He couldn't have saved the penalty that was firmly smashed past him by Northampton captain, Marc Richards and asides from that the keeper was left with very little to do. His kicking still needs work which is something that seems to be a common flaw among all of the Newcastle goalkeepers. Darlow's handling was solid and he commanded his area relatively well. Strong decision by McClaren to play the former Nottingham Forest shot-stopper and the 24-year-old will have gained some vital experience.