Habib Beye Watch - Arsenal

Habib Beye received a rapturous reception as last year's player of the season replaced this year's candidate on 38 minutes. A groin injury caused Bassong's departure and pushed S.Taylor back into his uncomfortable on-field relationship with Coloccini.

The previous 38 minutes had been easy on the eye with a game that seemed to have everything unfolding in front of a vocal St James' Park. S.Taylor was already part villain, part hero, equally happy throwing his body in front of goal bound shots as he was throwing his forearm across Arshavin's face.

Beye made an immediate impression, a header on target and a spirited run down the wing provided a decent chance for Martins. Had Oba Martins converted from the spot or Beye's cross, we might have went in at half time feeling confident despite the loss of Bassong and the shaving of the crossbar by Arshavin.

The second half started with a reasonable bout of pressure from the Gunners but it started to look like it could be our day. Excellent saves from Harper kept us in it but we continued to have chances. The opening goal came from a set piece. R.Taylor, after his Hull gaff, made an error in judgement, first lashing out then pulling back an Arsenal player. The resulting free kick was met well by Bentner and net swelled.

It came as a pleasant surprise only a few moments later when Oba Martins latched onto a bobbling ball, first mis-controlling it then lashing it past Almunia to draw us level. It was no more than we deserved but asked more questions than it did provide answers... Could we hang on?

S.Taylor damaged his ankle and was sidelined, receiving treatment whilst Arsenal scored their second goal. Newcastle had seemed to organise themselves to cope with the loss of S.Taylor with Beye slotting himself infield and R.Taylor dropping to right back. Arsenal had different ideas though and waltzed through the newly acquainted back four with a gap as wide as the Scotswood road opening up for them. S.Taylor ultimately departed as Owen joined the small forward line pushing the lively McLovenkrands to right wing. (might it have been better to put Jonas on and leave Lovenkrands up front? He looked lively - Ed)

It was probably over at 1 -2. Owen provided little threat whilst McLovenkrands was wasted on the wing as Arsenal took control and scored another goal through the heart of the defence. This time a cute ball from Van Persie allowed Nasri the freedom of the city to beat Harper at his near post.

After a very positive first half, Damien Duff faded and with the game slipping beyond us the Caretakers decided upon another substitution. Only 10 minutes previously, they had decided that Owen was the answer, now they decided that they needed height. McLovenkrands made way for Ameobi when Jonas might have been a better solution again. The big number 23, presumably brought on for his presence, managed one header in his fourteen minutes on the pitch and shot tamely at Almunia in his only genuine chance.

So, another case of decent first half, beaten by quality in the second. One thing is for sure, we can't afford the same headline in our next 2 games.

At least Habib's back!

Habib Beye Round-up!

BBC Player rater = 5.54
The Sun = 6
The Mirror = 5