Newcastle 0 Sunderland 3: We were too hyped up, says Alan Pardew

Alan Pardew was in no mood to make excuses after his Newcastle United side were torn apart by Sunderland in Saturday’s Tyne-Wear derby.

Fabio Borini gave the Black Cats the lead from the spot in the 19th minute at St James’ Park after Vurnon Anita’s challenge on Phil Bardsley.

We have to look at ourselves and make sure we are strong between now and the end of the season

Alan Pardew

Adam Johnson then continued his fine form as he doubled his side’s advantage in the 23rd minute, before Jack Colback’s smart finish in the 80th minute wrapped up a memorable derby win for Gus Poyet’s men.

“The better team won, for sure,” said Pardew, whose side remain in eighth place. “We didn’t look our usual selves. Maybe we were too hyped up for it.

“We gave the ball away and we struggled. Though we created chances we didn’t look like we had the conviction to score. We have to look at ourselves and make sure we are strong between now and the end of the season.”

Meanwhile, Black Cats boss Poyet deflected praise on Johnson following the England international’s recent good form.

“If he continues to play like that, no doubt he can go to the World Cup and we will be safe from relegation,” said Poyet. “We were good in December, but something was missing. Now, he is creating the difference.

“He has not been more confident during his time at Sunderland. I say it’s not all about blaming the player. When you have a player of his quality, you have to play a certain way to take advantage.”