Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United (10) celebrates with teammates
Newcastle United hit Qarabag for six in Azerbaijan to make the second leg of this play-off a formality.
The Magpies ran riot in Baku and chalked up a 5-0 scoreline before half-time to kill off the tie before the second leg at St James' Park.
Anthony Gordon was on fire as he grabbed four goals to shake up Qarabag with two penalties and two open play goals. After Gordon [had opened the scoring on three minutes it was followed by a Malick Thiaw header.](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/qarabag-vs-newcastle-united-live-33445361)
Gordon had his hat-trick by 33 minute mark and had a double brace in the bag by first half stoppage time. Qarabag pulled a goal back through Elvin Cafarquliyev to reduce arrears but Nick Pope blotted his copybook with a weak attempt to keep it out.
Jacob Murphy restored order with a fantastic curling strike to make it 6-1 after Harvey Barnes pass.
Here's how United fared in Baku:
**Nick Pope 6**
Dented his chance of a clean sheet after letting in soft consolation goal for Qarabag as he blotted his copybook. Was a spectator for long periods in the first half.
**Kieran Trippier 9**
Set the standards with a hand in one goal and an assist. Showed even at 4-0 that team spirit is vital.
**Malick Thiaw 9**
A pretty faultless performance with another goal to boot. Knocking them in like Shearer right now!
**Dan Burn 8**
A towering and powerful display. Qarabag were terrified of him.
**Lewis Hall 8**
A smooth and efficent display down the left.
**Sandro Tonali 8**
Continued good form and came close to scoring from a corner! A complete defensive midfielder.
**Joe Willock 7**
Another encouraging display as he played a part in the build-up to the first penalty award.
**Anthony Elanga 6**
A below par night in truth, especially as there were goals and assists up for grabs. Just 37 touches and one accurate cross.
**Nick Woltemade 9**
Technically brilliant with another polished display just behind the main striker. Sent Gordon darting forward to win a penalty.
**Harvey Barnes 8**
Caused Qarabag problems and weighed in with an assist for Murphy. Made way for Sean Neave to finally get his debut.
**Anthony Gordon 10**
Had walked away with the man of the match award just after the half-hour mark. Four goals says it all with two ice cool spot-kicks. Gordon came alive on Champions League night again to take his tally to 10 goals.
**Subs**
**Jacob Ramsey 7 (for Willock 68)**
**Wiiliam Osula 7 (for Gordon 68)**
**Jacob Murphy 8 (for Elanga 68)**
Smashed home a wonderful strike.
**Joelinton (for Trippier 77)**
**Sean Neave (for Barnes 87)**
**\*Subs must play 15 minutes to earn a mark**