Defence and missed chances cost Toon win

Jul 22 2007 By Steve Brown, Sunday Sun

SAM ALLARDYCE last night admitted a combination of defence and missed chances cost Newcastle victory at Carlisle.

The Magpies were spared defeat to the Cumbrians — who led through Danny Livesey — by Nobby Solano’s late equaliser.

And Allardyce — whose reserve team coach Lee Clark has been linked with Real Sociedad — said: “Carlisle gave us a test.

“But our defence cost us the game, that was a concern. We had plenty of chances to have won the game but hopefully that’s just a one-off that we didn’t take them.

“We brought a lot of senior players with us and would have liked to have brought Shola Ameobi and Michael Owen.”

Carlisle manager Neil McDonald — a one-time member of Allardyce’s backroom staff at Bolton — was pleased with his side’s display, and tipped his former boss for great things at St James’s.

“It was a good workout against a very good Newcastle team,” said the former United star. “I’m certain Sam is going to do a good job for them.”

Meanwhile, Newcastle are monitoring Real Madrid star Julio Baptista, according to reports in Spain.

The Brazilian (below) has struggled to make an impact at the Bernabeu, and spent last season on loan at Arsenal.

Despite an excellent Copa America, the Gunners seem unlikely to make a permanent move for the £8 million-rated striker — but the Spanish Press claim United could, with Real sporting director Pedrag Mijatovic confirming several English clubs have enquired about his situation.

However, while acknowledging Newcastle as a “big club”, Baptista — tied to Real until 2010 — is determined to prove himself to new coach Bernd Schuster.

“My plan is to play and succeed for Real,” said the 26-year-old.

“Newcastle is a big club but I’m really thinking about Real. I just want a chance in pre-season to show the new coach that I am capable.

“I have told the club and my agents not to look for a new club because my dream is with Real Madrid.

“If things here aren’t positive then I will only play in Spain or England — in the last week I have rejected offers in Turkey. At Arsenal I showed that I can score and make goals.”