Is another classic on the cards?(credit:
ftchris)
Newcastle United and Manchester United meet tonight in the next instalment of one of the Premier League’s most heated rivalries.
The two teams have served up some of the top flight’s most memorable games and moments over the years, from one-sided drubbings to Kevin Keegan’s infamous “I will love it” rant, and let’s not forget the Magpies’ decision to sell red-hot forward Andy Cole to United which angered the Toon army.
So ahead of this evening’s match, Football News are taking a look back at two classic St James’ Park showdowns between the two teams.
Newcastle United 5 Manchester United 0
Premier League
October 20, 1996
United arrived at St James’ Park with goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel having not conceded for over nine hours of play, but that run would come to an end in spectacular fashion.
Darren Peacock needed just 13 minutes to put the Magpies ahead, and David Ginola doubled their advantage when he turned his marked on the edge of the area and fired an unstoppable shot into the back of the net.
Les Ferdinand headed home the third before Alan Shearer reacted quickest following a Schmeichel block, and Phillipe Albert capped off a famous victory by producing a stunning chip that wrote his name into Newcastle United folklore.
Newcastle United 1 Manchester United 5
Premier League
February 23, 2008
Newcastle were desperate to avoid another embarrassing defeat having been crushed 6-0 at Old Trafford the month before, but it was United that once again took the points in emphatic fashion.
Wayne Rooney volleyed the visitors in front and Cristiano Ronaldo then extended their lead by slotting home a Michael Carrick pass.
Ronaldo rounded Steve Harper to fire home the third before Abdoulaye Faye pulled one back for the hosts, but Rooney and former Magpies forward Louis Saha then completed a comprehensive victory for Sir Alex Ferguson’s men.