5 Reasons For Newcastle Fans To Be Cheerful (And 5 To Be Fearful) After Opening Day

I've been told by the internet that I am hard to please and questioned about whether I was actually watching Newcastle United's battling draw against Southampton. This stemmed from my 'damning' ratings of Chancel Mbemba and Vurnon Anita who each earned a a six out of 10 for their mismatched performances. So, yes, while a lot of you seemed to be watching the return of 'The Entertainers', I'll admit that I was on a different channel altogether. I watched a spirited performance that demonstrated a definite philosophy being followed and a rejuvenated energy pulsing through the starting XI, management and crowd. But in amongst that I saw huge defensive frailties, mis-placed passes and a Southampton side that will not play so poorly again all season. Mbemba certainly looked an upgrade on what the Magpies already had and was excellent with the ball at his feet, passing confidently - something the whole team have improved on - and making a number of timely interceptions. He was also hugely at fault for the first goal. Anita has also improved and handled Sadio Mane well throughout the first-half. Would I trust him as a consistent first-team defensive-midfielder for the rest of the season? No chance. The Dutch midfielder misplaced several sideways passes and relied on Jack Colback to repair his mistakes. The match represented an alternative from last season's toxic atmosphere and a resurgence that Newcastle wouldn't have achieved under John Carver - but while Mike Ashley grinned from his more comfortable seat in the stands there is still a lot more work to do at St James' Park. Here at WhatCulture.com/NUFC we take a look at the good and bad points from their opening Barclay's Premier League fixture...