When you have cost £25million and are yet to score a goal at St James’ Park, a penalty in front of the Gallowgate End late in the second half has a make-or-break feel to it. This could well be the making of Chris Wood as a Newcastle United player.
He looked nervous, judging by a run up that was longer than the 12 yards he had to kick the ball. The approach suggested power, a blast to blast away the anxiety of a moment that could as good as secure his new club’s Premier League status.
Instead, Wood deceived all - including goalkeeper Jose Sa - with a measured place not far off centre.