PROMOTED!
PROMOTED
Newcastle United have been promoted back to the Premier League at the first time of asking after a 4-1 win over Preston North End at St James Park this evening.
The win means Rafa and his men are now guaranteed to be promoted, and whilst this will most likely be in second place it also keeps alive the unlikely prospect of catching Brighton at the top of the league with just two games remaining for both sides.
In truth no one really cares much about winning the title it seems as getting back to the promised land was all the really mattered this season.
The biggest cheer of the night was saved for Rafa Benitez who spent time on the pitch after the game individually congratulating every one of his playing staff, management team and even the groundsmen.
And vindication for the Board who had fought had to keep the Spaniard at the club following relegation last season, and even in the aftermath of the post match celebrations discussion turned quickly from fans on media alike on the subject of how now we keep the boss at Newcastle for not just next season but for seasons to come. Time will tell.
For tonight though a mixture of relief and celebration as Newcastle United can once more consider themselves within the English football elite.
Newcastle won the game with 2 goals from Perez and one each from Atsu and Ritchie, the latter a penalty after Gallagher had handled the ball on the line with just over an hour gone.
After the game Rafa said “This day is massive because everyone said at the beginning you have to go straight up. You know from experience it’s not easy for any team, especially when you go down and have to change half the squad. It’s a really important achievement for everyone involved because you have to keep strong mentally and keep going for so many months”
There will be some sore heads in the morning!
Right…get me a drink!