Johnny Brookes heads to Utilita Arena to witness a moment like no other – Newcastle United becoming the Carabao Cup Champions
70 years is a long time in football. 70 years is a long time full stop. Much has changed across all social strata, unrecognisable from the last time Newcastle United won a domestic trophy in 1955. One thing that hasn’t changed is the palpable sense of exultation, emotion and relief that the fans feel seeing the club they invest so much in, become champions.
Generations of fans have come and gone and not experienced the feeling of seeing those representing the badge, the city or the region lift a trophy. Thankfully that day has finally come. The “nearly men”, the “cursed club” and the eight straight final defeats all came to a cataclysmic end on Sunday, 16 March at Wembley. The club, the heartbeat of the city, the cathedral on the hill finally gave back to those who have loyally followed their heroes across the country year in, year out.
The lead up to Newcastle United Becoming the Carabao Cup Champions
I can vividly remember the sinking, gut-wrenching feelings of the cup finals of my youth. The feeling of being so close, but not quite getting there. It’s fair to say I entered the Utilita Arena more in hope than expectation, having been burned many times before. The layout had a giant screen set up centrally, essentially meaning almost anywhere you stand, you could see the game.
This ended up being necessary as I was still stuck in a queue to get a drink when the match started. Though on a day when Newcastle United finally broke a 70 year curse, I can allow for the hour long wait, and £7.50 pints of beer, most of which ended up thrown all over me when the goals went in. No one said it was easy to follow this team.
That being said, the set-up itself worked well. The screen was positioned very centrally, allowing for everyone to get a good view, and engendering a lively atmosphere. Fans were able to celebrate together with musical interludes that kept people engaged in the festivities throughout.
A city united
From the moment Dan Burn powered his header in the bottom corner, there was a feeling that perhaps this time was different. This time it was ours. When Alexander Isak scored with his trademark ice-cold composure, there was a Jungian change in the crowd’s consciousness. Instead of fear, anxiety and worry, there became an almost inevitability spreading.
The years of heartbreak were finally coming to an end. The final whistle saw scenes in the arena that I had resigned myself to never seeing. Strangers hugging strangers, people crying tears of joy, a city united behind the iconic black and white shirt. Being in a one-club city is different, supporting Newcastle United is different and it does mean more. The wait is finally over, Newcastle United Carabao Cup Champions 2025. HWTL.