This was always billed as a nostalgic game between two of Bobby Robson’s former clubs. Ipswich’s North Stand today was renamed the Sir Bobby Robson Stand and how they could have done with the former England manager’s know-how.

Kevin Nolan, in arguably his best game for Newcastle, managed to grab a hat-trick, and Ryan Taylor added his name to the scoresheet with a cracking free-kick, we’ve been waiting for one of those for ages.

The Toon always had the upper hand and once the first goal went in, it was always looking likely that Ipswich would capitulate. Sure enough, Newcastle went in at half-time 3-0 up thanks in part to a quickfire double from Kevin Nolan. Nolan completed his hat-trick in the second-half with a short range finish with Nile Ranger being the provider.

It was only left for us to see out the second half and we did so with ease with Nolan grabbing his third and Newcastle’s fourth. Marlon Harewood made his debut appearance towards the end of the game and by all accounts, looked very lively.

Roy Keane, still looking for his first win of the new season will be left wondering just what he has to do. Newcastle United on the other hand are continuing their fine run of form with Alan Smith looking as committed as ever wearing the captain’s armband.