What better way to celebrate Gary Rowell's birthday than looking back at one of his very best performances in red and white?
Rowell, who turns 60 today, struck his first league hat-trick on 24 February 1979 in an unforgettable Tyne-Wear derby win at St James’ Park, as Newcastle United were put to the sword.
It took just six minutes for the forward to open the scoring and he grabbed his second 19 minutes later, with the Magpies temporarily reducing the arrears following the restart.
But it didn’t take long for Rowell to retake centre stage with a spot kick completing his treble, and a majestic assist followed as Wayne Entwhistle completed the scoring.
Watch highlights from the game in the video below.
