Tim Krul (6.5) - Didn't really have much to do but did look assured when called upon. Credit must go to Darren Bent for their goal.
Danny Simpson (7.5) - I thought he had a much better game than he did last week. Made some good strong challenges and went forward as well. He needs to work on his crossing though but defensively he was fairly solid.
Mike Williamson (7) - Another assured performance at the back from the big centre back. He will come under a bit of pressure now that Steven Taylor is fit again, but he doesn't deserve to lose his place at the moment.
Fabricio Coloccini (8) - An excellent game at the back and our best defender on the day. A calming influence in defence and dealt with Bent fairly well. Will be disappointed to see Bent get on the score sheet though and was lucky not to get a booking for his elbow early on.
Jose Enrique (7.5) - Very good going forward, the Spaniard was rarely tested in defence. He was able to handle Al-Muhammadi before the Egyptian went off and had a comfortable second half thereafter.
Joey Barton (9) - Undoubtedly this was one of his best games in a Newcastle shirt. Although played out of position, he controlled things in midfield and put in a real good shift. Provided some excellent crosses as well.
Cheik Tiote (7.5) - He got me scared when he was booked inside the first ten minutes and gifted them possession early on but did well after that and helped us stay on the front foot. Does tend to take an extra touch when its not necessary but he'll learn and other than that one can't question his performances thus far.
Kevin Nolan (9.5) - What can I say? The captain led by example and took his hat trick superbly. The way he scored his first goal was excellent, while his second was coolly taken and his third was pure instinct. He is now equal top scorer in the League, from midfield and so much for people calling him "fat". The man is captain fantastic as far as I'm concerned.Jonas Gutierrez (8) - Earned the penalty and linked up very nicely with Enrique. He was heavily involved in our best moves and deserves a lot of credit for that.
Andy Carroll (8) - Unlucky not to get on the score sheet but he did his England chances no harm whatsoever. Sunderland couldn't handle him and it was no surprise to see both their centre backs get booked. He really has grown in stature since taking the number nine shirt.
Shola Ameobi (9) - Two superbly taken goals from our number 23. The first a wonderful penalty that few keepers would save and the second was a finish from the top drawer. Would have loved to see him get a hat trick as well but he fully deserved the standing ovation he got when taken off towards the end.Substitutes
Nile Ranger (N/A) - Nice to see him get a taste of the derby in the last five minutes.
Man of the Match - Kevin Nolan
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