By Craig Hope

CHRIS Hughton admits that the sight of Jonas Gutierrez's Spiderman mask had been a little overdue but says that didn't detract from the enjoyment of his wonder goal and subsequent flamboyant celebration during Saturday's 6-1 win over Barnsley.

Driving infield from the left flank, the Argentine unleashed a stupendous right-foot rocket from 25 yards which thundered into the back of the net via the underside of the crossbar.

The Argentine has long since promised to don his webbed headpiece, first seen during his time at Real Mallorca, following a Gallowgate goal, and the South American sent St.James' Park into raptures as he duly produced the mask from inside his shorts.

And boss Hughton paid tribute to his webbed wing wonder when he spoke to nufcTV after the game.

"I thought the goal rounded off a very good performance," he said.

"We know Jonas is not a prolific scorer and we'd like him to get more, but that was a terrific strike and shows what he can do.

"The fans would have enjoyed seeing the mask and I think he must have been carrying it for some time now.

"He's a larger-than-life character and is a big presence around the place and is a very important player for us.

"He's playing very well at the moment and we hope to see a more of the same between now and the end of the season."