Sheffield United almost played party poopers at St James’ Park last night, as Newcastle United had to come from behind to claim victory against a plucky Blades side.
Darius Henderson had given the Blades a first-half lead, but Peter Lovenkrands penalty and Kevin Nolan’s spectacular volley were enough to seal victory.
Manager Kevin Blackwell was forced into another four changes with Andy Taylor, Lee Williamson, James Harper and Marcel Seip being recalled to the side.
Both sides had chances from the off, with Harper, Lovenkrands and Wayne Routledge all having early attempts. It was the Blades who finally made the breakthrough midway through the first half, Richard Cresswell headed home from Harper’s corner, but in a discussion that’s sure to run all night, Henderson claimed a touch on the line.
United began playing football on a big pitch at St James’ Park with Nick Mongomery’s energetic displays ensuring much of the home side’s play was broken up.
However, on the stroke of half-time, the home side were awarded a penalty. Chris Morgan was penalised for holding Andy Carroll, allowing Lovenkrands to step up and send Simonsen the wrong way.
In the melee that followed, Gary Speed was ordered to the stands alongside Trevor Birch, and Andy Leaning was lucky not to follow.
Most people would have expected the Toon to carry the momentum into the second half, but the reiliant Blades continued to break them down, although Lovenkrands went wide on two occasions. Andy Taylor’s forward run set up Henderson but his shot was comfortable for Steve Harper.
Jonas forced a magnificent save from Simonsen when he shrugged of Nosworthy and Morgan, his effort seemed destined for the far corner, before the on-loan goalkeeper stuck out a hand to tip the ball onto the post.
Unfortunately the Stoke City man couldn’t keep out what proved to be the winner on 73 minutes. United failed to clear a Newcastle set-piece and when Henderson allowed Simpson to loft the ball back into the area it was flicked on for Nolan to convert a magnificent overhead kick past Simonsen.
Danny Guthrie, and substitute Mark Yeates both went close late on, but in the end it was a deserved victory for Newcastle, despite an encouraging display from Kevin Blackwell’s men.
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