Articles 
I had never been to one of the NUSC roadshows before so looked forward to the event at the Winlaton West End club on Thursday 30th July. As I walked up to the club I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, would there be hundreds of people wearing Cockney Mafia out T-shirts? Would there be a burning effigy of Mike Ashley? As it turned out, neither happened nor were they likely to.
When we arrived we took full advantage of the cheap beer that was available and sat ourselves down to find quiz sheets waiting for us - Name the thirteen players used against Barcelona on the night Newcastle won 3-2. After much discussion about whether it was Watson or Barton at right back, Albert or Howey alongside Peacock at centre half we duly opted for the wrong option on each occasion. John Barnes of all people made up the final position in midfield we couldn’t think of.
The attendance was quite small early on but the numbers rose as “Kick Off” approached. Steve Hastie (who I had last seen giving a speech at Greys Monument) started the show by speaking about how NUSC was formed, the progress that has made to date and the stories behind how it got to where it is today. It was an impressive speech and to hear what has happened first hand was really impressive. Colin Whittle then spoke to explain how Trust status has been achieved, what this actually means and the plans for the NUSC in the short, medium and long term future. Both speakers talked really well and the message from both of them was clear – NUSC is not a protest group, it is a fans group with long term aims focusing on helping Newcastle United succeed on the pitch and in the community.
A short question and answer session followed, football cards were passed around and the quiz result (as expected we did crap) were read out before the guest speaker for the night John Gibson took to the stage. I’ve heard John Gibson speak before and know that he always gives good value. John promised that he didn’t want to focus too much on the negativity surrounding the club so instead entertained us with anecdotes and stories from his years as a reporter for Newcastle. He spoke of the “Great survivor” Terry Mac, behind the scenes tales from the Fairs cup win and Joe Harvey. John then reminisced about time he had spent with two Geordie greats – Gazza and Sir Bobby Robson. It was the eve of the sad news of Sir Bobbys passing and listening to John Gibson talk about the great man seemed so more poignant the following day.
Overall, a good night was had by all and I would encourage any Newcastle United fan to attend one of the roadshows in future. If you like talking NUFC then there aren’t really any better forums. The NUSC members present were approachable, answered questions but most importantly and something the club could learn from, they would listen to what everybody had to say.
Get yourselves along and sign up.
