Probably too early to predict, but if we can manage another 5 wins starting from Wednesday night match at home against serious relegation candidate West Ham United and then Mackems away, we can be more comfortable to face the rests of this season.
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Three vital points away from home, a clean sheet and our first win against them in their own yard after being defeated 4 times in our previous bids. We even should have been scored 3 or 4 goals only if Steven Taylor, Coloccini, Lovendkrands and Enrique can do better with their chances.
It was also a nice welcome start to 2011 for Alan Pardew as he can manage our side to bounced back from two straight defeats and moved up to 10th place.
The key to our win against the Latics was our domination in midfield, principally through Tiote – who was tremendous – and Barton, although Nolan also put in a good shift. Jonas was better than of late, but still infuriating.
We also defended better in the 2nd half despite them having more possession, and Harper didn’t have a single save to make. Colo was our best defender, but he does take risks.
Incredibly important victory in the context of our season, but a bliddy nightmare to watch.