Not only did the 15,000 "waiting" supporters not bother to hang around, but thousands of regular season ticket holders had seen enough of the "Dastardly and Muttley" (Shepherd and Douglas Hall) reign.
But ... St James's Park is once again a season-ticket sell-out - thanks to the return of the Messiah.
Keegan Relights Geordie Passion!
Newcastle United today revealed the club has sold all its remaining part-season tickets, with the box office doing brisk business since Keegan's return last month.
As the team's form slumped after Sir Bobby Robson's exit, a small number of season tickets once again became available.
Keegan, however, has ensured that the remaining games this season will be sold out.