ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE:NEWCASTLE UNITED'S journey to Fratton Park, one of 341 miles, is long enough to get them in trouble with carbon footprint monitors. It is the league's longest trek and the return home is considerably more painful when there are no points in the travel bag.
So Newcastle chose an appropriate venue for their first away win since they beat Tottenham 4-1 at White Hart Lane on March 30th. Newcastle were in the relegation zone before this win, as they were when Joe Kinnear arrived, and, if they had drawn this match, it would have represented a club record fifth successive stalemate.
As it was, their third victory in 11 matches under this manager was a convincing performance against a top-half side whose antiquated stadium has often represented a fortress. Portsmouth had also been unbeaten in five games.
Michael Owen's ninth goal of the season from 10 starts gave himself yet another bargaining chip when he sits down to discuss his future with Kinnear tomorrow. Kinnear added: "We grew in confidence after Michael's first goal. He knows my feelings. I've had a good relationship with him from day one irrespective of what's been in the papers."
The second goal, by Obafemi Martins in the 77th minute, settled it while the third just before the end by Danny Guthrie rather flattered the visitors.
There is, one senses, enough of Harry Redknapp still about this place to ensure Portsmouth's immediate survival. Redknapp's players and Redknapp's points are responsible for the club's healthy position. But beyond that it is difficult to assess their future. They have an unproven manager in Tony Adams, they could lose important personnel in January and, of course, the club is for sale.
- Guardian Service
Owen 52, Martins 77, Guthrie 89 Attendance: 19,416
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