WATCH: Rafa Benitez gets hero's welcome from Newcastle fans at his first home game

Newcastle United gave new manager Rafa Benitez a hero's welcome as he brought his team to St James's' Park for today's crunch derby with Sunderland.
Rafa Benitez arrives at St James's Park for his first home game as Newcastle manager.Rafa Benitez arrives at St James's Park for his first home game as Newcastle manager.
Rafa Benitez arrives at St James's Park for his first home game as Newcastle manager.

It was the Spaniard's first home game since he took over from sacked Steve McClaren - and a must-win game, with the threat of relegation hanging over both clubs.

Hundreds of fans crowded onto the stadium concourse to welcome the new boss and his players as they stepped off the team bus.