Pardew - We Couldn't Have Played Any Better!

Last updated : 15 February 2013 By Footy Mad - Editor

A linesman ruled out Cisse strikes either side of half-time in last night's 0-0 first leg draw at St James' Park.

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Replays suggested the first decision was wrong and the second contentious.

But as for Pardew's comment: "I don't think my team could have played much better"I think they had better up their game if they want a win in the Ukraine.

But will he put out a strong side, knowing he has Southampton on the following Sunday?

Alan Pardew: "He hasn't seen the replays yet and I think that will just hinder his sleep somewhat.

"But he looks sharp and he keeps getting in there. The last three or four games, he has had more chances than he has had all season.

"With all strikers, they feel a lot better when they score. When he looks back and sees those two goals, he will be disappointed.

"But it will just put fire in his belly, hopefully, for the return leg or the game against Southampton, wherever he plays.

"I thought we gave up one clear chance, really, which Tim snuffed out, the header in the first half.

"We were sound. They caught us a couple of times on the break with numbers, but defensively, I thought we were strong tonight.

"I don't think my team could have played much better and I thought we should have won the game.

"Both goals were goals, when you see the replays, you can see that.

"The first one, I have to say, I was a little bit undecided from where I stood, but the second one I thought was a definite goal, so that was tough to take because in these games, those margins are the difference.

"The benefit on those lines is for the striker, that's the rule, and both decisions were level."