Newcastle United registered their 3rd straight win at home with a 1-0 victory over Huddersfield Town. Ayoze Perez’s goal that handed them the victory saw The Magpies climb to 12th in the league and more importantly 7 points clear of the drop zone.
Newcastle had some glorious opportunities in the first half but were unable to capitalize on them. However, Huddersfield came back stronger in the second as they started asking questions of the Newcastle team. Mathias Jorgensen was unlucky in his headed attempt as it was cleared off the line. Ultimately the telling touch came from Ayoze Perez who tapped in from close range following some good work by Kenedy and Atsu.
Here are the player ratings for Newcastle United
Martin Dubravka: 7/10
The Slovakian shot-stopper has boosted this Newcastle squad immensely with his performances, being an authoritative figure between the sticks. Despite not having to make many saves, he commanded the box well that allowed Newcastle to be on their way.
DeAndre Yedlin: 8/10
His powerful running on the right flank gave the midfield an extra option always. Produced many crosses whilst also tracking back and sticking to his defensive duties.
Florian Lejeune: 8/10
A dominant performance from the Frenchman as his crunch tackling and aggression gave very little sight of goal to Huddersfield.
Jamaal Lascelles: 8/10
Much like his fellow centre-back, the Englishman was a dominant physical presence. There was no nonsense defending from him as he cleared the ball to good effect on a number of occasions.
Paul Dummett: 7.5/10
Yet another solid performance from the left back and he kept the likes of Elias Kachunga and Depoitre at bay.
Matt Ritchie: 7/10
As Newcastle’s main supplier off late, demanded the ball whenever Newcastle were in possession to create chances for his front-men. But it was not quite his day as he had very little effect in the attacking third.
Mohamed Diame: 8.5/10
Man of the Match performance by the ex-Hull City player. His passing was crisp in both his long and short balls. His 88% passing accuracy ensured that he didn’t waste many balls whilst also being a physical presence in the middle of midfield.
Jonjo Shelvey: 7/10
Did his part to dictate play and control the game from central midfield. Had a glorious opportunity to put the game to bed. Played a fantastic pass to Gayle from a dead ball only to see the latter’s attempt go wide.
Kenedy: 8/10
Looked a constant threat on the left wing causing all sorts of problems for the Huddersfield defenders. His telling contribution came late on in the game as his pass put it on a plate for Ayoze Perez to tap in and ensure the 1-0 victory.
Ayoze Perez: 7.5/10
Not the best game for Ayoze collectively but his touch ultimately decided the fate of the game. Failed to link-up with his midfielders and striker with a passing accuracy of 68%.
Dwight Gayle: 6/10
A night to forget for Dwight Gayle as he failed to show any sort of composure or finishing qualities needed from a striker. Missed a glorious chance in the first half to put Newcastle in the lead.
Substitutes:
Christian Atsu: 7/10
Came on for Matt Ritchie and showed great energy on the right wing. His good work led to the Newcastle goal in the final minutes of the game.
Islam Slimani: NA
Isaac Hayden: NA
