Newcastle United, under veteran Rafa Benitez, were thought to have a decent campaign since returning to the top tier of English football but struggled to register a run of favourable outcomes and dropped inside the relegation zone ahead of their St James’ Park outing against Premier League heavyweights Manchester United. United, under Jose Mourinho, are having a better league campaign compared to the previous one but his age-old rivalry with Benitez was redefined this afternoon as the Magpies put up a great show in order to stay up in the league and clinched a massive 1-0 win versus the Red Devils.
Below are the Newcastle United players rated for their incredible win against Manchester United.
Martin Dubravka: 8.5
A remarkable debut from the custodian, who made some stunning stops throughout the game, looked confident with his outing, punches, and clearances. Made a decisive save in closing seconds to keep hold of a well-deserved clean-sheet.
DeAndre Yedlin: 7
The American international was lively down the right-hand flank, had a tough job against Alexis Sanchez, but he stood up to the challenge and delivered a stellar display to grab a memorable win.
Jamaal Lascelles: 8
Another solid defensive display from the Englishman who led his back-line with great commitment and composure. Kept on making crucial blocks, tackles, and clearances. Never allowed Romelu Lukaku to dominate aerially.
Florian Lejeune: 7.5
Brought back in the lineup following Ciaran Clark’s injury absence and did well to partner Lascelles in the heart of Magpies defence. He, too, was strong aerially and delivered a comprehensive defensive display to secure a clean-sheet.
Paul Dummett: 6.5
struggled against Anthony Martial but used his experience to take the pressure off and maintained defensive discipline.
Mohamed Diame: 7.5
Kept on worrying the opponent midfield by closing down and breaking their movements in the middle of the park. Worked hard and kept on screening his defence all afternoon.
Jonjo Shelvey: 8
A majestic outing from the former Liverpool midfield general who kept on building movements on the counter with his excellent vision and passing traits. Tested De Gea with a long-range effort early in the game and his free-kick was eventually converted by Matt Ritchie to secure an exhilarating win.
Matt Ritchie: 7.5
Was not much impressive initially but scored the decisive goal in the second-half and sealed massive three points for the hosts.
Ayoze Perez: 7
Worked hard, won back possession many times and linked up beautifully with the fellow attackers from his ‘number 10’ role. Was taken off in closing seconds to be replaced by Isaac Hayden.
Kenedy: 6.5
The Chelsea loanee made a massive influence since joining the Magpies last month and the youngster troubled the Red Devils back-line with his tricky runs. Was taken off late in the game to be replaced by Christian Atsu.
Dwight Gayle: 7.5
Gayle was unlucky not to win a spot-kick despite being fouled by Chris Smalling inside the box. Assisted Matt Ritchie for his goal and made a couple of crucial blocks towards the end to deny Anthony Martial from scoring. Was taken off late in the game to be replaced by Joselu.
Substitutes
Joselu: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Christian Atsu: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Isaac Hayden: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
