A Goal Fit To Win Any Game!
Newcastle United 2 Sunderland 0
21 April 2008
Although no longer a relegation battle, I think we all know what is at stake in this sort of game!! Bragging rights for the rest of the season and no end of satisfaction.
Like most derbies this was not a classic encounter but there is so much at stake that this is understandable. It took a magnificent goal and a dodgy penalty to decide the match, both scored by the goal-poacher extraordinaire, one Michael Owen. When Geremi looked up, he could spot Owen starting his run. It was a decent ball in but it was the movement of Owen which was the decisive factor. He sneaked past the unaware McShane, leapt high and sent a powerful header into the corner giving Gordon no chance. What a start!
Newcastle had the better of a scruffy first-half but, what turned out to be the decisive goal came from a dubious penalty. The impressive Owen played a neat one-two with the not so impressive Viduka. flicked the ball over Higginbotham as he dived in rather rashly. The ball hit the defender's trailing arm and the ref responded to the loud appeals by pointing to the spot.
I would have to say if this decision was given against me, I would not be too happy! However, penalty it was and Owen (not revered as the best penalty taker in the world!) slapped it just left of centre. Gordon had guessed correctly but was passed the ball which hit the inside of his elbow and flashed across goal just making it over the line. Not the best penalty ever but 2-0 it was!
In fairness to Sunderland, they came out battling and had the better of a poor second half but only really came close twice but Harper and then Taylor saved the day.
A great result for Newcastle who continue their fine return to form under K.K. but Sunderland would still like another win under their belt to feel safe.
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