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Tim's Save Paves Way For Gini's Goal
Written by Newcastle Utd
Tim Krul talks saves, Gini Wijnaldum and much more after a 2-2 opening day draw with Southampton
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor
A 60-second spell early in the second half at St. James' Park on Sunday played a huge part in Newcastle United recording an impressive opening day point against Southampton.
At one end, goalkeeper Tim Krul made an astonishing save with his foot to keep out Maya Yoshida's close-range header, with the Magpies breaking at pace from the resulting corner and Georginio Wijnaldum heading home at the other on his debut.
And, while Krul was delighted for his fellow Dutchman and close friend, who arrived from PSV Eindhoven last month, he was equally pleased to play a part in the encouraging draw.
"That's what it's all about - I'm there to make those saves," the long-serving stopper told nufc.co.uk.
"It was instinctive but you also practice those things. We do reaction saves and shots from four or five yards every single day.
"You also need a bit of luck though, and I'm pleased I tipped it over with my toe. I'm happy to have made some contribution to the game today.
"What a nice moment for Gini to score his first goal at the Gallowgate End. I told him all about the stadium, all about the fans, and I think he got a taste of that today.
"It's a shame we couldn't have walked off with a 2-1 win because that would have been even sweeter. We could have won but you can't be too greedy because they had some big chances as well.
"But we played well and created good chances, too, and a draw in the end was probably fair."
Although they had to settle for a share of the spoils against the Saints, United - under the tutelage of new head coach Steve McClaren - played eye-catching football and showed plenty of attacking intent.
And while Krul believes they are still a work in progress, he is pleased with the early signs of this new-look Magpies side.
"It was a really positive afternoon for us," continued the 27-year-old.
"I can't fault our efforts. Everyone was knackered after and that is what the gaffer wanted - he told us to give everything for 90 minutes.
"It was a fantastic game to start off with. The fans could see that we really are trying something different, and it may already be working.
"We had to give the fans something to cheer about. Last year, we didn't give them anything to go on. They had nothing to be excited about.
"We wanted to start well, we did that and they responded brilliantly to it."
And Krul's final word went to centre-back Chancel Mbemba who, having only signed ten days ago, put in an outstanding performance on his Magpies' debut.
"I've only known him for a week and been training with him even less than that, but he had a fantastic game.
"We will build a relationship together. I've told him that. We will save each other at different points of the season but that's what a centre-back and a goalkeeper do.
"He's a player - he's definitely a player. You could see how good he is out there and he's only going to get better."