Newcastle United earned all three points after their trip to the Liberty Stadium on Sunday as they defeated Paul Clement’s Swansea City by a 0-1 score line. In what was a monumental outing from the defence of the Geordies, Swansea City were left frustrated as they failed to get going. Jamaal Lascelles banged the only goal of the game, which impliedly earned the visitors all three points and here are three talking points that could be pencilled from the game.
Benitez’s Defence Gelling Well
After bagging a clean sheet against West Ham United before the international break set in, in which the Magpies registered a thumping 3-0 win, their defence looked quite stable against the Swans as well. The backline was resolute and they read the offensive endeavours of the home side very well.
The star of the game was Lascelles, who scored the winning goal, and frankly speaking, it was more of a collective output for the side. Newcastle United did look shaky at the start of the season but as the days are progressing, the defenders are settling compactly and have not been allowing the opposition to breach them.
Sanches Failed In His Debut Game
Swansea City signed Portuguese sensation Renato Sanches on loan during the summer transfer window and without any shadow of a doubt, his debut with his new club was an underwhelming one. Sanches struggled to impose himself as a formidable figure during the game as he lost possession on 23 occasions.
Despite his glamorous CV, the youngster must have acclimatized himself by now to the scenario that the animosity which Premier League offers is humungous. After a year as a fringe player at Bayern Munich, he did lack match fitness and sharpness as well and has to do a lot better if he is desirous of proving his mettle this season.
Swansea City Lacked Intent
From what transpired during the game, it was evident that the Wales based club lacked the cutting edge to put the Toon on their back foot. Despite keeping the lion’s share of possession, Clement’s men were predictable and struggled to create ample amount of chances.
Swansea City’s players were comfortable whilst passing the ball to the easier options by being in their comfort zone and this really hindered their progress in the final third. More often than not, Tammy Abraham was seen being bereft of opportunities to pounce upon and no wonder why they failed to find the back of the net.
