By Nick Raynor
December 1 2006

Steven Taylor has praised Newcastle’s defence after they kept a clean sheet in the 0-0 draw against Frankfurt.

In a very tough night for Newcastle, the defence performed well to hold Frankfurt out.

 

Over the last few years, the Magpies defence has always been the area to criticise but last night proved they can play well.

 

Taylor got the most bruised leaving the field bleeding, with a ripped shirt, and with Amantidis’ stud marks on his back. He replaced his shirt and then got booked for coming back on without permission.

 

Taylor said:

 

"The defence has taken stick since I have been here, and it is nice to get some praise for a change.

 

"I have always said I love a challenge, and this is a challenge for me.

 

"I do not think there is a bigger challenge in the Premiership than being a Newcastle United defender.

 

"We get criticised by people, some of whom should know better, but we have just got to get on with it. We will take it on the chin.

 

"People behind me were shouting for me to get back on, and that is what I did. But the referee, and particularly the fourth official, were not happy.

 

"The booking meant that I had to watch my step for the rest of the game, which is a bit awkward for a defender, but it was my first booking in Europe, so it should not matter too much.

 

“I thought it was my best game for the club. I had a lot to do personally - I do not think I have blocked so many balls in my life.

 

"They kept hitting my abs and I have got stud marks all down one side of me, so it was tough.

 

"We had to defend well, and we needed a bit of luck, and we got that. We got the result we needed."