NEWCASTLE UTD XI (4-5-1): Harper; Richardson, Williamson (Moyo 62), Tavernier, Dummett; R Taylor (Donaldson 78), Smith (Edmundsson 78), Abeid, Vuckic (Airey 88), Ameobi; Ranger. Subs (not used): Soderberg, Inman, Airey, McDermott, Nzuzi
It's a case of "passing the buck", as we know for a fact Derek Llambias and Mike Ashley won't be putting us in the picture.
Newcastle's number two swerved questions about outspoken fans' favourite Barton to keep supporters in the dark over the club's reasons for transfer-listing the midfielder.
On the pitch, Kyle Nix put the hosts ahead in the tenth minute, sending Steve Harper the wrong way from the penalty spot after the lively Yemi Odubade was brought down by a combination of defenders James Tavernier and Michael Richardson.
In front of 2,108 at the International Stadium, promising right-back Richardson made amends four minutes later, sending over an inviting cross for Sammy Ameobi to deservedly head Newcastle level with the first of the forward's two goals.
Pardew, who sat rooted to the bench for the entire 90 minutes, saw his side take the lead seven minutes before the interval when Gateshead defender James Curtis diverted Ameobi's low cross into his own net at the near post.
Newcastle weren't without fortune, as Gateshead struck the woodwork three times in the first-half through Nathan Fisher, and Odubade, who was unlucky on two occasions.
Ameobi grabbed his second just before the hour, stabbing home from close range as Gateshead failed to clear Ryan Taylor's corner.
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