Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle United had a shocking 1-2 away defeat against Sheffield Wednesday last week despite being on verge of an automatic promotion. They were set to host Leeds United last evening at St. James’ Park and eyed all three points in order to accelerate their Premier League return and get back to winning ways. Leeds United, on the other hand, were in desperate need to take something back from the game as the Peacocks were kept on toes by Sheffield Wednesday and Fulham who are enjoying a great run of form and capable of knocking them out from playoff aspirations. However, a late strike from Leeds talisman Chris Wood snatched three points away from Rafa’s men and they had to settle in for a 1-1 draw from what apparently looked like a comfortable win for the home side.
Newcastle United Players RATED And SLATED From Their Disappointing Draw Vs Leeds United
Karl Darlow: 6
Darlow made a couple of smart stops; could have done nothing against Chris Wood’s close range finish right at the end.
Vurnon Anita: 6
Anita had another solid defensive performance in a make-shift right back role. Was troubled by Pedraza initially, however, he calmed down the tempo using his experience and eventually took control over Leeds’ winger.
Chancel Mbemba: 6.5
Had a solid defensive display and came close to break the deadlock from a set-piece. Lacked concentration towards the end that resulted in a late equaliser.
Jamaal Lascelles: 7
Did well to contain Woods alongside his fellow defensive partner Mbemba. Kept on posting threats from set-pieces and finally managed to break the deadlock in the second half. Should have done better to defend the lead right at the end.
Paul Dummett: 6.5
Mostly concentrated on his defensive duties and whipped in a few decent crosses for his attackers. Had a balanced outing.
Jonjo Shelvey: 7
Was consistent, combative and worked tirelessly to control the game from the middle of the park. Kept Leeds’ defence on toes with box to box runs.
Issac Hayden: 6.5
Had a nervy start, but settled down quickly and used his physicality well against Bridcutt and Phillips. Was taken off towards the end to be replaced by Jack Colback.
Matt Ritchie: 6.5
Started the game brightly and was denied by Green and Leeds’ defence on a number of occasions. Played smart one-twos with Ayoze Perez but could not find the back of the net. Was replaced by Yedlin in closing minutes.
Yoan Gouffran: 7
Worked tirelessly and was denied by the woodwork late into the first half. Created chances, whipped in crosses but those lacked conversion.
Ayoze Perez: 6.5
Combined well with Mitrovic upfront despite starting the game behind the big Serbian. Came too close to double the lead minutes after Magpies’ opener. Was denied by magnificent Green. Came off to be replaced by Mo Diame towards the end.
Aleksander Mitrovic: 7.5
Played a big part in Newcastle’s goal as he used his physicality as well as aerial ability to terrify Leeds’ back-line. Was unlucky not to score despite flicking the ball over Green only to be kept out by Pontus Jansson minutes before Lascelles’ opener.
Substitutes:
Jack Colback: 4
His indiscipline resulted in a booking as well as free-kick in closing moments for bringing down Kemar Roofe, who was breaking into the Newcastle half. He had to suffer consequences as Chris Wood managed to find the back of the net to rob a routine victory.
DeAndre Yedlin: NA
Came too late to warrant a rating.
Mo Diame: NA
Came too late to warrant a rating.
