For the umpteenth time this season, MAYBE this week represents the turning point of his Reds career. The effort was there all day today and he finally converted. Second half was stronger than the first obviously, and I think Bellamy substitution helped. Would have started Maxi but we got the result. Do NOT start Carra in the final, Kenny. I beg you.
Exactly my thoughts.
All of Maxi, Kuyt and Bellamy deserve more minutes. Henderson less, IMO.
With all 3 of the finalists in the FA Cup probably getting Europe anyhow (by standing or by Carling/whatever) then there will be another spot up for grabs. So effectively, Newcastle have already clinched.
With all 3 of the finalists in the FA Cup probably getting Europe anyhow (by standing or by Carling/whatever) then there will be another spot up for grabs. So effectively, Newcastle have already clinched.
The obvious answer to the question of what to do with Andy Carroll is to play him for 90 minutes. I don't know if that's an ideal situation for next season, but he is clearly best in the last 15 minutes of matches after having worn down defenders for the first 75.
All in all, great victory and a good thing that Carragher starting didn't cost us a place in the final. And Jamie needs to retire at the end of this season.
Whichever side loses the FA Cup semi tomorrow will go into tailspin. For Newcastle to get in that means Spurs need to lose it. Sorry but I do want Spurs to lose it for unrelated reasons of wanting to see Torres cry on the pitch while Gerrard raises a trophy and gets a winners medal
Spurs have the easier fixture list with @QPR, v Blackburn, @Bolton, @Villa, vFulham (average place = 16th)
Arsenal meanwhile conclude vWigan, vChelsea, @Stoke, vNorwich, @WestBrom (12th).
Chelsea have the harder run in with @Arsenal, vQPR, vNUFC, @Liverpool, vBlackburn (average place = 10th). Obviously include their FA and CL fixtures and it's even more difficult.
So I have no idea who I want to win the match today. I think with Newcastle's remaining matches of vStoke, @Wigan, @Chelsea, vManCity, @Everton (9th), that keeping Chelsea involved in a lot of football would possibly impact who they start when the teams meet in early May.
Earning points against Chelsea would be huge for confidence heading into the Manchester City game.
