Just back from the game. What an exciting performance. Yes, Newcastle were utter dog sh*te but nevertheless, we looked sexy!
Forster: Boruc will struggle to get his place back. Made a couple of cracking saves and looks as though he is going to claim anything and everything that is tossed into the box. A couple of misplaced kicks but I'm kind of used to that. Fills me with more confidence than Boruc ever has. Sorry irene.
Bertrand: I was always happy with this signing. His positioning is good, he's quick and doesn't give much away. Would have liked to see him get beyond their right back a little more today but a solid performance.
Clyne: quality. He's miles better than Walker, Johnson Stones et al but I'll be happy if Roy never picks him. Save it for Saints!
Fonte: didn't put a foot wrong. Easy game for our captain.
Toby: Another quality signing. Looked comfortable alongside Jose, held the line well. Good distribution and won most headers that he went for. Pushed on into defensive midfield role when Gardos came on for the last five minutes, allowing Morgan to push forward:)
Morgan: Cracking goal to finish off a classy overall performance. Never leave!
Jack Cork: Scored. Let me say that again. Scored!!!! Had a great game. Second half, when Big Vic replaced Long, he pushed right up almost alongside Pelle. Worked his socks off and deserved his well taken goal.
Davis: Where he left off last season. First name on the team sheet for me, in a midfield that looks incredibly strong.
Tadic: Classy player and is linking up brilliantly with Pelle amongst others. Good game today but plenty more to come.
Long: looked lively without making any clearcut chances. Flattened by Krul and subbed at half time. Looked groggy.
Pelle: After the Leverkusen game I feared that he would struggle but today he was brilliant. Worked so hard off the ball, tracked back all game. Some brilliant little touches and lay offs, not least for Morgan's goal. Second goal was comical (after horribly slicing the initial shot), but 2 great finishes. Thoroughly chuffed for him and my MOTM.
Subs: Big Vic, JWP and Gardos: JWP did well on the left after replacing Tadic. Should have hit the target with shot from outside the box though. Big Vic is a tank. Gardos only had 5 mins.
All in all, we won at a canter. Ronald Koeman football genius. Played Cork up front and got him on the score sheet! Even had a wave for the fans. Best signing of the summer without a doubt.
Tremendous reception for Franny at half time. Bought a lump to my throat when he said he was glad to be home at St Marys. But why were there no collection buckets? Didn't see anyone collecting cash from the moment I stepped in the ground to the moment I left. Shame.
What a cracking day though. Looking forward to the season. Exciting, attacking football. A manager with vision and players giving their all. Ship it on.
COYS!!!
