Bolton match review

By: j | August 24th, 2008

As I scramble for adjectives to describe Newcastle’s 1-0 victory over Bolton, one very obvious comment needs to be made in that Kevan Keegan is tactically using his players to the best of their abilities. That might appear to be a odd comment but amongst the upper level of the sport many managers force-feed a style of play upon their squad that doesn’t suit their abilities. One of the keys to success is being able to structure your tactical approach to maximize your return and after two matches, Keven Keegan has done a remarkable job.

The first half was a tight midfield match with the likes of Danny Guthrie, Charles N’Zogbia and James Milner doing an superb job in maintaining professional disciplined lines, proving that maybe its time to stop calling for them to “get a chance” and merely assume they’ve arrived. The three of them typified my earlier comment on Keven Keegan’s tactics and I believe as they become more confident, offensive flourish will build. Returning to the match, there was nary a scoring opportunity in the first forty-five minutes on either side of the pitch and it was a welcomed display to see clubs playing quality disciplined Football. While it may lack the excitement that some who refer themselves as “fans” clamour for, it is a professional approach of dictating the oppositions attack through defensive control.

Geremi came in for Damien Duff due to injury and sparked a solid offensive attack, particularly as Michael Owen, to the thunderous support of the home crowd, entered the match at the fifty-third minute. The Magpie’s went on the prowl and controlled play in the Bolton end, narrowly missing on a few opportunities. Disaster nearly struck at the fifty-ninth minute as Steven Taylor was called for a hand-ball and the spot was pointed to. Turning disaster on it’s tail, Kevin Nolan’s shot was stopped by man-of-the-match Shay Given and there was no looking back. Finally after numerous squandered attacks, a right-footed cross by Geremi was flicked to the back of the net by Michael Owen, to give Newcastle a 1-0 lead and the eventual victory.

A brilliant victory for Newcastle who know must turn their attention to Arsenal next week and a mid-week Carling Cup tussle against Coventry