Newcastle United had fans roaring with approval as Aston Villa were well beaten in the final game of 2024 at St James’ Park.
The Magpies went ahead with just 89 seconds on the clock after Sandro Tonali won the ball in midfield and sent Joelinton storming forward. The Brazil international then fed Anthony Gordon who swept home and unleashed a superb effort past Emiliano Martinez.
Newcastle doubled the lead in the second half after Bruno Guimaraes slipped in Jacob Murphy who crossed for Alexander Isak to tap home. Joelinton then jinked through after cashing in on a loose ball in stoppage time and the Brazilian was one of many contenders for man of the match.
Here’s how United rated overall:
Martin Dubravka 8
Some smart saves and a clean sheet. Fantastic stop to deny Lucas Digne from a free-kick.
Kieran Trippier 8
Back in from the start and conducted play from the back like an old master.
Fabian Schar 8
Looked fired up from the start and almost grabbed a goal from a set-play in the first half.
Dan Burn 8
Quietly got on with his work with six big clearances. Sven Botman has a battle on his hands to win a place.
Lewis Hall 8
Dominated down the left-hand side. Clipped in some fine crosses.
Joelinton 10
A huge presence after returning from a boot in the head and a suspension. Won battles in the air, weighed in with an assist and capped the game with a goal his performance deserved.
Bruno Guimaraes 9
Some fantastic touches as he continues to grow into the role of captain and gets better by the week. Denied a goal after a handball call.
Sandro Tonali 9
Sparkled like a festive wine! Sprayed the ball around for fun and won the ball majestically to help set up the opener. Just pipped for man of the match by Joelinton,.
Jacob Murphy 8
A good all round display with an assist thrown in. Unlucky to clip the bar.
Anthony Gordon 9
Signed off at SJP with a wonder goal. Had Villa under the cosh all afternoon.
Alexander Isak 8
Another goal for the tally. A constant threat.
Subs
Matt Targett (for Trippier 78)
Joe Willock (for Gordon 78)
Harvey Barnes (for Murphy 78)
Lewis Miley (for Bruno 90)
Will Osula (for Isak 90)
*Subs must play 15 minutes to earn a mark
View news Source: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/newcastle-united-player-ratings-1010-30659763
