Newcastle grinded out another three points against a testing Preston team, with a performance which I would best describe as functional.
Kevin Nolan popped up with another goal late in the game to regain Newcastle's place at the top of the Championship. Kev is indeed proving to be a valuable member of the United squad, scoring vital goals in tight games which are part of the reasons why Newcastle are leading the way for promotion.
Nolan and his central midfield partner Alan Smith epitomised the black and white work ethic, providing a strong shield to the united defence. They hardly allowed Preston's midfield to gain space and try to create anything, which is why they resorted to firing long balls up to the physical forwards Chris Brown, Neil Mellor and later Jon "the beast" Parkin.
United were similar in style, with Andy Carroll again a good target in which they could build upon, however they took their chance that made all the difference. Each player is doing his job and doing what is necessary in a professional manner.
This approach may not be too appealing to the Toon faithful who crave to see the same flair as years gone by, but at least they are winning games and still on course to go straight back in to the Premier League.
Newcastle are lacking pace and creativity, someone who can put their foot on the ball, dictate games and carve the opposition open, a complete and talented midfielder. New signing Fabrice Pancrate may play some part in filling that role and he may get the opportunity rather soon as Peter Lovenkrands has failed to show the same form as last season and Danny Guthrie looked nervous against North End, as if he wasn’t up to the challenge of competing for a place.
It may not have been an overly exciting and entertaining game, with limited chances and very little attacking quality, but Newcastle United carry on winning and are top of the table with two points to spare.
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