My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Sunderland (A)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (7) - Could see he made a difference to the defence as he seems to bring a lot more confidence to the team. Did fumble one shot but otherwise had a decent game even though he was not that busy.

Danny Simpson (8) - Defended really well and it was also his interception which led to our goal. Does not always get the praise he deserves but this was a solid performance at right back.

Mike Williamson (8.5) - Another who stood up to the challenge and dealt with everything that came his way.


Fabricio Coloccini (9) - Almost a flawless performance from our captain. Came back into the team after missing about a month and he picked up from where he left off. Calm at the back, strong in the challenge and read the game really well. For me, he has now become the best centre back to ever play for Newcastle United.

Davide Santon (7.5) - Had a fairly good game although he sometimes ran himself into trouble instead of passing and maintaining possession for the team especially as we were ten men for so long and had to value what ball we got.

Cheick Tiote (4) - Gets a low rating as he was sent off for a rather silly challenge. Whether it was a red card or not, it was unnecessary especially as we won the free kick and also because we had the lead. Needs to learn because he is a talented player who is building a reputation he does not need.

Yohan Cabaye (8.5) - Scored our goal with a tidy finish and also looked really up for it. Played some delightful balls forward for Demba Ba to run onto in the second half as well.

Jonas Gutierrez (7) - Did a lot of defensive work especially when we went down to ten men. Hardly gets into forward positions these days but does a lot for the team in terms of his work rate.

Hatem Ben Arfa (7.5) - Gave away some silly free kicks in good areas for them but otherwise worked hard for the team and did his fair share of defending and closing down the left flank of Sunderland. The sad part is that he individual brilliance was curbed when Tiote was sent off.

Demba Ba (8) - Worked really hard up front especially in the second half. Looks very sharp at the moment.

Shola Ameobi (7.5) - Caused Sunderland some problems before he had to be sacrificed late in the first half as we brought on a defensive minded player, in James Perch.

Substitutes
James Perch (8) - Did excellently when he came on. Put in some hard challenges and did what is now expected of him.

Steven Taylor (6) - Made two errors from what I can tell when he came on. Allowed O'Shea too much room which led to the own goal, as O'Shea won the first header most notably.

Gabriel Obertan (6) - Can't say he did much in the short space of time he was on for.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Fabricio Coloccini

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Everton (Away)

Player Ratings

Steve Harper (7.5) - Did reasonably well deputising for the injured Tim Krul. Made some good saves. Some critics may say he could have done better with their goals but in fairness both were struck with quite some force.

James Perch (8) - Had a difficult first half, where Baines and Pienaar were outstanding down his flank. Was moved to central midfield and did superb. Put in some solid challenges and got forward a lot too, threading through some neat passes.

Mike Williamson (8) -  I thought he was excellent. Won a lot in the air and made some vital interceptions. Hardly put a foot wrong even though we conceded two goals.

Steven Taylor (7) - Not his best game of the season so far but still did some good things. Should have done better with their second goal as he allowed Anichebe to turn and find space to shoot. He was also quite deep for that goal so should have pushed up.

Davide Santon (7.5) - Had another decent game. Has been fairly consistent this season and its no surprise Everton were far more dangerous from the opposite side.

Vurnon Anita (7)-  Can not say he looked comfortable in the first half. Just seems to be better when playing right back and that was evident with his second half showing in that position. Hopefully he'll start there against Norwich on Sunday.

Yohan Cabaye (7.5) - Had a below par first half but seemed to show signs of his old self with a good second half. Won the ball and then played a perfectly judged pass which led to our first goal. Hopefully this will kick start his season.

Jonas Gutierrez (7) - Had a quiet game from his high standards but that was mainly due to our defensive minded first half and the fact that he was playing out of position for almost the entire game. Still did a job for the team.

Sylvain Marveaux (5) - Given a rare start for this game and the plan seemed to backfire. Hardly involved and offered Perch very little support in front of him which is also why Pienaar and Baines were so good in the first half. Did take one very good free kick but I expected more from him to be honest.

Hatem Ben Arfa (7) -  Not as involved but was still a danger when in position. Missed a glorious opportunity late on but he contributed to us getting something from the game.

Papiss Cisse (6.5) - Worked very hard for the team and although he has not scored for us this season, that elusive goal does not seem far away.

Substitutes
Demba Ba (9) - Came on and instantly changed the game. Took his two goals really well and Everton seemed unable to handle him. Has to be our first choice striker on this showing.

Shola Ameobi (8) - Was not on for too long but did two really noticeable things. The first was play Ben Arfa through with a perfectly timed pass and the second was to chest the ball into the path of Ba who scored from that opportunity. Really good option to have on the bench.

Gael Bigirimana (N/A) - Don't think he touched the ball as we looked to clinch the draw.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Demba Ba

Player Ratings vs Aston Villa (Home)

Tim Krul (7.5) - Made some good saves which kept us in it during the first half especially.

Danny Simpson (6) - Struggled a bit at times before he was replaced due to injury.

Steven Taylor (6.5) - Had a busy afternoon and made one or two mistakes, where he was turned too easily on one occasion and where he allowed Clark a free header for their goal but overall a decent enough showing.

Fabricio Coloccini (7.5) -  Looked solid, especially in the second half. Very cool and calm.

Davide Santon (8) - Hardly put a foot wrong. Did virtually all his defensive duties and went forward very nicely. The only fault in his game was his crossing but everything else was good.

Vurnon Anita (7) - Looked much better at right back than he did in midfield. Defended well and just looked more at home in the full back position.

Yohan Cabaye (6) - Took a great free kick towards the end which deserved a goal but otherwise his performance some would say, for the third game running, was below par. Not sure what the reason is but he does look below his best right now.

Jonas Gutierrez (7) - Had a better second half, as he saw more of the ball but he too hardly got crosses into the box today.

Hatem Ben Arfa (8.5) - Scored a stunning goal, which just sums up how good Ben Arfa is. A sweet strike from way out on his weaker foot. Looked dangerous although he did not see enough of the ball.

Demba Ba (6.5) - Worked hard but is not getting enough service to show his real quality.

Papiss Cisse (6) - Looked more hungry today but was unable to take any of the few chances he got in front of goal. Guzan was also in inspired form in goal for Villa.

Substitutes
Gael Bigirimana (8.5) - Came on in the first half and really impressed, especially if you consider he is only 18 year sold and playing his first game in the premier league. Passed the ball nicely, tackled well and made some important blocks. Looks a real talent.

Sylvain Marveaux (7) - Did a few good things but deserves more time on the pitch.

Gabriel Obertan (6.5) Linked up nicely with Ben Arfa late on in a good move but he too got very little time to really influence proceedings.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Hatem Ben Arfa   

My Newcasle United Player Ratings vs Chelsea (Away)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (7) - Did very little wrong and unfortunately could do nothing about both their goals. Dived the right way for the penalty though.

Danny Simpson (6) - Defended reasonably well but was poor going forward. So far he has attempted 8 crosses and only 1 of them have found a teammate. Was therefore substituted in the second half.

Steven Taylor (7) - Looked fairly solid at the back although Chelsea seemed to drop down a few gears in the second half.

Fabricio Coloccini (7) - Had a busy first half, marking Torres but considering this was his first start of the season he did fairly well.

Davide Santon (6.5) - Decent enough game from him although he hardly had the chance to go forward in the first half. Did better in the second half.

Vurnon Anita (6) - Struggled at times in the game and gave away the penalty at a point where we were doing fairly well. Will learn from it I'm sure and he did do some good things as well. I remember him winning a few tackles.

Yohann Cabaye (6.5) - Had a better game than he did last week, however his set pieces were poor. It was the one area we could have had an advantage over Chelsea but that unfortunately did not happen.

Jonas Gutierrez (6.5) - Worked hard but did not influence the game as much as we know he could.

Hatem Ben Arfa (7.5) - Was our most dangerous player and showed many glimpses of his class. We needed him to see more of the ball in the final third if we wanted to get something out of the game which hardly happened.


Demba Ba (6.5) - Was more involved than Papiss Cisse but only really had two chances in the whole match. He should have scored with the chance towards the end but Cech seemed to guess right when a goal looked certain.

Papiss Cisse (6) - Has had a poor start to the season but then again he has hardly had chances in front of goal. He generally is not involved in build up play that much so if he is not given chances he is very ineffective on the field. Should probably have been substituted but we did not have a striker on the bench!

Substitutes
Ryan Taylor (7) - Did not do too badly when he came on. Set up Ba with a nice header at the back post and also made one notable clearance in the box.

Sylvain Marveaux (6) -  Had one or two nice touches but did not see much of the ball in the 15 minutes he was on for.

James Perch (7) - Did well when he came on.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Hatem Ben Arfa

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Tottenham (Home)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (7) - A solid performance from Krul in goal, apart from may be one bad touch which almost allowed Defoe to win the ball. Punched some crosses nicely and came out to collect the ball too on a few occasions.

Danny Simpson (6.5) - A mixed game for Simpson today. Did some good things, such as provide the cross which led to Ba's opener and made a superb last ditch tackle when Lennon was on the brink of shooting when in some space. Also mixed that good with some not so good moments, like when he fouled Bale a few times and looked in danger of potentially being sent off.

Steven Taylor (8) - For someone in his first competitive game back after a long lay off I thought he was excellent. Won numerous headers, was calm in possession, and showed why he was missed when injured.

James Perch (8) - Just like his central partner, he was excellent. Strong in the tackle and looked very assured at the back.

Davide Santon (8) - Always willing to bomb forward, he seemed to lift the crowd, during some of his bursts forward. Also did his defensive duties and was only once beaten by Lennon if my memory serves me correct.

Cheick Tiote (7.5) - A typical Tiote performance today. Always in the thick of things and won several challengers. Was so glad he never went off injured after the initial scare early on.

Yohan Cabaye (6) - Below par performance from Yohan. Worked hard though but gave the ball away several times and just looked off his best today.

Jonas Gutierrez (7) - A solid captains performance from him. Worked exceptionally hard, played in a different position each half but won his fair share of freekicks and fought for the cause superbly.

Hatem Ben Arfa (8.5) - Showedmany glimpses of his best today. Looked up for it and although he wasn't heavily invlved in the first half, when he was he looked our most dangerous player. That theme continued for the rest of the game and it was evident when he won us the penalty and then insisted on taking it, to give us the vital three points.

Demba Ba (7.5) - Another who was perhaps not heavily involved but worked really hard and got his reward with an expertly taken goal just when we needed some inspiration. Was better than his strike partner today.

Papiss Cisse (6) - Was involved far too little and never really got a chance in the game which will be something to work on in the next game.

Substitutes
Vurnon Anita (6.5) - Had a nervous start, giving the ball away close to his own penalty area but his passing was good and he ventured forward nicely towards the end, as we looked to counter attack.

Gabriel Obertan (6) - A mixed few minutes for him as he helped the team see out the game.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Hatem Ben Arfa

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Chelsea (A)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (7) - In truth never really had a lot to do.

James Perch (8) - Came in for Danny Simpson and did an outstanding job. Won some important headers and made some wonderful tackles too. Most notably the one challenge when Chelsea tried to break and he came across and won man and ball at the same time to end that potential counter attack.

Mike Williamson (7.5) - Started off looking poor and I remember thinking to myself, he might get exposed against a confident Chelsea but after about 15 minutes he settled and did very well.

Fabricio Coloccini (9) - Our best defender on the day but also lead the team well and his confidence seemed to rub off on his teammates. In this performance he showed why he was selected in the PFA team of the year. Such an elegant player who makes everything look easy.




Davide Santon (8.5) - Bar one mistake, where he gave the ball away in a dangerous area, it was another impressive display by the Italian left back who is fast becoming an important member of the team. Caused problems when he went forward but did his defensive duties as well.

Yohan Cabaye (7.5) - Worked hard without really being on the ball a lot. Formed a great partnership with Tiote and they should take a lot of credit for they did the "dirty work" so to speak.

Cheick Tiote (8.5) - Was outstanding in midfield particularly in the first half. Was the enforcer but also passed the ball well and allowed us to dictate things.

Jonas Gutierrez (7.5) - Another who did a lot for the team without really being directly involved in our attacks.

Hatem Ben Arfa (7) - Not one of his better games but he ran his socks off for the team and that allowed the likes of Ba and Cisse to find space.

Papiss Cisse (9.5) - Scored two outrageous goals that will be played over and over again for years to come. Also worked hard for the team and formed a good partnership with Ba. Did not have many chances which makes his goals all the more special.

Demba Ba (8) - May not have scored but he troubled Chelsea and they could handle him for much of the time he was on the field. Have to admire the way he plays for the team i\even when in a goal drought.

Substitutes
Ryan Taylor (7) - Did not do too much when he came on but it was his long throw in which led to the amazing second goal. Helped us see out the game.

Shola Ameobi (7) - Another who did not do too much but yet he contributed to the win by chesting the ball to Cisse for him to have a go at getting us the killer second goal.

Gabriel Obertan (6) - Gave the ball a few times in the minutes he was on for.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Papiss Cisse

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Bolton (H)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (7.5) - Did not have many saves to make but did well when called upon especially the save from Eagles shot.

Danny Simpson (7) - Another good defensive display from Simmo. Went forward more in the second half but kept Petrov quiet for much of the game.

Mike Williamson (7.5) - It is never easy marking Kevin Davies but Willo did great. Intercepted and put in some important challenges and has really played his role in us keeping three consecutive clean sheets.

Fabricio Coloccini (8) - Came back into the team after his injury but it looked like he never missed a game. Was sharp and very good defensively. Took the ball up field nicely a few times as well and also had a decent shot from outside the box which was well saved.

Davide Santon (8) - Another very good game from our young Italian. Kept bombing forward but also seemed to win his battle with Eagles. Seems to have lifted his game since he got recalled and has defended much better.

James Perch (6.5) - Had a relatively quiet game but did his job although we needed more penetration in the middle of the park and that is why he was substituted at half time.

Yohan Cabaye (7) - Was not on the ball enough in the first half and seemed to miss the presence of Guthrie and Tiote alongside him. Kept working hard for the team though and he can claim that it was his pass which led to one of the goals of the season.

Jonas Gutierrez (6.5) - Another who had a quiet game but still worked hard as he always does, even more so as he was played out of position again.

Hatem Ben Arfa (9) - Had a relatively quiet game but has earned this high rating simply for scoring a goal of pure class. He took the ball from inside his own half and ended up with it being in the back of the net through skill, pace, balance and composure. Was not on the ball a lot today but produced something special when it was most definitely needed.

Papiss Cisse (7.5) - Did not get much service but still found himself on the score sheet with the one chance he really had in the game. It may have been an easy goal but it still takes that at the right place at the right time instinct which he seems to have, to convert it.

Demba Ba (6) - A very disappointing performance from Ba. His touch was just not there today as he had a few chances but it got taken away from him after a poor touch. He seems to have lost some of his confidence and had to be substituted.

Substitutes
Shane Ferguson (7.5) - Changed the game with his energy and hard work in the second half. Came on to give us some spark and he did that. May not have created or scored a goal but still seemed to lift the crowd.

Shola Ameobi (7) - Set up the second goal with firstly some good strength and then secondly with a lovely cross which had goal written all over it. Really has done well coming on as a substitute in recent games.

Ryan Taylor (6.5) - Came on when the game was won but enjoyed some good moments in possession.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Hatem Ben Arfa

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Swansea (A)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (7.5) - Solid in goal and always did what was required of him.

Danny Simpson (8) - Defended really well and I remember thinking during the game, we really need to get this guy signed up. He may not be the best right back in the league (although statistics say he is) but he is consistent and always does his job.

Mike Williamson (7.5) - Had a good game, gave the Swansea attackers very little space and cleared well when required.

James Perch (8) - Another steady performance from him. We certainly did not miss Coloccini in the two matches he has missed and that's a credit to Perchino.

Davide Santon (8) - I thought he was excellent. Blocked and intercepted so many balls, it was very impressive. Needs to be more consistent now but he came into the team and performed so that should please Pardew.

Cheick Tiote (7) - Was playing fairly well before he was taken off, with a hamstring tweak.

Jonas Gutierrez (7.5) - Played more centrally and combined well with his fellow central midfielders. Lead by example on the pitch and fully deserves the captains armband with his performances.

Yohan Cabaye (8) - Worked very hard and it was his two sublime passes which led to our goals. When a striker is in form he just needs service and those two passes from Cabaye were just right. A lovely player to watch.

Hatem Ben Arfa (7) - Was not heavily involved, as he was for the West Brom win, but still worked hard and showed the occasional moment of skill which could have led to goals on another day.

Papiss Cisse (9) - Took both goals expertly and the second has to be a goal of the season candidate. Apart from the goals his work rate was also excellent, at one stage he was clearing the ball from the left back position! Nine goals in eight games, could not have asked for more!

Demba Ba (7) - Worked hard for the team but apart from one half chance, never really had sight on goal which is what he wants, in order to break this dry spell. I was a bit concerned when he hardly celebrated our second goal but he later said he was just a bit down for being substituted but his delighted with the win.

Substitutes
Ryan Taylor (6) - Did not have a major impact and gave the ball away a few times but has been out of the team for a bit so that rustiness was expected.

Shane Ferguson (7) - Did a good job after he came on, although he lost the ball a few times, he also added something extra with his pace down the left.

Dan Gosling (7) - Showed some neat touches when he came on and perhaps deserves a start if Cabaye or Tiote can't start the next game.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Papiss Cisse

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Liverpool (H)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (8) - Did well to pull out of the challenge with Carroll when he was looking for the contact and had a good game in goal overall.

Danny Simpson (7.5) - Was solid most of the time and really seems to be a good defender. Does not get the praise he sometimes deserves. Was yet again on the line to save us, even if it touched his arm slightly.

Mike Williamson (8) - I thought he took the responsibility of being the "senior" centre back and did a great job. Carroll had the beating of him early on but the longer the match went on the less of an impact Carroll had. Formed a good partnership with Perch.

James Perch (8.5) - Continued his fine form with another assured display, this time coming in for Coloccini at centre back. Put in some fine sliding challenges whilst I lost count of the shots he blocked. Really has grown into a very good footballer, especially if you compare him to the player he was when he came to the club.

Jonas Gutierrez (7.5) - Hardly went forward but did his job defensively. A thorough proffesional who deserves great credit as he is clearly not a left back but he still does a job there.

Danny Guthrie (7.5) - Looked good as part of a three man central midfield until he had to go off with yet another injury scare. The same happened in the last game which is a bit concerning. Hope he recovers in time for Swansea.

Cheick Tiote (8) - Tiote showed what a great player he is by coming back into the team seemlessly and put in a good shift. Broke up a few Liverpool attacks and his passing was generally very good.

Yohann Cabaye (7) - Was involved quite a bit and seems to enjoy having both Guthrie and Tiote alongside him.

Hatem Ben Arfa (8) - Another quality performance from the French magician. Put in a fine cross from which we opened the scoring and then was involved again, in the build up to our second goal. Was not as involved in the second half but I can remember a few times when he beat Enrique in the first half. Always looks a threat when in the final third.

Papiss Cisse (9) - Took his two goals brilliantly and probably deserved a third as well, as he had a good chance in the first half too. His all round game was very impressive on Sunday and the 10 million we have spent on him seems to be a bargain already!

Demba Ba (7.5) - Not on the score sheet but again did a great job as part of a front three. What makes him a great player is the fact that he has not scored in the last few games but he is still involved and creates chances for others in the team, so he is always contributing towards the team.

Substitutes
Dan Gosling (6.5) - Had a few neat touches when he came on for Guthrie but we seemed to have the game won by that time.

Shola Ameobi (7) - Did nicely in a short cameo.

Davide Santon (N/A) - Came on close to the end.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Papiss Cisse

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs West Brom (A)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (7) - Had a fairly comfortable day in goal. Was not to blame for their goal for it was clear that Williamson wanted him to come out and then for some reason headed the ball away from the oncoming keeper.

Danny Simpson (7) - Got on with his job at right back without really being tested. Handled what came his way though.

Mike Williamson (6.5) - At fault for their goal, as he had the chance to head it back to Krul but then panicked as the striker closed in on him. Other than that he actually had a decent game.

Fabricio Coloccini (7) - Was forced off with an injury at half time but before that he was his usual composed self at the back dealt with everything which came his way.

James Perch (8) - Thought he was outstanding. Started the game at left back and did his job but he was better in the second half when moved to centre back. Seems to be high on confidence and it is showing in his recent performances.

Danny Guthrie (6.5) - Was decent without really being at his best. Put in a shift and did what was required of him. Went off with a slight knock and may not start the next game with Tiote expected to be fit.

Yohan Cabaye (7) - Involved nicely in the build up to our second goal and it was some of his runs which allowed others space on the counter attack. Has not been on top form recently but seems to be getting there again.

Jonas Gutierrez (7.5) - I thought he did an excellent job for us yesterday. Firstly it was his superb through ball which led to us opening the scoring and then the way he shifted to a defensive midfield role and did that job well. A non stop worker who is so important to the team right now.

Hatem Ben Arfa (9) - The Frenchman was simply outstanding. Scored a beautiful goal on the counter attack which saw him go from box to box and finish a neat move and then he set up our two other goals as well. Went on some amazing runs and is almost at the peak of his powers. Did lose the ball occasionally but was always dangerous on the counter attack.

Demba Ba (8) - Will be disappointed that he has not scored in a few games but played his part in a dangerous front three who really seem to have the potential to be one of the feared attacks in the league. Certainly pivotal in a number of our chances.

Papiss Cisse (8.5) - Took his two goals well but then again he could have had a hat trick especially as one of the chances was a one on one. Formed a good partnership with Ba and Ben Arfa and his good work rate was also worth noting.

Substitutes
Davide Santon (7) - Came on and did his job, without really going forward much, so showed good discipline.

Shola Ameobi (7) - Came on and helped us kill the game off.

Shane Ferguson (6.5) - Enjoyed a brief run out.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Hatem Ben Arfa

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Sunderland (H)

Tim Krul (7.5) - Did not have that much to do but handled the crosses well and guessed right for the penalty. Can't ask for more.

Danny Simpson (7) - Won a few good challenges and seemed up for it. Cannot really fault his defending although he did not do much in an attacking sense.

Mike Williamson (6) - Had a decent match but it was his one moment of stupidity that cost us getting all the points. Why tug his shirt? Only he'll know but otherwise he defended quite well actually.

Fabricio Coloccini (7.5) - Also won some challenges and intercepted a few important passes. Our best defender on the day.

Davide Santon (7) - I thought he had a good first half so it came as a surprise to see him taken off at half time. I suppose Pardew wanted Ryan Taylor on the field for his set pieces so Santon had to be sacrificed. Santon took on players and was always willing to go forward and hardly did anything wrong from a defensive point of view.

Ryan Taylor (6) - Thought he did very little in an attacking sense and should have been the one whom Ben Arfa replaced. With Cabaye in the team, we had an able replacement for the set pieces. Overall his set pieces were not bad, in fact he put in a terrific corner from which Ba hit the crossbar.

Yohan Cabaye (6.5) - Was not on the ball as much as I hoped, which resulted in us being poor in the first half but he had a better second half. Provided the cross for our goal and put in a few other notable crosses as well.

Cheik Tiote (6) - Do not think he controlled the middle of the park and that cost us a bit. He put himself about but seemed to get involved with too many off the ball incidents instead of doing what he does best.

Jonas Gutierrez (7.5) - One of our few bright sparks in the first half and he had a good second half as well. Always linked up well with the left back, whether it was Santon or Taylor.

Papiss Cisse (5) - I thought he was fairly anonymous for much of his time on the field. That may not be his fault for we weren't creating that many chances at that stage. He'll have better days I'm sure.

Demba Ba (7) - Missed the penalty, which happens to the best sometimes, so we cannot blame him for that. It was just not his day in the end as he hit the crossbar with a superb header as well. He looked dangerous in the second half which was good to see for his first half was slightly below par.

Substitutes
Hatem Ben Arfa (8.5) - Really changed the game when he came on. We looked more dangerous, he was beating men with ease and he looked a real threat. Yes he lost the ball a few times as well but he lifted the crowd, caused Sunderland problems and that's what we needed.

Shola Ameobi (9) - Won us the penalty and scored the crucial goal. Can't ask more from a substitute in a derby match.

Peter Lovenkrands (N/A) - Was not on long enough to do anything note worthy.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Shola Ameobi

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Wolves (H)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (7) - Saved well from Doyle early on and rushed out to stop Jarvis late in the first half. Could do nothing to prevent either goal in the second half.

Danny Simpson (6.5) - Almost scored with a fine shot in the first half but it was his defending that allowed Jarvis time to get his shot away which gave Wolves a lifeline.

Fabricio Coloccini (6.5) - Had a fairly comfortable first half and even went forward well but was left to do a lot of work in the second half once Wolves started controlling the game.

Mike Williamson (5) - I thought Williamson was poor in this game. Gave the ball away several times in the first half and was lucky to go unpunished. However we struggled in the second half and he could take some blame for the way we conceded the second goal.

Davide Santon (7.5) -Our best player on the day in my opinion. I thought he hardly put a foot wrong and went forward with real purpose. Lacks a good cross but his work rate was good. No surprises that Wolves threat was down the other flank and not his.

Ryan Taylor (6) - Had a decent game without hitting any serious heights either. Perhaps should have offered Simpson more support in blocking the effort from Jarvis which got Wolves back into the game.

Yohan Cabaye (6) - Won the ball and crossed superbly which led to our opener but did not control the game the way we know he can. Having said that he did miss the last 3 games and should be sharper next week hopefully.

Cheick Tiote (6.5) - Showed why he was missed as he put himself about but seemed to get tired and that allowed Wolves to get more and more into the game. Was taken off in the last quarter.

Jonas Gutierrez (7.5) - Scored with a stunning strike and linked up well with Santon. They seem to be blossoming as a combination.

Demba Ba (6) - Not his best game but then again he may have asked for more service, especially the way he flicked the ball goal wards in the build up to our opener. Did combine well with Cisse particularly in the first half.

Papiss Cisse (7) - Had an outstanding first half and scored the opener but seemed to become less of a factor in the second half and was taken off halfway through that half.

Substitutes
Hatem Ben Arfa (6.5) - Did have an impact although despite having two good shots at goal, he also did one or two poor things such as over run the ball or give it away.

Danny Guthrie (6) - Had very little impact and seemed to take some time to get into the game.

Shola Ameobi (5) - Don't recall him doing much after coming on.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Davide Santon

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Aston Villa (H)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (8) - Composed in goal and made some good saves when needed.

Danny Simpson (6.5) - Don't think he was too comfortable dealing with N'Zogbia but worked hard and did some good things defensively as well.

Mike Williamson (7) - Was guilty of playing some Villa attackers on side when getting the off side trap wrong but defended well overall. Gave Bent very little chance of winning anything in the air.

Fabricio Coloccini (8) - Yet again superb at the back. May have been guilty of following the ball in the build up to their goal but I thought he was quality for the most part.

Davide Santon (7.5) - Never afraid to bomb forward and linked up nicely with Jonas. Did what was required of him defensively. A small fault in his game at the moment is his final ball but as a left back that is not is primary role.

Ryan Taylor (7) - Did particularly well in the build up to our opener, albeit he had to then go off injured with what looked like a nasty injury.

James Perch (8)- Making his first real start in this position, I thought he excelled. Made one or two crunching tackles and went about his work quietly otherwise. Deserves credit for his role in today's win.

Danny Guthrie (8.5) - Another splendid performance from our central midfielder. Was an integral part in our game, going forward and looks to be at the top of his game at the moment. Played a lovely cross into the box which led to our goal in the first half and deserved the same when he put in another superb cross in the second half.

Jonas Gutierrez (7.5) - Worked really hard and did many good things in today's game. Firstly it was his early cross which resulted in our winner, secondly he linked up well with Santon and lastly he kept hold of the ball really well particularly in the second half. Also heard he has ran the most out of all the players in the league so far this season which emphasizes his great work rate.

Leon Best (6) - Went off injured early on.

Demba Ba (8) - Took his goal really well and formed a good partnership with Cisse. Just glad to have him back for the team seems to be better going forward when he is there.

Substitutes
Papiss Demba Cisse (9) - An impressive debut and probably allows him to edge the man of the match award from our two central midfielders. Scored a wonderful goal but it was his work rate and all round game which also caught the eye, especially as it was his first game in this league. Long may it continue.

Gabriel Obertan (7.5) - Caused Villa some problems once he was introduced and seems to have benefited from the time out of the team as well as from scoring in midweek. Deserves a start next week.

Shola Ameobi (6.5) - Kept the ball in the corner towards the end which helped a bit to see us home.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Papiss Demba Cisse

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Blackburn (A)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (9) - Did everything asked of him and saved the penalty, which probably won us the game.

Danny Simpson (8) - Made a great goal line clearance and defended well for the most part. I thought the penalty was harsh but justice prevailed when Krul saved it.

Mike Williamson (7.5) - Won quite a bit in the air and did his job well. Four clean sheets in our last six says something about his partnership with Coloccini.

Fabricio Coloccini (8.5) - Cool and calm at the back, organised the defence and apart from a slip and one or two errors which he soon rectified, he continued his good form for this season.

Davide Santon (8) - A solid performance, winning a few headers, bursting forward and winning some challenges, he too can be pleased with his performance.

Hatem Ben Arfa (5) - Disappointing half from the Frenchman. Did one or two good things but then followed it up by giving it away or over running the ball. He may lose his place in the team for the next match, especially as he was taken off at half time despite us being in the lead.

Danny Guthrie (7) - Did fairly well overall but there were moments in the match where our central midfield seemed to be over run. We survived it and with his ball skills he won us a few free kicks towards the end which helped keep us on top.

Ryan Taylor (6.5) - Took the shot which helped us get the opening goal but apart from that, he struggled in the first half. It was no surprise to see him perform better in the second half, after he was shifted to the right.

Jonas Gutierrez (6.5) - Was not that influential in the game but still did a job for us, both defensively and attacking wise, albeit not that much for the latter.

Shola Ameobi (6) - Worked hard but gave several free kicks away and should really be replaced in the next game.

Leon Best (6) - Helped out defensively, despite almost scoring an own goal but it is in the final third where he will feel he did not do enough.

Substitutes
James Perch (8) - I thought he did very well coming on at half time and playing as a defensive midfielder. Won tackles, put his body on the line towards the end and hardly gave the ball away.

Peter Lovenkrands (7) - Played a lovely through ball for our second goal minutes after coming on.

Gabriel Obertan (8) - The open game suited him and when clean through he finished calmly. Should be used more even if not from the start.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Tim Krul

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs QPR (H)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (7.5) - Made a couple of decent saves but did not have that much work to do overall.

Dnny Simpson (7.5) - Had another good game at right back. Went forward nicely a few times and did his job at the back.

Mike Williamson (7.5) - Won several headers and did everything that was required of him. Really has done well since he returned to the team.

Fabricio Coloccini (8) - A few years ago, I said Jonathan Woodgate was the best centre back at Newcastle for quite a few seasons but Coloccini has surpassed him. Hardly gets beaten, deals with situations calmly and has bags of skill.

Davide Santon (7.5) - Made a couple of defensive mistakes in the first half but apart from that gave another encouraging performance.

Ryan Taylor (7) - Started the game on the right and then moved into the centre when Cabaye went off but was efficient in both positions. Did a job for the team.

Danny Guthrie (8.5) - Really stepped up to the plate in Tiote's absence. We started slowly but once we gained control Guthrie started showing his quality. Never afraid to go into the tackle, intercepted a few balls and was good on the ball. Solid all round display from a man who really should get a new contract soon.

Yohan Cabaye (6.5) - Went off injured just after the half way point in the first half.

Jonas Gutierrez (8) - Was forced to play in a drifting role when Ben Arfa came on and did that with great effect. I thought he was dangerous as he seemed willing to take on players. I'd like to see more of him in such a role.

Leon Best (8) - Worked hard and took his goal brilliantly. I must admit I was questioning his inclusion as I thought Ben Arfa did more to warrant a start. I was happy to eat my words.

Shola Ameobi (6.5) - Did a good job of holding up play but I don't think he had a shot at goal all game if I'm not mistaken which is disappointing for a striker.

Substitutes
Hatem Ben Arfa (8) - Another very encouraging display from the French Magician. Changed the game for us when he came on, as he injected some pace and flair which was lacking in our game at that point. Did a good job of tracking back which was good to see. Hope he gets to start the next game.

James Perch (7.5) - Did a good job as a defensive midfielder when he came on.

Dan Gosling (N/A) - Don't think he had too many touches in the brief period he was on.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Danny Guthrie

My Newcastle United Player Ratings vs Man Utd (H)

Player Ratings

Tim Krul (7.5) - Did not have that much to do but handled whatever came his way.

Danny Simpson (8) - Defended really well for the most part. Made one goal line clearance and made one or two other notable clearances and tackles as well.

Mike Williamson (8.5) - Was really solid at the back, winning several headers and putting in some fine tackles when needed.

Fabricio Coloccini (9) - Read the game superbly and was just as solid in defence. Hardly put a foot wrong and the clean sheet against the champions was fully deserved.

Davide Santon (8.5) - His best performance in a toon shirt thus far. Made some important challenges and kept going until the end, proof of which was a great run towards the Man Utd box in the final minutes, after winning the ball close to the half way line.

Ryan Taylor (7.5) - Switched to right midfield for this match and the versatile player showed his worth to the team with a decent outing in that position.

Cheik Tiote (8.5) - Really seemed up for this. Won several tackles, ventured forward a bit when he could but really protected the defence well which of course is his primary role in the team.

Yohan Cabaye (9) - Scored a sublime free kick which will be played over and over again I'm sure. Apart from that, he played some lovely balls for the attackers to run onto and also put in a few good tackles. Also one of his better games for Newcastle.

Jonas Gutierrez (7.5) - Another who worked hard and played his part in us scoring three and keeping the clean sheet.

Shola Ameobi (7.5) - Was slightly off the pace at times but certainly contributed to us winning the game. It was his flick on which allowed Ba to open the scoring and it was also his physical presence at the top which caused Man Utd endless problems. May not have scored, or had a shot on target but he did a job for us none the less.

Demba Ba (9.5) - For those who watched the game, the applause he received when taken off towards the end was enough evidence to show what a great game and season his had thus far. Scored the opening goal with a well taken half volley but also looked dangerous throughout. Will be a huge miss but I'm so glad he got the premier league player of the month for December for he has been immense for us this season.

Substitutes
James Perch (7) - Came on during the latter stages as we tried to keep the clean sheet. Did make one or two clearances.

Leon Best (6) - Did not really do much in the 15 minutes he was on for.

Gabriel Obertan (N/A) - Do not recall him touching the ball when he came on in stoppage time.

Newcastle United Man of the Match - Demba Ba