A brilliant night at St James’ Park and the perfect response to Saturday’s setback at Brighton, as we blew away Benfica in a 3-0 win in the UEFA Champions League.
Here are our marks out of 10 and comments on each player involved in last night’s vital victory…
Pope (8.5) – Aside from hoofing the ball out for a corner it was an assured display yet again from Pope, who played a big role at both ends! Well deserved clean sheet with two key stops in the first half to deny Lukebakio, but the highlight was a 65-yard assist for Barnes in the second half. Would love to see that long throw utilised more often! Also thought he was commanding from crosses as Benfica put a few dangerous balls into the box, which he punched or claimed well.
Trippier (7.5) – Linked up well with Murphy down the right and marshalled the defence well, but still seems on a different wavelength to Elanga. Wasn’t overly tested in defence but did most things well and didn’t give his man much space.
Thiaw (8) – A rock at the back and Rolls Royce player. The mistakes from the Brighton game have been left in the rear view mirror. Undroppable in this form, with his pace, presence and sharp passing from the back all superb.
Botman (8) – Another tremendous performance from the big Dutchman. So classy in possession but his reading of the game is improving with each performance. He reacts so quickly to danger and is so dominant in the air, winning so many duels.
Burn (7) – Struggled with the direct diagonal balls and the pace of Lukabakio but was a threat on set pieces all night and nearly scored a screamer in added time. Aside from one or two blips, he put in a solid shift out of position.
Miley (8) – A return to the form displayed in the Champions League a couple of years ago. Showed composure beyond his years in possession and broke up several attacking raids from Benfica. A mature and measured display, which felt key in Tonali’s absence. Should’ve scored early in the second half with a big headed chance, but hard to be too critical!
Guimaraes (8.5) – Went up a few gears with the added responsibility of being the main man in midfield. Showed some of his Brazilian form with the through ball in the lead up to the opening goal, and some of his silky touches and tricks were a joy to watch. Great captains knock.
Ramsey (7) – Was clearly undercooked but performed well. Had more highlights defensively than offensively but got some much needed minutes into the legs. A solid display in that Joelinton role.
Murphy (8) – Things always happen when he’s around and he claimed his customary assist. Flashed one first half shot just wide and drew a good save from Trubin in the second. Will expect to start this weekend. Impressive performance.
Gordon (9) – If only we could get England and Champions League Gordon in the Premier League! Superb performance and it’s hard to think of many better games from him. Caused the defence all kinds of problems with his direct running all game. Continued his fine scoring run in the UCL with the opening goal and set up Barnes for the third. Relentless and unplayable, especially in the second half.
Woltemade (8) – Didn’t get on the scoresheet but had a major influence on the game with his silky touches and amazing link up play. Has added a whole new dimension to our attack and the combinations will only improve as time goes on. That flick in the build up to Barnes’ second goal was just stunning from the big man!
Joelinton (7) – Put himself about and seemed like he had a point to prove after starting on the bench. Almost scored late on with a curling effort that was heading into the top corner.
Barnes (8.5) – The return of the clinical Barnes! Took both goals with aplomb and will be brimming with confidence.
Elanga (NR) – Came on for the final five minutes.
Willock (NR) – See above.
Osula (NR) – See above!