My Newcastle Player Ratings vs Preston North End

Steve Harper (6.5) - Didn't have too many saves to make but dealt with everything competently, when called upon.

Danny Simpson (6) - Hardly got into the game enough, compared to Enrique, but was decent on defence none the less.

Steven Taylor (7) - Great to have him back in the side. Made some important tackles,while also making the odd burst forward.

Fabricio Coloccini (7) - Solid at the back, while he's calming influence is starting to show. Coloccini and Taylor are arguably the best centre backs in the league.

Jose Enrique (6) - Excellent on defence, but it was his crossing, particularly in the 2nd half that let him down. He's understanding with Gutierrez is a great asset for us though.

Danny Guthrie (6) - His Set pieces were poor, while he gave the ball away on a couple of occasions, in critical areas of the field. Nonetheless seems to be one of our sparks on attack, and was playing out of position lets not forget.

Alan Smith (6.5) - I thought his defensive work was outstanding. He won possession on many occasions, but as skipper he nearly let us down and some may say he was lucky not to get sent off. Personally I didn't think he was, but still as captain he shouldn't take chances like that.

Kevin Nolan (7.5) - Took his goal brilliantly, while his allround play was also excellent. Showed good control, a cool head and was at the right place at the right time and I really hope we do keep hold of him come January.

Jonas Gutierrez (6.5) - There was the good and the bad in his game tonight. Firstly the good was his tracking back and the direct approach he had, especially as the game wore on in the 2nd half. The bad however, was his crossing, shots and trying to be fancy too much. For sheer effort though, he shouldn't get below a 6.5 in my opinion.

Marlon Harewood (6) - He worked hard, but for some reason I felt he was lucky not to be taken off. He lacks confidence and does not pose the same threat that Carroll does, in my opinion. What worries me, is that in a month or two's time, he'll go back to Villa, and Ranger would have lost out on a few starts, which could have helped in his development.

Andy Carroll (6) - Wasn't in the game as much as he would have liked, but was unlucky to be taken off. Showed glimpses of his talent, but unfortunately goal mouth opportunities were few and far between.

Substitutes

Nile Ranger (6.5) - Looked lively when on, and I'd be happy if he got a start in the next match, ahead of Harewood.

Tamas Kadar (7) - Started off shaky, when Mellor almost scored, but from there on, he did not put a foot wrong. Good to see him getting some game time.

Peter Lovenkrands (N/A) - Wasn't on long enough.

Man of the Match: Kevin Nolan