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First game of the season, a friendly at Carlisle, which saw Chris Hughton put out a team in the first half then another team in the second half. Each team was made up of first team players mixed with the reserves/youth team players. I thought that was the best way to do it, as we have seen in the past the so called first team in the first half then replaced by the youngsters in the second half. As lets face it this up and coming season we are probably going to see a lot more of the youngsters than expected!

I was standing in the terraces behind the goal which was great even if it did keep raining every now and then. Still loved it! Second time watching Newcastle in the terraces, the first was Hartlepool in a pre-season friendly a couple of years ago now. Nothing better than terraces in my opinion.

Anyway, luckily all three of the goals happened at our end. From very unlikely players well Leon Best scoring his first goal for the club. Especially after half time chants of “if bestie scores were on the pitch” well no pitch invasion occurred but was good to see him get off the mark, especially when it looked like he overran the ball before slotting it past the keeper.

The second came from a fantastic run by Wayne Routledge for Nile Ranger with a cheeky touch to put the ball past the keeper.

The third which has to be the pick of the bunch from 17 year old Haris Vuckic who has already been linked with Manchester United. A good touch and turn and placing it in the far left post. He had a good 45 minutes having another chance or two and being involved.

Alan Smith had the captains armband in the first half and Joey Barton had it in the second. Barton for captain in my opinion, he is the best player we have at the club. He has to stay fit if we are to have any chance this season, also has to keep control of his temper too. But he will be what we have to build our team around.