Players in a huddle before the pre-season friendly match between Newcastle United and Atletico Madrid
Newcastle United signed off from pre-season by completing their win-less run in public friendly games - and the defensive issues that have haunted them all summer continued.
Newcastle had gone in level at the break after creating precious little in front of goal before they collapsed in the second half, albeit it against a top class Atletico Madrid outfit.
A sweeping break from the La Liga side allowed the Alex Baena time to take a touch and cross for Argentina star Julian Alvarez to [poke home with his right foot in the 50th minute at the Leazes End.](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-atletico-madrid-live-32233009)
It was 2-0 when Antoine Griezmann stabbed home after a bundling run from Alexander Sorloth as the two subs combined to compound Newcastle's misery on 63 minutes.
Here's how the Magpies rated against Atletico Madrid:
**Nick Pope 7**
Comfortable enough in the first half but can't do much about the way his defence left him totally exposed for two goals at the Leazes End. Should have done enough to start at Villa next week.
**Kieran Trippier 6**
A couple of key clearances in the first half and tested the keeper with a free-kick. Has one hand on the right-back slot next weekend.
**Jamaal Lascelles 6**
If Thiaw is to become a Newcastle player it is hard to see how the long serving centre-back gets minutes this season. Lost his cool in the second half as the game became a slog.
**Sven Botman 6**
A steady enough shift as he tries to recover from latest injury. Taken off at the break as a precaution.
**Tino Livramento 7**
A comfortable shift but not at his vintage best.
**Harrison Ashby 7**
This was an honest shift from a player who has struggled to make an impact on Tyneside. Put himself about and won a free-kick in the first half. Hard to see where he goes from here.
**Sandro Tonali 7**
Never stopped running and chasing the opposition.
**Joelinton 5**
Had his fair share of chances in the first half. On a day in which Newcastle needed to take their opportunities, the Brazilian wasted a bag full.
**Anthony Elanga 7**
Had fans off their seats with some speedy runs. One of the highlights of the afternoon.
**Anthony Gordon 6**
Fed off scraps in truth. Work-rate can't be faulted. Went off after pulling up with a late injury.
**Harvey Barnes 5**
Looked for the openings in the first half. Fizzled out after the break.
**Subs**
**Alex Murphy 6 (for Botman 46)**
**Alfie Harrison 7 (for Ashby 60)**
**Sean Neave (for Gordon 83)**
**Leo Shahar (for Trippier 87)**
**\*Subs must play 15 minutes to earn a mark**