A big chance wasted to beat a ‘big six’ rival at St James’ Park, as Newcastle threw away a 2-0 lead and superb start to draw 2-2 with Chelsea.
Here are our marks out of 10 and comments on each player involved in yesterday’s early kick-off.
Ramsdale (6) – Will be disappointed to have been beaten from the free kick, where his starting position has been questioned. Could’ve made himself bigger for the second goal if we’re nitpicking. On the plus side, his distribution continues to be a highlight, with a quick release to Elanga standing out.
Miley (8.5\*) – Earlier this season I asked for Miley to show more confidence and to believe in himself more. Well I got my wish! Playing in an unfamiliar right back position he was tremendous. Handled Garnacho well and his calmness in possession plus ability to play a forward pass is in contrast to Livramento. Proper talent.
Thiaw (6) – Won’t want to see the second goal again as he was outthought by Joao Pedro before stumbling which lead to the equaliser. Was otherwise rock solid, but his mistake has cost us two points.
Schar (6) – On his 34th birthday he seemed determined to get himself on the scoresheet with a first time volley the closest he came. Several other opportunities in promising positions were wasted, none more so than a free kick twenty yards out ending up high into the Gallowgate. Another cheap yellow card; his third in as many games now.
Hall (8) – With rumours of a hamstring strain keeping him out of the Carabao Cup tie, a game marking the rapid Pedro Neto had all the hallmarks of a more serious hamstring injury! He totally dominated the Portuguese international in the first half, winning every duel and driving us forward. Wasn’t quite the same beast in the second half, but he made it through and continues to show that he is a class act at left back.
Ramsey (7) – Was superb early on with his ability to break up plays on full display. Showed a bit more in possession too but unfortunately faded in the second half. Gave away the free kick which ultimately let Chelsea back into the game.
Guimaraes (7) – Solid captains knock from Bruno who nullified the threat of Palmer throughout. Was solid in possession and created a big chance for Barnes with a lovely pass. Out of possession, he faded as Chelsea cut our midfield open at will in the second half, but he was clearly reluctant to get another yellow card (he’s one away from a ban).
Tonali (6.5) – Better this week, but still some way off where we know he can be with some sloppy passing in the second half. Needs to get back to his best soon as we are a completely different beast when he’s on song.
Murphy (6) – He can go from whipping a pin point cross to misplacing a five yard pass quicker than any player in recent memory! His early cross led to the opening goal and looked to provide early service, however, was forced to check his cross on a number of occasions as Woltemade had dropped too deep. Wissa will be licking his lips watching early crosses being fizzed in. Deliveries are great, but much of his play in possession is frustrating.
Gordon (8) – Much better. Was a menace throughout and threatened every time he ran with the ball. Put in a delicious cross for the second goal and should’ve had another assist shortly after as Woltemade fluffed his lines. Was surprisingly hooked as part of a triple substitution which seemed like an odd decision at the time.
Woltemade (8) – Has gone someway towards exorcising the demons of the derby defeat with two poachers finishes in the first half. Could and probably should have had a hat trick but can be proud of his performance. Would really love to see him in tandem with Wissa.
Barnes (6) – Had a glorious opportunity late on to secure the win but unfortunately missed the target. Took up some great positions and always looks a threat.
Elanga (4) – Wasted a great opportunity when he took a shot on when he had teammates in acres of space. Prior to that he was ambling with the ball completely oblivious to the 4 Chelsea players surrounding him. Confidence is absolutely shot and looks incapable of dribbling past his opponent or picking out a teammate.
Wissa (5) – Made no impact as he is still trying to get some valuable minutes into his legs. Ran around a lot but barely had a kick.
Willock (N/A) – Only on for the last few minutes.