Bruno Guimaraes struck late to ensure Newcastle United recorded a vital win over Fulham in the Premier League.
Jacob Murphy put Newcastle United ahead by robbing Calvin Bassey of the ball before unleashing a fine finish past Bernd Leno.
Still, Eddie Howe‘s side failed to build on that and were poor on the ball throughout. By the time Sasa Lukic levelled the scoring, it had been coming and they looked destined for a disappointing result.
Guimaraes, however, stepped up and scored a late winner at St James’ Park. Newcastle were so sloppy and the fact they appear to raise their game for the Champions League compared to the perhaps more unfashionable Premier League games is a worry.
Here’s how Geordie Boot Boys rated the players.
Nick Pope – 7
Some important saves. Could have been a lot worse without him, which is something we’ve said a lot this season.
Kieran Trippier – 6
Far from his best. Playing so often amid a lack of viable alternatives appears to be catching up with him.
Malick Thiaw – 6
More composed than his defensive partner and really shone as Newcastle were pushing for a winner. Got his teammates out of trouble a few times, too.
Sven Botman – 6
Unusually sloppy on the ball, but wasn’t the only one. Subbed after taking a knock to the head.
Dan Burn – 7
Another decent showing but Lewis Hall cannot return quickly enough to afford him a rest at left-back. Did reasonably well up against Adama Traore, however.
Lewis Miley – 6
Not at his best and gave the ball away too many times.
Bruno Guimaraes – 8
Was energetic in the first half but should have scored in the second after putting a header from close range over the bar. Made up for it with a late winner to save Howe some difficult questions about his team’s application across competitions.
Joelinton – 7
Much better than he played against Brighton last time out, which is a big positive.
Jacob Murphy – 7
Did brilliantly for his goal but should have scored a second in the first half. Still looks like Newcastle’s best right-winger, however.
Nick Woltemade – 7
Held the ball up well at times but should have scored in the opening four minutes from close range. Brilliant hold up play to create the chance for Guimaraes and was unlucky that will now largely be forgotten.
Anthony Gordon – 7
Really positive display, if not quite at the levels of what he did against Benfica. Was a constant menace but the final ball was lacking.
Subs:
Sandro Tonali – 7
Harvey Barnes – 6
Fabian Schar – 6
William Osula – 7
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