The emotions could not have been more of a contrast.
Newcastle United’s 2021/22 season begun under the management of the under-fire Steve Bruce and with Mike Ashley still inflicting a lacklustre approach to ownership but has ended on something of a high after a stunning turnaround in fortunes.
The controversial PIF-led takeover was finally completed, Bruce was removed from his position and Eddie Howe came in like a breath of fresh air to guide the Magpies away from what looked like a certain relegation into the Championship.
With the five signings made in January now settled in, a number of existing squad members showing real signs of improvement and an exciting summer lying in wait, the future looks bright for the St James Park faithful.
Before a dramatic campaign is consigned to the history books, NewcastleWorld takes a look back at the words spoken by key figures at United and those from outside of the club throughout a season where everything changed on Tyneside.
37. Neville relishes St James Park once again!
“Newcastle looked really strong. The crowd before the game - you knew Arsenal would have to cope and Newcastle were at it. The whole club’s been freed from a fan point of view, complete transformation seven out of eight home games they’ve won. You can never dismiss the ownership questions, they are always going to be issues.” | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
38. Jordan...again!
Speaking on talkSPORT after the end of the season, Simon Jordan said of Newcastle’s successful battle against relegation: “The lot of them – Staveley, everybody at that football club, has done something that I didn’t think they’d do.” Photo: Steven Paston
39. Howe thanks the players after season-ending win
Following Sunday’s 2-1 win at Burnley, Howe reflected on talking to his squad after the final game of the season: “It was quite an emotional moment, actually. It was just a big thank you from me to them for everything they’ve given the team, the club.” Photo: Ian MacNicol