Newcastle United continued their amazing run of form, as they register a stunning victory against Arsenal. The Magpies, currently sitting tenth in the Premier League table, have been in exceptional form of late, winning five of their last seven Premier League matches, including this one. The win against Arsenal further solidifies their position in mid-table.
Arsenal, on the other hand, will now have to turn their attention to the Europa League, following a disappointing defeat to Newcastle. Their hopes of pipping Chelsea for the fifth spot is all but shattered, meaning the Gunners will be keen to win the tie against Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Europa League semi-finals.
Here are the Newcastle United players rated in their exceptional win over the North-London giants.
Martin Dubravka (7.5/10): Did well to keep his composure even though Arsenal pillaged the Newcastle defence, mustering 15 shots on goal. The Slovak continues his impressive run of form since joining Premier League earlier this year.
DeAndre Yedlin (8/10): The American international was industrious in defence, registering the assist for Perez’s equaliser whilst making some key interceptions and tackles throughout the course of the game.
Jamaal Lascelles (8/10): Lead the defence by example, thanks to some brilliant tackles and man-marking. The Newcastle captain continues to impress even against Premier League top-six. It would be interesting to see if he gets a call-up from Garry Southgate for the final string of friendlies before the World Cup this summer.
Florian Lejeune (7.5/10): Partnered well alongside Jamaal Lascelles in central defence. Aside from his crucial block to deny Alex Iwobi, the Frenchman also made a couple of key interceptions to help his side preserve their lead over Arsenal.
Paul Dummett (8/10): One of the most impressive Newcastle players in the second half of the season, Paul Dummett’s presence was important as Newcastle completely nullified Arsenal on the left-hand side.
Kenedy (8/10): The Chelsea outcast continues to impress since leaving Stamford Bridge earlier this year on a loan deal. In fact, the Brazilian has also emerged as the latest target for Arsenal and his strong performance this evening could further tempt the Gunners to go all out for the youngster in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Mo Diame (8.5/10): Diame’s presence in midfield was vital as the home side prevented the likes of Granit Xhaka and Mohamed Elneny in making a big impression this evening. The 30-year-old was an absolute rock in midfield, often putting up important tackles and interceptions in key moments of the match.
Jonjo Shelvey (8/10): Newcastle United have been revitalised with the return of Jonjo Shelvey. The former Liverpool talent once again showed what he’s capable of putting up a remarkable performance against the Gunners.
Matt Ritchie (8.5/10): By far the most lethal winger Newcastle have, Matt Ritchie once again showed his ability to perform against big clubs as he not just scored the winner but also showed terrific tenacity throughout the course of the game.
Ayoze Perez (9/10): Perez’s stunning form was the main difference between the two sides this evening. Aside from scoring the equaliser in the first half, the Spaniard also assisted the all-important winning goal by Matt Ritchie.
Dwight Gayle (6.5/10): Failed to make much of an impact and was rightly taken off just after the hour mark.
Substitutes
Islam Slimani (7/10): The Algerian star striker is finally starting to return to fitness as he enjoyed some energetic 27-28 minutes after coming on for Dwight Gayle in the second half.
Joselu (NA): Was introduced late in place of Perez.
Jacob Murphy (NA): Came on for Matt Ritchie with only a few minutes remaining on the clock.
