---
title: "Taylor – Derby day goal changed my life"
canonical: "https://readnewcastle.com/2015/10/24/taylor-derby-day-goal-changed-life/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Evin Grant"
section: "Newcastle United News"
published: "2015-10-24T16:47:11Z"
modified: "2015-10-24T16:47:11Z"
---

# Taylor – Derby day goal changed my life

Former Newcastle United player Ryan Taylor says his crucial goal in the Wear-Tyne Derby in 2011 has ‘changed his life’.

Taylor, known for his passion and versatility, is still regarded as a fan favourite on Tyneside.

He scored a stunning free-kick in the Stadium of Light 4 years ago – and his goal proved to be the decider in the 1-0 win.

![Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Sport](https://media.readnewcastle.com/readnewcastle/sites/20/2015/10/140641030.jpg)

Taylor currently plies his trade for Hull City and has [said](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/ryan-taylor-wear-tyne-derby-10324897) that he often looks out for Newcastle’s results each week.

**Speaking about his famous goal, he** **said:**

> I remember that day as if it was yesterday. At the time I didn’t really know what the goal would mean for me in the future, and how it would play such a big role in the next few years that I was with Newcastle. It’s still such a fond memory.

**Taylor became an instant hit with the Toon faithful.**

> It certainly felt like \[I became a hero to the fans overnight\]. I’d played a lot before the derby and I was part of the team that came back up from the Championship. I’d been getting over one or two injuries prior to that game but I had played a lot of times and it was never easy playing for the club until after that goal.

![Michael Regan/Getty Images Sport](https://media.readnewcastle.com/readnewcastle/sites/20/2015/10/458054202.jpg)

Ryan had so many unfortunate injuries during his tenure at the club, but that didn’t stop the fans from getting behind him.

**Speaking about the love he received from the fans, Taylor said:**

> Maybe I just got more confident after it to be honest, because I scored the goal and then every time I played after that the Geordies were singing my name all the time.

> As a footballer there’s no better feeling than the fans singing your name, other than probably scoring a goal. It changed my life!

Taylor always gave 100% when he played for Newcastle and although he wasn’t blessed with talent, the fans appreciated his consistent displays of determination and passion.