Newcastle United 1, Bolton Wanderers 0

Aug 25 2008 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

Game at a glance

TURNING POINT

Newcastle had begun to lose their way when Steven Taylor rashly handled the ball in the area, but when Shay Given made a low save to keep out Kevin Nolan’s penalty it instantly lifted the crowd and the team.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Shay Given was given the award by the match day sponsors, but Jonas Gutierrez was outstanding. It is difficult to remember a foreign player settling into English football so quickly and the Argentinean allies pace, vision and guile with a steely edge. Could prove to be one of the buys of the season.

TALKING POINT

It should have been four points from two games but instead we are forced to discuss wider issues, not least Keegan’s need for three more players before the close of the transfer window. A left-back, a centre-back and a creative central midfielder should just about cover it.

GEORGE DANBY EFFECT

The opera singer performed another rousing rendition of the Blaydon Races before kick-off and sure enough, just as they had done against Sunderland last season, Geremi combined with Owen to score United’s goal. He will be welcome back anytime he likes.