Mahoney, Craig D, Kennedy, MacLean(oates), McCaffery, Nattrass, Barrowclough, Callachan, Burns, Gowling, Craig T

0-l [Wallace 37] 1-1 [Gowling 42] 1-2 [Wallace 67]

Despite rumours to the contrary Dinnis defiantly claimed before the game that"this will not be my Waterloo". The players put in the requisite amount of effort but are weighed down by a mountain of tension. Coventry take the lead but for once United don't crumble and equalise before the break. Despite regaining some confidence and composure they are let down by final ball and are one again punished for their defensive hesitancy. There's fighting in The Leazes again and a sharpened coin is thrown at one of the visitors. Dinnis is adamant that tne only way out of the mess is to sign new players arguing that the current set are trying their best "but on the day it is simply not enough. But he retains his self-confidence. "If I stay here there's no way Newcastle will be relegated ...nobody has given me any indication my job is in jeopardy". But the media report that certain members of the board have lost faith completely and an Emergency Meeting is to be held on Tuesday, "we can't live on gates of 22,000" said one pointedly.

26/09 - Dinnis meets with the Board and emerges smiling. Westwood states that "the Board will have another meeting tomorrow night but there will be no pressure put on the manager about his posting and no censure". However he does go on to say r'if the present situation continues for another five or six weeks something would have to be done". But he also claims that they are prepared to back Dinnis with money to buy players although he does add quite tellingly that he and Dinnis will be getting together to discuss transfer targets of which "Richard has his ideas and I have mine".

28/09 UC Rn - Bohemians (H) won 4-0 (1-0) 19,046

Mahoney, Craig D, Kennedy, MacLean, McCaffery, Nattrass, Barrowclough, Callachan, Burns, Gowling, Craig T

l-0 [Gowling 27] 2-0 [Craig T 65] 3-0 [Gowling 67] 4-0 [Craig T 68]

The scoreline fails to tell the true story as although newcastle control the game their play is sloppy and their shooting often abysmal bar a four minute period in the second period in which they score three times. Both clubs appealed for calm before the game and apart from a small smoke bomb thrown from Leazes it turned out that way. Dinnis agrees terms with Bohemian Players Gerry Ryan and 0'Brien.

30/09 - Derby sign Gerry Ryan and O'Brien [the O'Brien deal would fall through due to a failed medical] for a combined fee of "70,000. Docherty stated "Its hard luck on Richard Dinnis as I understand that Newcastle have first option. But football is a competitive business".

OCTOBER

Dl: Ipswich (A) Lost 1-2 (1-1) - 21,797

Mahoney, Craig D(oates), Kennedy, Callachan, McCaffery, Nattrass, Barrowclough, MacLean, Burns, Gowling, Craig T

1-0 [McCaffery 17] 1-1 [Mills 28] 1-2 [Gates 65]

05/10 - Dinnis finally makes a breakthrough in the transfer market as he signs 29-year-old Scottish international centre-back John Blackley from Hibernian for £100,000. "I promised our supporters quality and that is what I'm giving them" he beams. Blackley has been at Hibs for 13 years and won seven full caps. Blackley says he is not worried about Newcastle's position and believes things "can only get better".

05/10 - Dl: Norwich (A) Lost 1-2 (1-1) - 16,630

Mahoney, Blackball, Kennedy, MacLean, McCaffery, Nattrass, Barrowclough, Callachan(Oates), Burns, Gowling, Craig T

1-0 [Craig 10] 1-1 [Peters 22] 1-2 [Reeves 66]

07/10 - More bad news on the injury front as Kenneddy (who has been one of United's few decent performers) has torn knee ligaments and requires an operation and Callachan has an ankle ligament injury which will rule him out for at least a month. Dinnis is feeling down: "I don't know where the next hammer blow is going to come from....I am looking more than ever for character and guts....it's a fight for survival".

08/10 - Dl: Derby (H) Lost 1-2 (0-0) - 26,578

Mahoney, Nattrass, Blackhall, MacLean, McCaffery, Blackley, Barrowclough, Oates, Burns, Gowling(Kelly), Craig T

0-l [Hughes 46] 0-2 [McFarland 77] 1-2 [Burns 85]

Blackley makes his debut and Gowling returns from injury. Both sides hit the post in an even first-half, within a minute of the restart Derby take the lead and they control the game thereafter. Many of the crowd start leaving after the second and those that stay make their feelings heard. Craig ability and workrate = best player by far. Criticism Oates - two-fingered response. Gowling limps off. Billy Hughes was scathing of united and accused some players of "hiding". Dinnis "same old story we are just not good enough"

ll/10 - Dinnis is boosted by the return of Nulty to training and unboosted by the loss of Mahoney and Nattrass.

12/10 - Another directors meeting is held Rather surprisingly a local radio poll indicates that more than 70% of fans want Dinnis to stay.

in a surprise move Dinnis signs 30-year-old left midfielder Dennis Martin from Third Division Carlisle for £30,000. A proposed swap deal for Oates is discussed but Carlisle prefer the money. Martin had lost his place in the side and manager Moncur freely admits he is too inconsistent and "hasn't played well this season". At least he should have no problem fitting in well with the rest of the team.

15/10 - Dl: Man United (A) Lost 2-3 (0-2) - 55,056

Hardwick, Kelly, Blackball, Bird(MacLean), McCaffery, Blackley, Barrowelough, Cannell, Burns, Martin, Craig T

0-1 [Coppell 8] 0-2 [Greenhoff 23] 0-3 [Macari 57] 1-3 [Burns 73] 2-3 [Martin 88]

With Nulty, Mahoney, Nattrass, David Craig, Gowling, Kennedy and Cassidy all out injured, Dinnis goes for damage limitation by playing five at the back, but United look completely disorganised and resort to some crude challenges. Predictably united fell to their 10th consecutive League defeat with the flattering 2-3 scoreline in no way reflected the Red Devils complete dominance.. TC magnificent "unfailing spirit and class on the ball".

18/10 - Bohemians have been told that their next 3 European games must be played at least 120 miles from Dublin as a result of the trouble in the 1st round match. They are set to appeal and it emerges that part of their defence will be a letter from Newcastle director lames Rush apologising for the behaviour of the Newcastle fans whom he believed have been responsible for starting the trouble.

19/10 - UC R2 Ll: Bastia (A) Lost 1-2 (1-0) - 8,500

Hardwick, Kelly, Nattrass, Cassidy, McCaffery, Nulty, Barrowclough, Cannell, Burns, Gowling, Craig T

l-0 [cannell] 1-1 [Papi] 1-2 [Papi 90]

20/10 - The journey home is something of a nightmare due to the travel arrangements described as "unprofessional" by Dinnis. The party do not get back until the early hours of Friday leaving the players "shattered' and forcing them to abandon Friday's training. The departure is initially delayed by the unavailability of planes, however this is exacerbated by the decision to take the team on a five hour trip to a vineyard first. The trip - made in thick fog and including many hairpin bends - results in a number of players being travel sick.

22/10 - Dl: Chelsea (H) Won 1-0 (1-0) - 23,683

Hardwick, Kelly, Nattrass, Cassidy, McCaffery, Nulty, Barrowclough, Cannell, Burns, Gowling, Craig T

l-0 [Burns 2]

Chelsea are struggling and, with another board meeting planned for Monday, it is assumed that a defeat would see Dinnis sacked. A disastrous mistake by Droy presents Burns with a goal after only 2 minutes. Gradually United tire and start to become nervous, however a mixture of dogged defending and poor Chelsea finishing ends the losing streak in the League and is the first clean sheet in 18 League games. After the match Chelsea's star Ray Wilkins blasts the state of the St James' pitch: "we've complained about our Stamford Bridge Pitch, but its like a Bowling Green compared to Newcastle's. There are great tufts of grass, ruts and ridges all over. It is the worst that I have played on for a long time". There are also suggestions that some directors are unhappy that new signings Martin and Blackley (who were ineligible for the Bastia game) haven't featured. There was a lot of of crowd trouble resulting in eight 8 arrests and 42 ejections.

24/10 - The Board Meeting takes place and Dinnis survives.

25/10 - Youngster Peter Kelly - who has been one of the few successes this season - has have his leg put in plaster after developing ligament trouble. Three other full-backs (Craig, Gorry and Kennedy) are still out injured.

29/10 - Dl: Everton (A) Drew 4-4 (2-1) - 37,574

Hardwick, Nattrass, Blackley, Cassidy, McCaffery, Nulty, Barrowclough, Martin, Burns, Gowling, Craig T

0-l [Pejic 6] 1-1 [Craig T 10] 2-1 [Gowling 44] 2-2 [Latchford 55] 3-2 [Cassidy 57] 3-3 [Latchford 70] 4-3 [Gowling 77] 4-4 [Lyons 83]

Dinnis faced a reunion with a certain Gordon Lee who took the opportunity to absolve himself of any responsibility for Newcastle's current plight " There's no way I can take the blame for the problems that Richard Dinnis or Newcastle have got" the club should have a good look at itself before blaming others". However, he aid accept that "when I left my only worry was about the squad being so small." The match itself was a bit of a classic with Newcastle taking the lead 3 times, but eventually having to settle for their first away point of the season in a 4-4 draw. Dinnis was delighted although he excepted that "there are still one or two problems to sort out". It really did seem that united may have turned the corner although Dinnis stated prophetically after the match "I suppose I will get the sack sometime. You are either philosophical about it or become an alcoholic - and I don't drink!", indeed, there were very strong rumours that Dinnis would be sacked if they didn't get through to the next round of the UEFA Cup. CRAIG [10m: 1-1] 35-yard volley = MOM

/10 - UC R2 L2 Bastia (H) Lost 1-3 (1-2) - 34,560

Hardwick, Blackball, Nattrass, Cassidy, McCaffery, Nulty(Bird), Barrowclough, Cannell(Hudson), Burns, Gowling, Craig T

0-l [ De zerbi] 0-2 [Rep 8] 1-2 [ Gowling 36] 1-3 [Rep 67 ]

Dutch international Johnny Rep have failed to impress the Newcastle players in the match in Corsica and the general opinion was that Bastia would be seen off at St James in the same way that United have steamrollered through foreign teams in their Fairs Cup exploits. But their criticisms of the Dutch international came back to haunt them in the second leg. The chants of "United are back" soon stuck in the throats of the Geordie faithful as Bastia raced into a 2-0 lead within the first 8 minutes after Gowling have missed a gilt edged chance in the first minute. Dinnis admitted that his side have been given "a soccer lesson" but remained confident that Newcastle could - with the signing of a couple of quality players - avoid relegati on.

NOVEMBER

04/ll - Dinnis made a blistering attack on the club and how it was run, it was effectively a suicide note. He stated that a massive overhaul of the playing staff was required and that only half the team were good enough. "There are players in the reserves that have been here 5 years. They will have to go. There are players in the first team who have been with the club too long. They will also have to go" He blasted the board for not making sufficient funds available to buy the quality players required, "This club has to decide where it is going. And as far as big buying is concerned, I believe there must be a change of heart at director level".There is no money available unless we sell someone. He also stated that the club needed to double the wages if it wanted to compete with the top teams in the country. He believed that there was a great danger that unless club policy changed United would become a "second-rate" club. "There's a super league within the First Division and we are not in it. It has to be decided whether we are going to join it or stay out of it".. If we don't (join) "we will become just an ordainary club, we are on the edge of a precipice and unless something drastic is one we will topple over".

05/ll - Bristol City (H) - Drew 1-1 (0-0) - 23,321

Hardwick, Nattrass, Barker, Walker, Bird, Blackley, Barrowclough, Martin, Burns, Gowling, Craig T

l-0 [Martin 74] 1-1 [Gillies 78]

A really poor game in which Newcastle again let a lead slip, this time to a side that have failed to score in all their previous seven away matches. The City goal is farcical with Burns attempted headed clearance sailing up in the air, Hardwick letting the ball slip through his arms when it came down and Gillies poking it in. Tommy Craig picks up a booking when a free-kick is given against him and he whacks the ball straight at the referee. One bright spot is the performance oof Nigel walker on his debut. The draw lifts United off the bottom of the table and Dinnis was still upbeat claiming that "I've no intention of quitting" I believe I can still do a good job for Newcastle given the right situation". Dinnis did go on to apologise for suggesting that the club were second rate but stood by his statements regarding the need for new players. Can it be a coincidence that potential replacement Bob stokoe is in the director's box?

06/ll - Despite accepting Dinnis' apology Lord Westwood - who has been the director most supportive of Dinnis - states that "I felt very let down when I read his remarks in tne press. I have stood by him in the past, but I cannot say my support is as it was. The directors I have spoken to are very upset and now it is up to the board".

09/ll - After a two hour Board meeting came the inevitable news. A short statement thanks Dinnis for his efforts following Lee's "defection", but given the "disappointing performances of the team a change was unavoidable". Dinnis leaves without a word but later thanks the players, coaches supporters and directors. Geoff Nulty is disappointed; "I feel very sad, we have lost a first-class manager". Coach Willie McFaul was put in temporary charge whilst the directors began the search for someone to take over a club anchored to the bottom of the League and riddled with internal strife. The early names thrown into the media hat were a pretty mundane bunch. There were a number of "between jobs" managers: Eddie McCreadie, Bob Stokoe, Bill McGarry. And also some up-and-coming gaffers: Alan Durban, Graham Taylor, Bobby Campbell, George Eastham and former coach Dave Smith. Southampton's genial geordie Lawrie McMenemy was allegedly the board's first choice but as ne was being considered for the vacant England post this really was a non-starter. His superlatively successful return to his native North East would have to wait a couple of years. IM temp charge "let's cut the cackle and get back to business" can't remember time "mood of the players has been so bad" Burns, Mahoney and Tommy Craig all put in transfer requests and Gowling, Nulty and Cassiddy are all believed to be considering their futures.

12/ll - Wolves A Lost 0-1 (0-1) - 16,964

Hardwick, Craig D, Barker, Cassidy, Bird, Nattrass, Barrowclough, Martin, Burns, Walker(Smith), Craig T

0-l [Patching 5]

"without motivation, inspiration and for long perids even common interest Hosts completely outplay united and could have scored half a dozen but for Hardwick's brilliance and erratic shooting, last half hour The magpies rally with T Smith adding some height and power to the attack, need "miracle worker if the drop is to be avoided" only Cassiddy look as though he cares

14/ll It is revealed that united have offered (fifty year old former Man Utd manager) Frank o'Farrel the manager's job. He is currently manager of Fourth Division Torquay. Former united hero Stokoe is particularly hurt to be overlooked, "I would have done it for three months - even six months for nothing".

15/ll - O'Farrell rejects united's offer and opts to stay with his current employers.

17/ll - Bob Stokoe takes over as manager of Bury.

18/ll - "Hard Man" McGarry Moves in ('I need players with guts (not degrees) Forty seven year old McGarry have been sacked by wolves after they were relegated in 1977-78. He have worked in Saudi Arabia for but was now back in Blighty looking for work. A Renowned disciplinarian he seemed ready for the challenge. "It seems there is A - lot of politics played up there - but I do things my way. If any discipline is needed within the club I'll be happy to oblige". McGarry attempts to persuade Jackie Mil burn to become his right-hand man, but Mil burn would only commit himself on a part-time basis (two days a week), have asked to be released from his Saudi Arabia manager post a fortnight ago.

19/ll - Dl: Arsenal (H) Lost 1-2 (0-0) 23,679

Hardwick, Craig D, Barker, Cassidy, Bird, Nattrass, Barrowclough, Smith, Burns, Gowling(Martin), Craig T

l-0 [Cassiddy ] 1-1 [] 1-2 []

Arsenal stroll through the game without any sense of urgency until Cassiddy shoots united ahead just after the break. The visitors simply up the tempo, regain control and score twice. McGarry watched from the stands "if we want any chance of staying in the First Division then we have got to find the money. Also in the stands was the suspended Malcolm Macdonald whom the home fans referred to as they chanted "we want our Mac back" before the game started. Supermac praises the fans but says there is "no chance" of united staying up.

20/ll - Westwood bans all those connected with the club from talking to the media. He is unhappy about the continuing player outbursts and he is also adamant that a Board member was trying to stab both him and Dinnis in the back during the last few weeks of his managership.

21/ll - McGarry reveals that he contacted Terry Neill to enquire upon Macdonald's availibility but was informed he was not available at any price. Derek Parlane of Rangers is allegedly his next target. McGarry also indicates that he is dealing with the discontent within the club. "I have already talked with the players and the atmosphere was very quiet" Asked if he thought that reflected their mood he replies "when I talk I expect everybody to be quiet". Ray xuereb finally arrives from Malta on a three week trial having impressed during United's game against his club Floriana in the summer. The delay in him arriving being a result of his expectant wife and Floriana's involvement in European competition.

Rangers turn down an offer for Parlane

25/ll - McGarry drops top scorer Micky Burns for the weekend game against villa. He claims it is "purely a form decision". Burns is almost certain to leave now. Tommy Craig is also due to have "showdown" talks with the gaffer.

26/ll - McGarry takes advantage of the postponement of united's game at Villa by watching Blackpool's Mickey walsn net twice at Stoke. Micky Burns started at Blackpool and it is mooted that a player-exchange might be on the cards. Ray Hudson and Paul Cannell are wanted men in America.

Blackpool turn down a bid for Mickey Walsh.

McGarry is not prepared to allow Tommy Craig to leave: "I know how the lad feels but he has got to give me 2 or 3 month to straighten things out....the players have to be fair to me, themselves and Newcastle as well".

DECEMBER

02/12 - Alan Gowling is ruled out for at least a month with a knee injury and Mahoney is still struggling with a back injury. Burns and Barrowelogh are both recalled with McGarry promising that "everybody here will get a chance to prove themselves. I've wiped the slate clean and now it is up to them". He also appeals to the crowd: "it's vital they do not give up the ghost now or we've have it . To test their resolve he recalls Oates ana gives him the hallowed Number 9 shirt."I believe the Geordies are warm hearted people who forgive and forget".

03/12 - Dl: Leicester (H) won 2-0 [0-0]

l-0 [Burns 59] 2-0 [Nattrass ]

04/12 - Rangers striker Derek Parlane is still believed to be McGarry's number one target althoth Derby midfielder Gerry Daly could be another potential buy.

07/12 qpr put Gerry Francis up for sale at a "staggering" £5000,000 despite being dogged by injury for the last 18 months. McGarry makes a tentative enquiry. Dinnis is to become manager of Philadelphia Fury in America.

09/12 Mcgarry reveals that he has turned down a bid for Ray Hudson from Fort Lauderdale. He wants the youngster to stay but has told him he needs to decide whether to sign a new contract or move to the us.

westwood hat? mai1

Then he stated that a rule book would be introduced for the players and that he would treat them as men if they acted like men otherwise "I will have to treat them as boys. What I need now are people with guts.

AGM

10/12 - Dl: QPR (A) Won 1-0 (0-0) - 15,251

Carr, Nattrass, Barker, Cassidy, Bird, Blackley, Martin, Burns(Hudson), cannell, Craig T, Robinson

l-0 [Robinson]

With Hardwick and Mahoney both injured teenager Kevin Carr makes his debut at Loftus Road and his courageous performance helps The Magpies record their first clean sheet and victory away from home. John Bird also makes two superb last ditch clearances. Newcastle are off the bottom for the first time since Ray Xuereb scores reserves

14/12 - Liverpool accept an offer for Welsh stiker John Toshack, but the player wants a few days to think over the move.

16/12 - Ray Xuereb returns to Malta

17/12 Dl: WOLVES (H) Won 4-0 (2-0) - 22,982

Carr, Nattrass, Barker, Cassidy, Bird, Blackley, Martin, Burns, Mitchell, Craig T, Robinson

McGarry claims this is "the best Christmas Box I have ever had in my life". Wolves are walloped 4-0 but the scoreline is misleading as the visitors are denied many goals themselves through bad luck and a man of the match performance from Kevin Carr. Nattrass nods in a cassiddy free-kick and Mitchell also bravely heads in a Craig cross. The third goal comes direct from a Tommy Craig corner and cassiddy chips in the fourth. The NUSA hand out leaflets and issue a statement stating that they want the directors to issue new voting share capital to provide a cash injection.

26/12 - Dl: Manchester C (A) Lost 0-4 (0-0) - 45,811

Carr, Nattrass, Barker, Cassidy, Bird, Blackley(Gorry), Martin, Burns, cannell, Craig T, Robinson

Tueart 3, Kidd

Martin Gorry makes his debut as a substitute [but would never play another senior game for the club].

28/12 - Dl: Nottingham F (H) Lost 0-2 (0-1) - 41,612

Carr, Nattrass, Barker, Cassidy, Bird, Blackball, Martin, Burns, Cannell(Barrowelough), Craig T, Robinson

0-l [Needham 17] 0-2 [Barker og 81]

Leaders Forest are competent, well-organised and far too good for the Magpies. Needham scores with a back header from a corner and Barker diverts a McGovern cross/shot into his own net. The attack looks lost and the defence is hesitant in what is a flaccid display in front of the largest crowd of the season.

Larnach and McGhee sign.

31/12 - Dl: Liverpool (H) - Lost 0-2 (0-0) - 36,499

Carr, Nattrass, Barker, Hudson, McCaffery, Blackball, Barrowclough(Martin), Burns, Larnach, Craig T, Robinson

0-l [Thompson 49] 0-2 [Dalglish 90]

Bird, Cassiddy and Cannell add to the injury list and with Larnach making his debut it is a very inexperienced side that takes on Liverpool, visitors dominate FH Nattrass mom RK "they will go down and it's a disgrace" totally outclassed

JANUARY

02/01 - Dl: Leeds (A) Won 2-0 (1-0) 36,643

Carr, Blackhall, Barker, Cassidy, McCaffery, Barton(Barrowclough), Hudson, Burns, Larnach, McGhee, Craig T

l-0 [Burns] 2-0 [Burns]

David Barton debut

06/01 - The NUSA are not impressesed with the Boardroom changes describing them as "a game of musical chairs. This game of kidology is typical of the way the Board insults the intelligence of loyal supporters".

07/01 - FA R3: Peterborough (A) - Drew 1-1 (1-1) 17,621

Carr, Blackhall, Barker, Cassidy, McCaffery, Nattrass, Hudson, Burns, Mitchell(Barrowclough), Gowling, Craig T

l~0 [Hudson 22] 1-1 [Sargent 28]

The Posh directors literally laid on a red carpet for the players from the dressing rooms to the centre circle but the game itself was far less "classy" and their were six bookings in a bruising encounter although it was never unruly. The Magpies started well but once Hudson have put them ahead they completely lost their way for the next fifty minutes. The home side equalised almost immediatelly and it was a backs to the wall performance from then on with Nattrass performing superbly to hold the young defence together.

ll/01 - FA R3r: Peterborough (H) - won 2-0 (0-0) - 26,837

Carr, Blackhall, Barker, Cassidy, McCaffery, Nattrass, Hudson(Barrowclough), Burns, Mitchell, Gowling, Craig T

l-0 [Craig T pen 49] 2-0 [Blackhall 86]

Gale force winds make for farcical conditions at times and Newcastle edge through 2-0. Old favourite Tommy Robson stars for the Londoners and United have to wait until the 86th minute to make the game safe. They deserve their win but have to work hard for it against their far from outclassed "inferiors".

13/01 - McGarry wants Mansfield manager Peter Morris to be his assistant at Newcastle. He is still registered as a player and it is thought that The Stags would want £30,000 compensation for his services

14/01 - Dl: Middlesbrough (H) Lost 2-4 (1-1) - 34,460

Carr, Blackhall, Barker(Larnach), Cassidy, McCaffery, Nattrass, Hudson, Burns, McGhee, Gowling, Craig T

l-0 [Cassiday 18] 1-1 [Boam 34] 1-2 [Ascroft 50] 2-2 [McGhee 51] 2-3 [Ascroft 61] 2-4 [Cummins 74]

Middlesbrough recorded their first victory on Tyneside for 17 years and although United edged the first half the Teessiders overwhelmed them after the break. Nattrass is outstanding once more but the stuffing was well and truly knocked out of the ailing Mags, indeed the commitment levels of certain players is really questionable. Craig has probably been the best player so far this season but he "knew exactly what the crowd thought of his contribution" in today's match. McGarry preferred to put the defeat down to a lack of experience but admitted "I can't grumble, the kids have done well for me up until now". A victory for QPR

18/01 - Mcgarry finally allows Tommy Craig to go on the transfer list and relieves him of the captain's armband at the same time. McGarry believes it is "in the best interests of the club and the player".

21/01 - Dl: West Ham (A) - Lost 0-1 (0-1) 25,461

Mahoney, Nattrass, Barker, Cassidy(Gowling), Bird, Kennedy, Burns, Hudson, McGhee, Larnach, Barrowelough

0-l [Hales ]

For the game against fellow strugglers west Ham, Blackley, Gowling and Craig are all axed and Carr has the flu. It is a very poor game with united going behind early on and defending in depth. The Hammers were not great, but they were class above united and Mahoney have to be at his best to keep them in the game. Journalist David miller summed up Unites predicament: "the sooner Newcastle can retire quitely to the Second Division under less pressure and publicity, the better for this once famous but now sadly inert club"

22/01 - Stoke allegedly have Bill McGarry at the top of their managerial short list. He is a native of the Potteries, still lives in the area and his three year contract is still unsigned. And Gowling is reported to ba a target of west Brom.

23/01 - Tommy Craig is sold to Villa for £270,000 which is a record fee for the midlanders. McGarry claims to have heard nothing from Stoke or west Brom.

23/01 - The NUSA open their new premises. They have invited McGarry to do the honours but he have declined due to the "political sensitivity". The directors were also invited but unsuprisingly chose not to attend. Former player Frank Brennan is here and he is co-opted onto the committee. He urges a fans' boycott: "the fans have more power than the players ... the only way to get things changed at Newcastle united is for the fans to stay away".

27/01 - McGarry says he is flattered by talk of Stoke's interest but claims to have hear nothing and besides he "has a job to do here". But there are strong rumours he will leave if united lose to Wrexham in the Cup.

28/01 - FA4: Wrexham (H) - Drew 2-2 (0-0) - 29,344

Mahoney, Blackhall, Barker, Nattrass, Bird, Blackley, Barrowclough, Burns, McGhee, Kennedy, Gowling

l-0 [Bird] 1-1 [McNeil] 2-1 [Blackhall 65] 2-2 [McNeil 89]

2 pitch inspections - slippy

accent tests by police to stop N fans getting in away end open football on greasy surface with Shinton starring for Wrexham mom Nattrass - holding together inexperienced and indecisive defence back to wall in second half Another Third Division side - Wrexham - were our next Cup opponents. Their were Dixie McNeill and A - certain Bobby shinton. Welshmen deservedly equalised just before the end. It was an exciting game on A -muddy, greasy pitch.

29/01 - McGarry is interviewed by stoke. He is a native of the Potteries, still lives in the area and his three year contract is still unsigned.

30/01 - it is thought that if McGarry leaves Newcastle will turn to Stokoe who says he has no expectations of leaving so soon, but to "manage Newcastle would fulfil my last ambition in the game. It is a job i have always dreamed about".

31/01 - McGarry decides to stay and is to sign a three year contract in the near future.

February

01/02 - Wrexham match postponed again - beginning to look like Hereford all over agai n.

06/02 - FA R4: Wrexham A - Lost 1-4 (1-2) - 18,676

Mahoney, Blackball, Barker, Nattrass, Bird, Blackley(Cassidy), Barrowclough, Burns, McGhee, Gowling, Kennedy

0-l [McNeil 1] 1-1 [Burns or Roberts og 39] 1-2 [Shinton 42] 1-3 [McNeil 85] 1-4 [Cartright 88]

McGarry's decision does not appear to have have a positive effect on the players as they are thrashed by Third Division Wrexham. The Welshmen took the lead in the first minute and dominated the first half. Newcastle get a surprise equaliser but the parity is short-lived. The Welshmen continue to control the match and two goals in the last five minutes simply rubs it in.

06/02 - Dl: Ipswich H - Lost 0-1 (0-0) - 22,264

Mahoney, Nattrass, Barker, Cassidy, Bird, Blackley, Barrowclough, Burns, Larnach, Kennedy, Gowling

0-l [woods 63]

l)nited matched their opponents in the first period but in the second forty-five the Suffolkites composed possession football was much too much for nervy Newcastle.

ll/02 - The home fixture with Birminham is postponed du to snow and ice.

18/02 - The away match at Coventry is postponed.

MARCH

02/03 - McGarry lists eight players: Burns, Gowling and McCaffrey (who have all asked to leave) plus Martin, Gorry, Guy, Maclean and Macfarlane. Explaining his decision McGarry states "we are ridiculously overstaffed" (there were 54 professionals on the books when he joined) and the "Wage bill is astronomical". Having already sold Craig, Oates, cannell and Hudson he is also believed to be prepared to allow Hardwick to leave.

04/03 - Dl: Derby A - Drew 1-1 (1-1) - 19,708

Mahoney, Kelly, Kennedy, Nattrass, Bird, Blackley, Barrowclough, Burns, Larnach, McGhee(Barker), walker

l-0 [Burns 21] 1-1 [George pen 29]

disjointed, undistinguished game both sides poor BURNS free-kick Mahoney fails hold cross and Bird handles GEORGE penalty

06/03 - Maclean moves to Carlisle on a free-transfer.

10/3 - It's deadline day and Martin moves to Mansfield for £30,000 whilst Alan Gowling costs Bolton £120,000.

Man U H

0-l [Iordan 28] 1-1 [McGhee 32] 1-2 [Hill 39] 2-2 [Burns pen 85]

The mancunians are also struggling but they are far better than a nervy Newcastle in the first half hour and deservedly go ahead. McGhee equalises almost immediately and an entertaining and even game ensues in which Burns secures a point five minutes from time. The players leave the field to a standing ovation.McGarry is perplexed: "there are too many players at this club who are riddled with fear, they are afraid to play football and express themselves. The reception for the team at the end was unbelievable...there is no way that a player with Newcastle is going to get the bird providing he tries. If you can't play for this crowd you'll never play for anyone".

15/03 - Dl: - Birmingham (H) - Drew 1-1 CO-1) - 19,493

Mahoney, Kelly, Kennedy, Nattrass, Bird, Blackley, Robinson, Burns, Larnach, McGhee, walker(Parkinson)

0-l [Francis] 1-1 [Nattrass]

18/03 - Dl: Chelsea (A) - Drew 2-2 (1-0) 22,777

Mahoney, Nattrass, Kennedy, Barton, Bird, Blackley(Kelly), Scott, Burns, Larnach, McGhee, Walker

l-0 [Burns pen 21] 2-0 [McGhee 50] 2-1 [Harris 52] 2-2 [Swain pen 81]

United throw away a two goal lead but at least gain a point in a match of three increasingly dubious penalties. Mahoney saved the first chelsea penalty and have a brilliant game. The young guns also showed "guts and talent", but were "so disjointed and so tactically naive".

21/03 - Malcolm Macdonald is one of the guest speakers at the Newcastle Sports Council dinner, but his attack on the club annoys the majority of the audience.

24/03 - Dl: Everton (H) - Lost 0-2 (0-1) - 28,933

Mahoney, Nattrass, Kennedy, Barton, Bird, Nulty, Scott, Burns(Barrowclough), Larnach, McGhee, walker

Latchford, McKenzie

25/03 - Dl: Nottingham F (A) - Lost 0-2 (0-1) - 35,552

Mahoney, Nattrass, Kennedy, Barton, Bird, Blackley, Barrowelough, Nulty, Mitchell, McGhee, walker

0-l [Robertson pe] 0-2 [Anderson 67]

Leaders (and eventual Champions) Forest are unbeaten in twenty four games and therefore anything other than a victory for Clough's men would be a huge surpise. Mitchell (who has been on loan Morton) is a surprise inclusion and Scott, Burns and Larnach are all dropped. Forest are a bit sloppy but still win comfortably although the second goal is controversial as the linesman have flagged for offside before Anderson scored.

29/03 - Dl: Manchester C (H) - Drew 2-2 (0-1) - 20,256

Mahoney, Nattrass, Kennedy, Barton, Bird, Nulty, Barrowclough, Burns, Mitchell, McGhee, Walker

Bird, Kennedy, (Palmer 2)

lt marked the end of an era for the ground as The Leazes End was closed to after the game allow it to be demolished as the first stage of the Phase II ground development plan.

Apri1

01/04 - Dl: Bristol C A - Lost 1-3 (0-1) - 17,344

Mahoney, Nattrass, Kennedy, Barton, Bird(Scott), Blackhall, Barrowclough, Burns, Nulty, McGhee, walker

0-l [Nulty og 17] 0-2 [Ritchie 48] 0-3 [Hunter 49] 1-3 [Barrowclough 84]

Burns have free-kick disallowed as not direct but not allowed to retake. City dominate match and could have scored several more.

04/04 - Div 1 - Coventry A - Drew 0-0 (0-0) - 22,135

Mahoney, Blackhall, Kennedy, Barton, Nattrass, Nulty, Barrowclough, Burns, McGhee, callachan, Scott

Coventry still have a chance of a European place and are the top scorers in the division and but a mixture of poor finishing and

desperate defence from The Magpies means they draw a blank. United play on the break but created very little.

08/04 - Dl: Aston villa H - Drew 1-1 (0-0) - 19,330

Mahoney, Blackhall, Kennedy, Barton, Nattrass, Nulty, Barrowclough, Burns, McGhee, callachan(Larnach), Scott

Burns (p), (Evans)

12/04 - Dl: West Bromwich A - Lost 0-2 (0-0) 17,053

Mahoney, Blackhall, Kennedy, Barton, Nattrass, Mitchell, Barrowclough, Burns, McGhee, Canadian, Scott (Bird)

0-l [Regis 50] 0-2 [Mulligan 66]

west Brom are still aiming for a European spot and thay are far too fast and skilful for the visitors. Manoney has to make several fine saves to keep the score respectable. Mitchell was sent off for dissent after the second having already been booked in the first period.

15/04 - Dl: Arsenal A - Lost 1-2 (0-0) 33,353

Mahoney, Blackley, Kennedy, Barton, Nattrass, Nulty, Barrowclough, Burns, McGhee, walker, Scott

l-0 [Burns 60] 1-1 [Brady 76] 1-2 [Price 78]

Arsenal have just reached FA Cup Final and seem in a daydream as United could and perhaps should have been at least 2-0 up in the first ten minutes. Arsenal's lethargy continues until Burns opens the scoring from when they dominate. "The club, whose politics seem only slightly less complex and poisoned than those of The Borgias must find a way to stop wounding itself"

17/04 - Dl: Aston Villa A - Lost 0-2 (0-1) 25,495

Mahoney, Blackley, Kennedy, Barton, Nattrass, Nulty, Barrowclough, Burns, Mitchell, Walker, Scott

0-l [Cowans 26] 0-2 [Gray 70]

Relegation is now a mathematical certainty and it is 19-year-old geordie (Cowans) who scores the first. It is a poor game but Villa are the better side throughout and could have easily doubled their score in the last twenty minutes..

22/04 - Dl: QPR H - Lost 0-3 (0-2) 13,463

Mahoney, Nattrass, Kennedy, Barton, Blackley, Barker, Barrowclough, Burns, Mitchell, Larnach, walker(McGhee)

0-l [Givens 36] 0-2 [McGhee 40] 0-3 [Hollins 51]

united are better side for the first half hour and should have gone ahead but Nattrass misses a six yard sitter. QPR need the points to avoid relegation themselves and it dawns on them the home side are there for the taking. Chants of "sack the board" and "we want football" reverberate around the stadium.

26/04 - Dl: Norwich (H) - Drew 2-2 (1-0) - 7,986

Carr, Kelly, Kennedy, Barton, Blackley, Canadian, Barrowclough, Burns, McGhee, Larnach, Walker

l-0 [Kenneddy 26] 1-1 [Ryan 58] 2-1 [Burns 71] 2-2 [Reeves 81]

Less than 8,000 turn up at SJP to see the "last rites" performed, it is the lowest attendance since wwl. In an undistinguihed match united let the lead slip once again despite playing against ten men at the time.or the last twelve minutes.

Stewart Barrowclough moves to Birmingham in exchange for John Connolly and Terry Hibbitt

29/04 - Dl: Leicester A - Lost 0-3 (0-1) - 11,530

Carr, Kelly, Blackball, Barton, Nulty, Mitchell, Guy, Burns, McGhee(Robinson), Larnach, callachan

Goodwi n, Davi es, Salmons

May

02/05 - Fr: Chelmsford City A - Won 2-1 (1-0) - 1,500

Lanarch 2

08/05 - Te - Jim Smith's XI H - Lost 3-6 (2-2) - 17,428

McGhee, Burns, barton