Newcastle United and Swansea City share a point each after a 1-1 showing at St. James’ Park. It turned out to be an end to end display towards the later stages of the game with both sides wasting valuable opportunities to win it.
Both goals came in the second half and Jordan Ayew broke the deadlock right on the hour mark by tucking in the rebound. Karl Darlow made the crucial first save from Ayew’s headers but could not direct away from the danger zone and Ghanaian made him pay for it.
The Swans could not hold onto the lead for long as the first touch of Joselu slotted in the equaliser from a tight angle. The Spaniard controlled the rebound from Ayoze Perez’s shot and somehow found the back of the net.
The game looked like it was balanced on the edge of a knife with neither side able to create clear chances but hungry to get the winner.
This is a huge blow for Newcastle who have not won a game at home since their 1-0 display against Crystal Palace on 21st October. Swansea are also guilty of not snatching away a win to give their survival hopes a significant boost. They are hosting Liverpool on Monday and will have their work cut out for them.
Newcastle United Players Rated And Slated
Karl Darlow – 7/10
Made the crucial last minute save, but could have dealt with Ayew’s header better in the second half. Did not have much to do in the opening 45 and was sharp when the opposition started pressurizing towards the second half.
DeAndre Yedlin – 6/10
His pace was a nightmare for Martin Olsson to handle and got beaten on multiple occasions. With very limited defensive responsibilities, the American made an important goal-line clearance to stop the Swans from getting the win in the last minute.
Jamaal Lascelles – 8/10
Did not allow Oliver McBurnie an inch of space in the box and swatted away contested balls from the backline. A very disciplined and dominating presence.
Ciaran Clark – 5/10
His marking was off today especially for Ayew’s goal and allowed the forward to drift off of him. Not the worst display and the 28-year-old is looking much better in recent weeks.
Paul Dummett – 6/10
Not at all rusty after the long spell on the sidelines and provided a lot going forward.
Jonjo Shelvey – 5/10
Very influential whenever he gets the ball but no end product. Maybe an exit is now imminent. Shelvey’s work ethic, however, is laudable.
Mohamed Diame – 5/10
A huge defensive presence around the central circle but disappeared into the game from the opening half.
Matt Ritchie – 6/10
A very mediocre display from a very talented Scotsman.
Ayoze Perez – 8/10
The best attacking threat for the Magpies as he constantly pestered the Swans defense line and almost earned himself a goal in the first half.
Christian Atsu – 5/10
Looked menacing in the open half otherwise poor.
Dwight Gayle – 4/10
A very energetic performance but with so many chances squandered the fans were left disappointed with 27-year-old today. He needs to shake it off before the game at Etihad next Saturday.
Substitutes:
Joselu – 7/10
Scored the all-important equaliser and did well to adjust to the pace of the game.
Mikel Merino – NA
