Pardew blown away by ‘Cup Final’ atmosphere

Dec 12 2010 by Mark Douglas, Sunday Sun

ALAN PARDEW said he was blown away by the “Cup Final” atmosphere as his Newcastle United reign got off to a winning start.

Having arrived as an unpopular replacement for Chris Hughton, a 3-1 win over Liverpool was the perfect way for him to begin the long job of winning over the supporters.

And while not everyone was welcoming, goals from Kevin Nolan, Joey Barton and Andy Carroll – arguably the three most important members of the dressing room – were just the tonic for a nervous Pardew.

“It was something special. I’m very happy. To score three goals against Liverpool, who are very well drilled and don’t give you much room to play, was excellent,” he said.

“We were effective and always looked like we had goals in us which is very pleasing. I must admit I was getting a little bit nervous towards the end, but I was a lot more relieved when that third went in!

“The crowd is absolutely everything. They reacted with disappointment to the events of this - losing Chris of course. That is understandable, he’s a gentlemen and did a very good job here.

“But ultimately they support the club and the shirt – not any individual or player – and they showed that. The noise level was something I’ve only experienced in Cup finals, to be honest. I struggled to make myself heard – I’m going to need some sign language I think!”

Pardew – who spoke briefly to Mike Ashley after the win – was happy with the way the players performed for him.

“I popped up to see him. He was happy with the result because it’s probably not been his best week,” he said.

“But the win was really about the players. They showed their spirit and unity out there, along with the staff.