'A step too far': Jason Tindall gave honest reflection after Newcastle Untied's winning streak was halted at Villa Park

Newcastle United were well below their usual levels at Villa Park on Saturday evening allowing Aston Villa to run rampant, winning 4-1.

The general consensus after the game was that the team were simply too tired after playing their third game in the space of a week.

While Jason Tindall had done his best to bring key players off early in the previous two games, there was a clear lethargy amongst the team that had started seven games in a row.

It wasn't just a case of not wanting to tinker with a winning formula as it was having few other options available, particularly in defence.

Jason Tindall admits that Saturday's game was perhaps a bit too much for his side

We said at full time that having three defenders in their 30s and expecting them to play high-intensity football thrice in a week was perhaps a bit too much for them, and while Jason Tindall didn't directly say the same, he certainly hinted at it in his post-match interview with Sky Sports.

"Full credit to the players, the effort they have put in this week is there for all to see, but maybe today was a step too far for us.

"I wouldn't say that it is a reality check. It was always going to be a tough game coming here to Villa Park. What a fantastic side they are with a great manager. We have had many setbacks but one thing about the players and the club is we stick together and come out fighting."

Newcastle host Ipswich next week with the Tractor Boys on the verge of relegation

Newcastle face Ipswich next week at St James' Park with the Tractor Boys just one point away from being confirmed as relegated, so a draw for West Ham next weekend would be enough to send Ipswich back to the Championship regardless of what Newcastle do to them.

Given the Sir Bobby Robson connection between the two clubs, we don't want to be the ones to send them packing, but after the bruising defeat at Aston Villa, a hefty win against Ipswich would really go a long way to putting that game behind us.

At the end of the day, we need the points; they don't, as their fate is pretty much sealed.