'Cockney Mafia' Banner Stopped From Going Full Circle!
Last updated : 14 September 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor
The stewards were under strick orders to stop any "undesirables" getting into the "posh seats" ... and that just about sums up everything really.
Mike Ashley and Dennis Wise were in hiding ... as we predicted ... and the circus continues.
Thousands of Newcastle fans turned out to voice their support for Kevin Keegan and supporters gathered at the Milburn entrance to St James' Park long before kick-off, and afterwards.
Shortly before 2pm a series of organised marches converged on the stadium, and the mood was one of defiance as they chanted for Keegan and against club owner Mike Ashley and executive director (football) Dennis Wise.
Many carried placards bearing the message 'No more Geordie cash for Ashley' - a reference to a call for people to boycott Ashley's Sports Direct stores and the club's retail outlets.
Banners included 'Ashley is a Mackem', 'Ashley and Gang out' and a series of 'Wanted' posters, while some protesters wore T-shirts saying 'Ashley and the Wise guy out' and 'Ashley not so Wise, sack the Board'.
Mounted police moved in in an attempt to disperse the gathering crowds, while journalists were also moved on by officers and club stewards, a response which simply caused the mood to darken.
However, the proposed ban on buying beer and pies at half-time didn't seem to reach many ... as there were still queues for both at half-time.
But expecting a Geordie to give up beer IS pushing the boat out somewhat.
