Hope for Newcastle United fans after victory over Boro

May 12 2009 by Paul Loraine, The Journal

THERE was renewed hope on Tyneside last night after Newcastle edged past Middlesbrough in arguably the biggest match in recent North East footballing history.

The region held its breath for 90 minutes, with the fate of all three Premier League clubs from the region in the balance.

Goals from Steven Taylor, Obafemi Martins and Peter Lovenkrands sealed a 3-1 win, sparking riotous celebrations at St James’s.

The three points saw Newcastle move out of the relegation zone above Hull City, while Middlesbrough remain 19th.

There was a huge police presence in the city centre and a helicopter hovered above the stadium as the drama unfolded.

But police last night praised fans after only six arrests were made – for a variety of minor offences.

Chief Supt Neil Mackay, said: “The vast majority of fans behaved well. Six arrests out of a 51,000 crowd is low.

“I would like to thank all the stewards involved for their assistance. I would also like to commend the actions of police officers who remained professional at all times, despite a number of difficult situations which they managed to diffuse quickly.”

The mood before the game was one of contrasts.

There was a huge amount of hope and excitement yet a number of fans spoke of feeling sick and distracted at work all day.