Newcastle United were absolutely dismal at the King Power Stadium last weekend, but they bounced back this week to beat Manchester United at St. James’ Park by 1-0. Rochdale and Alkmaar showed recently that this United team was there for the taking and Steve Bruce’s men achieved just that right before the international break.
The Magpies started strongly, and they looked sharp on the counter-attack. United had more of the ball, but the Toon looked alright without it for most parts. The score was level at half time.
The plan from Newcastle was clear; defend deep in numbers and spring into counter-attacks. Allan Sain-Maximin especially caught the eye with his speedy and mazy runs. The home team scored on the counter after some good work by Willems who found Matthew Longstaff on the edge of the box. The 19-year-old debutant had a terrific game. United brought some attacking options for the last half hour, but they were dismal as Dubravka was never stretched into making any significant saves in the last quarter of the game.
Here is how Bruce’s men fared in their deserved win against the fallen Manchester giants.
Martin Dubravka 7
Was hardly troubled by the visiting team. His ball-handling was on point.
Fabian Schar 8
Absolute colossus performance from the Swiss defender as he made some incredible blocks and interceptions in the second half. Almost nothing went past him and the defender put in an inspiring display at the back. Even came close to scoring earlier.
Jamaal Lascelles 7
Put in a decent display at the back. Won his duels and dealt with whatever came his way.
Ciaran Clark 7.5
Was a surprise inclusion for this tie but the experienced defender showed that he can still do a job as he hardly put a foot wrong throughout the game.
DeAndre Yedlin 7
Had a few good moments on the break as he used his pace to good effect. Defensively, he worked hard and did his job.
Jetro Willems 8
Has settled in really well since his arrival and looks like a real threat while going forward. Assisted the goal as he calmly found Longstaff’s run. Defended astutely and won his duels at the back.
Sean Longstaff 7
Gave one or two needless fouls but apart from that, did the nitty-gritty job well in midfield. Got stuck in and produced a dogged performance.
Matthew Longstaff 9
The younger brother outperformed the more experienced one. Covered almost every blade of grass and played with intensity and passion. Came close to scoring even in the first half with his long-range attempt. Produced a fizzing low shot for the goal in the 72nd minute which turned out to be the winner.
Miguel Almiron 7
His dive was shameful but apart from that, had a decent game as he got involved a lot more than his previous outings. Ran at the defence and looked threatening. Tracked back well throughout the game.
Allan Saint-Maximin 8
An absolute live wire and took United defenders on from the first minute. His pace and tricks were often too hot to handle. Played a part in the goal and Bruce has a gem of a player on his hand. Can improve on his final decision making.
Joelinton 6
Wasn’t able to get into the game much. Held up play well when required.
Substitutes
Andy Carroll 5
Had one tough headed chance which he missed. Won a few duels and kept the defenders occupied after coming on.
Christian Atsu N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Emil Krafth N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Ayush Chaurasia
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