It felt like a game too far for Newcastle United last night, as we missed big chances and looked understandably fatigued in a 2-0 defeat to Man City.
Here are our marks out of 10 and comments on each player after a tough Carabao Cup semi-final first leg.
Pope (6) – Showed sharp reflexes to keep out a ricochet off Gordon but his complete inability to kick the ball directly led to an unnecessary throw in which ultimately ended up in the back of the net. Undeniably a great shot stopper but an upgrade is needed in the summer.
Miley (7.5) – Did well up against Doku who is a nightmare for experienced full backs never mind a 19 year old out of position. Assured on the ball again, playing some lovely balls down the line. Moved into midfield late on and took up some promising attacking positions.
Thiaw (7) – Solid performance up against the pace and physicality of Haaland. Seems to have put his horror show behind him which is timely as we’re down to the bare bones in defence!
Botman (7) – Signed a new deal and duly followed it up with a solid performance highlighted by a wonderful sliding tackle on a surging Semenyo. Tired late on and needs to be managed carefully to avoid further injuries.
Hall (8.5) – Speaking of injuries, we absolutely can not afford to lose Hall for any period of time. Put it an outstanding performance today with his composure on the ball, dribbling and defensive contributions really standing out. Gave his all and was my man of the match.
Joelinton (6.5) – Involved in plenty of needless with the City midfield which earned him his customary yellow card. Wasn’t as much of an influence in possession but did flash a header wide in the first half.
Guimaraes (5.5) – Rattled the post early in the second half but looked exhausted as the game wore on. Was booked for a cynical challenge as he just didn’t have the legs to chase Doku down. Not at his best.
Ramsey (6) – Was the recipient of an earful from Howe for his lax pressing but as has become the norm with JJ, he starts well with some sharp passing, then fades away before being substituted. Feels like he just needs a bit of good fortune to kick start his Newcastle career. Solid and slick, but we need a bit more.
Murphy (6.5) – Should have had an early assist with a great ball across to Wissa and followed that up with some decent crosses before succumbing to a hamstring injury. Has noticeably been favouring his hamstring in recent games and no shock to see him go off.
Gordon (5.5) – Delivered a great cross for Wissa but was largely anonymous for most of the game before being hooked. Switched off at the back post for the opening goal and was some way off his best.
Wissa (4) – Blazed a golden opportunity over the bar early on and forced a great save from Trafford in the second half but was otherwise very poor. It’s understandable it may take time to get up to speed following injury but how much longer will it take?
Barnes (5.5) – Delivered a good cross that was inches away from the head of Woltemade but was another one who seemed fatigued. Had very little impact.
Woltemade (4.5) – Worryingly looks short of confidence and form. Spurned a great opportunity on his left foot in the second half where he showed a complete lack of conviction to take the shot on first time. For someone of his size, he worryingly comes across as weak in duels and rarely wins headers.
Tonali (6.5) – Could’ve scored with his first touch but dragged his left foot shot wide of the post. Added some much needed energy to the midfield and picked up a booking along the way.
Elanga (5) – Made one promising cross field run but that was as good as it got unfortunately. Some heavy touches led to concession of possession and needs to rediscover something resembling his best form with the injury to Murphy.
Trippier (NR) – Replaced Bruno on 87 minutes. Booked for taking out Semenyo, who looked too quick and strong for him.
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