Magpies drop out of Uefa Cup
Glenn Roeder's continental adventure is at an end
Also In The News
|
Chelsea reduced the gap between themselves and Manchester United to six points with a hard fought 1-0 win against Manchester City. |
Thursday, 15, Mar 2007 11:17
Newcastle United's European ambitions are at an end after they slumped to a 2-0 defeat away to Dutch side AZ Alkmaar to lose the tie on away goals.
Glenn Roeder's side had seemed poised to advance to the final eight of the competition after a polished 4-2 win in the first leg at St James' Park, but a strangely-subdued display in the return cost them dear.
Shota Arveladze gave the hosts a deserved early lead after just 14 minutes as he slid in to slot home a low Danny Koevermans cross.
Shay Given had earlier been called into urgent action with the scores still level as Julian Jenner's attempt threatened to float into the far corner.
The Premiership outfit appeared to regain their composure and came close to restoring their two-goal aggregate cushion as Scott Parker saw a shot rise inches over the bar.
But it was the Eredivisie side who felt aggrieved as the half-time whistle sounded, having seen a strong penalty appeal turned down when Paul Huntingdon appeared to impede Jenner as he darted into the box.
Their sense of injustice was relieved however when ten minutes into the second half Koevermans climbed highest to nod home a corner and put his side ahead.
Despite suddenly being on the brink of an exit, the Tynesiders still looked closer to falling further behind rather than taking back the initiative.
Obafemi Martins and Parker both spurned chances, but Koevermans and Arveladze both had opportunities themselves as the home side finished the stronger.