By Matthew Jones
July 18 2005

Alan Shearer's post match comments: "It wasn't pretty."

Shearer said: "It wasn't pretty at times, but it was a decent performance and a decent work-out. The main thing is, we got the job done." And Newcastle did it with some key players missing.

"We came here with a patched up squad and we had to change things around, both before and during the game, but everything the manager did seemed to come off so we are pleased to come away with a two-goal cushion.

"It was our first game and we have to treat these games as pre-season matches. Hopefully, there will be a few more to come."

On the teams second goal, he added: "United's skipper added: "Of course I'm claiming it. It took a deflection but I thought I got to the ball just as it's gone over the line.

"The referee has said that to me as well so that's good enough for me. He's happy enough to give it to me, so try and take it off me!"

Graeme Souness: "I was a little nervous coming into the game. It was always going to be a possible banana skin because they've already played four competitive matches this season and we have only been back in training for a fortnight.

"It was always going to be tricky, but I cannot emphasise enough how important fitness is in these games."