Newcastle United bang head into wall, expect different results

If you always do what you always did, you always get what you always got.  We've well and truly fallen back to earth after consecutive victories over Liverpool and Spurs.  A disappointing draw with Villa and two consecutive matches in which we played for a 0-0 draw and conceded late.  Good thing we've fought hard.  And Steve McClaren and his staff are going to work hard to get it right... if by get it right you mean "Do the same shit over and over."

Newcastle United were forced to give a Premier League debut to Karl Darlow as Rob Elliot withdrew ill during warmups and he would have a very uneven performance.  He came up with a couple of brilliant saves but was frequently unconvincing in the air and will face questions regarding West Brom's late goal... but the real questions will be for Steve McClaren.

On the heels of the match 48 hours ago, McClaren made no changes to the starting lineup.  Vurnon Anita was the first to fall victim, leaving midway through the first half with a hamstring injury.  Newcastle United's season may well have been the second victim as no changes were made in any attempt to influence the game positively until it was too late.  Siem de Jong was a 65th minute sub for Ayoze Perez when a change in the midfield may have been a more prudent play.  You know... trying to get a presence in the middle of the park while keeping your attacking talent on the pitch?  Whatever.

This isn't getting better, folks.  Hold on to your butts.