Longstaff’s praise for defenders

MATTY Longstaff has played down the importance of his exquisite free-kick at Grimsby by insisting his defensive teammates paved the way for a place in the last 32 of the Checkatrade Trophy.

With 15 minutes to go, Longstaff swirled home an effort which sent the 66 Geordie fans home happy after making the journey to Blundell Park.

When asked how he felt after scoring the goal which preserved United’s 100% record in the competition, Longstaff told The Chronicle: “It is always good to score, especially in front of the fans.

“To be honest, the game was won at the back. Grimsby were hitting the ball long and we were winning headers.

“Kelland Watts, Stef O’Connor and Owen Bailey – and we did not lose a header all night.”

However, Longstaff admitted he never thought he would be in a position to score the winner after finding himself down the pecking order on free-kicks.

He added: “I normally take a few but at Grimsby I was not sure if I would get on one!

“We have the likes of Elias Sorensen, Sean and Cal Roberts.

“For some reason, when I asked Sean if he wanted to take it he did not answer so I asked Cal and he said it was not his angle and said to go ahead. Luckily it went in.”

Newcastle’s youngsters have won plenty of plaudits after reaching the knockout stages of the Trophy.

However, they had to earn their win at Grimsby.

Longstaff said: “We are a very close-knit group.

“There are lots of friendships in the team and when we went 1-0 down there was no arguing.

“We just pulled together and got back to 2-1 then 3-2, which shows the team spirit we have.”

Newcastle will now enjoy a home tie in the next round of the Checkatrade at St James’ Park. where a decent crowd will be expected. Longstaff added: “Whenever you get to play at St James’ Park it is a big deal. We grew up dreaming of getting the chance to play there.”