Big trouble in little Newcastle

Well, well, well. Of all the scenarios I imagined for opening day, I don't think that one figured at all. I'll get to the main talking point later but first there are some positives to be taken from this frustrating nil-nil. The boy Chesney looked really impressive at the weekend. Full of confidence, commanding and beautifully assured when coming out of his goal. A point that no one mentioned in lieu of all the controversy was how well our defense did. There was none of the flapping, out of position nonsense we've seen so often they were calm, solid and kept their positions well. I think little Kieran Gibbs has come along well too, I've had my doubts about him in the past but I was impressed with his pace down the flank on Saturday. Our little dumpling impressed in the so called 'Fabregas role', though let's be fair he's been playing in that role for longer than Cesc (and in my humble opinion doing it better.) He always seems to have his detractors for some reason but his talent is undeniable and he did put in some wonderful passes. I was very impressed with our new boy once again, his pace is fantastic and his enthusiasm and ability to get into promising positions bodes very well. However there was an obvious blight on his promising debut. The incident. Now I won't deny he shouldn't have slapped Joey Barton BUT he wouldn't have done so if Joey himself hadn't gone steaming in to get involved with something he shouldn't have. So for Barton to escape a red himself is unbelievable and has no justification whatsoever. Also let me clear something else up, Gervinho didn't dive, there was contact there, so once again Joey's motives for getting involved start to look dodgy. And once again Joey proves that he is a massive tool who doesn't know when to stop or how to shut his mouth by mouthing off on twitter afterwards. Joey you look ridiculous enough as it is, don't make it worse. And by the way accusing someone of going down too easily then flinging yourself to the floor like a sack of spuds IS the definition of hypocrisy Joey, just so you know.