Newcastle Toons
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Toon Takeaways from Newcastle United’s disappointing loss at Watford

By Carson A Merk

WATFORD, ENGLAND - MAY 05: Andre Gray of Watford shoots and scores his side's second goal during the Premier League match between Watford and Newcastle United at Vicarage Road on May 5, 2018 in Watford, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
WATFORD, ENGLAND - MAY 05: Andre Gray of Watford shoots and scores his side's second goal during the Premier League match between Watford and Newcastle United at Vicarage Road on May 5, 2018 in Watford, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /
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Newcastle United didn’t show up until the second half, losing 2-1 at Watford.

On the road against Watford, Newcastle United got blitzed early going down 2-0 in the first half. They brought some effort in the second half to get one back, but they dropped their third straight match, 2-1 to Watford. 

Top Toons

Martin Dubravka: Despite giving up two goals, this was the best performance for Dubravka since arriving in January. He made massive saves early on to keep it 1-0 and not let the match get out of hand. Then, he stuffed Troy Deeney’s penalty and even made a follow up save at point-blank range.

Ayoze Perez: Lovely touch past the keeper for Newcastle United’s lone goal. It seems when the club has desperately needed a goal this season, the Spaniard comes up big.

Javier Manquillo: Getting a rare start, Manquillo played well. His cross to set up Ayoze’s goal was pinpoint accurate and he showed that he can fill in when needed.

Mediocre Magpies

Paul Dummett: One of the worst matches I’ve seen the usual steady left back play. His poor pass across the penalty area set up the first goal. He was beaten at the back post for goal #2 and committed a poor challenge in the area for a penalty.

Dwight Gayle: He had some chances, but per usual, came up empty for Newcastle United.

Jacob Murphy: While Manquillo seized his opportunity, Murphy’s play was a letdown. The winger was subbed off for Matt Ritchie in the second half.

Quick Kicks

-Truly the tale of two halves today. The club slept walk through the first 45 minutes before arriving ready to play after the break. Hopefully, the second half effort shows up moving forward.

-Dummett should sit next match. His performance was atrocious and you can easily play Manquillo and DeAndre Yedlin at fullback.

-Too often in the first half, the club just lofted a ball in the air going forward. They have no player that can win that ball consistently and it simply gave possession back to Watford.

-Kenedy has been a welcome addition and I hope he stays long term, but he needs to be more productive. He makes great plays but they rarely result in goals or assists for the Brazilian.

-Yedlin and Ritchie made positive impacts off the bench today.

Next: Will Gayle leave NUFC this summer?

What’s Next?

Newcastle United will hit the road to play Spurs at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday. The clubs met in the first match, which saw a Jonjo Shelvey sending off and a dangerous scissor tackle from Harry Kane that injured Florian Lejeune. Tottenham lost in stoppage time to West Brom today.