ToonArmyUSA member Harry Spall was lucky enough to see the Charlton game with a seat in the Directors' Box. Before the match there was a fancy lunch served in the Kielder Suite. Jacket and tie required!

The new stand is awesome. It's overwhelming. Just like being in a glass cathedral. It's the largest unsupported structure in Europe. It is 200 feet high and the span is 300 feet.

The only disappointing part of the day was the result, 1-0 to Charlton. Newcastle didn't wake up until the end of the first half. Even in the second half they were still scrappy and in desperation, Bobby Robson sent in all three substitutes in the 63rd minute - Lee, Lua Lua and Domi. Newcastle then threw everything but the kitchen sink at the Charlton goal, but they held up - an indication that they intend to stay in the Premier League. Newcastle were unlucky in not being awarded two penalties and especially unlucky when a Cort goal from inside the penalty area was mysteriously ruled offside. Even 5 minutes of injury time still couldn't get the ball into the net, and Newcastle dropped to 7th place. But all in all, a red letter day for this North Shields lad.

One unusual feature about the new stand was the lack of fan noise. Apart from a few chants of "Black and white - Toon Army" and some choruses of the "New Cassell" ditty, the only other crowd noise was clapping after a good play. In contrast, a group of about 500 Charlton fans kept up a solid noise throughout the game.

Alan Shearer continues to be the focus of whiny London critics. What they forget is that he is inevitably dogged by two defenders who make his game very physical. The critics also miss the well-timed nods and taps with which he unselfishly feeds his team in the goalmouth.