Toon Army made a Hull of a difference
CHRIS Hughton says Newcastle United's players are never surprised at the incredible backing they get from the club's long-suffering fans.
Newcastle sold out their 2,700-ticket allocation for the KC Stadium well in advance of Saturday's third-round FA Cup tie against Hull City, despite United's relegation woes.
And they quickly made their feelings known to goalkeeper Shay Given, whose representative had claimed on the eve of the game that he was thinking about calling time on his long St James's Park career.
As early as the fourth minute, Given's name was sung by those in the away end, and he and his team-mates left the field after the goalless draw to a standing ovation.
Danny Guthrie – given a torrid time by Hull's own fans for breaking Craig Fagan's leg with a late challenge when the two teams met in the Premier League – was also loudly backed.
First-team coach Hughton says the players are made aware of how many supporters have travelled before every game.
"They're such a loyal and vocal support," Hughton told the Gazette.
"We're always aware of how many are going, as we a gentleman with us who makes tells us, and, certainly, from the players' point of view, they're always grateful for the support.
"It makes a difference. When you come to a place like Hull, where you know they're a good side, and have their own vocal support, you're very grateful having the thousands behind you."
As for Given, the 32-year-old showed the events of the previous 48 hours had not affected his focus.
Given – third in the club's all-time appearance table – pulled off superb saves in each half to play his part in keeping Newcastle in the draw for the fourth round of the competition.
Hughton – who also worked with Given during his time coaching in the Republic of Ireland set up – was not surprised with his performance between the posts.
He went on: "We wouldn't have expected anything different from Shay – he's a top-class individual, and a top-class goalkeeper.
"He's been pulling out performances like that ever since I've known him."
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Weather for South Shields
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Heavy sleet
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