Derby Joy!! - 25/02/2002

Links:  Players:    Nikos Dabizas  Clubs:    Newcastle United    Sunderland  Grounds:    Stadium of Light  Leagues & Cups:    Premier League

Well, it wasn't a great game, they rarely are, but we beat Sunderland and collect three points - job done! To be fair, I wasn't impressed with the Black Cats, they are really struggling at the moment and the fact that their work rate was good couldn't make up for the fact that Newcastle are a superior side. I said that passion would play the decisive part in the game, and in Newcastle matching Sunderland in that department, their overall class saw them through.

Dabizas scored and made the headlines, he could have have three! A great game for him and great game for JJ. Talk about being thrown in at the deep end! JJ looked the part, I thought he had a quiet first half, but came into the game during the second period. He plyed well under pressure and used the ball with intelligence which also demanded good technical ability. They say he's one for the future, and I don't disagree. Writting for my weekly column in 'The Pink' on Saturday, I mentioned that if Newcastle were to win their next two games, I think they can go all the way. Well that's one down and Arsenal to come. It's going to be tough though, just take alook at the Gunners away record!! Another aspect to consider is the psychology of the Arsenal players, the Newcastle defeat in December really hurt them...and they'll be all out for revenge. It's going to be a cracker!

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