Johnson Wants To Relive 'That Boro Atmosphere'

As 22,000-plus fans get set to pack the rebuilt Ashton Gate, Johnson wants to feel the stadium rocking, just as it was when Middlesbrough came to BS3 in the FA Cup nine years ago.

The head coach was in central midfield that day, as the team conceded twice inside the first 23 minutes to goals by Yakubu and Malcom Christie.

But the team, managed by Gary Johnson, rallied attacking the Atyeo Stand in the second half and duly equalised thanks to goals from Richard Keogh and Scott Murray.

Recalling the historic encounter, attended by 19,008 fans, Johnson said: “I’ll always remember that game and the atmosphere.

“It was just electric inside the place. We went 2-0 down but in that second half we had them penned in, basically defending their penalty area. We got it back to 2-2 and that was down to that atmosphere, they were basically sucking the ball in for us.

“The Newcastle players will be used to playing in that kind of atmosphere but hopefully for our players it’ll give them that extra five per cent.

“Saturday is geared up to be a great occasion, and also a proud day for the club as the stadium is fully opened.”