Planet Swans ArchivesDavid Giles was part of the last Swansea side to win at Newcastle and he believes the first 15 minutes tomorrow will be massive for Brendan Rodger’s side
Giles told the Evening Post “Newcastle’s fans are famous for the way they can get at visiting teams
“There is a roar which goes up on the Gallowgate End when they kick off, and Newcastle will try to steam into whoever they are playing when they are on their own ground.
“I remember when we went up there, Tosh told us to weather the storm and silence the crowd, then try to take the game to them later on.
“Newcastle will come out all guns blazing.
“The atmosphere will be even more special than usual because they have the Gary Speed tribute before kick-off this weekend, and the Newcastle players are going to be desperate for a victory.
“That means the first 15 minutes will be massive for Swansea.
“If they concede early on, I think it will be difficult because once Newcastle have got you on the rack, it’s hard to come back.
“The crowd will be demanding a Newcastle victory but, if Swansea can start well, the home fans might just end up disappointed.”
The Swans head to Newcastle looking for their first away win of the season – in total contrast to their home form where they have picked up 15 of the 24 points available.
“That is a concern for me,” Giles adds. “Swansea seem like two different sides when they are at home and away.
“They have been very, very good at the Liberty — they press more at home and they create more chances.
“Away from home they are playing some good football, but they seem to concede cheap goals at silly times and they find themselves in a hole.
“Saying that, they should not fear anything going to Newcastle.
“They were great at Liverpool, and they have to believe in themselves when they go to these grounds.
“They have earned the right to be in this league. Now they have to grab the opportunity on the big occasion.
“I see them staying up without a doubt,” he declares.
“I think if they finish anywhere between 11th and 15th, that will be brilliant.
“And I think they will do that. It will get harder for them in the second half of the season — other teams have seen you once by then and they know a bit more about you.
“But I think Swansea have got enough in the squad to survive, and I really hope they do.
“Apart from anything else, I have laid a few bets with a couple of mates round here.
“I have got a couple of hundred quid riding on Swansea staying up!”
