The Mags v Bolton (23rd August 2008)

Newcastle striker Michael Owen has given thanks to team mates Geremi and Shay Given after their solid performances earned a 1-0 win against Bolton yesterday. The Magpies had been held all afternoon by a resolute Bolton side who were determined to get something out of the game at St James’ Park. Bolton’s hard efforts were rewarded when referee Steve Bennett awarded a penalty to the away side after Newcastle centre back Steven Taylor handled the ball inside the area.  Kevin Nolan stepped up to take the penalty, which was brilliantly saved by Shay Given, who had the presence of mind to kick the ball away after making the save to prevent Nolan from following up the rebound. Given’s heroics earned praise from Owen, who, speaking to Football365, said, “He has had a few injuries, but there is no doubting he is a top keeper. We are blessed with two fantastic keepers here, everyone knows that.“That was even more pivotal than my goal. He was fantastic and he is the hero.”The save ended up being the turning point in the game as just twelve minutes later, Owen headed home his first goal of the new campaign after Geremi’s wonderfully placed cross. Commenting on Geremi’s ability to cross a ball, Owen said, “Geremi is a fantastic crosser of the ball. As soon as he gets the ball, I come alive.“There are certain players who maybe look for through balls or look for this or for that.“Geremi is the type of player that likes getting it out of his feet and crossing it quickly, and when players do that, it is delightful for strikers.“I try to get half a yard and spring, and I did.” Newcastle face some injury problems for their midweek Carling Cup clash with Coventry City, with both Obafemi Martins and Damien Duff out injured and Alan Smith not yet match fit.