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By Jason Mellor
The Journal
April 12 1999United’s cup hero Alan Shearer reckons yesterday’s semi-final atmosphere was better than last year’s at old Trafford.
Alan Shearer last night paid tribute to Newcastle fans for their non-stop backing and the way it helped propel Ruud Gullit’s men to the FA Cup final.
The two-goal hero savoured a second successive semi-final victory, settled with his late brace, as he praised United’s vociferous supporters for the major role they played in creating an unforgettable Old Trafford atmosphere.
More than 26,000 had made the trans-Pennine pilgrimage to the home of Manchester United and sang their hearts out for more than two hours, cheering Newcastle on to clinching their first domestic trophy in more than four decades.
Shearer, who struck the only goal against Sheffield United in last season’s semi-final, said: “Obviously we’re absolutely delighted. I thought last year’s experience was good, but this has been tremendous and a lot of it has got to go down to the fans.
“I’ve never seen anything like it. When we went into extra time, I wouldn’t imagine that stand they were in has been like that for a while. It was absolutely jumping.
“The fans helped us stay together when they needed to and I’m absolutely delighted for them.”
The atmosphere generated by the crowds during Newcastle United’s five-game run to the final has been a highlight of the club’s season.
Now Shearer is hoping to repay that support by going one better than last year’s disappointing Wembley defeat at the hands of Arsenal - although the opposition at Wembley on May 22 will not be known until Wednesday. Shearer said: “I’m delighted for the fans. Now hopefully we can go and win it for them.”
Reflecting on a game transformed from a stop-start affair into an end-to-end encounter during a frenetic extra time period, Shearer said: “I said in the week I thought it was going to be very cagey.
“Defences were on top and it seemed a matter that chances would only come when legs tired in extra time. It was then down to who took their chances to win it.”
Shearer thought Spurs had been unfortunate when what appeared a justifiable penalty claim was turned down in the 59th minute after United defender Nikos Dabizas clearly handled in the area.
Shearer said: “I have some sympathy with Spurs, because sometimes you get decisions like that and sometimes you don’t.
“I thought the difference with our penalty was that Gary Speed was through on goal and I think there was a slight push on Nikos, that’s why his hand went up.
“I think Sol’s hand-ball was more clear cut, it’s just a matter of some you get and some you don’t.
“It might have looked like I was confident when I took the penalty, but the nerves were going, I can tell you.
“Even after that goal, Spurs pushed us all the way and still had chances to equalise and perhaps they should have done.”
posted by N.O
April 12, 1999 @ 7:16 pm
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