Newcastle United Vs. Manchester United: 0-0 Draw At St. James’ Park

Manchester United dropped two potentially vital points at St. James' Park after being held to a draw by Newcastle United. Despite there being several opportunities to break the deadlock in both halves - not to mention no less than four contentious decisions for referee Lee Probert to make regarding penalties and diving - neither team could break through in the end, ultimately leaving the match without a goal.

The visitors unquestionably had the best chances of the match. Within the first two minutes Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez was denied a chance at a tap-in by the strong left arm of Newcastle goalie Tim Krul, and it wasn't long after that that the Dutchman was called into action again to keep out Wayne Rooney's angled drive. The best was saved for last, however, when Patrice Evra surged into the United box and picked out Ryan Giggs in space. Giggs, twelve yards out and unmarked, proceeded to sidefoot the ball roughly half an inch wide of Krul's right post.

Newcastle had a couple of chances from open play - a Jonas Gutierrez shot blocked by Chris Smalling probably the most notable - but their biggest opportunity came when Anderson came in and swiped at Peter Lovenkrand's leg as the striker was backing away from the goal. It probably should have been a penalty, but Probert waved play on, much to the Dane's disgust.

That wasn't the only penalty appeal turned down on the night. The first half saw Nani execute a comedic flop after being brushed by Jonas Gutierrez and United appealed twice more in the second, the first coming when the impressive Chiek Tiote appeared to block the even more impressive Rooney's long-range shot with a raise right arm and the second coming after Chicarito acrobatically fell over the outstretched leg of Danny Simpson, receiving a yellow card for his efforts.

All in all then, it was an interesting match despite there being no goals. Ultimately, United can afford to drop points. They still have a seven point cushion on second place Arsenal, although both the Gunners and third place Chelsea have a game in hand on the leaders, so if they win out they'll secure the title no matter what. However, with a visit to the Emirates on the cards next, a draw wasn't the best result for Sir Alex Ferguson and company. I'm sure Alan Pardew will be delighted with the point though.