Premier League: Steven Taylor admits Newcastle are at fault for Adam Johnson's late winner
Monday 22 December 2014 14:18, UK
Steven Taylor says Newcastle only have themselves to blame for Adam Johnson’s 90th-minute winner for Sunderland in the Tyne-Wear derby on Sunday.
The Magpies were left stunned at St James’ Park after failing to capitalise from a corner in the final moments of normal time, which led to the breakaway goal from Black Cats midfielder Johnson.
"We can't believe it,” said Taylor after the 1-0 defeat. “We were looking at the clock and thinking it would be a draw. We were just looking to see the game out.
"Maybe we got a bit carried away. Sometimes you have to shut the back door. It came from our own set-piece so we only have ourselves to blame.
"I just can't believe it's another season that we have been beaten."
Johnson, who fired Sunderland to their fourth successive win over their local rivals, skipped past two Newcastle players during his 60-yard dash across the pitch.
Taylor admitted Johnson was a talented player and praised him for his performance, but was left frustrated over Newcastle’s lack of cutting edge shown in front of goal.
“We had the chances. Everything was at the 'keeper - straight at him,” he said. “Two or three yards either side of him is a different ball game.
"We are gutted with that, but Adam Johnson is a top-class player and he proved that today."