A tiny glimmer of hope; will it be enough to save the season? The Tyne-Wear derby is one of the biggest rivalries in professional sports. The Geordies and Mackems have had this day circled for months now and with both clubs in a tight relegation battle, the outcome and result was much more important than it has ever been, perhaps in both club’s history.
Jermaine Defoe put Sunderland ahead right before half time and Mitrovic equalised in the 83rd minute; ending the game in a 1-1 draw. As it stands, Newcastle are 19th in the table with 25 points and Sunderland is a point ahead in 18th place. The team in front of both clubs? Norwich, who Newcastle will be playing next in another crucial match.
I wouldn’t say that today’s result is exactly what the club or fans wanted but I also don’t think that the team would have pulled off this draw under Steve McClaren. They also stopped the rot and earned a point in the Tyne-Wear derby for the first time since 2013. Those are the positives, along with the play in second half; you might be able to see a tiny light at the end of the tunnel. On the other hand, if the Magpies come out versus Norwich playing the way they did in the first half today, this will not end well, nor will the season.
With Benitez at hand and the talent at the club, it would be extremely disappointing if Newcastle United were to be relegated. Having someone like Benitez is immense, especially when it comes to incoming transfers. Having a well-known and respected manager like Rafa means the world in transfer windows, players know his resume and won’t hesitate to play for him. The only issue is, where will the Magpies be playing next season – in the Premier League or Championship? Rest assured, Benitez will not hesitate to move on if the club gets relegated (his contract clearly states that), along with a handful of top players. For now, the players and coaches will enjoy their break and hopefully the confidence will keep rolling. Anything less than 3 points is not acceptable at Norwich!
Talk to you then.