Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez left frustrated in home draw with Brighton

The year ends on a down note.

Even with a mid-week loss to Manchester City, Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez felt confident about Saturday’s home encounter with Brighton. Despite a strong line-up from the Spanish coach, the Magpies will look at this game as two points lost.

The match finished 0-0, and Newcastle will struggle to find many positives from the outing other than the clean sheet. The attack was ineffective for long stretches, although there were chances that should have been converted.

Team news was a boost for the fans, as Benitez chose a very promising team to face the Seagulls.

The plan started out well enough, with a high line putting plenty of pressure on the visitors. But Brighton would find their form, and the United defence had difficulties in their own half.

Dwight Gayle put in strong effort throughout, and there was a feeling that things could change for the better in the second half.

The final 45 minutes

Christian Atsu provided a wonderful moment soon after the half-time break, as an excellent cross found Gayle in the penalty area. A powerful header was bound for the back of the net, if not for Brighton goalkeeper Mat Ryan.

Substitutes did not have the desired effect also. Ayoze Perez, Jonjo Shelvey and Jacob Murphy did not make the impact that Benitez would have hoped for.

In a situation where a victory was a necessity, the match finished in a very unentertaining draw.

Again, like in many games this season, the work-rate and desire were present for Newcastle. However, with a lacklustre attack, wins are becoming elusive. The club now prepare to visit Stoke City on Monday afternoon.

Next: A new transfer plan at striker needed for Newcastle

Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez wanted to finish 2017 with three points. They unfortunately had to settle for one versus Brighton.