By Matthew Jones
October 5 2003

Magpies' boss Sir Bobby Robson was quick to give his praise to the fans for their support from the stands yesterday. Newcastle United won their first league game of the season as Alan Shearer scored his 250th League goal. Earlier this week, the club were forced to release a statement regarding rumours that Sir Bobby Robson had handed in his resignation. The club rubbished these rumours, and prior to kick off on Saturday support for the Newcastle boss could not go unnoticed.

ROBSON SAID: "The support was fantastic - it just goes to show what an educated and sensible public we have here at the club.

"They were signing my name, but it was not just support for me. I'm an individual who is part of the club, and the support was there for the club and the players.

"The support really helped us, and I applaud the public for that. It shows the spirit we have here and the togetherness. Whatever lies ahead, we know the public are there for us."

Sir Bobby wasn't just happy with the off-pitch support, as he was also full of praise for his squad.

"I think we saw the Newcastle United of old against Southampton," he added.

"We defended well, be were quick on the break, we attacked well, we were resourceful and we were effective. Our play was exciting at times, but we just couldn't get that second goal.

"There were a lot of good performances out there. Alan Shearer had what was probably his best game so far this season for us, not just for his goal but for his overall display.

"JJ also did well. he had criticism after the Arsenal game, but we stuck with him because that's the way we do things here. And Titus Bramble was magnificent for us again at the back.

"After going ahead we were tough as teak, we didn't crumble and now we've got that first win in the league we have to build on that.

"We need to get a run of games where we get three points, because it's a gradual thing to get up the league. Wolves, Leeds and Spurs all won, and that shows the strength and quality we have in this league."