Allardyce Blasts Back At Doubting Fans!

Last updated : 21 October 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

The Magpies have made an unbeaten start to the season at home under their new manager, but have struggled on their travels.

The defeat at Derby was a horror show, and a couple of players said they struggled to adapt to his formation and tactics.

Some supporters have bemoaned a lack of creativity as Allardyce is struggling to shake off his "long ball" reputation, but he has answered back.

Allardyce: "We had 19 attempts at goal against Everton in our last game, 10 of them on target, and we have scored three very good goals in the end.

"We dominated the last game, apart from the start of the second half period, but we got control back and kept control.

"We need to keep on improving defensively, and not to concede sloppy goals.

"If we can do that, it'll put us in good stead for the next couple of months.

"Obviously, we scored three against Everton and three against West Ham.

"We still have to tighten up at home and away, and defensively we'd like to be more solid. It's an area which we need to be better in.

"Injuries have caused a bit of disruption in the team, but as a squad we have to stick together."