My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Sheffield United (H)

Steve Harper (6) - I felt he was troubled with a few of their corners and did not command the six yard area the way a keeper should. He did well elsewhere though.

Danny Simpson (7) - A very good performance from Danny. He may have given away the corner which led to their goal unnecessarily but he had a solid game. Involved in the second goal while he contributed to our main attacks and he defended well. I feel a lot more positive about him now.

Mike Williamson (7) - Another good performance from Mike. He made a stunning defensive block in the first half and his defensive partnership with Colo is looking really positive.

Fabricio Coloccini (7.5) - Like Williamson, Coloccini too had a good game. He made a great tackle to prevent a dangerous United attack in the 2nd half, while there were a few other notable challenges from the Argentinian.

Jose Enrique (7) - He sure looks another class in this division. He was good down our left even though today was not his best game of the season. His strength and ability to keep the ball despite being in tough situations is quite admirable.

Wayne Routledge (7) - He seemed to be our main spark in the 1st half but should have bagged at least one goal tonight. He still looks a good buy and I'll be looking to him to have a big season in the premier league for us next season.

Kevin Nolan (7.5) - He gets an extra rating point just for that brilliant finish. A goal worthy of winning any game. He also thread through a delightful ball for Routledge in the 1st half and he seemed to be up for it tonight.

Danny Guthrie (7) - A decent night for Danny even if not spectacular. His creativity in the middle is something that gets us going. Hope the injury is not too bad.

Jonas Gutierrez (6.5) - He was again up and down tonight. He gave the ball away at times but on other occasions he went on some excellent runs. Almost scored with a beauty too.

Andy Carroll (6) - I remember thinking after about 25 minutes, Is Carroll playing tonight. If it wasn't for two fouls he gave away I wouldn't have known. He got us the penalty and had a better 2nd half but I'd like to see him become more involved.

Peter Lovenkrands (6.5) - He scored the penalty with a neat finish but he too didn't have the busiest 1st half. He does run good angles though and almost scored in the 2nd half too with a few shots.

Substitutes

Shola Ameobi (6) - Not the same impact as the last time but then again he didn't have many minutes to play with.

Joey Barton (N/A)

Ryan Taylor (N/A)

Man of the Match: Kevin Nolan

Player Ratings vs Preston North End
Player Ratings vs Nottingham Forest