Player ratings vs West Ham United

Shay Given (7) - Made a crucial one on one save from Noble in the 1st half, while he was not at fault for either of their two goals.

Steven Taylor (5.5) - A less than convincing performance at right back for him today. Didn't get any dangerous crosses in, while he looked a bit shaky on defence as well. Seems to have less confidence these days.

Fabricio Coloccini (5.5) - Was kept busy by the West Ham attackers, and he won't be pleased to have seen his team concede two goals. The fact that both their goals were worked through the centre, questions will be raised about his positioning.

Sebastien Bassong (6) - His dual with Carlton Cole was one of the highlights of the match. He did well in a few one on ones with Cole, but like Coloccini he won't be happy with the defence conceding two at home.

Jose Enrique (4) - He didn't defend that badly BUT he never seems to learn from past mistakes. He gives the ball away far too much, and it happens every game. He needs to get that out of his game. If I were Joe Kinnear though, my first words after the match to the guys in charge of recruiting would be, "Get me a new left back before the next game!" For me, Enrique's okay, but as second choice.

Jonas Gutierrez (7) - Was good going forward and probably our biggest threat on attack. I would also like to say and put money on him being the leading winger in the league to win the ball from the opposition because he does that regularly in games, and its great to see that commitment on defence. Quality player, who plays for the Newcastle shirt, the way it ought to be played.

Danny Guthrie (6.5) - His passing is excellent, although his set pieces weren't that great though. Decent game from him, but he needs a better midfield partner.

Geremi (4) - His defensive work wasn't bad, but his set pieces were. He wastes a lot of good opportunities and for that he gets a low rating.

Damien Duff (6) - A good assist for him for Carroll's goal, while he did get a few balls in to dangerous areas, the players just weren't there to meet it though, generally. Not a bad game, would have liked to see him more involved at times.

Michael Owen (6) - Scored the opener when in space, but apart from that he wasn't in the game enough for me. I suppose thats the type of player he is, does little whole game, but more than often finishes the game with a goal.

Andy Carroll (7.5) - Took his goal brilliantly, and was dangerous in the air, winning many balls for us. He does have a lot to learn still to be a premiership player, but on todays showing theres no reason to believe he won't succeed at this level, if he continues working hard.

Substitutes

Charles N'Zogbia (7) - His pace and direct running was just what we needed. He did well when coming on, and him playing centrally like he did when coming on, is something we should consider for the next game.

Man of the Match: Andy Carroll