Second-half surge not enough for Newcastle United at Watford

Another loss for Newcastle United, but the second half was a positive.

Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez desperately wanted to avoid a third consecutive Premier League loss this weekend, facing Watford on Saturday afternoon. A disappointing first half saw great improvement in the final 45 minutes, but it was not enough to stop their current skid.

The Hornets secured a 2-1 victory at Vicarage Road, confirming their own Premier League survival in the process. United’s back-line was particularly suspect in their positioning early on, and Roberto Pereyra opened the scoring in the second minute after sharp passing allowed for plenty of space in the Newcastle penalty area.

Andre Gray added a second, followed by a Paul Dummett tackle leading to a chance from the spot for the hosts. Luckily for Benitez’s side, goalkeeper Martin Dubravka was able to save Troy Deeney’s effort and keep the match 2-0 at the half-time break.

The second half

There were not many reasons to feel confident in a Toon comeback, but the players certainly came out with more desire.

Related Story: Newcastle United's top nine to wear number nine

That desire was rewarded in the 55th minute thanks to a wonderful and skillful shot from Ayoze Perez. It was the Spanish forward’s fourth goal in the past six games.

Suddenly, the Toon Army was in full voice and the squad looked set to find an equaliser. Fantastic pressure on Watford led to chance after chance for the visitors.

Unfortunately for United fans, it was not to be. Jonjo Shelvey’s passes were a true weapon throughout the encounter, and late runs from DeAndre Yedlin opened up space. However, the match ended as a win for Watford.

The Magpies return to action quickly, travelling to play Tottenham on Wednesday evening at Wembley Stadium.

Next: NUFC should sign Chicharito this summer

Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez have struggled during their past three games, although there were promising sequences on Saturday.