Newcastle 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur: Late Ben Arfa penalty hands Magpies opening day win

 Newcastle notched their first opening day win in five years as they overcame Andre Villas-Boas' Spurs side thanks to a late penalty from Hatem Ben Arfa.

Demba Ba had given the Magpies the advantage with a superb curling volley ten minutes into the second half before Jermain Defoe levelled with just 14 minutes left into the contest. However, the contest was settled just minutes later when Ben Arfa converted a spot kick after he had been felled in the area by Aaron Lennon.

The win was slightly marred by the dismissal of manager Alan Pardew from the sidelines for a push on one of the referee's assistants after Newcastle were denied a throw-in.

The last time Newcastle won on the opening day of the season expectations had been high, with Sam Allardyce in charge for his first game as manager after Glenn Roeder had been relieved of his duties at the end of the previous campaign.

On that day the Geordies triumphed 3-1 over Allardyce's former club Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium thanks to a goal from Charles N'Zogbia and a double from Obafemi Martins. That result proved to be a false dawn as Allardyce was dismissed in January following a string of disappointing performances.

However, despite a variety of trials and tribulations, the club has come a long way since that point and the overriding emotion at St James' Park on Saturday was that the victory could be the beginning of another special season for Pardew's side.

The Magpies stunned the majority of observers last season by securing a 5th placed finish and European football, but with the Geordies competing on four fronts this campaign many have expressed doubts as to whether they can repeat that feat.

Still Pardew's men got off the perfect start against difficult opposition on Saturday night, although the early signs did not look good as Spurs enjoyed the better of the opening period.

Cheick Tiote, Yohan Cabaye, Papiss Cisse and Ba all started for Newcastle despite reported concerns regarding their fitness. However, Captain Fabricio Coloccini missed out due to a hamstring injury, new signing Vurnon Anita started on the bench.

Spurs had pipped Newcastle to 4th place in the Premier League last season - although they were denied Champions League football because of Chelsea's triumph in the competition - and they appeared the more fluid and composed team in the early stages.

New signing Gylfi Sigurdsson had the visitors first real chance of the game, as he was denied by Tim Krul from close range, although the Icelandic midfielder had already been flagged for offside. Defoe also came close as smacked a shot against the post before Gareth Bale headed against the bar from a Lennon cross.

Newcastle did have chances of their own in the opening half, and they came close to opening the scoring when a Ba effort was deflected wide by Cisse.

Ten minutes after the interval the home side did take the lead, as Kyle Walker misjudged a deep cross from Danny Simpson to allow Ba to curl a strike past Friedel and into the bottom corner of the net.

Jubilation ensued but that was soon cut short when Pardew was sent to the stands for shoving linesman Peter Kirkup after claiming the ball had gone out of the play in the build-up to a Sigurdsson chance.

Pardew's anger was furthered on 76 minutes - just five minutes after Anita had replaced Cabaye to a rapturous reception - when Defoe followed up his own effort to scramble home from close range after Krul had kept out the England international's well placed header.

Tottenham's parity was short-lived however, as Ben Arfa - who had bamboozled Spurs for large periods throughout the match - surged into the box from a short corner only to be brought down by Lennon and substitute Rafael van der Vaart. Referee Martin Atkinson duly pointed to the spot and Frenchman Ben Arfa coolly slotted the penalty into the bottom corner to restore Newcastle's lead.

That proved to be enough to secure the points, as Spurs - clearly fatigued from the effort they put in to levelling the contest - were unable to find another way back into the game and Newcastle comfortably held out to seal victory.

The first test of the Magpies' relatively thin squad comes on Thursday, as they travel to Greece to take on Atromitos for the 1st leg of their Europa League play-off before facing Chelsea at Stamford Bridge just two days later.

The versatility and depth of Newcastle's squad will be severely examined in the coming week, but for the time being the Geordie faithful can bask in the light of an opening day win for the first time in half a decade.

New name, new look, same old blog!

Well hello there, long time no see!

Yes ever since the last day of the Premier League season things have been a little quiet on my little old blog, but with Euro 2012 heading to its conclusion, pre-season will soon be upon us. So with preparation for the new campaign set to begin in the next few weeks, what better time to get writing about the North-East's Premier football club once again.

You may have noticed that the blog has undergone a bit of a re-branding. Web design has never been my forte, but I've given the page a more clean cut look and added a picture of Newcastle's magnificent cathedral of football to serve as a beautiful background to the main header.

The main change of course is the name, after much thought I've opted to ditch 'The Bright Side of the Tyne' and switch to 'The Toon Crier'. I feel the new name has more of a ring to it and hopefully it will help me to attract more readers.

I haven't quite settled on a plan for the new season, but I hope to keep the blog ticking over as much as possible with previews, match reports, news, analysis and maybe even the odd picture gallery.

Newcastle United Football Club is set for another thrilling season, of course it will be difficult to match the achievements of last season, but with European competition to look forward to, drama and excitement will surely be in plentiful supply.

I look forward to once again blogging about the fortunes of the greatest football club on the planet. Let's hope for more scenes like this in the upcoming campaign.

Magpies end magnificent year in frustrating fashion

After the battle that was the valiant defeat against Manchester City, Newcastle's season ended in somewhat of a damp squib as they fell to a 3-1 defeat at Everton.

In the end the result proved to be immaterial in terms of Newcastle's Champions League challenge as both Arsenal and Spurs won their final day matches to secure 3rd and 4th spot respectively. Still the loss was a slightly disappointing end to what has been a magnificent season for Alan Pardew's side.

The Magpies were behind inside the first twenty minutes, as the Toffees responded to a decent start from the visitors in emphatic fashion, Steven Pienaar's deflected long range effort looping over Tim Krul to open the scoring.

Just 12 minutes later and Everton had doubled their lead, as in-form striker Nikica Jelavic beat Fabricio Coloccini for pace before seeing his effort brilliantly saved by Krul, however the Croatian showed smart reactions to volley home the rebound and put David Moyes' men in command.

Newcastle did offer some resistance, Papiss Cisse - who was attempting to take his tally to 14 goals in 13 games - had an effort well saved by Tim Howard before the interval, but it was a poor first-half performance from a side that have set themselves exceptionally high standards this season.

Pardew made two changes after the break, the Premier League Manager of the Year brought on Ryan Taylor and Sylvain Marveaux - who made his first appearance after a lengthy injury lay-off - in place of full backs James Perch and Davide Santon.

The reshuffle looked to have had a positive effect, with Marveaux comfortable on the ball as Newcastle attacked with more purpose and creativity than they had done in the opening period. Indeed, the Geordies should have pulled a goal back when Cisse skewed an effort wide after Marveaux; Yohan Cabaye and Hatem Ben Arfa had linked up well to put the Senegalese international one on one with Howard.

However, the game was soon taken beyond Newcastle's reach as Everton added a third when Johnny Heitinga headed in Darron Gibson's free-kick from close range.

Just eight minutes later Newcastle were given a glimmer of hope when Toffees' full back Tony Hibbert nodded Taylor's long ball past Howard and into his own net.

It was Howard who kept Newcastle from setting up a tense finale as he brilliantly clawed away a far post header from Cisse that appeared destined for the top corner. That proved to be the Magpies' last real opportunity as the home side stood firm to seal the three points which ensured that they would finish the season above city rivals Liverpool.

There was to be one last flash point at the final whistle however, as substitute Tim Cahill was shown a red card for raising his hand at Cabaye. The incident caused a minor fracas between the two teams, but it was nothing more than a minor footnote in a relatively one-sided affair, and both sides will head to the summer break in good spirits after enjoying very impressive campaigns.

Europa League football now beckons for Newcastle and the Magpies presence in Europe represents another giant leap forward for a club that has made great strides since returning to the Premier League just two years ago. 

Newcastle showcase European quality as City triumph in gripping encounter

Manchester City put one hand on the Premier League title at the weekend, as they battled their way to 2-0 win over Newcastle United at St James' Park.

Newcastle may have been on the losing side on Sunday, but the team; the club and the city; can hold their heads up high after playing a starring role in a compelling piece of footballing theatre.

The stage was set early in the day as Newcastle unveiled a statute of former Manager Sir Bobby Robson hours before kick-off. Sir Bobby's spirit will always inhabit St James' Park, but the addition of a physical tribute to the great man at the famous old stadium seemed apt ahead of the type of mammoth clash that Robson would have relished both as a player and as a Manager.

Undoubtedly watching from the heavens, Sir Bobby will have been engrossed by what he saw, as Newcastle and City stood toe to toe in a gripping battle of wills that would either effectively decide the destination of the Premier League or add more power to the Magpies' Champions League surge. 

Artistry and gritty determination were in plentiful supply, with City, spurred on by the technical sorcery of messrs David Silva, Carlos Tevez and Sergio Aguero pressed and probed to find a way through the Newcastle back line. The home defence - as it has done on many occasions this season - proved to be an impenetrable force for the much of the contest however, with the agile reflexes of Goalkeeper Tim Krul supported by a back four well versed in the 'all hands to the pump' routine.

In the end, it took some brute force from midfielder Yaya Toure to break down the Newcastle wall, the Ivorian firing in two well taken goals to put Roberto Mancini's side on the cusp of their first league crown since 1968, when the likes of Francis Lee and Mike Summerbee secured the title after a dramatic 4-3 triumph at St James' Park.

The appearance of the stadium and the game of football have changed dramatically since that day, but the equation remained the same for City, win and they would be virtually ensured of the title, with only a home game against struggling Queens Park Rangers standing in their way.

Perhaps motivated by history, the visitors started the contest the brighter of the two sides, the ever reliable Krul forced into low stops from Silva and Aguero. Newcastle were not to be kept quiet however, and after half an hour without registering an effort on goal, they finally managed to get hold of the ball, Demba Ba's long range effort grazed flew just over the bar before Joe Hart produced a fine near post save from the Magpies' enigmatic midfield maestro Hatem Ben Arfa.

Despite the deafening jeers of the Tyneside audience, City dominated possession and played with the confidence and flow of a team that believed they could secure glory. The Citizens had their best opportunity to hit the front just before half time when Silva played in Gareth Barry one on one with Krul. The England midfielder looked certain to score, but Newcastle's defiance was exemplified by the efforts of Captain Fabricio Coloccini and Davide Santon who each blocked on the line to deny City the lead.

City upped the ante and pressed with increasing vigour and motivation after the interval, but as the second half wore on they appeared a frustrated and slightly bewildered outfit as they struggled to fashion as many goal scoring opportunities as they had done in the opening period. Newcastle's sterling defensive performance was roared on by an approving public and it looked as if City's cross-town rivals Manchester United were to be handed the initiative in the title chase.

Mancini had an ace up his sleeve however, and with half an hour to play he sent on the pantomime villain of the day, Nigel De Jong, in place of Samir Nasri. De Jong, whose tackle broke Ben Arfa's leg in two places back in the autumn of 2010, received a chorus of boos from the Newcastle faithful upon his introduction to the pitch.

It was the type of reception reserved most recently for the likes of Michael Owen and Andy Carroll -two figures who were chastised on their return to St James' Park after leaving the club for pastures new - but the move proved to be an inspired one, as De Jong's presence in the holding midfield role allowed Toure to be unleashed further forward to quite devastating effect.

At first the change seemed to have galvanised Newcastle, particularly Ben Arfa, who soon after the substitution jinked his way into the City penalty area before lashing a shot into the side netting. However, just a few minutes later Mancini's decision was vindicated as Toure escaped the attentions of Yohan Cabaye to collect a lay-off from Aguero before curling a well placed shot past the diving Krul and into the bottom corner to put the visitors in front. 

It was the first goal that Newcastle had conceded in 497 minutes of football at St James' Park, and it should have been swiftly followed by a second as Aguero missed wide after latching on to Silva's delicately chipped through ball. 

Newcastle almost made City pay for Aguero's lack of accuracy when Cisse headed well over from close range, and a grandstand finish looked increasingly likely as the Magpies pushed further into the City half.

It was not to be however, as Newcastle fell victim to the sucker punch. Cabaye was dispossessed stretching to retain the ball in midfield, and this enabled City to counter at alarming speed before the ball fell to Toure inside the box, who finished from close range to clinch a hard fought win for the prospective Champions.

The home side did search for a consolation, and Cisse came close as his low shot was well saved by the excellent Hart, but it proved to be too little too late as the final whistle was met jubilantly by the travelling City support.

Despite the defeat Newcastle's efforts were met with warm appreciation from the home crowd, and the majority of the stadium stayed behind to applaud the squad on what has been a magnificent season for the club.

By virtue of Liverpool's 4-1 win over Chelsea, the Magpies can now finish no lower than 5th, and go in to the final day of the Premier League season knowing a win could see them secure Champions League football after Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur could only manage draws with Norwich City and Aston Villa respectively. 

Alan Pardew and his side should take great pride from their performance against City, and they will surely head into their final day clash with Everton with nothing to fear. If Newcastle showed one thing against Manchester City last Sunday, it is that they can compete with Europe's elite, a victory at Goodison Park this Sunday could see them win the right to do just that on a weekly basis next season.

Cisse inspired Newcastle bounce back from Wigan hammering

Wonder strike: Papiss Cisse celebrates his 2nd goal against Chelsea

Thankfully, I struggled to find the time to publish a reaction to Newcastle's humbling defeat by Wigan Athletic at the weekend, but the short turnaround to Wednesday night's game against Chelsea gave me the chance to write about something much more positive, Newcastle's impressive 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge.

A clash with Roberto Di Matteo's resurgent blues was always going to be an extreme test of Newcastle's Champions League credentials, especially considering the manner of the defeat they suffered on the Saturday before.

The relegation threatened Latics blitzed past the Magpies and had the game wrapped up within the first 45 minutes, as two goals from Victor Moses, one from Shaun Maloney and a superb long range effort from Franco Di Santo put the game beyond Newcastle's reach despite the best efforts of star striker Papiss Cisse to reduce the arrears.

Resiliency has been a key factor in Newcastle's season however, and Cisse soon made amends in West London as he fired in two spectacular strikes to keep the Magpies in the hunt for a top four place.

Jumping for joy: Cisse put Newcastle ahead 19 minutes into the game

Chelsea started the game brightly and could have taken the lead when Raul Meireles fired a free-kick over the bar, but Newcastle soon took control of the game and began to dominate both possession and territory. They were rewarded for their good start when Cisse delivered the first of two remarkable efforts 19 minutes into the contest, the Senegalese international collected Davide Santon's pass before teeing up a delicious left footed volley past Petr Cech and into the top corner.

Di Matteo's men struggled to make much of an impression in the first half, but should have levelled matters when Florent Malouda headed Fernando Torres' cross wide of the goal.

Still it was Newcastle who looked more likely to score the game's second, Demba Ba - who has not netted since the 2-1 win over Aston Villa - forced a good save from Cech before being denied by the crossbar after latching on to a Hatem Ben Arfa corner.

The Londoners held on to the break but were unable to create any clear opportunities after the interval despite the introduction of Juan Mata and later Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba.

Indeed Newcastle kept the home side at bay with surprising ease, and midway through the second half the most eventful thing to have happened was an injury to Cheick Tiote, who had to be stretchered off after sustaining a cut to the head in a collision with John Obi Mikel.

The Magpies remained stern in defence throughout and their fortitude was summed up by Santon, who showed the presence of mind to clear a John Terry header off the line just three minutes from the end of normal time.

With 10 minutes of injury time to be played due to the delay caused by Tiote's injury, the Stamford Bridge crowd were more than confident that Chelsea could pull off a late rally.

All Blues' hopes were dispelled three minutes into added time however, as Cisse produced one of the goals of the season to seal the points for Alan Pardew's side. The goal came about from a seemingly innocuous Newcastle throw-in just inside the Chelsea half. Substitute Ryan Taylor launched the ball into the path of Shola Ameobi, whose knockdown fell to Cisse, who instinctively hit an audacious right-footed volley that swerved over the head of Cech and nestled in the top corner.

The visiting fans were sent into sheer delirium, Drogba and sections of the Chelsea fans applauded in admiration, Stamford Bridge and the Premier League had just witnessed a thing of beauty, one of those rare goals that unites fans in appreciation of the immense talent showcased by an individual.

Cisse's strikes have kept Newcastle right in the thick of the race for the Champions League, but his second will not be remembered for that, instead it will rightfully be regaled as one of the greatest goals in the history of the Premier League.

Cabaye confirms Newcastle's place in Europe

Masterclass: Yohan Cabaye celebrates his second goal 

European football is to return to St James' Park after Newcastle United romped to a comfortable 3-0 home victory over Stoke City.

The win confirmed that the Magpies will at least be competing in the Europa League next season as Everton failed to win against Manchester United at Old Trafford - though they did play out a thoroughly entertaining 4-4 draw with Sir Alex Ferguson's side - a result which leaves the Toffees unable to overtake Newcastle in the league.

That Newcastle have now qualified for European competition is no surprise, their performances throughout the season have merited a return to continental football,something that they have not experienced since 2007. What has come as a shock to many observes is that Alan Pardew's men continue to demolish teams with a style and confidence befitting that of a Champions League team.

If they are able to maintain current form then the Champions League is exactly where Newcastle will find themselves, the Geordies now occupy the fourth and final qualification place for European football's biggest club competition and sit three points ahead of nearest rivals Tottenham Hotspur - who slipped to defeat at Queens Park Rangers - and just two behind third placed Arsenal.

Saturday's triumph was masterminded by Yohan Cabaye, the French midfield general was at the forefront of Newcastle's vibrant attacking play and was rewarded with two goals.

Cabaye nodded in the game's opener from close range 14 minutes in, Hatem Ben Arfa, who was in typical swashbuckling form swung in a deep cross which was met perfectly by Papiss Cisse. The Senegal international's effort crashed against the bar but Cabaye showed the quickest reactions and judged the flight of the rebound perfectly to give Newcastle a deserved lead.

Four minutes later and the former Lille man turned provider, as he and Cisse produced a passage of play that was as close as you can get to footballing telepathy. Cabaye collected Jonas Gutierrez's pass on the left hand side and slid a expertly timed long range pass through the Stoke back line and into the path of Cisse, who - after timing his angled run perfectly - proceeded to slot the ball past Asmir Begovic and into the bottom corner.

Newcastle took their foot of the gas slightly after the break but still poured forward with enthusiasm and vigour. Pardew's charges were denied a third goal shortly into the second half when Cisse prodded home a rebound after Demba Ba's fierce drive had been spilled by Begovic. However the linesman ruled that Cisse had been offside, a decision that appeared contentious at best.

The Magpies did have their third moments later though, as Cabaye curled an exquisite shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the area to seal another fine three points and put the pressure on their rivals in what is in an increasingly intriguing battle for the final two places in the top four. 

Stoke did have their chances, most notably six minutes into the contest when Jonathan Walters fired over after latching on to a Peter Crouch knockdown, but in truth Newcastle could have won by more. A Cheick Tiote piledriver was well saved by Begovic, and Fabricio Coloccini should have scored when he headed wide from a Ben Arfa corner.  

Indeed, Newcastle may well have triumphed by a wider margin, but the manner of the win and the artistry of their performance sent a clear statement of intent to the rest of the league. The Magpies have now won six games on the bounce and if the victory over Stoke is anything to go by, they certainly aren't finished yet.

Vertonghen a must if Newcastle reach Champions League

As Newcastle continue to battle for a place in next season's Champions League, rumours are beginning to surface as to which players Alan Pardew could recruit should his team qualify for Europe's biggest club competition.

One player whose name has re-surfaced as a potential target for the Magpies is Ajax Captain Jan Vertonghen, the Belgian centre-back is widely anticipated to leave the Dutch giants in the summer, with Arsenal and Tottenham also mentioned as possible contenders for his signature.

Pardew was pictured at the Amsterdam Arena on Sunday as Vertonghen and his team mates romped to a comfortable 3-1 win over Eredivisie basement dwellers De Graafschap. 

The Newcastle boss will certainly have been impressed by Vertonghen's performance as he showcased his skills as a ball playing centre half, setting up Derk Boerrigter for the Champions' third goal.

Competition for Vertonghen's services will be stiff, and he will command a fee of at least £10m, but after watching the 24-year-old on a visit to Amsterdam earlier in the season, I am of the opinion that an investment in Vertonghen would be an extremely wise one on Newcastle's part.

Pardew has often spoken of his desire to ensure that Newcastle control more games and dominate possession, and this is certainly something that they have been able to achieve in their recent unbeaten run. However, in order to do this on a European stage they would certainly require more players of a higher calibre who are comfortable with the ball at their feet.

Vertonghen certainly fits the bill, much like current Newcastle Captain Fabricio Coloccini he is a defender who is not afraid to attack and is often at the centre of Ajax's forays into the opposition half. Unlike Coloccini however, the Belgian is relatively prolific in front of goal, he has scored nine goals in all competitions this season, an impressive tally for a central defender.

Indeed, Vertonghen is a rare breed of defender who excels in both defence and attack, comfortable in the air and in possession, the Germinal Beerschot academy product reads the game excellently and his intelligence and assuredness at the back has seen him rise remarkably quickly through the ranks at one of European football's most famous clubs. 

Newcastle's strikers have been on top form throughout the current campaign, but Vertonghen's goal scoring prowess would certainly be of use to the Magpies as they look set to compete on four fronts next season.

The Geordies have been linked with a host of other names in recent weeks, including FC Twente's Brazilian centre back Douglas, Montpellier's Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa and PSV Eindhoven full back Erik Pieters.

Yanga-Mbiwa is another that likely need an assurance of Champions League football to make the move to the North-East with Montpellier sitting two points ahead of Paris Saint-Germain in the race for the Ligue 1 title.

A move for Pieters on the other hand would not be a surprise, the Dutch international was repeatedly linked with a switch to St James' Park last summer, and has a good relationship with Newcastle Goalkeeper Tim Krul. The Eindhoven man can operate on the left side of the defence or in the middle and his versatility would certainly give Pardew more options in defence, an area in which Newcastle have become extremely stretched over the last few weeks.

It is negotiations with Douglas that appear to be at the most advanced stage however, with rumours circulating that Newcastle have already agreed a deal to bring the player to the club.

The Brazilian is not a ball playing centre half like Vertonghen, but his presence could definitely help sure up the Newcastle back line. Standing at 6ft 4in, Douglas is a dominant physical presence that would not be daunted by the challenge of facing up to some of the Premier League's more intimidating strikers. His height would also  be useful in helping the Magpies deal with set pieces, an area of the game that they struggled with this season.

Newcastle will certainly require a number of reinforcements for any potential European challenge, further up the field the Pardew's side have been linked with a move for midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson and have reportedly already agreed to sign Reims' winger Romain Amalfitano.

However, if the Geordies are destined to play in the Champions League, then their first port of call should be to Amsterdam to secure the capture of Vertonghen, a player who could make a huge impact for the club at both ends of the pitch. 

Newcastle not at Wembley but five Cup Finals lie ahead

Newcastle United do not play this weekend, as their scheduled opponents for this weekend, Chelsea, take part in Sunday's FA Cup Semi-Final with Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley.

A great time then to reflect on the Magpies' remarkable season so far and look ahead to the final five games that will prove vital in determining the outcome of a campaign in which Alan Pardew's side have won many admirers.

Around six weeks ago, Newcastle's season looked in danger of fizzling out, they had just earned themselves a point in the Tyne-Wear derby thanks to a late goal from Shola Ameobi after previously squandering a two goal lead and settling for a share of spoils against basement club Wolverhampton Wanderers.

What came next could well be viewed as a season defining moment for Newcastle. On the verge of earning a credible 1-1 draw at Arsenal thanks to a goal from Hatem Ben Arfa, Pardew's men threw too many men forward and conceded a late winner as Thomas Vermaelen prodded home from close range after a superb Gunners' counter.

Pardew's charges stood stunned, fatigued and generally devastated. However, the definition of a good team is how they handle and ultimately react to disappointment. Luckily, Newcastle have reacted splendidly, they have been nothing short of spectacular since getting back to winning ways with a 1-0 triumph over Norwich City.

Indeed, Newcastle have now won five consecutive matches, dismantling West Bromwich Albion and Liverpool while effectively dispatching of Swansea and Bolton Wanderers.

A number of factors have contributed to the Magpies' rediscovered consistency. A steely resolve has always been present within this Newcastle side, and this has helped them remain solid defensively despite injuries to Fabricio Coloccini and Cheick Tiote. Pardew's men have conceded just one goal in their last five outings with James Perch and Mike Williamson surprising many with their effectiveness at the back.

The main reason for Newcastle's winning run however has been the decision by Pardew to switch from a 4-4-2 to a 4-4-3 formation. The change has improved the form of Yohan Cabaye, who is now playing in a slightly more advanced position with more freedom to attack in the centre of the midfield three, but the two players it has had the biggest effect on are Hatem Ben Arfa and Papiss Cisse.

Ben Arfa has recaptured the form he demonstrated on many occasions in his spells at Lyon and Olympique Marseille, scoring three goals - including the magnificent solo effort against Bolton Wanderers on Easter Monday - and chipping with three assists in the last six games.

Cisse's rise has been nothing short of sensational, the Senegalese international made a decent start to his career on Tyneside, netting on debut against Aston Villa and again in the draw with Wolves. He then endured after a brief goalless spell, but has since netted in each of Newcastle's last five victories. Notching twice against West Brom; Liverpool and Swansea and taking his tally to a phenomenal ten goals in nine games.

The former Freiburg man may be blossoming in his new surroundings, but the switch to a 4-4-3 has had a detrimental effect on the goal scoring prowess of compatriot Demba Ba, who has not scored since the clash with Aston Villa and has had to adapt to operating in his new role on the left of the attacking three.

Ba's lack of goals are a worry, but the new formation, the resurgence of Ben Arfa and the astounding form of Cisse have taken Newcastle within touching distance of the Champions League places, two points ahead of Chelsea and level on points with 4th placed Tottenham.

The Magpies will now be able to recuperate from the rigours of their recent surge, safe in the knowledge that 6th place will guarantee them Europa League football if Liverpool defeat Everton in the other Wembley Semi-Final on Saturday.

Newcastle's winning streak has allowed to set their sights higher and aim for a place among the European elite, but knowing that European football will be secured with a top six finish would surely take some of the pressure off as Pardew's men head into the final five games of a marathon campaign.

The Geordies face a home clash with Stoke City and a trip to the DW Stadium to face strugglers Wigan Athletic in the coming weeks, and while Newcastle can ill afford to look upon these fixtures as easy, they will certainly be looking to take maximum points from both contests to put them in the best position possible ahead of key games with Chelsea and Manchester City.

Chelsea's commitments in the FA Cup and in the Champions League Semi Finals against Barcelona could well prove to be to Newcastle's benefit as Roberto Di Matteo's Blues cope with the trials of competing on three fronts.

Still if Pardew's troops wish to earn a place in Europe's top club competition, then they must maintain the consistency they have displayed in recent weeks. This could be difficult given the fixtures that the Magpies face, but if there is one thing that Newcastle have shown throughout the season, it is spirit and resiliency. If they are able to harness that into five more positive results, then the Geordies could well gatecrash the biggest party in European club football.

Brilliant Ben Arfa ignites Newcastle's top four surge

Flying: Hatem Ben Arfa celebrates his wonderful opener

It is often said that a team needs a little bit of extra quality to win games when they aren't playing well. Newcastle United certainly possess this, in the form of the magnificent Hatem Ben Arfa.

For just over 70 minutes Newcastle did not play well against a plucky and organised Bolton Wanderers side, who came to St James' Park sniffing an upset as the Magpies delivered a display lacking in both energy and creativity.

However, 73 minutes into the contest Alan Pardew's side found their spark, as the in-form Frenchman delivered a truly magical goal in what was one of the great moments of the campaign.  

Papiss Cisse then wrapped up the three points as he tapped in Shola Ameobi's well placed cross, but it was Ben Arfa's contender for goal of the season that will grab the headlines.

The victory takes Newcastle up to 5th in the Premier League table, level on points with 4th placed Tottenham Hotspur - who fell to a 2-1 home defeat against Norwich City - and two points clear of 6th placed Chelsea after their 1-1 draw at Fulham.

Newcastle made just one change from the side that won 2-0 at Swansea on Good Friday, Captain Fabricio Coloccini returning from a hamstring injury, forcing James Perch to move into the midfield because of an injury to Cheick Tiote. 

Perhaps tired from their travails in South Wales, the home side produced a laborious first half performance. Wanderers' Hungarian keeper Adam Bogdan was rarely tested, although he did almost gift Newcastle the lead when he punched Ben Arfa's inswinging free-kick in the direction of his own goal, only to see the ball flash wide of the post.

Shane Ferguson replaced James Perch at half time with Jonas Gutierrez taking up a more central position as Pardew searched for a way to break down a typically rugged Bolton outfit.

The change made little difference and in fact it was the visitors who appeared the more likely to net the opener, Mark Davies and Chris Eagles both brought fine close range saves from Krul before Petrov flashed an inviting ball across the face of goal but Darren Pratley failed to find the final touch. 

Ben Arfa slots past Bogdan to cap a superb solo run

Newcastle survived the spell of pressure and that set the stage for Ben Arfa to steal the plaudits with a spectacular solo goal. Collecting the ball midway inside his own half from Yohan Cabaye, the Clairefontaine academy graduate turned past Sam Ricketts and proceeded to power into the Bolton half, riding the challenge of Mark Davies before skipping past the visitors back line and into the box to slide a cool finish past Bogdan into the bottom corner.

St James' Park erupted in relief and utter amazement at what they had just witnessed. Ben Arfa had pulled off a similar feat - and scored arguably a better goal - earlier in the season in the FA Cup against Blackburn Rovers but this one, on a grander stage with European permutations riding on the game, was unquestionably more important.

From then on there was no way back for Owen Coyle's men, and the Magpies made sure of the points ten minutes later when substitute Shola Ameobi broke free down the right before bending a superb ball into the area for the free scoring Cisse to tap home and make it ten goals in nine games for the Senegalese international. 

There was perhaps a suspicion of offside about Newcastle's second but Pardew and his troops will care not. Ben Arfa's goal was worthy of winning any game and the Geordies are now in the thick of the race for the final two Champions League places. 

Injuries have mounted in recent weeks and Newcastle will be thankful for the extra rest that Chelsea's involvement in next weekend's FA Cup Semi Finals has allowed them. Pardew's side have momentum and although both management and playing staff will play down their Champions League chances, few would begrudge them a place at European football's top table after a wonderful winning run. 

Cisse hits another double as Newcastle continue winning run

Papiss Cisse has now scored nine goals in eight games

Newcastle maintained their Champions League charge with a gritty 2-0 win over Swansea City at the Liberty Stadium.

Two goals from in-form striker Papiss Cisse proved to be enough to hand Newcastle the three points, a result which takes them within two points of fourth place.

Manager Alan Pardew was forced into another reshuffle after Danny Guthrie was ruled out through injury. Jonas Gutierrez was pushed into the midfield three, while Davide Santon came in to fill the hole at left back. The changes failed to hamper Newcastle's progress, as they put in a sterling defensive performance on the way to their fourth successive win.

Swansea enjoyed much of the early going and spurned an early chance when Gylfi Sigurdsson sprayed a strike wide of the post. Newcastle quickly demonstrated their quality as midfielder Yohan Cabaye played a defence splitting pass into the path of Cisse, who fired an expertly placed finish into the bottom corner and past the despairing dive of Swans' keeper Michel Vorm.

The home side continued to dominate both possession and territory but lacked the penetration to cause the Newcastle defence, still missing Captain Fabricio Coloccini, any real problems.

Sigurdsson looked lively throughout and he kept Magpies' stopper Tim Krul on his toes, producing a fierce long range drive that forced the Dutchman into an impressive diving save.

Brendan Rodgers' men started the second half in the same vein that they had finished the first, but still the Swans were unable to find any way through the stern Newcastle backline. Even injury to Cheick Tiote, who was replaced by Ryan Taylor at Half Time after straining his hamstring, did not hinder Newcastle's cause as Pardew's men managed to retain their shape and stymie a Swansea attack that struggled to find any real cutting edge.

Newcastle were almost architects of their own downfall as Taylor's poor clearance enabled Joe Allen to power a drive towards goal that was parried wide by Krul.

The visitors defensive solidity allowed them to be effective on the counter, and it was another superbly weighted from Cabaye that set Cisse on the way for his second. The Senegalese international drifted away from the attentions of defender Ashley Williams before collecting the Frenchman's pass and lobbing a deft finish over the head of Vorm and into the top corner of the net for his ninth goal in eight games.

From then on there was no way back for Swansea, Rodgers threw caution to the wind by bringing on Danny Graham and Scott Sinclair, but a drive into the side netting from Sinclair and a tame free-kick from Sigurdsson was the best they could muster as Newcastle were able to hold on for the win with relative ease.

Credit must go to Newcastle's reshuffled back four, who contained a dangerous team with little difficulty throughout the entire 90 minutes. Cabaye's contribution should not go unnoticed, and Pardew will hope that both he and Tiote - along with Captain Coloccini - will be fit for Monday's clash with struggling Bolton Wanderers. However, the plaudits will rightly go to Cisse, whose phenomenal scoring run continues to keep the Magpies' Champions League dream alive.

Cisse gives Toon old boys a day to forget

 Cisse and Newcastle celebrate the striker's opening goal

Andy Carroll and Jose Enrique - two stars of Newcastle's successful return to the Premier League - may have gone to St James' Park yesterday looking to prove a point. Instead they found themselves upstaged by a fluid and clinical Newcastle side that outplayed Liverpool and eased to what proved to be a comfortable victory for Alan Pardew's soaring Magpies.

Early on it appeared as if it was going to be Liverpool's day, Carroll was energetic and confident in his forays forward, and Kenny Dalglish's side played with vibrancy and none of the apprehension perhaps expected of a team that had lost five of it's last six encounters.

Liverpool's early dominance didn't last long, Carroll's day began to take a turn for the worse when he was cautioned for diving after successfully evading the challenges of Mike Williamson and James Perch before rounding Tim Krul and inexplicably falling to the floor with the goal gaping.

The former Newcastle number nine - who infamously left to join the Anfield club on the final day of the January transfer window for a British record £35m fee - then had a claim for a penalty turned down when his header ricocheted off the arm of Danny Simpson at the far post.

That was pretty much to be all she wrote for Carroll, as Newcastle, and their current number nine Papiss Cisse took over. Newcastle had offered little as an attacking threat in the opening 15 minutes, but the Geordies soon had the lead on 19 minutes when Hatem Ben Arfa, afforded too much space by the Liverpool midfield, checked onto his left foot to deliver a deep inswinging cross that was met perfectly by Cisse.

The Senegalese international demonstrated intelligent movement to drift away from the attentions of Martin Skrtel, before arrowing a diving header across goal and in off the post past a stricken Pepe Reina.

Liverpool nearly responded in kind and could have levelled when Carroll leapt highest to meet a deflected Craig Bellamy cross, but he could only direct his header over the bar.

Cisse's goal was his sixth in seven games and he should have added to his tally soon after when he nodded Danny Guthrie's well placed cross wide of the post.

Newcastle continued in the ascendancy after the break and came close to doubling their advantage when Mike Williamson's header crashed against the post.

Jubilation: Newcastle celebrate Cisse's second goal

The Magpies did add to their lead 15 minutes into the second half as Cisse netted his seventh of the campaign. Ben Arfa was once again involved, the enigmatic midfielder surging forward before laying the ball off to Demba Ba, who combined with Yohan Cabaye before the ball eventually fell to Cisse who rounded Reina before composing himself and slotting into an empty net.

There was a suspicion of offside about Newcastle's second, but the goal was no more than they deserved for a controlled and impressive display.

Indeed, Pardew's charges were near faultless in every department. The back four - anchored by James Perch and Mike Williamson in the absence of Captain Fabricio Coloccini - performed superbly. Cheick Tiote's return to the side after two games out with a hamstring injury proved vital, as the Ivorian succeed in negating the influence of Liverpool Captain Steven Gerrard.

By contrast Liverpool continued to unravel with each passing minute, Carroll was substituted - much to the joy of the home support - and subsequently headed straight down the tunnel in frustration at what had been a nightmare return for the striker.

The Merseysiders miserable afternoon was completed soon after Carroll's departure as Reina was dismissed for headbutting Perch after the defender had tripped the Spaniard following a save from another towering Williamson header. Perch's reaction to Reina's indiscipline was theatrical and unneccessary. The former Nottingham Forest man fell to floor, despite replays showing that the keeper had at most made minimal contact with Perch's face.

While Perch's antics were at best disappointing, Reina's red card was certainly deserved, and with Liverpool out of substitutions, it forced Enrique to take his compatriot's place in goal, again much to the delight of the raucous Newcastle faithful.

The game had long been over as a contest by that point, Liverpool's attack appeared limp and lacking in ideas in the second half, and only Luis Suarez showed any signs of netting for the Reds, the Uruguayan's close range effort cleared off the line by the excellent Perch after an initial defensive mix-up between him and Krul.

2-0 is never an entirely comfortable scoreline, but the result had never looked in doubt once Cisse had grabbed his second. The full time whistle was greeted jubilantly by the St James' Park crowd and rightly so, Newcastle are in rich vein of form and have now won three in a row. Sunday's result leaves the Magpies level on points with 5th place and Chelsea and 11 clear of Liverpool, who have now dropped to 8th following the defeat.

Newcastle now have a solid grip on 6th place and a European berth appears likely. A place in the Champions League can not be ruled out, although it will be difficult to overhaul the five point gap to Tottenham and Arsenal.

The Magpies face a tough Easter period with a trip to surprise package Swansea City and a home game against in-form Bolton Wanderers. Newcastle have put themselves in pole position to secure European football, but Pardew will be keen for his side to maintain their focus as they look to wrap up the top six finish that their displays this season have undoubtedly merited.

Newcastle crush West Brom to return to top four trail

Hatem Ben Arfa's display was key to Newcastle's success

'Winning breeds confidence'. It is a cliched platitude that is often uttered in football circles, and it is one that, more often than not, proves to be correct.

In the case of Newcastle United, their win against Norwich City after a streak of four games without victory, has clearly invigorated the side and this was evident from the beginning of Sunday's contest at West Bromwich Albion.

The Magpies win against Norwich in the previous week was gritty and unattractive, by contrast their triumph over Roy Hodgson's in-form Baggies was filled with expressive attacking play and an incisiveness that cut the home defence apart with surprising regularity. 

Newcastle looked threatening right from the first whistle, Yohan Cabaye and Danny Guthrie controlled the middle of the field, while Jonas Gutierrez and Hatem Ben Arfa caused Albion a multitude of problems down the left hand side. 

Demba Ba went close early on when his shot was tipped over by Scott Carson, but Newcastle were rewarded for an extremely positive start when Gutierrez slipped a clever ball through to Ben Arfa who delivered a well placed ball in from the left flank for Papiss Cisse to tap home from close range. 

The lead was doubled six minutes later with Ben Arfa at the forefront once more as he executed a wonderful counter attack to add Newcastle's second. The former Marseille man collected a clearance from Fabrico Coloccini, quickly exchanged passes with both Cabaye and Cisse before surging up the pitch and into the West Brom box to cut onto his left foot and fire a curling effort past Carson.

Albion enjoyed a spell of possession and territory shortly after, midfielder James Morrison fired a volley over and had a goal correctly ruled out for offside, while striker Marc Antoine-Fortune headed over from a corner.

Papiss Cisse has now scored five in six for Newcastle 

Newcastle weathered this short storm and soon found themselves three to the good as Cisse netted his second of the game and his fifth in six appearances since joining the club from Freiburg in January. 

The Magpies' third was arguably the best goal of the game and came a result of some more neat interplay from Ben Arfa. The Frenchman raced away on another counter and linked up cleverly with Ba before pulling the ball back for Cisse to rattle home a left footed strike. 

Captain Coloccini was replaced by Davide Santon at half time after the Argentine suffered a hamstring stain towards the end of the first half. Newcastle continued to throw caution to the wind however, and Senegalese international Cisse should have had his hat-rick when he was played through by Cabaye early into the second period, but the striker hit a tame effort straight at Carson. 

Cisse could have been left to rue his miss had West Brom been able to add to the one goal they were able to pull back shortly after, when substitute Shane Long capitalised on a miscommunication between Tim Krul and Mike Williamson to volley into an empty net.

From then on it was a comfortable afternoon for Newcastle, Ben Arfa, enjoying his best performance in a Newcastle shirt, marauded forward at will and forced a smart save from Carson after slicing through the Albion midfield with consummate ease. 

West Brom created little and seemed to lose attacking impetus after Morrison was withdrawn from the field with knee ligament damage. 

The Baggies can have little complaints though, from the beginning of the first half this was Newcastle's day and they kept their nerve to earn a well deserved three points that puts them level on points with 5th placed Chelsea and just five behind 4th placed Tottenham Hotspur.

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew has already dismissed the notion could finish fourth and qualify for the Champions League citing a lack of squad depth. Still Magpies' fans can dare to dream, and although the injury to Coloccini - which Pardew has said could keep the defender out for 3 to 4 games - is a blow to to their cause, Newcastle have demonstrated great resiliency and spirit throughout the campaign and hopes of a berth in Europe's top club competition should not be discredited just yet. 

Next up for the Geordies is a game against 7th placed Liverpool. The fixture will see a return to St James Park for Andy Carroll and Jose Enrique, but it will more importantly play a big role in deciding where Newcastle finish the season. Pardew's side currently hold an eight point advantage over Kenny Dalglish's men, avoid defeat and the Magpies should be able to sew up 6th place, win and the Toon Army can be forgiven for setting their sights on a place in Europe's elite competition. 

Newcastle rediscover winning touch despite off colour display

Matchwinner: Papiss Cisse scores the only goal of the game

After a gut wrenching defeat against Arsenal, Newcastle needed to return to winning ways, and they did just that as they edged to an unfashionable win over Norwich City.

In the end, Papiss Cisse's 11th minute strike proved to be enough to see off a gutsy Canaries side, but it was a far from vintage display from the Magpies, hindered by the absence of Cheick Tiote, who missed the contest with a thigh injury.

Manager Alan Pardew opted to abandon the 4-4-2 formation deployed at the Emirates last Monday in favour of a 4-3-1-2 set up. Jonas Gutierrez was moved to the unfamiliar position of left back while James Perch and Danny Guthrie partnered Yohan Cabaye in a three man midfield. Hatem Ben Arfa kept his place in the side playing in behind the front two of Cisse and Demba Ba.

The decision to change shape looked to have been an intelligent one in the early stages as Newcastle dominated. Cisse should have opened the scoring inside the first ten minutes when he was put through on goal  by Cabaye's excellent lofted ball over the Norwich defence. However Cisse failed to get enough elevation on his effort to lob the onrushing John Ruddy, who was able to make a comfortable save.

Ruddy could do nothing to prevent Cisse's next effort however, as the Senegalese international timed his run to perfection to meet Gutierrez's perfectly weighted delivery with a deft flick that flew past the Norwich stopper and into the top corner of the net.

That should have opened the floodgates, Norwich had offered little going forward and appeared fragile in defence. Ruddy was called into action on a number of occasions, denying both Ba and Cisse with two more fine stops.

However, the home side's momentum quickly dwindled, Newcastle begun to look sloppy in possession and allowed Norwich to exert an increasing amount of influence on the contest. Jonny Howson should have levelled after Mike Williamson was caught in possession, but still Paul Lambert's men struggled to create any clear cut opportunities despite the added possession they enjoyed.

If Ruddy had prevented the game from becoming a rout in the First Half, then his counterpart Tim Krul certainly stopped the Canaries from equalising in the Second Half. The Dutchman made two fantastic saves in quick succession, first denying Anthony Pilkington before thwarting Zak Whitbread with a superb fingertip save after the defender had rose highest to head Elliot Bennett's well placed cross towards goal.

That proved to be the end of Norwich's threatening forays into the Newcastle half and the Geordies were able to comfortably see out the game. Pardew's substitutions played a key role in the Magpies' ability to ensure that the game finished without further incident. Davide Santon was brought on for Ben Arfa and Shola Ameobi replaced Cisse.

These changes settled down a Newcastle side that had been largely erratic in the second period, Ameobi's proficiency in holding the ball up is a continual calming influence on a Magpies unit that has found maintaining possession increasingly difficult in more recent outings.

The game meandered towards its conclusion and Newcastle had earned the three points they so desperately craved, still the nature in which he Magpies achieved victory left a lot to be desired. The Geordie faithful are hopeful that the end of this season will bring a return to European Football for Newcastle, and another morale boosting triumph at West Bromwich Albion on Sunday would go a long way to making that dream a reality.

Late Vermaelen strike breaks Newcastle hearts

Newcastle's hopes of finishing in the Champions League places have been all but extinguished after an injury time strike from Thomas Vermaelen denied the Magpies a vital point at the Emirates Stadium.

Alan Pardew's side had taken the lead on 14 minutes when Hatem Ben Arfa, awarded a start by Pardew after his impressive performance in the Tyne-Wear derby, cut in off the right flank to rattle in a vicious left footed strike that beat Wojciech Szczesny at the Polish keeper's near post.

Within fifty four seconds Arsenal were level, Robin Van Persie slotting home past Tim Krul after collecting Theo Walcott's right -wing cross and wrong-footing Mike Williamson.

Newcastle proceeded to spend much of the game on the back foot with Arsenal enjoying the lion's share of possession, clear cut chances were few however, and Pardew's charges performed admirably in stifling a Gunners' side that have been in potent form in recent weeks.

Arsene Wenger's men continued to control the game in the second period, but an organised Newcastle side demonstrated the kind of defensive fortitude that has made them a very difficult team to beat this campaign. Tomas Rosicky; Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Gervinho all saw chances come and go and it appeared that Newcastle's defensive efforts, led by the magnificent Cheick Tiote, would be rewarded.

However, football can be a cruel game and deep into the allotted five minutes of injury time Arsenal provided the sting in the tail. Newcastle conceded possession for a throw-in well inside the Arsenal half and the Gunners broke quickly with several Magpies' players stranded further up the field. The ball came wide to Walcott, whose deflected cross fell to Vermaelen who prodded home from short range to finally break down the visitors' resistance and send the Emirates into raptures.

The timing of the goal meant there was no way back for Newcastle, but there was still time for the game to be slightly marred by a spat between compatriots Van Persie and Krul. The dispute had been brewing throughout the contest after Van Persie accused the Newcastle keeper of time-wasting in the first half.

The disagreement was in truth nothing more than a bit of 'handbags' but the manner in which Van Persie taunted Krul and Newcastle was disappointing from a player who has been the picture of professionalism for Arsenal this season.

Newcastle will rightfully be extremely disappointed by the nature of the defeat and the way in which they conceded the two goals. Both were avoidable defensively, but in such moments over-criticism can be detrimental and Pardew will surely be keen for his squad to bounce back mentally ahead of what is now a must-win game against Norwich at St James' Park on Sunday.

Arsenal preview: Capital gains key for Newcastle's European challenge

Newcastle head to the Emirates Stadium looking to open up an eight point gap over Liverpool in the race for a top six finish.

The Champions League is beginning to look a little beyond the Magpies' reach, however a European finish is still well within their grasp and any kind of result against Arsene Wenger's resurgent Arsenal would go a long way to cementing Newcastle's place in the Premier League's top six. A 6th placed finish should be enough to bring European football back to St James' Park.

Arsenal are in fine form going into the contest, Wenger's men have beaten both Tottenham and Liverpool in recent weeks, and came close to coming back from a four goal aggregate deficit as they thumped AC Milan 3-0 in the Champions League.

Newcastle on the other hand approach the game on the back of two consecutive home draws. The Magpies surrendered a two goal lead to allow Wolverhampton Wanderers to leave with a point, before Shola Ameobi rescued one for the Geordies in a thrilling Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland.

Andre Santos is expected to return to the Arsenal squad after fully recovering from a broken ankle, while Aaron Ramsey, who has also been struggling with an ankle problem, should play a part. Yossi Benayoun is a doubt with a virus, but it is expected to be a strong Gunners side that will take the field on Monday night. Though Jack Wilshere is still a long term absentee in the Arsenal midfield.

There are no fresh injury concerns for Newcastle, although Danish striker Peter Lovenkrands is set to miss the rest of the season after suffering a thigh injury in the game against Sunderland. Therefore Alan Pardew will have a close to full strength side to choose from, as he looks to try and stop the explosive trio of Robin Van Persie; Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Pardew was criticised for being too attacking in his philosophy the last time Newcastle competed in North London, when they were hammered 5-0 by Tottenham at White Hart Lane. The Magpies were without both Yohan Cabaye and Cheick Tiote that day, James Perch and Danny Guthrie were deployed in midfield their stead, and Newcastle were consequently overrun in the middle of the park.

The presence of Tiote and Cabaye should allow Newcastle to attack with more vigour, both were excellent in the Tyne-Wear derby last Sunday, with Cabaye providing the cross that resulted in Ameobi's injury time equaliser.

Pardew has mooted the idea of starting Hatem Ben Arfa at the Emirates, Papiss Cisse is the expected casualty if the former Lyon and Marseille man does start.

Newcastle do not have a great record in the Capital, and they have collected just one point from their journeys to London this season. They did however, take all three points from the Emirates last term, when an Andy Carroll header was enough to give a Newcastle side, then managed by Chris Hughton, the win.

Victory is by no means essential for Newcastle on Monday night, but another Emirates triumph would move them just two points shy of Arsenal and Chelsea and put them back in contention for the fourth and final Champions League place.

A late late report for a late late equaliser: Shola the scourge of the Mackems once again

Shola Ameobi: Mackem slayer

Shola Ameobi has a habit of scoring important Derby day goals, and it was one that he indulged in once more as he rescued a point for Newcastle in a feisty clash with local rivals Sunderland.

The goal sparked jubilant celebrations in the stands as relief washed over St James' Park. Newcastle had dominated the Second Half but had been kept at bay by 10 man Sunderland, who battled bravely to try and protect the one goal lead they earned through Nicklas Bendtner's first half penalty. 

Newcastle's cause had appeared to be a lost one, Demba Ba had spurned a chance to draw his side level when his spot kick was tipped away by Simon Mignolet and opportunities continued to go begging as the minutes slipped away. However, in the first minute of injury time, Mike Williamson flicked on Yohan Cabaye's deep cross for Ameobi, who tapped home at the near post to break Sunderland hearts and send the capacity St James' Park crowd into raptures.

The Magpies then had chances to snatch victory, but Sunderland were able to hold out for a share of spoils, a result that many will have seen as a fair one after witnessing what was an enthralling contest.

It was a typically fractious opening to the game, which began with an ugly tackle on Cheick Tiote from Sunderland Captain Lee Cattermole. The tackles continued to fly in, Cabaye was cautioned for a challenge on Bardsley before a mini brawl erupted after a rash challenge from James McClean on Danny Simpson. 

Sunderland pressed well as a group and hunted Newcastle down in packs when the Magpies were in possession, and they were rewarded for a strong start when they were given a penalty after Williamson was adjudged to have pulled down Bendtner in the box. 

The Mackems had chances to double the lead, but Newcastle soon grew into the contest and should have equalised when Ba headed Ryan Taylor's corner against the crossbar just before Half Time.

Newcastle improved greatly after the break, and this coincided with the introduction of Hatem Ben Arfa, the dynamic midfielder, who instantly provided his side with extra attacking impetus.

Ben Arfa's presence undoubtedly shifted the momentum towards Newcastle, and the home side began to take a stranglehold on the game. The Magpies' cause was helped by the dismissal of the influential Stephane Sessegnon, who was sent off for elbowing Cheick Tiote in an off the ball incident.

Tensions were high in the dugouts as well as on the pitch, with Alan Pardew and Martin O'Neill continually exchanging verbal blows. Their spat an entertaining side show to one of the most heated Tyne-Wear derbies in recent years.

Sunderland continued to hold firm however, and even when their defence was breached, Mignolet proved almost unbeatable. The Belgian palmed away Ben Arfa's superb left foot strike before denying Ba from the spot after Frazier Campbell had felled Ameobi.

Ba may have wasted his opportunity, but Ameobi soon made amends for Ba's profligacy with his dramatic late leveller. Newcastle will feel that they could have taken all three points, but the manner in which they earned the point should surely give them confidence as they head to the Emirates Stadium on Monday evening to take on Arsenal. 

Sunderland - who will have to wait another season for potential derby success -  take on Liverpool, who sit five points below Newcastle in seventh position, and could do Pardew's side a large favour if they are able to take any points off the League Cup winners and dent their Champions League ambitions.  

Beye: Broken promises forced me to leave Newcastle

Hello dear readers, I have returned from my break in Paris and I am back to kick things off with a new blog entry.

My review of the Tyne-Wear derby will be uploaded shortly, but for the time being I have a few tidbits from an impromptu meeting with former Newcastle star Habib Beye, who I happened to be sat next to on the flight back from Charles De Gaulle Airport.

Beye was complimentary about his former club, despite exiting under slightly acrimonious circumstances following the club's relegation from the Premier League in 2009. The defender, who is now with Doncaster Rovers, explained his reasons for leaving Tyneside, he said:

"Newcastle is a great club, the only problem is Mike Ashley. I didn't leave because of relegation, I was promised in the summer that Alan (Shearer) would be in charge. That didn't happen so I left."

Yours truly with Habib Beye

The former Senegal international also had some kind words for Marseille, who he captained for two years before departing for North-East England.

"In my opinion the two top teams in France are Marseille and Paris Saint-Germain, they have the best fans and the most of atmospheric stadia of all the clubs in the French league.

Beye, in spite of the terms of his departure, holds no grudges towards Newcastle and is happy to see the club flying high in the top tier of English football, he said:

"I love Newcastle and I'm pleased that they are going well in the Premier League once again."

Early Derby Day Preview: Newcastle look to do double over resurgent rivals

Yes it is that time of year once again, the Tyne-Wear derby is upon us and Geordies and Mackems everywhere have begun trading verbal punches in the build up to the game.

Newcastle emerged triumphant back in August when Ryan Taylor's free-kick secured a 1-0 win for the Magpies and his place in club folklore.

Both sides come into the game on the back of disappointing results, Newcastle surrendered a 2-0 advantage to slip to a 2-2 draw with Wolves at St James' Park. While Martin O'Neill's Sunderland suffered a humbling defeat at The Hawthorns, as they were beaten 4-0 by West Bromwich Albion.

The form book will be tossed out of the window on Sunday however, as emotion and will to win take precedence over skill and ability. This is not to say that tactics, organisation and talent count for nothing in this type of game, but the two sides are extremely well matched in these areas, and therefore mental toughness will have an added importance.

Newcastle should again be able to call on a near fully fit squad assuming Yohan Cabaye and Cheick Tiote return from international duty injury free. Papiss Cisse and Demba Ba both have knocks, but both should be fit to spearhead the Magpies' attack.

The Senegalese pair will pose a huge problem for a Sunderland defence that is set to once again be without veterans Titus Bramble and Wes Brown.

The Mackems were decimated by a West Brom side that has struggled at home this season. However, O'Neill's side do possess a number of creative outlets going forward. Stephane Sessegnon; Sebastian Larsson and Irish youngster James McClean have all impressed this year, and the Newcastle rearguard will have to be vigilant if they are to repel a Sunderland attack that has put the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City to the sword.

The Tyneside faithful will surely be confident given Newcastle's recent successes over their oldest rivals. A capacity crowd is expected at St James' Park to cheer on Pardew's charges, as they look to write the story of another Geordie triumph into the history of this long and storied fixture.

Verdict

Sunderland have certainly improved as a side, and with Frazier Campbell seemingly back in a form they are a team capable of scoring many goals. However, I expect Newcastle, with the backing of a raucous home crowd, to edge what will be a thrilling encounter.

Prediction: Newcastle 4-2 Sunderland


This will be my last post for a while, as I head to Paris for a much needed break on Thursday. I shall be keenly watching Sunday's game from a Parisian bar, before moving on to the Parc Des Princes to watch Paris Saint-Germain take on AC Ajaccio. Au revior, allez le Toon!

Wolves fightback stuns below par Newcastle

Newcastle's Champions League ambitions suffered a setback as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Wolverhampton Wanderers at St James' Park.

The Magpies were in cruise control after the first twenty minutes as strikes from Papiss Cisse and Jonas Gutierrez gave Alan Pardew's side a seemingly comfortable 2-0 advantage. However, the home side took their foot off the accelerator and allowed Wolves a route back into the contest, which they duly took through efforts from Matt Jarvis and Kevin Doyle.

Newcastle fans have become accustomed to seeing their team capitulate over the years, but it is an event that hasn't happened often this season, and Wolves' comeback was made even more surprising given the circumstances surrounding the contest. Pardew was able to call upon an almost full strength side, while Terry Connor's visitors had to cope without striker Stephen Fletcher, who was only fit enough for a place on the bench after failing to shake off an illness.

Still this did not deter Wolves, who demonstrated the same kind of resiliency that Newcastle have become famous for during this campaign. The Magpies dominated much of the early stages and were rewarded when Cisse latched onto a partially blocked Cheick Tiote effort to slot home inside six minutes. Newcastle's lead was doubled just over ten minutes later when Gutierrez lashed a magnificent right-footed shot past Wolves Keeper Wayne Hennessey from 25 yards out.

Newcastle appeared comfortable, but Wolves soon managed to gain a foothold in the contest as the Magpies seemed to slip into a false sense of security. The warning sings were there for all to see when Doyle rose highest to head wide of the post just before the interval.

Still Pardew's side continued to struggle after the break as they surrendered possession far too easily, with returning midfielders Yohan Cabaye and Cheick Tiote a yard of the pace throughout the contest.

The Magpies' carelessness on the ball proved to be their downfall as Wolves took advantage when Jarvis' deflected strike looped in over Tim Krul. The goal helped the visitors to grow in confidence and they found their leveller on 66 minutes when Doyle poked home after Jarvis' well placed free-kick caused chaos in the Newcastle penalty area.

A draw now within their grasp, Wolves did the expected and proceeded to sit back and protect the point that they had fought so valiantly for. Newcastle pressed, but were unable to break down a stubborn Wanderers' rearguard, and as a result the home side were reduced to a couple of unsuccessful long range efforts from Hatem Ben Arfa.

That was to be all she wrote for Newcastle, who were left to settle for a disappointing point which leaves them three points shy of Chelsea and Arsenal. The London pair now head the chase for the final Champions League place, but Newcastle remain in the hunt and will look to step up their chase by completing a league double over rivals Sunderland when the two sides meet at St James' Park on Sunday.

Match Preview: Newcastle looking to inflict more woe on wounded Wolves

It has felt like a long time since Newcastle last played a game, but on Saturday the Magpies will look to reignite their Champions League charge as they face a beleaguered Wolverhampton Wanderers side.

Both sides come into the contest on the back of big defeats, Newcastle were thumped 5-0 at White Hart Lane by Tottenham Hotspur, while Wolves' 5-1 home defeat to local rivals West Bromwich Albion signalled the end of the road for Manager Mick McCarthy.

The Black Country club will head to St James' Park with former assistant Terry Connor in charge. Connor has been promoted to the top job after Wolves' quest to find a new boss quickly turned into a fruitless farce. Meanwhile Alan Pardew's side is likely to be at full strength, with both Cheick Tiote and Yohan Cabaye set to be restored to the starting lineup in the centre of midfield.

The strike partnership of Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse should also strike a considerable amount of  fear into the Wolves' defence. Ba is edging ever close to the 20 goal mark, while Cisse made a spectacular start to life of Tyneside when he struck a vicious volley into the net to seal victory for Newcastle on his debut against Aston Villa three weeks ago.

Newcastle were 2-1 winners at Molineux back in October, when goals from Ba and Jonas Gutierrez proved to be enough to take all three points. There was controversy however, as Kevin Doyle's potential late equaliser was ruled out by the linesman, who adjudged that the ball had already crossed the byline before Adam Hammill delivered it to the head of the Irish international.

Wolves do possess a good amount of talented players such as Doyle; Hammill; Matt Jarvis and Nenad Milijas, and they will certainly present Newcastle's backline with a significant threat. Still - although you can never afford to be complacent in football - the Geordie faithful will be hopeful of a comfortable win given the circumstances surrounding the game.

It is now up to a strong and rested Newcastle side to deliver, and banish the nightmare of their White Hart Lane horror show from memory.

Newcastle set to sign another French young gun?

Amalfitano is reportedly set to swap Reims for Newcastle

Newcastle fans awoke Thursday morning to surprising news that had somewhat of a familiar feel. The club is reportedly on the verge of a new signing, that's the surprise. The familiar part? The player is French.

Indeed, French newspaper L'Equipe is reporting that Newcastle are to agree on a three-year deal for Stade De Reims Romain Amalfitano. The attacking midfielder, who is the younger brother of Marseille star Morgan Amalfitano, is out of contract at the end of the season, and the Magpies appear to have swooped in to take advantage.

At just 22 years of age, Amalfitano fits the Newcastle blueprint, and although signing a player from French Ligue 2 certainly represents a gamble, it is one that could have a massive pay-off with no outlay set to be spent on the player. Quick and with an eye for goal, the Nice-born player could certainly inject some extra pace into the Newcastle midfield.

The news has not been officially confirmed by the club as yet, and it is unlikely that they will do so until the end of the season, as Newcastle are a club that likes to keep their transfer business under wraps. However, if the signing is confirmed, then credit should go to the club's scouting network - led by Graham Carr - for unearthing a player that will have escaped the attentions of many due to his current club's league status.

No matter what the outcome of Newcastle's season, the summer transfer window is set to be an interesting one on Tyneside, and it looks as if Pardew and his scouts have opened for business early.

Newcastle just one of many successful underdogs

Newcastle United have enjoyed a remarkable campaign, tipped by some for relegation at the start of the season, the Magpies sit 6th in the Premier League table.

However, their renaissance has not been the only surprise success story in the realm of European league football this year.

Indeed, across the various continental leagues, there are a number of overachieving underdogs that are causing a stir in their respective countries. In France, Montpellier, who finished 14th last season, are in direct competition with big spending Paris Saint-Germain for the Ligue 1 title. While in Germany Borussia Monchengladbach are in a four way fight for the Bundesliga title after narrowly avoiding relegation last time out.

Levante have surprised everyone in Spain by breaking into the top four with a team full of ageing veterans, and Heerenveen, who Newcastle once defeated in the Uefa Cup in 2005, are in thick of a crowded Dutch title picture.

There are exceptions of course, the Italian Serie A has been dominated by a resurgent Juventus and Champions AC Milan, Udinese, spearheaded by the unrelenting talent of Antonio Di Natale, have also impressed. Scotland and Portugal continue to be closed shops, but overall it has been a season of surprises throughout Europe.

The 2011/2012 season is racing towards its conclusion, and there are only thirteen games left of this Premier League. Newcastle will be hoping to hit form at the right time and give themselves the opportunity to meet some of the continent's other unlikely front runners in European competition next season.

Tottenham defeat highlights Tiote and Cabaye value

Newcastle United's bad record in London continued, as they were hammered 5-0 by Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane.

The game was over as a contest by Half Time after Benoit Assou-Ekotto's 4th minute strike was quickly followed by two goals from Louis Saha and one from Croatian midfielder Niko Kranjcar. The impressive Emmanuel Adebayor finished off the rout in the second half with a fine volley.

It was a nightmare evening for Alan Pardew's side, and one that occurred because of Spurs' complete dominance in midfield. Newcastle's makeshift central midfield pairing of Danny Guthrie and James Perch failed to contain Tottenham, who were imperious as an attacking force. Scott Parker and Luka Modric controlled the pace and flow of the game, while Gareth Bale ran riot down the left flank. 

The Magpies can take solace in the fact that first choice central midfielders Cheick Tiote and Yohan Cabaye are set to return to action. Tiote finished as a runner up in the African Cup of Nations, as the Ivory Coast were beaten on penalties by surprise package Zambia. Former Lille man Cabaye returns from suspension after serving a three game ban for allegedly striking Brighton's Adam El-Abd.

Newcastle's poor performance on Saturday highlighted just how important Tiote and Cabaye are to their success. Perch and Guthrie have produced good displays in recent weeks, but against superior counterparts they were completely overrun. The contrast to the last time the two sides met could not have been more stark. It finished 2-2 back in October at St James' Park, when Newcastle's first choice midfield pair were able to contribute in attack, while somewhat restricting Spurs in what was a spirited end to end contest.

Pardew's charges can now enjoy a two week break as focus shifts to the FA Cup this weekend. Newcastle's elimination from the competition at the hands of Brighton was a disappointment, but at least it has given the Magpies an opportunity to rest and regroup ahead of a clash with now Manager-less Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The Newcastle boss will certainly be hoping for a reaction to the past weekend's heavy defeat, and with his influential midfield pair returning to the fray, Pardew will be confident of a positive display from what looks set to be his strongest starting eleven since the 3-0 win over Manchester United in January.

What European Qualification could mean for Newcastle

Barcelona earned around €51m from last season's triumph

Newcastle are in a four way fight for 4th place in the Premier League, and more importantly Champions League football, but they will have maintain their good form throughout the next three months of the season if they are to earn a place in European football's top competition.

A finish in the top four would represent a major turnaround for a club that was in the second-tier of English football just three years ago, but what would it mean financially for the resurgent Magpies?

To properly answer this question we need to take a number of different issues into account. The first of which is Premier League prize money. Each Premier League team is awarded a sum of money at the end of each season, regardless of where they finish, but the amount they receive is dependent on their final finishing position.

Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League last season, and were awarded a merit payment of £6,810,804 for this achievement. The chart below shows what Newcastle earned from TV money and other add ons.

However, Newcastle's second half capitulation against West Bromwich Albion cost them around £2.3m, the Magpies were 3-0 up on the final day of the season against the Baggies, a result that would have seen them finish in 9th place. Somen Tchoyi's quickfire hat-rick dashed the Geordies' hopes of a top half finish, and that had a significant impact on Newcastle's finances for the year, as Aston Villa, who did finish 9th, received a merit payment of £9,081,072.

Most observers would agree that Newcastle are destined to finish higher than 12th this season, and as a result they should receive a much higher merit payment. Arsenal ended the campaign in 4th last year, earning the Gunners a merit payment of £12,864,852.

So in the interest of this discussion, let us assume that Newcastle will finish 4th and qualify for the Champions League. The Magpies would receive almost £13m for their exploits in the Premier League, but how much money would their presence among Europe's elite earn them.

Initially, clubs that reach the Final Qualifying Round - which is where Newcastle would enter the tournament-receive €2.1m (£1.76m) as prize money. Should they reach the Group Stage then Uefa would award the club an extra €3.9m (£3.3m).Each team that enters the Group Stage also receives €550,000 for each group game as well as performance related bonuses (€800,000 for a win and €400,000 for a draw).

Therefore the very least that Newcastle could expect to receive in participation payments, should they make it to the Group Stage, is €9.3m (£7.79m).

The next aspect to take into account is television money. Each side that qualifies for the Champions League Group Stage receives a share of the television funding from the 'market pool'. The excellent blogger 'The Swiss Rambler' explains that the amount a club receives from the pool is dependent on a number of variable factors:

1) The size/value of a country's TV market (the UK TV market is likely to be larger than most others, so English teams should receive more than Spanish and Italian sides)

2) The number of representatives from your country. (England has a maximum of four representatives, so an English side would therefore earn less than a Dutch team, as Holland has a maximum of just two representatives.)

3) The position of a club in it's domestic championship in the previous season. (If two teams from the same country reach the Quarter Finals, the one that finished higher in their domestic league would receive a higher share)

4) The number of matches a club has played in the current season's Champions League.

The final amount that Newcastle could receive from TV money is difficult to estimate, as it depends on so many variables. However, the figures from last year (shown below) give a better indication of the sum of money the club may earn if they were to qualify for the tournament.

Let's work on the rather negative but somewhat realistic assumption that Newcastle are eliminated in the Group Stage. No English teams were knocked out at this stage in 2010/2011, so therefore I have decided to use Rangers (who operate within a similar TV market) and Werder Bremen as examples. Bremen are a particularly good example as the German TV market is quite large and the money made from television was distributed between three teams (only England had four representatives in the Group Stages in 2010/2011).

Both teams were eliminated from the Champions League in the Group Stage, Bremen received €8,656,000 from the market pool, while Rangers - as a result of being Scotland's only representative in the Group Stage - were awarded €9,326,000. Taking these figures into account, it is fair to assume that a Newcastle side knocked out in the Champions League Group Stage would receive around €9m (£7.5m) in television revenue.

Newcastle would also procure additional revenue from the inevitable increase in sponsorship that would come as a result of qualifying for the competition, but it is a figure that is difficult to try and estimate at this stage.

Four additional home games would be held at St James' Park if Newcastle were to compete in the Final Qualifying Round and the Group Stage, those extra matches would obviously boost earnings through gate receipts and money made from the commercial side of the matchday experience. The club's accounts for the 2010/2011 season have yet to be released - though early figures suggest that the Magpies earned approximately £88.5m - and therefore at this stage I will avoid attempting to guess just how much of an impact the four extra games would have on Newcastle's yearly matchday revenue.

However, taking into account the money made from Premier League & Champions League prize money and television revenue, it is fair to estimate that qualifying for the Champions League and making it through to the Group Stage would see Newcastle collect almost £30m, and that is excluding sponsorship and extra revenue earned on the additional match days.

Qualification for the Europa League would still see Newcastle receive a considerable sum of money, a 7th place finish - which could well be enough to secure European football this season - earned Everton £10,594,584 in 2010/11. However, the prize money in Europa League is significantly less than that of the Champions League, this year's Europa League winners will recieve just €20m (16.75m), whereas Manchester United received a total of €53.2m (£44.6m) for finishing last year's Champions League as runners up.

Football teams are motivated by trophies and success, not facts and figures, but the prospect of another £30m in the bank should be all the motivation that Newcastle, as a club, need to push as hard as possible to try and take their place among Europe's elite footballing powers.