Steve Harper (6) - Didn't have much to do really.Danny Simpson (7) - I thought he had a fairly good game. Was efficient on both defence and attack.
Mike Williamson (7.5) - Made one outstanding last ditch tackle while the score was still 0-0 and was solid overall. Great to see him back after injury.
Fabricio Coloccini (7.5) - Formed a good partnership with Williamson and despite Forest having one or two chances at goal, he generally marshaled the defence well. He was also cool and calm as always.
Jose Enrique (8) - He started the game slowly but got into the game as it went on. Finished superbly to score our second and his first for the club. I've not been this happy to see a Newcastle player score for a very long time. Fully deserved though for it was his first game back and he seems to have picked up where he left off.
Wayne Routledge (8) - A few things stood out from his performance. Firstly he played a delightful cross into the box from which Carroll almost scored in the first half while his directness was excellent. He caused problems for the Forest defence on a number of occasions and he was down to be my man of the match before Enrique scored. Our best moves seemed to involve him most of the time.
Kevin Nolan (7) - He wasn't in the game enough in the first half for my liking but he sure got more involved in the second half. Nearly scored with a well taken shot and he can claim an assist for the first goal. His experience seemed to show in the second half as well.
Danny Guthrie (7) - Apart from some poor tackles which he could have been punished for on another day, he had a good game. Took one or two good free kicks while he seemed to tick things along in midfield. He does look so much more dangerous from the centre.
Jonas Gutierrez (6.5) - Not his most effective game but all credit to him for showing the work rate and commitment which has made him such a key player for us. His link up play with Enrique was excellent as always although he did over do things on occasions. That's part of his game though and to realise how dangerous he is, just watch how three players surround him in the build up to our second goal.
Peter Lovenkrands (6) - It wasn't his day today. Never really got into the game enough and his link up play with Carroll wasn't working too well either. He kept plugging away though so good on him.
Andy Carroll (6) - He wasted a couple of opportunities before going off just after half time. Hope the ankles not to bad but he needs to work on learning when to take an extra touch and when to shoot first time.
Substitutes
Shola Ameobi (7) - He got the vital break through with a good shot and set up Enrique with a neat back heel. Good to see him back and hopefully he can stake a claim for next season before the season closes.
Joey Barton (N/A)
Man of the Match: Jose Enrique
Player Ratings vs Preston North End
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