Rafa Benitez’s side managed to pull off another draw away from home as Newcastle United played out a dramatic 2-2 draw at the St. Mary’s to hold off a gritty Southampton side on Sunday. Isaac Hayden gave the visitors the lead just 20 minutes into the game as the Magpies managed to go into the first half with a lead.
However, Manolo Gabbiadini managed to put one past Newcastle just four minutes into the second half, to equalise. Ayoze Perez re-established his side’s lead just minutes later but Gabbiadini came to the rescue once again, converting from the spot, to give his side a point. Here are the player ratings for the Magpies in this tie:
Rob Elliot (7)
Was solid with his handling and clearances and could not have done much to stop either goal.
De Andre Yedlin (6)
Left a mark on almost every Southampton player with his crunch tackling, keeping his side of the backline safe for most game.
Jamaal Lascelles (7)
Extra-ordinary with his defensive duties as he won everything thrown at him and was rightly furious with his colleagues who gave away an equaliser, twice on the night.
Florian Lejeune (6)
Was solid decent the back for most of the game before he gave away a soft penalty but had a chance to redeem all three points, which he was unlucky to miss at the other end.
Javier Manquillo (6)
Stuck to his task well on the flank as he never gave the Southampton attackers time or space to run into near his area.
Matt Ritchie (8)
Was a constant threat for Southampton who failed to limit his crosses, which could have easily give Newcastle a couple of more goals.
Isaac Hayden (8)
Opened the scoring for the visitors and was energetic throughout the game, hurrying the Saints’ players all night in the middle of the park.
Jonjo Shelvey (6)
Had a couple of decent moments but is still far from his best as he still continues to build up some form in the top flight.
Christian Atsu (7)
His industry and attitude to never give up was a headache for Southampton before he was taken off, looking exhausted.
Ayoze Perez (9)
A possible man of the match display from the versatile attacker, who not only scored a goal but also created a number of chances to keep his side on the front foot.
Joselu (6)
Had a couple of chances he should have buried. Should do far better to justify his inclusion in the squad.
Substitutes
Mikel Merino (7)
Slotted in perfectly well coming on with half an hour to play and dictated the game in the middle of the park.
Dwight Gayle (6)
A shadow of his previous self, Gayle failed to create the urgency required for Newcastle to see off this game.
Jacob Murphy (6)
Came on with 10 minutes to play and did not have enough time to affect the scoreline.
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