Something in the Making: Lam Matteo

[Matt10]

Drawing to and end
Toon are eight matches away from title
by Mark Schwarzer last updated 31 October 2017

The 2017-2018 season has come, and is just about gone. However, the title race is a very close one - with Newcastle United leading the pack with 61 points, but West Brom are hot on their tail.

Coventry City are the prime favorites for a suddent "burst" of results - the side has been a scoring machine thanks to Clinton Morrison's play with 17 goals. The striker of course, is being linked with the likes of Newcastle United and QPR for the offseason.

The Magpies are set to begin a series of tough fixtures - which includes the immediate battle against third place Queens Park Rangers. QPR boss Paul Scholes has made a statement in the local press that Newcastle should not expect a "light" showing from his side. After the match against QPR is done with, Middlesbrough host hoping to spell disaster and wreck the victory cruise.

Finally, ending with Watford away, then Swansea City at St. James Park. Alan Curbishley has been quoted as "merely" amused with the idea of winning a championship - obviously the focus is on a game-per-game basis.

As for transfer news - well, there is always a chance Curbishley could lose midfielder Lam Matteo as he does prefer playing striker and is known this stint of having a "wandering eye".
​

 

[Matt10]

Fixture: 30
QPR v Newcastle United

1-3
Geremi 22'
Nile Ranger 30'
Lovenkrands 35'
Pellicori 78'
-----
Caution: Van Dijk (QPR)​

No battle at Loftus Road
Toon's First half goals set tone for "Match of the Season"​

Johnson Peoples, nufc.co.uk​

The scenario was built up prematch, league leaders Newcastle United visited Loftus Road, versus third place Queens Park Rangers the hosts. QPR before the match was only 5 deficit to the Magpies - however, based on the lineup that Newcastle manager, Alan Curbishley, set up - it seemed the Magpies were not going to live up to the hype.

QPR's prematch routine included a complete introduction to their January signing, Giovanni dos Santos - highlighting all 19 goals he has scored this season for Tottenham and QPR combined.

Twenty-two minutes in, after a ping pong match ensued, Lam Matteo was fouled just outside the box - tripped by the QPR captain, Alessandro Pellicori, setting up the visitors in great position for a chance on goal.

The chance was taken with pure class by the veteran midfielder, Geremi. His curling free kick bent over the wall and dipped just barely grazing the inside of the Radek Cerny's near post.

Ross Vine surprised the visitors immediately when his vicious strike from 30-yards banged against Steven Harper's crossbar.

Jonas Gutierrez did not seem stunned, however, as the midfielder took the pass on the flank from Colocinni - and proceeded to place an absolutely perfect ball into the path of Nile Ranger. Ranger collected the ball in stride and finished with ease to Cerny's far post.

Newcastle's third goal came as a result of great goakeeping by Cerny - however, his instinctive save on Lam Matteo's header will be forgotten as Peter Lovenkrands was there for clean up duty - and promptly obliged from within the goal.

QPR did manager a consolation goal through Pellicori in the second half. The QPR captain dashed past an overly confident Toon defense, and slotted the ball between Harper's legs.

With the victory, Newcastle United improve their point margin on top of the table by 5 points as a result of West Brom losing to Cardiff City 3-0.

Manager, Alan Curbishley, reminded the press that despite the comfortable win tonight - there should not be any crowning just yet with seven games remaining.

"Two games is two games too many, let alone seven. We have Middlesbrough up next and that will not be an easy game I can assure you that. We will remained focused on the task at hand - and that is beating Middlesbrough."

Next Match: v Middlesbrough (Away)

Man of the Match!
No goals - but you deserve the award Matty boy

After taking a beating last week to some unkind defenders, Matteo was able to roam free and provide opportunities to those surrounding him - and got a couple shots off.

"Their spirit was down, and it was obvious that they just wanted the final whistle to blow. I was glad to put in about 75 minutes of play - and still receive the honors of man of the match, I'm still struggling to score as a midfielder though - something to definitely work on before the season is over."

​

 

[Matt10]

Fixture: 31
Middlesbrough v Newcastle United

4-2
Aliadiere 13'
Shawky 17'
Wiego 24'
Barton 48'
Yeates 49'
Arca 62'
-----
Caution: Wiego (Newcastle)​

Who we thought they were
Boro knock off potential league champs Newcastle​

Johnson Peoples, nufc.co.uk​

Newcastle United meant business today, and sadly - did not produce the result that Alan Curbishley and the Magpies faithful were looking for. Righ off the bat, a blatant disegard for the ball by Wiego prompted a yellow card - some even wondered if it should have been a red, but then again Didier Digard (the victim) is not that good of an actor.

Boro did not come to play around either, as the home side pressed on for the opening goal of the match - and in the 13th minute, longtime Boro man, Jeremie Aliadiere granted the wish to go ahead.

After Aliadiere would score, it was almost a surprise when midfielder Mohammed Shawky nabbed a goal himself - the goal as a result of a blocked shot by Steven Harper - but Shawky was there to clean up the trash.

Of course a Newcastle match would not be the same without a goal from Wiego - who upped his tally to 25 goals on the season when Joey Barton floated a ball over the entire Boro defense - and of course Wiego collected perfectly, and then a quick snap shot before Brad Jones in the Boro net could move an inch.

Three minutes after the half-time speech, Newcastle showed life (and business mindset) when Joey Barton flew into the penalty box on a Jonas Gutierrez corner - the midfielder struck the ball sweet with his head and all Jones could do was parry the ball into the roof of his net - the match was tied 2-2.

The old adage of still celebrating immediately haunted the Newcastle defense, and it was not a surprise to Alan Curbishely when Julia Arca sped through, before laying off a ball intended for Leroy Lita, but escaped to a rushing Mark Yeates. Yeates finish was direct and to the point - with only a finger tip from Steve Harper to give it a slight hiccup - but the inside of the post was struck, and the ball trickled in to give Boro the lead again.

The victory was capped off when Yeates returned the favor to Julio Arca streaking into the box, past a sleeping Coloccini - and diving header past a helpless Steven Harper.

Alan Curbishley after the game was a bit more poised than initially assumed - stating that "they were who we thought they were" - using the phrase of a previous coach, but in an entirely different league, uttered the same words.

"Boro are who we thought they were. Might as well crown them, they put up the fight - we did not."

Next Match: v Crystal Palace (Home)

In the background
But in the limelight of fatigue

Matteo struggled to get anything going tonight - despite his best efforts he was just another defender rather than the speedy midfielder.

"Boro held the ball so well tonight. It was tough to stay organized - let alone get a decent possesion attack going - we primarily orchestrated counter attacks, but some players thought they were Pele instead of Lineker."

​

 

[Matt10]

Fixture: 33
Newcastle United v Crystal Palace

1-2
Stern John 24'
Nile Ranger 67'
Subotic (OG) 85'
-----
Caution: None​

Starting to fold under pressure?
Subotic own goal thunders in boo birds at St. James​

Johnson Peoples, nufc.co.uk​

When Alan Curbishley signed Subotic in the January transfer window, it was not his intention to have the defender score goals. However, tonight the Serbian scored his first goal for the Magpies - into his own net, and inthe 85th minute, thus breaking all momentum the home side had going for the winner.

Goals against Newcastle have been in the first half primarily - and Stern John did not stray away from the statistic when he took advantage of Subotic's lack of man marking in the penalty area. John took position goal side just in time for Ryan Smith's cross to be met. The striker's glancing header gave no chance for keeper Tim Krul - and it was 1-0 for the visitors.

At halftime, Curbishley could be heard loud and clear to those near the locker room - the Toon manager clearly expressing his discontent on not only Subotic's first half performance - but also midfielder, Lam Matteo - who's reaction time seemed to be at an all time low. The only saving grace for Matteo was that he was the only player shooting outside of the box - but his on target shots were direct to Palace's keeper, Julian Speroni.

The message was loud, and clear for Newcastle - and 20 minutes after the start of the second half, Nile Ranger would bring the game level after Geremi's mazing run past the Palace defense.

Curbishley's tactics shifted to full out attack in the 80th minute, subbing in Kevin Nolan for a fatigued Lam Matteo, and two minutes later, striker Frank Wiafe Danquah came in for midfielder Joey Barton - a 4-3-3 switch from the static 4-4-2.

Unfortunately for Curbishley and company, there was no way to prepare for Subotic's own goal, which left everyone scratching their heads - did that just happen?

Palace's Ryan smith tore down the sidelines, and his cross was a perfect one but Victor Moses diving header was just late - however the ball had enough speed and struck Subotic (who let Moses goal side once more) in the knee, and the ball trickled past a stunned Tim Krul, who could only kick the ball in frustration against the inside of the post after it had crossed.

The second consecutive loss puts Newcastle United now only one point clear of West Brom - and a very close battel between Coventry City and Cardiff City behind them.

Next week, Alan Curbishley and the Magpies travel to Ricoh Arena, where the side has not won in the last four meetings, to face third place Coventry City.

"It is a tough statistic against us. Our confidence is shaken tonight - but we did not play terrible, just unlucky - of course we can't afford that at this point in the competition."

Next Match: v Coventry City (Away)

The damn "F" word
Stamina, endurance, fatigue....

Lam did not have a good game despite his efforts on goal - which were merely slightly hard passes to the Palace keeper.

"I had one header - and it went straight to him, fatigued or not - I've got a team to play for, and will have to refocus before the next match."

​

 

[Matt10]

Fixture: 34
Newcastle United v Crystal Palace

1-2
Nile Ranger 22'
Nile Ranger 76'
Freddy Eastwood 84'
-----
Caution: McIndoe (Coventry)​

The mighty Ranger-Geremi connection
Newcastle striker thanks Geremi for two quality assists in victory​

Johnson Peoples, nufc.co.uk​

Nile Ranger helped Newcastle escap Ricoh Park with a victory, securing all three points - and a possible push in championship title direction after his two goal performance. Ranger, after the match, had to thank the brilliant, and unselfish, play of veteran Geremi. Geremi tallied two assists, each to Ranger - and was named man of the match without being on the scoresheet.

The match itself was at quick pace - and the eventual goal by Ranger came almost against the run of play. A foul on Lam Matteo on the sidelines resulted in a free kick by Geremi - who played a quick one-two pass with Matteo. Geremi, upon receiving the ball and dashing opponents, glanced up and floated a ball over the head of the Coventry defense to Nil Ranger - who's half volley was a thing of beauty and crashed into the back of Keiren Westwood's net.

Facing Newcastle for the first time, Juan Sebastian Veron - the new signing and possible saving grace for Coventry, was stifled multiple times by the younger center midfielder, Lam Matteo. The result was an early sub for Henrik Larsson's side, and Veron came out - in came ever reliable, Freddy Eastwod.

At halftime, Curbishley could be heard loud and clear to those near the locker room - the Toon manager clearly expressing his discontent on not only Subotic's first half performance - but also midfielder, Lam Matteo - who's reaction time seemed to be at an all time low. The only saving grace for Matteo was that he was the only player shooting outside of the box - but his on target shots were direct to Palace's keeper, Julian Speroni.

In the 76th minute, Nile Ranger scored his second - a well worked play that started with Joey Barton on the right flank - to Geremi. Geremi collected the ball and showcased his dribbling skill, eluding Chris Hussey's tackle, before sending in a perfect ball to Ranger. The striker was gracious and his first touch excellent - setting up the shot low along the ground - skidding across the wet pitch, and off the Westwood's far post, for another goal.

Freddy Eastwood's consolation goal occured nine minutes later, a quick cross by Sean Jeffers - and Eastwood would be the only one to react with a cheeky outside of the foot volley.

The goal surged on Coventry, hoping to gain at least one point from the match - but the final whistle blew to save the Magpies from giving up such points.

Four matches remain, the next one to be held at Pride Park where Derby County are full of "pride" after winning the Championship Cup over Cardiff City 4-3.

"Maybe we can put up a good enough of a fight to throw them off their current form."

Next Match: v Derby County (Away)

Score a goal already!
Matteo had shots, but that don't count

I don't understand, he used to be a scoring machine - he's noticeably faster than he was in his prime, but still - the goals aren't coming, what gives?

"I can understand my role with Newcastle will be one who doesn't take the glory - the thing is, I'm not sure if I can accept that role without scoring a couple of goals - but it's good to know we have four matches remaining."

​

 

[Matt10]

Ah, well that sucks. I peak in from time to time, I like what you're doing. Hopefully Lam can go a goal soon already for Newcastle!

Great updates. Liking the new layout. Hopefully that goal comes soon.

Thanks guys - hoping he scores too. Not too many games left, a championship title would be really really sweet.

 

[Matt10]

Fixture: 35
Derby County v Newcastle United

1-1
Giles Barnes 25'
Jonas Gutierrez 66'
-----
Caution: Green (Derby) Barnes (Derby)​

Magpies settle for a point at Pride Park
Questionable tactics by Curbishley​

Johnson Peoples, nufc.co.uk​

Lam Matteo was benched for this match despite stating that he felt one-hundred percent before the weekend. Alan Curbishley opted to play Joey Barton and Kevin Nolan over the American international - with no explanation.

The change did not pay off in the first half as Derby pressed, and dominated the Toon through swift attacks led by midfielder Paul Green and Bryan Hughes. The breakthrough came in the form of midfielder Giles Barnes as a produc tof a well orchestrated passing attack that begun with Green in the middle, who used his outlet in Jake Livermore - who then found Porter in the box - before setting up a perfectly weighted ball to a diagonal run into the box by Barnes.

The midfielder's finish was perfect and Newcastle were shocked with the 1-0 deficit heading into the second half.

During the interval, Alan Curbishley replaced an ineffective Joey Barton with Lam Matteo. However, intsead of place Matteo in as an attacking midfielder, his role today was to play defensive midfielder, while Kevin Nolan orchestrated the attack.

The Magpies equalized in the 66th minute of play, thanks to a courageous run by defender Ryan Taylor. Taylor sped through untouched down the sidelines, before driving in a cross with his left foot. The cross found Jonas Gutierrez, who's header was more power than placement - beating Kalac in the Derby Net to make the score 1-1 with just under 30 minutes remaining.

The momentum had shifted, and it was Newcastle now who pressed on - searching for the winning goal.

However, their best chance of the match winner was Lam Matteo's 25 yard strike destined for the upper corner, but Kalac's finger tip save prevented the goal.

Nevertheless, with only three matches remaining, a point is a good point - but Curbishley will hoping for at least 6 points to edge further away from Queens Park Rangers (66 pts) and West Bromwich Albion (65 pts).

"This is the home stretch, we lost two pionts tonight - but coming away with one is encouraging for some more in the last couple of weeks. Let's hope we can accomplish our goals."

Next Match: v Sheffield Wednesday (Home)

League Table: Top 5

1. Newcastle Utd (68 pts)
2. QPR (66 pts)
3. West Brom (65 pts)
4. Cardiff City (64 pts)
5. Coventry City (61 pts)

Losing confidence?
Or just not happy in midfield

When Matteo was in his prime, before his accident, he was a striker - now clubs are seeing potential in him as a midfielder, does he feel the same way?

"I am a striker by nature. It's what I want to be, I like to score goals. I enjoy first team football, but would prefer being a striker as I could really use my God given talent a little better than in the midfield."

​

 

[Matt10]

Fixture: 36
Newcastle United v Sheffield Wednesday

3-2
Tudgay 26'
Wiego 48'
Matteo 66'
Wiego 75'
Potter 85'
-----
Caution: None​

Newcastle salvage victory at St. James
Two matches remain for Magpies title hunt​

Johnson Peoples, nufc.co.uk​

The taste of the Championship title got a became a bit more sweeter for Alan Curbishley, and the Newcastle faithful. Goals by Wiego (2) and Lam Matteo were enough to push the side past a resilient Sheffield Wednesday side for all 3 points.

Sheffield Wednesday opened up the match with full on attack for a 20-minute stint, so it was no surprise when Marcus Tudgay took advantage of Jose Enrique's poor defending in the box. Tudgay was able to wriggle free on a cross, and met the ball hard with his head to put the visitors up 1-0 heading into the second half.

The Toon responded immediately in the second half. Lam Matteo entered the fray with Joey Barton giving way. Matteo's darting run found the foot of Wiego, who took on two defenders before a quick low shot was enough to get past Lee Grant in the Wednesday goal, to tie the match up.

The go ahead goal was scored by Matteo himself. After getting in a jam with Sheffield Wednesday defenders at the top of the box, the was half cleared in the path of Kevin Nolan - who's header downwards found the American midfielder. Matteo collected the ball, and quickly let a shot rip low and to the far post; 2-1, it was only the third goal of Matteo's Newcastle career.

The icing on the cake was Wiego's second goal - but was quickly forgotten when Darren Potter grabbed what seemed to be a consolation goal in the 85th minute.

A consolation goal it was not, as the nerves began to surface from not only the home fans, but also the players - Colocinni twice clearing the ball into the path of onrushing Wednesday attackers.

Finally, the final whiste sounded with Matteo holding the ball up in the corner. All three points at St. James Park - two matches remain for the possible crowning.

Alan Curbishley, after the match, stated he was wrong in not playing Lam Matteo earlier.

"He really does make a difference on this team, I wanted to try something different - and that did not seem to work. He is a player that when he gets the ball, you can't stop but watch - my jaw has dropped mulitple times watching him glide across the pitch - it's brilliant, I just hope he can help guide us with more games like tonight's."

Next Match: v Watford (Away)

League Table: Top 5

1. Newcastle Utd (71 pts)
2. West Brom (68 pts)
3. QPR (66 pts)
4. Cardiff City (65 pts)
5. Middlesbrough (61 pts)

Man of Z Match!
Not bad for half-days work

Despite being placed a sub, Matteo remained keen on making a difference from the start.

"As any player knows, it's tough sitting down when your team is losing. I tried to stay positive around others - and I think it helped in making us believe this is something that is quite possible - we could win it all. Scoring goals don't hurt either"

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6kaVUe_RXY"]YouTube- vshefwed.mp4[/ame]
​

 

[Matt10]

No on pitch reunion for Matteo
Struck with pulled quad muscle in practice

Lam Matteo was taken off the active list for the match against Watford tonight, he has suffered a slight quad pull - he told me he should be back for the last match of the season.

"It's a terrible feeling to not be part of this battle - but I'm confident in my teammates to get the job done. I'll be more than ready for Swansea City."


​

 

[Matt10]

Down to the absolute wire
Last match of the season, all tied up - who will it be?
by Mark Schwarzer last updated 10 May 2018

Now that QPR and Cardiff City are out of the hunt, West Brom can only win if Newcastle lose to Swansea.

Could it be any closer than how it looks? Well, other than goal differential, Newcastle United and West Bromwich Albion are tied with 71 points a piece.

After Newcastle lost to Watford 3-0 last weekend, and West Brom winning over Crystal Palace 3-0 - the momentum has shifted to West Brom completely.

However, it is a matter of who each of these teams are facing. West Brom faces the Watford side that courageously defeated the Magpies, while Newcastle face a content Swansea City, who sit in 10th place.

"This is a betting man's nightmare," says Alan Curbishley, Newcastle manager, "I wish it wasn't so close - but I welcome the challenge."

Time can only tell who will be the champions of the Coca-Cola Championship, a betting man would say Newcastle - but after not having their game faces last weekend against the Hornets...who knows.

Other league tables:

English Premier League

1. Chelsea (68 pts)
2. Man City (65 pts)
3. Man Utd (65 pts)

Serie A

1. ACF Fiorentina (75 pts) ******
2. SSC Napoli (71 pts)

SPL

1. Celtic FC (71 pts)
2. Athletic Club (69 pts)

La Liga

1. Sevilla (74 pts)
2. Real Madrid (71 pts)


​

 

[Matt10]

Fixture: Final
Newcastle United v Swansea City

0-0​

-----
Caution: None​

Scoreless draw turns out to be total loss
West Brom crowned champions with 4-1 victory over Hornets​

Johnson Peoples, nufc.co.uk​

How cruel it is. Alan Curbishley will be sacked indefinitely for his poor tactics in tonight's match against Swansea City, where Newcastle essentially lost all hopes of a title due to scoring no goals.

The tears on the players faces fell as each of them glanced at the scoreboard for other matches, 4-1 West Brom over Watford is what it read.

Fans started to groan "Curbish-leave! Curbish-LEAVE!". It was a disgraceful exit as contenders, but obviously provoked.

The hot topic squad wise, was how come Lam Matteo was not placed in the starting eleven. He was injured last week, but this week looked more than fit. It seemed that Curbishley opted to play experience over "no so experienced".

To make matters worse, when Matteo did enter the pitch at the halfway mark, 30 minutes later, he was subbed out for Alan Smith - and instant kick to the proverbial face for the American midfielder, who had looked inspiring - racing everywhere and letting off a shot before his exit.

There was no comment from Curbishley after the match, he quickly shook hands and left the pitch.

Captain, and veteran player, Geremi did not hold back his thoughts.

"You have a manager like that, who plays the odds instead of the heart - this is what you get. He should have played players who have shown heart! It was absolute disgraceful, and we deserved what we got for it."

Despite the loss of title, Newcastle United join West Bromwich Albion in being promoted to the English Premier League, replacing Stoke City and Hull City.

Final League Table

1. West Brom (74 pts)
2. Newcastle (72 pts)
3. QPR (69 pts)
4. Cardiff City (66 pts)
5. Coventry (65 pts)
6. Middlesbrough (64 pts)
7. Shefffield Wed (60 pts)
8. Sheffield Utd (53 pts)
9. Derby County (52 pts)
10. Preston (52 pts)
11. Doncaster (51 pts)
12. Swansea City (50 pts)
13. Ipswich Town (49 pts)
14. Reading (48 pts)
15. Barnsley (47 pts)
16. Nottingham (46 pts)
17. Bristol (44 pts)
18. Crystal Palace (44 pts)
19. Watford (42 pts)
20. Leciester City (32 pts)

Pissed off
Or pissed on...

Never have I seen Matteo so pissed off after a match, he was animated on the sidelines after being subbed out, as a substitute, within the dying minutes of the match.

"Just because we were tied, and needed a goal - does not mean that I needed to leave the match, it was ridiculous - the worst coaching decision I have ever seen."
​

 

[Matt10]

Transfer & Gold Cup time!
Is Matteo set to move, or stay put?

Let's remember, he's 28-years old now. Moving about might not be the smartest decision. Nevertheless, as always, we will go through transfers week by week - but will take it a bit slower.

Week 1 Offers: 3 Clubs
​

1. Newcastle United - EPL - contract renewal

• 980P (currently 600P)
• SMF/CMF position
• Rumors of Alan Curbishley sacking

2. Rangers FC - SPL - free transfer

• 980P (currently 600P)
• SMF/CMF
• UEFA Europa Best 16

3. Celtic FC - SPL - free transfer

• 920P (currently 600P)
• SMF/CMF/SS
• Not participating in UEFA

Gold Cup News: USA Coach, Claudio Reyna announces starting eleven versus Costa Rica

1. GK Brad Friedel
16. CB Jonathan Spector
3. CB Onyewu
4. RB Wynne
5. LB Bornstein
8. MF Feilhaber
17. J.F. Torres
19. MF Donovan
18. MF Kljestan
22. CF Altidore
11. CF Davies
--------------
21. CF Lam Matteo
​

 

[Matt10]

Concacaf Gold Cup: Round 1
Costa Rica v USA

0-1
Donovan 35'
-----
Caution: Bolanos (Costa Rica)​

Donovan's goal enough to push USA through

Reyna praises Brad Friedel and defensive solidarity​

Eric Wynalda, espn.com​

It may be Claudio's team now, but the USA are in good hands when Donovan's in the lineup. It seems the man never ages - and once again bailed out his side.

Let's see if the men will show up against Mexico in the Gold Cup final next week.

Grabbed some PT
Two shots, still at midfield though

Actors often get typcasted, and it seems Matteo's role in the game is now as a midfielder. Today he was subbed on as a defensive midfielder for Klejstan.

"It's unfortunate because I want to score goals. I know my gifts are in the way I distribute the ball - but I don't have too much time left before I turn 30, it's time to make it count."

​

 

[Matt10]

Concacaf Gold Cup: Final
Mexico v USA

2-3
Altidore 12'
Sametz 35'
Sametz 47'
Feilhaber 51'
Altidore 75'
-----
Caution: Cherundulo (USA)​

How Sweet it is!

USA wins Gold Cup over bitter rivals Mexico​

Eric Wynalda, espn.com

Jozy Altidore to the rescue! The striker saved the day with a brilliant display. Mr. Reliable is what he's known as - and thus he proclaimed so.

Some hardware to add to some of the more inexperienced players - but then again, some of the regulars got to kiss the cup. How sweet it is!

HARDWARE!!
At long last, Matteo kisses a cup

When he was with Fulham, he never got close enough, and of course just recently with Newcastle. Tonight's match meant the world to Matteo - and he was visibly overjoyed.

"Next to my son being born - this is the happiest day of my life. Words can't express how thankful I am to those who never gave up on me. I'm so proud to be part of this team, this brilliant game."

​

 

[packersfan4eva]

This looks as sick as it's ever been, LOL @ #5 in the above picture sticking his arm through the goalie

 

[Matt10]

Close to a decision
Final week, Birmingham City - West Ham or Wolverhampton

The last couple of weeks have flown by - Matteo has a decision to make - he can sign an extension with newly promoted Newcastle - or join 3 Premiership teams in waiting.
​

The reason Matteo has not rushed to a decision with Newcastle is because there has been recent news that Alan Curbishley will not be sacked. The board believes his goals were met, even though his tactics were suspect. Matteo wants to play as a striker, and Curbishley has publicly announced that he will not play him at the desired spot.

Matteo just informed me that he has made a decision - and will announce his selection soon.





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[Matt10]

Welcome back to the Prem, Matteo
Striker signs with Wolves
by Mark Schwarzer last updated 10 August 2018

Could this be the final stop for Matteo?

Lam Matteo has signed with English Premiership side, Wolverhampton Wanderers for an undiscolsed fee. The striker helped newly promoted Newcastle for the second half of the 2017 season, but due to the lack of time playing as a striker, his preferred position, Matteo opted to go on as a free agent.
​

"It was a tough decision to leave a team I helped promote," says the 28-year old, "But I am getting older now. I do not want to spend my time on the bench, or even unhappy."

Newcastle fans have shown their distaste of the American's behavior, saying Matteo was being "ungrateful" and "bull-headed".

Will the bull-headed Lam Matteo show something for his struggles? Let's remember what he has come back from - I'm sure the goals he will score for Wolves will be just as sweet as his first goal was when he began his career at Willem II.
​

 

[Matt10]

New Wolves boss, Owen Coyle confident over Wigan

The beginning of the 2018-2019 season is days away, and Owen Coyle has announced his starting lineup, which does not include their new star signing, Lam Matteo.

"The reason why Matteo will not dress is because he has suffered a bit of a knock earlier this morning at practice. It's a shame because I could have used the lad - but that's how it goes. I'm confident he will be ready to go in the next couple of weeks."

As for the starting eleven, Coyle has chosen to start keeper, Wayne Hennessey over American Marcus Hahnemann. Kevin Doyle will be paired as striker with Chris Iwelumo - and David Edwards starts in favor Matthew Jarvis.

GK Hennessey
CB Craddock
CB Berra
CB Zubar
SB Elokobi
CMF Henry
DMF Castillo
CMF Edwards
DMF Milijas
CF Doyle
CF Iwelumo
​

 

[Matt10]

Matteo injury worse than thought
Will miss two months due to pulled quadricep

The Newcastle fans are happy I guess because Matteo has been plagued with injury before even suiting up with the squad. I talked to him, and he is staying positive - but really wants to get out there and help his new club.

"Joining this team has been a fantastic experience. We are not doing too good with a couple of losses, and draws - but no wins to show for it. I want to help as soon as possible. At this point, I will play at any position - I'm itching to just grab my kit and hear the crowd again."
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[Matt10]

Wolves still haven't scored in Premiership

When Owen Coyle began his tenure as new boss for Wolverhampton Wanderers, everyone expected a full on attack - and a buckling of the defense. However, the Wovles manager has determined to keep the goals on both ends at a minimum.

Striker Kevin Doyle has had his chances, but the physical play up front has been a topic of conversation due to Doyle's small frame.

Nevertheless, good news comes out of the West Midlands, Lam Matteo has started to do full training - and could be fit by the sixth fixture, where the Wolves host Sunderland.

Matteo has been rumored to be training as a left or right midfielder - his pace has been one that has turned some heads, and could result in more chances for Kevin Doyle and company.

Results so far:

at Wigan Athletic - L 3-0
at Wigan Athletic (FA Cup) - L 3-1
vs West Bromwich - D 0-0
at Birmingham City - D 0-0
vs Wigan Athletic (FA Cup, 2nd Leg) - L 3-4
vs Porsmouth FC - D 0-0

next match - at Bolton

Standing: currently 16/20, 3 pts
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