Player ratings: Newcastle 1 Saints 0

Last updated : 18 February 2006 By Chris C
Starting line-up

Bialkowski - 8: Kept Saints in the game in the first half, including a wonderful point blank save. Jarred his knee after an uncharacteristic flap and we can only hope it's a minor injury to the 18 year old prodigy.

Lundekvam - 8: Classy performance from Claus who was playing through the pain barrier after damaging ribs against Reading. Made a series of vital interventions as he made the game look easy.

Powell - 6: Typical committed, if at times clumsy, display from Darren who has to stop allowing the ball to bounce in the box. Slowly earning George Burley's respect.

Cranie - 6: Quiet effective at the back, but still shows his inexperience at times. Good to see him back in the starting line-up and didn't look out of place against Premiership opposition.

Ostlund - 7: Not as eye-catching as of late, but such a crowd favourite with his all-action style. Had a lot to do with little support in front of him and got forward to good effect when he could.

Brennan - 7: Keeps it simple, very simple, but defended very well with again no support in front of him. Still needs to offer more going forward.

Oakley - 7: At times quiet, at times quality. An improved performance from Matty, particularly in the second half when he showed the desire that some fans have been questioning of late.

Wright - 5: Kept Saints ticking over, but needs to impose himself more on the game, particularly when playing alongside the similar Oakley. Will benefit from another 90 minutes of fitness.

Pahars - 4: Anonymous display from the returning Marian who looked unsure where he should be playing and offered little in attack and nothing in defence. Substituted at half time.

Jones - 6: Much improved display from Kenwyne who created a series of chances, but lost his head in front of goal where it matters most. Such a frustrating player, who is just short of really cutting loose for Saints.

Madsen - 6: Quality on the ball and linked the play well, but needs to get into the box more. Hit the crossbar with his one chance when he should have done better. Keeps improving as the fitness returns, but needs a goal now.

Substitutes

Dyer - 6: Put in a couple of dangerous crosses and played a part in Saints' revival in the second half, but still needs to improve his end product. Will only benefit from the experience and is a big part of Saints' future.

Potter - 5: Once again showed neat touches, but a worrying tendancy to disappear during games.

Blackstock - 7: What can you say? Volunteered or was volunteered to go in goal and put in a wonderful cameo with a mixture of bravery and comedy.