The early Saturday kick-off hasn't been kind to Newcastle in recent times, especially when it comes to fast starts.

Different story against Chelsea today, as crowd and team were on it from the first minute. Just like old times, and at half-time the major concern was that we hadn't put the third, or even fourth, goal past Rob Sanchez.

As energy levels dropped in the second half an improved Chelsea were able to level before a frantic last half-hour with Newcastle left ruing missed chances and at least one penalty decision at the Gallowgate End.