In January 2002 I saw my hometown club Peterborough United host top of the premier league Newcastle United (The team I support). The posh were languishing midtable in the old division three (Now League Two). They had money problems and everyone expected a battering. The stadium was a rare sellout and the away terrace was so packed with Geordies, it resembled something from the 70’s.

Bobby Robson named a surprising strong Newcastle team, not at full strength, but one that included Shearer, Bellamy, Solano and Shay Given.

Peterborough had an aging team, but it did include a young Jimmy Bullard and future Norwich striker Leon McKenzie.

Newcastle raced into a 2 goal lead, it looked like they would see Peterborough off comfortably at half time. Out of nowhere Posh scored twice to level up the tie, and the stadium was making a level of noise I’ve never experienced at London Road before or since. The pitch turned into an absolute mud bath and Newcastle struggled to play their game. A tense period followed where Peterborough pushed hard for the lead, with Shay Given making a number of top saves. With about 5 minutes to go Shearer won a disputed penalty, of which he buried. A few minutes later Newcastle finished it with another clinical finish from Shearer on the break. Game finished 2-4, a classic FA Cup 3rd rounder that I will never forget. Getting to see my hero’s play my home city club was a dream come true.

What is the best live game you have seen?

  • ThepeterborianOPB
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    11 months ago

    Ahh, the Gerrard final! You don’t many games as dramatic as that one, West Ham were so unlucky!