“We were the better team by miles”

“We were the better team by miles”, said Joe Kinnear following the match but unfortunately Newcastle failed to capitalize on opportunities and fell 1-0 to Hull City in the FA Cup.

Although indicated prior to the match, the idea of a youth-laden starting grid was cast aside as Joe Kinnear went forward with his best eleven available against a predominately second tier Hull City line-up. Newcastle started with a morsel more aggression than the visitors but unfortunately Michael Owen had a off night as he squandered at least three golden chances, including a clear chance eleven minutes before the break when he was in on the Hull City ‘keeper alone but unfortunately his effort flew off into the stands. Fourteen minutes prior to that, Nicky Butt flicked on Danny Guthrie’s free-kick against the crossbar and the theme of being denied had taken root. And while opportunities came and went, Hull City capitalized on one of their few chances as ex-Ranger Daniel Cousin re-directed Richard Garcia’s cross to the back of the net to give them a 1-0 lead. Following the goal Kazenga LuaLua entered for Jonás Gutiérrez and in conjunction with Andy Carroll, they were able to show a notable attacking spirit that hopefully garners more playing time.

Following the loss Joe Kinnear said:

“They had a smash and grab, they had one shot all night and scored, we missed at least five clear-cut chances. We hit the post, hit the crossbar, Michael (Owen)’s had a few, Xisco’s missed one… The good thing is we created the chances but it wasn’t going to be our night, was it? Michael, being the finisher he is, on any other day he would have put at least one of those away out of the opportunities.”