Newcastle continued their poor form at the venue with another disappointing defeat at the Amex Stadium. Despite having a fresh lineup of players, manager Eddie Howe started Sandro Tonali, Joelinton and Bruno Guimarães, who had just returned from international duty.
The Magpies failed to register a single shot on target in the first half, leaving much to be desired from the services of tower striker Nick Woltemade. It seemed inevitable when Brighton broke the deadlock after wasting a promising chance given to Bruno.
Danny Welbeck’s opening goal was a poor one to concede from a team perspective as Waltemaid was unable to put pressure on Lewis Dunk before the ball flowed into midfield. Georginio Rutter’s pass then separated Malik Thiau and Sven Botman, allowing the former England forward to delicately lift the ball over goalkeeper Nick Pope.
Despite Woltemade’s deft backheel to equalize with 14 minutes left, Newcastle conceded a second goal when Welbeck went free and brought home the winner.
Here’s how the Thun army fared on the south coast…
Nick Pope: 7
Made some important saves to keep Newcastle in the game.
Kieran Trippier: 7
He maintained the flow of play and contributed to the tying goal.
Malik Thiau: 6
Made some important interventions but was caught on both goals.
Sven Botman: 5
I watched as Welbeck scored two goals. Off-pace.
Dan Byrne: 7
Stepped up and looked like the strongest of the international stars on display.
Joelinton: 6
Even though he looked tired, his body clock indicated that it was probably nearing midnight.
Sandro Tonali 6
Despite running through the smoke, he managed to make 55 touches.
Bruno Guimarães 7
He remained on the pitch after a lackluster first half. He played an important role in the equalizing goal, but then lost concentration when Welbeck scored the winning goal.
anthony gordon 7
I tried my best. It produced several threatening moments before catching its breath.
Anthony Elanga 5
To be honest, it was a pretty dismal performance. He had just 20 touches and only one cross that didn’t go his way.
It looks like you lack confidence.
nick waltemade 8
The first half was disappointing, but once the service improved, they showed their true potential. They scoff at his £69m fee.
substitute
Lewis Miley 7 (for Joelinton 46)
He made a noticeable impact with his assists.
Jacob Murphy 6 (for Elanga 46)
It caused problems, but it opened up two great opportunities.
Harvey Barnes 6 (for Gordon 69)
Couldn’t create enough trouble.
Jacob Ramsey 6 (for Tonali 69)
Although he has returned from injury, he is not considered fit enough to start.
