Newcastle strike the best says Xabi

Last updated : 21 September 2006 By Al Campbell
Alonso scored from inside his own half again last night and the midfielder believes his Newcastle strike was better than his previous 60 yard goal against Luton in last season's FA Cup third round.

"Yes, I think this was better. The Luton goal bounced a few times, this one went quite straight. The Luton one was left-footed - it was different - but I am quite happy to score the goal," said the Spaniard.

"At the beginning I was looking for the pass but the ref was in the way of me getting it to Stevie [Gerrard] properly so I looked up and saw the keeper off his line and so I thought I'd have a go for it. It was vital that he slipped, maybe if he hadn't he would have saved it.

"I love to practise it with the trainers. Many times they shout at me because I throw a lot of balls away but it is something I like and I will keep trying."