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Willo's Contrasting Emotions
Written by Newcastle Utd
Mike Williamson was happy to make his first league appearance of the season on Monday but disappointed at United's inconsistent display
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor
Mike Williamson believes Newcastle United's second-half fightback against Everton on Monday was inspired by "personal pride" - and a stern half-time team talk.
Trailing 3-0 at the break at Goodison Park following an under-par opening period, the Magpies were a different proposition after the break, with Yohan Cabaye and Loic Remy both finding the back of the net.
Although the comeback was ultimately unsuccessful and United returned to Tyneside empty-handed, it was a spirited showing in the second half.
But that left Williamson and Co questioning why they had produced two contrasting performances in one game.
"The gaffer came in and said a few strong words, and the rest was about personal pride," Williamson told nufc.co.uk about the half-time response.
"We needed a reaction. We couldn't just go back out there and see the game out; we had to push on and show the fans that there is desire and character in the group.
"On another night we could have walked out of here with a result as we played really well in the second half. And that is why it's so frustrating - because we know we've got that ability in the group.
"We just have to show it from minute one until the final whistle. Forty-five minutes isn't good enough.
"There is a lot of disappointment in the dressing room, even though we've come close in the end to getting something from the game.
"We are struggling to find the consistency we need and that performance summed it up. We know we've got the talent in the squad, we know we've got the character and hard work ethic, but we have to find the balance to be able to get results week in, week out."
A half-time substitute at Everton, Williamson coped well with the physical threat of Romelu Lukaku in the second period.
It was the experienced defender's first Premier League appearance of the season, to build on his midweek Capital One Cup outing against Leeds.
And that is now 135 minutes of action for Williamson this season, during which time United have not conceded a single goal.
But, ever modest, the former Watford man isn't interested in any personal plaudits.
"Yes, that's nice, but it's not about me. It's all about the team and getting points," he explained.
"I don't really look at the personal side of things. I only want to be enjoying us picking up three points.
"It was mixed emotions. I'm angry because we didn't get a result but I enjoyed being out there again.
"It's a privilege to pull on a Newcastle United shirt and is always good to play games."
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