Newcastle United: Toon Takeaways vs. Brighton

Newcastle United’s unbeaten run came to an end at the hands of Brighton.

After three straight wins, Newcastle United took a loss today against Brighton. The fellow promoted side scored the lone goal of the match shortly after halftime at the Amex.

Top Toons

Mikel Merino: The new Newcastle hero was quality again today. He trekked up and down the pitch, moved the ball, and created offense. His second ball effort on an early corner was one of the best chances for NUFC.

Merino’s footwork 😍
— NUFC Index (@NUFC_Index) September 24, 2017

DeAndre Yedlin: His speed is one of the great equalizers. He ran down Brighton wingers all match, closing down seemingly dangerous runs with his pace. The American fullback was also comfortable getting involved in the attack down the right side.

Chancel Mbemba: One of the biggest surprises of the season is how well Mbemba has played out of position at left back. He made some crucial interceptions today and his distribution was good, something that’s held him back in the past.

Mediocre Magpies

Ayoze Perez: In my opinion, the most poor performing player almost every match for the Magpies and today was no different. His work rate was good, but he can’t make the right pass or strike the ball well on goal. He also coughed up possession a few times today.

Joselu: If the striker’s confidence was low after last match, missing a sitter today won’t help. His finishing was suspect before arriving Tyneside and the past two matches have shined a light on that issue.

Quick Kicks

-Start Dwight Gayle next week. Joselu has cost the club goals the past two weeks and they need to stop that trend before it continues.

-Find someone to take over for Ayoze. He’s been poor and that’s a vital position for the club’s attack. Maybe Jacob Murphy can grab hold of that role. I’d even prefer Mohamed Diame at this point.

-Elliot’s kick save was wicked. He’s made some big saves and hasn’t allowed many soft goals.

-Shelvey came on in the second half and put his stamp on the match. I would love to see Shelvey start next to Merino going forward. That gives Newcastle two danger men that can spray the ball all over the pitch.

Pivotal Moment

Brighton’s goal in the 51st minute. Lazy defending in the box gave Tomer Hemed a chance to flip a shot home.

What’s Next?

Newcastle United will host Liverpool next Sunday at St. James’ Park. It will feature Rafa Benitez taking on his former club. The Reds defeated Leicester City 3-2 yesterday and they sit 3-2-1 on the season, allowing 11 goals.