Newcastle United played hosts to Burnley at St. James’ Park earlier tonight looking to grab all three points in front of their loyal home supporters. The Magpies began the match on the offensive and took the lead through Fabian Schar’s wonder goal in the 24th minute. Rafael Benitez’s men doubled their lead in the 34th minute when Sean Longstaff scored his first Premier League goal to give Newcastle a commanding two goal lead at half-time.
Both teams fought hard in the second half but couldn’t add to the goal tally as the match finished 2-0 in favour of the Magpies.
Let’s take a look at how each Newcastle player performed during the game against the Clarets.
GK: Martin Dubravka – 7/10
The Newcastle keeper made a world-class save to deny Ashley Barnes. However, he was largely untroubled in the second half on his way to keeping a clean sheet during the game.
RB: Javi Manquillo – 7.5/10
The Spaniard was a good outlet for the Magpies down the right flank. He also got an assist to show for his efforts.
CB: Fabian Schär – 8.5/10
He scored one of the goals of this campaign when he managed to find the back of the net from 25 yards out midway into the first half.
CB: Jamaal Lascelles – 7/10
The English defender did well to keep Chris Wood and Ashley Barnes quiet on the night.
CB: Florian Lejeune – 7/10
He made some crucial interceptions during the match and managed to keep a shut-out at the back.
LB: Matt Ritchie – 7/10
He played his part in the lead up to Longstaff’s goal when he delivered a dangerous cross into the box.
RM: Ayoze Pérez – 6/10
He couldn’t influence the game too much and never looked like he had a goal in him during the encounter.
CM: Isaac Hayden – 7/10
He won a lot of aerial duels and helped Newcastle dictate possession in midfield.
CM: Sean Longstaff – 8/10
Longstaff passed the ball quite accurately in the first half and scored his first goal for the Magpies. It was quite a memorable night for the Newcastle youngster!
LM: Miguel Almirón – 8/10
The South American sensation was a menace for the Burnley defenders and was a fantastic outlet down the left wing.
ST: Salomón Rondón – 6/10
He worked hard, but for once, his teammates scored the goals which eased the pressure off his shoulders.
Substitutes:
LB: Paul Dummett – 6/10
He did well to see out the win for the home side.
CM: Mohamed Diame – N/A
Diame didn’t have enough time to make an impact.
ST: Joselu – N/A
He came on to run the clock down for the Magpies.
