Newcastle United: Toon Takeaways from the win over Stoke

Despite some nervy moments, Newcastle United came away with a 2-1 victory over Stoke City.

Three straight victories in the Premier League for Newcastle United. After a slow, scoreless start to the year, the Magpies are rocking and rolling after their 2-1 win over Stoke City.

Top Toons

Matt Ritchie: Notched both assists for Newcastle today. His cross to Atsu led him perfectly on goal, only needing a calm touch to find the net. He was also quality on corners, finding Lascelles twice, one of which he finished.

Christian Atsu: The former Chelsea man scored his first Premier League goal. His finish on Ritchie’s cross was cool and controlled. He created chances with his pace and aggression all match. He continues to be a bright spot for the club.

Chancel Mbemba: After picking up a knock on international duty, Mbemba didn’t show any effects of poor fitness. He is still showcasing his skills out of position and had a perfect cross to Joselu, which he couldn’t finish.

Mediocre Magpies

Joselu: Countless missed opportunities for the striker. He had a chance to make his former club pay, but instead he made their decision to sell him look like the right move. Stay tuned for an article on this subject tomorrow here at NewcastleToons.com.

Quick Thoughts

More from Newcastle Toons

-Mikel Merino does a great job of not always forcing the long pass. He obviously has class with long lead passes, but he takes his time and is very composed in the midfield.

– Ayoze Perez continues to bring a lot of action to the match, but with little quality at the decisive moments. He frequently either makes the wrong decision on a pass or makes a poor touch to ruin a chance.

– Rob Elliot was quality today. He was quick off his line when he needed to be and made some reaction saves to keep Newcastle in the match. Possibly could have done more on Shaqiri’s goal.

– Always fun to see DeAndre Yedlin on the pitch. His speed is a game changer, on the attack and defense. The American fullback looked like his usual self today against Stoke, and that’s a good thing for Newcastle United.

– Despite the announcers being convinced the opposite direction, I think the referee would’ve been right to issue a penalty when Atsu was taken down in the box during the second half.

Pivotal Moment

Lascelles heading home the match winner. While it may have been closer to an own goal, Ritchie’s corner delivery was sublime and Lascelles rose up to force the action. It’s his second straight winner for Newcastle.

Next: Lascelles delivers another Newcastle United victory

What’s Next?

A trip to face fellow promotion side Brighton. The clubs battled to the final day for the Championship title last season, which Newcastle came away with. The Seagulls have one win on the season, while the Magpies currently sit fourth on the table.