Supermac’s magnificent Newcastle United home debut

Newcastle United fans have witnessed many great strikers, but this was something truly unique.

For many footballers, pressure arrives in various forms. The position of striker is especially true, and any new signing is expected to score goals and score them as soon as possible. It can take time for this type of form to materialise, but that was not the case for Malcolm Macdonald on his home debut for Newcastle United.

It was August of 1971, and the Toon’s new attacker from Luton Town was set to face Liverpool at St. James’ Park. Fans were anticipating something special, but nobody could have predicted the events that unfolded. Macdonald netted a masterful hat-trick in a 3-2 win over the Reds.

The Toon Army were carried away with the emotion of it all, and a chant was formed perfectly for “Supermac” moving forward. “Supermac, superstar, how many goals have you scored so far?”

The 68-year-old speaks fondly of that game often, and described to The Chronicle how his instant connection with team-mates was a tremendous boost on the day.

“If you watch the footage of that game today, you can see the interplay between myself and the likes of Terry Hibbitt and John Tudor. There was an understanding there straight away.”

As if his three goals were not memorable enough, Macdonald left the game injured after a second-half collision with Liverpool goalkeeper Ray Clemence.

The start

Under the tutelage of manager Joe Harvey, the forward continued to thrive in the attack during the coming years.

Macdonald helped lead the Magpies to the FA Cup final in 1974, and consistently kept his goalscoring numbers up throughout his run with the Toon. The English international even captured the First Division’s Golden Boot for the 1975-76 campaign.

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For the Three Lions, his five goals in a 5-0 Wembley victory against Cyprus only added to the Supermac legend.

Macdonald’s goalscoring exploits continued when he departed the North East for Arsenal in 1976, and he retired from the professional game three years later.

So much was accomplished on the pitch throughout his journey, but a generation of supporters remember that magic that he brought more than 40 years ago against Liverpool.

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Newcastle United have been able to enjoy the work of several incredible strikers throughout their history. However, Supermac’s home debut will always remain as a stunning moment of excellence, skill and determination.