Newcastle lost 2-1 away to Marseille in the Champions League after taking a first-half lead. Just six minutes into the match in France, Joe Willock passed the ball from the right to Sandro Tonali, who remained onside and crossed the penalty area to give the Magpies the lead.
Anthony Gordon provided the assist and the currently in-form Harvey Barnes slotted the ball into the top corner, much to the delight of 3,300 Newcastle supporters. However, the Magpies remained reeling after the interval as veteran former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored twice within five minutes to sink Newcastle. Express Sport rates Magpies players…
Newcastle vs Marseille player ratings
Nick Pope – 5
It was a reckless decision to rush in and make things easier for Aubameyang and Marseille in a game that required calm and composure.
Jacob Murphy – 5
He started well, but his abilities declined before he was replaced.
Malik Thiau – 7
He is one of the few players who can be proud after this match. Made some important tackles. He was named man of the match for the visiting team.
Fabian Schaal – 6
Things have become easier for Aubameyang. Although he fought bravely, Marseille’s speed posed a challenge for him.
Dan Byrne – 6
It was a disappointing return to the team. They had some shaky moments, received a yellow card and missed a chance to equalize.
Tino Librament – 6
It could have been a better performance if Timothy Weah had passed him, but fatigue has to be factored in given the full-back has just returned from injury. Daryl Bakora was near the halfway line when he spotted a gaping hole behind Aubameyang.
Joe Willock – 6
Although he started well and contributed to goals, his performance declined in the second half as Marseille took control.
Bruno Guimarães – 5
Possession was sloppy as they sometimes mistimed their passes.
Sandro Tonali – 7
He was outstanding among Newcastle’s players, passing with purpose.
Harvey Barnes – 6
He gave Newcastle a dream start but struggled to make the grade after that. He wasn’t the only one.
Anthony Gordon – 5
Although he started well, he dropped out of the game after Newcastle fell 2-1 behind.
