Hull City match review

By: j | September 14th, 2008

This match won’t be remembered for its “beautiful play” or even a passionate performance but the unrest and protest of the fan base. Newcastle lost 2-1 to Hull City in a somewhat expected, tense performance. For Hull City the match was a “gift” to them as facing the Magpies in this moment of disarray left them ripe for a loss.

On the pitch Newcastle was in for the worst as they were severely hampered by numerous injuries and certainly fielded a less-than optimal lineup. Hull City got on the scoring sheet at the thirty-fourth minute when Marlon King converted on a penalty and Nicky Butt dragged Peter Halmosi down in the area. Marlon King doubled the lead ten minutes after the break with a nice bit of control on the break and out-maneuvered Charles N’Zogbia to curl in a nice left-footed strike from fifteen meters out. With the match slowly moving on and over-shadowed by protesters in attendance Xisco drew one back for Newcastle with nine minutes left. While the Magpies pressured, a leveling goal wasn’t to come and Hull City came away with three points. Unfortunately near the end of the match, Danny Guthrie in a example of foolish immaturity went on a bit of a rampage, fouling twice in one charge and was shown a red-card deep into added-time. With the caretaker-manager Chris Hughton dealing with numerous off-pitch issues, maintaining focus and juggling the lineup with injuries, losing Danny Guthrie to suspension to such an unprofessional display is a disappointment.

The real story was off the pitch with the circus of protesting fans. What precisely happens in this situation is anyones guess but quite honestly I felt those on the pitch did a commendable job and showed pride in the clubs crest. It was an extremely difficult environment and while they came out at the losing end it was a honourable attempt. Chris Hughton did a commendable job and should be lauded for maintaining the clubs focus as good as it did. As it relates to the protests, my opinion is that as much as I respect supporters intent on bettering the club and voicing their disapproval, they are pointing it in the wrong direction. By attempting to force a sale of Mike Ashley you are moving into unchartered territory and in-truth you’re ignoring the problem. This story was for wrote when Newcastle when Dennis Wise was brought-in and the solution is easy. Eliminate Dennis Wise and most of your problems go away.

Match Details
Newcastle
Given, Edgar (Bassong 68), Taylor, Coloccini, N’Zogbia, Geremi, Butt, Guthrie, Xisco, Owen, Ameobi (Gonzalez 61).
Subs Not Used: Harper, Cacapa, Danquah, Doninger, Donaldson.

Hull City
Myhill, McShane, Turner, Gardner, Dawson, Mendy (Folan 73), Marney (Hughes 78), Ashbee, Halmosi, King (Zayatte 83), Fagan.
Subs Not Used: Duke, Windass, Geovanni, Ricketts.