Glenn Roeder: "I felt the defence, particularly the two central defenders, were really on their game and really concentrating 100 per cent the whole the time.
"We are working ever-so hard on those two in particular, Taylor and Bramble, who I think have got the makings of a very good partnership.
"I like working with them. I think they are two very good central defenders. At times, concentration has let them down, but not tonight".
BUT ... it has emerged in the wake of Jean-Alain Boumsong's departure that the Magpies could be ready to revive their interest in Chelsea's Robert Huth.
Boro thought they had got the Germany international during the summer before he failed a medical, and although they still hope to take him on loan, they could now face competition.
Boro have also asked about Real Madrid defender Jonathan Woodgate for a possible season-long loan, and that has immediately sparked action from the Newcastle camp. SKY News report today that Madrid could let the player go, and Freddy Shepherd was in contact with the Spanish club within minutes of hearing the news. But Liverpool are another club ready to offer the player a deal.