A little less conversation a little more action

Alan Shearer played his part in Newcastle United's downfall this evening after picking a team with no grit, no bite, and a resignation at kick-off that the team was to be relegated.

David Edgar was the crown jewel of mediocrity in the match, and one may question why the 22-year-old was picked for the vital clash. Edgar was slow, clumsy, did not track back, or in fact, keep track of anyone or anything around him. He did not contribute anything to the game in terms of supporting the midfielders, and in the end got himself sent off due to his own mistakes.

Jonas Gutierrez was left out completely by Shearer, and instead Kevin Nolan was played -- a player so slow, and so uninterested in what happens to Newcastle United FC that his sulking and no-stamina, no-running approach to the game gave Villa acres of space which they utilized completely.

All four forwards - Michael Owen, Obafemi Martins, Mark Viduka, and Shola Ameobi were ineffective, and lacked any sharpness.

Jose Enrique had a good game for his side, as did Steven Taylor and Danny Guthrie, although, Guthrie's energy levels dropped considerably during the game.

Despite nervy moments, Fabricio Coloccini did his job at the back, and Damien Duff can hardly be blamed for his deflection which led to the Villa goal. Duff ran enough to show that he cared for the club he has been at, for the last four years.

If Ryan Taylor had been played at right-back, Jonas Gutierrez on the right wing, Damien Duff on the left side, and Jose Enrique at left-back; would the result have differed? No one will know the answer to that question. But due to the poor offensive display of the club, these changes seem logical enough to have been implemented. But- Big Al saw it differently.

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