The Magpies had the better of the game's chances, as Leon Best and Danny Simpson both went close in the first half, and Seagulls keeper Peter Brezovan was called into action on a number of occasions in the second 45 as Newcastle looked to come through a difficult tie.
However, it was to be the home side that would book their place in the 5th Round as Will Buckley's effort deflected past Tim Krul after the midfielder had skipped past Simpson and surged down the left hand side.
There was to be no dramatic comeback from Alan Pardew's team as Brighton were able to see out the remaining minutes with relative ease. The result signalled another early FA Cup exit for Newcastle and condemned them to another trophy-less season.
It was a miserable night for the Magpies as the strike pairing of Leon Best and Shola Ameobi failed to fire on any cylinders whatsoever. The imminent return of top scorer Demba Ba and new signing Papiss Cisse will be a boost to the side. However, their return will be tempered by the possible absence of key midfielder Yohan Cabaye, who has been charged with violent conduct by the FA after appearing to kick out at Brighton's Adam El-Abd following a questionable challenge from the defender.
Cabaye has promised to 'vigorously fight' the charge and he will have the full backing of both Manager Pardew and, surprisingly, El-Abd, who has offered his support to the Frenchman.
The midfielder's refusal to accept the charge means that he will be available for selection ahead of the vital clash with Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park on Wednesday night.
Newcastle will hope that the FA disciplinary panel rule in their favour, as a guilty verdict against Cabaye will see him miss 3 Premier League matches, and this could be extended if the FA rule that the former Lille man's appeal was 'frivolous'.
More immediate concerns lie ahead for Pardew though, and he will hoping that he and his charges are able to get back on track in Lancashire, and earn what would be a very valuable three points.
No comments:
Post a Comment