Fergie tips Reds to bounce back

MANCHESTER United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insisted there was no need for panic after seeing his title–chasers humbled at Newcastle last night.

The Magpies ensured that the Red Devils’ arch rivals Manchester City remain three points clear at the top of the Barclays Premier League by beating the champions 3–0 on Tyneside as the run of surprise results for the main contenders continued.

But Ferguson was taking a measured approach when asked about the impact of a potentially costly defeat. He said: "It's not a time to panic or anything like that. We have got the experience to cope with that.

"Losing a game at this time of the year... you don't want it, but it sometimes can happen — you have seen some of the results recently. But obviously, we need to get the show on the road in terms of the run–in, particularly in March and April."

Even with Wayne Rooney back from his exile and Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs also restored to the starting line–up, United were able to make little impression on a Newcastle side looking for only their second win in nine league games.

Striker Demba Ba blasted the home side ahead with a delicious 33rd–minute volley — his 15th goal of the season.

The home side were good value for their half–time lead, and there was further cause for celebration within two minutes of the restart, Yohan Cabaye curling home a superb free–kick off the underside of the bar.

Phil Jones headed into his own net in the final minute.

Ferguson added: "It was a marvellous hit on the volley, and the second one just after half–time was the killer for us. But we didn’t make enough of our possession on the ball anyway. It was one of those nights.”