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Boss Never Doubted United Goal
Written by Newcastle Utd
Alan Pardew was never in any doubt that Newcastle would beat Fulham, following Sunday's 1-0 win
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor
Alan Pardew revealed he always believed Newcastle United would net a winner against Fulham on Sunday - even if they had to wait until the 93rd minute to do so.
The Magpies knocked on the Cottagers' door throughout their fixture at St. James' Park but looked unable to find a way past a visiting defence superbly marshaled by Brede Hangeland and supported by goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.
But, just as he had done in their previous two home fixtures, Papiss Cisse popped up with an injury-time winner to hand United three huge Barclays Premier League points.
And while some on Tyneside were nervous, the boss was not among them.
"In the first half we lacked composure, we were nervous and a little bit tired," Pardew told nufcTV, following the final whistle.
"But in the second half there was a lot more composure about the way we passed the ball and our movement.
"We caused them no end of problems, and I did genuinely think a goal was going to come, and you could sense the relief when it finally came. It was unbelievable.
"It was important - very, very important - for this football club that we won this game.
"We found a way. It was a bit of magic in the end from Papiss, who had two big chances before that to score.
"In the end, he scored the most difficult, which is typical of him."
United were dealt a blow midway through the first half when left-back Davide Santon had to be carried off.
And Pardew is not optimistic about the Italian international returning to action anytime soon.
"The diagnosis is probably not good because it looks like a hamstring," he said.
To watch Alan Pardew's full post-match nufcTV interview, click here.