SIR BOBBY Robson last night blamed 'schoolground defending' for the goals that finally put paid to Newcastle's Champions League hopes.

An appalling error from Titus Bramble gifted Patrick Kluivert Barcelona's first goal, and then the defence allowed Brazilian Thiago Motta time to volley in and finish off the Magpies.

In the end the defeat had no effect on the Group A placings, with Inter Milan's 2-0 win in Leverkusen meaning the Italians join Barcelona in the last eight.

But a clearly angry Robson admitted he 'had a go' at his defence after the game for gifting the Catalan giants both goals.

"Those goals don't belong to St James' Park - they belong to the schoolground.

"I'm not complaining about Titus Bramble because he has been marvellous, but he has to learn.

"He's had a fine match but he was diliatory on the ball; he allowed Kluivert to steal a schoolboy goal from him.

"The second goal which nailed the coffin lid down on us, again I'm most unhappy about.

"It's a free kick, we defend too deep, we lack a little bit of leadership in terms of holding the line and picking certain people up, and we've paid for it.

"When you're two-nil down you're looking for crumbs and we just didn't get any tonight.''

Robson did however have words of comfort for his attacking players, especially Kieron Dyer who was still making runs into the Barca box in injury time.

Robson said: "I can't quibble about the players' efforts. I don't think I've ever seen a player run as much as Kieron Dyer tonight. Along with Jenas they gave two outstanding midfield displays.

"Craig Bellamy on another night could have scored four goals.

"We were the better side in the first half and they've stolen the game really.

"We just didn't score when we were on top. If we had got in front we would have won it.

"We can't win a match when we don't play so well - Barcelona can

"They won 2-0 and they weren't the best side. We've got to learn to do that.''

The Newcastle boss did however look forward to renewing acquaintances next season in the Champions League - the players and fans having enjoyed the taste of club football's top competition.

And he has also praised the response of the crowd despite seeing their dreams of a quarter-final spot dashed.

Robson said: "We've enjoyed the ride. We've paid the money got on the tram-car and enjoyed it.

"Now let's get back on.

"And I thought our crowd was magnificent. They supported the team all the way.

"They've saluted us at the end of the game and I think they've enjoyed the ride."