10 Famous World Cup Moments Involving Newcastle Players

4. Penalty Woe For Chris Waddle And Stuart Pearce (1990)

Although their respective stints at Newcastle came over a decade apart both Pearce and Waddle shared in the anguish of their penalty shoot-out blunder at Italia 90. England, bidding to reach their first World Cup final since 1966, had frustrated old foes West Germany with an 80th minute equaliser and a resilient performance in extra time that meant the fate of both nations hinged on spot kicks. The Three Lions began well with Linekar, Magpies legend Peter Beardsley and David Platt all converting from 12-yards as Sir Bobby Robson's boys kept pace with the ruthlessly efficient Germans before Pearce stepped up and smashed the ball straight down the middle. In hindsight the left-back should have opted for placement over power as Bodo Illngner saved with his feet. Waddle was pencilled in to take the decisive penalty but it was clear in his approach that he was a bundle of nerves. And it showed as the Geordie winger skied his effort over the bar to confirm England's exit on an emotional night in Turin, unwittingly marking the start of grim trend for future international tournaments.