Newcastle United played well enough to earn a draw against Brighton at the Amex Stadium yesterday.
Newcastle United entered this match with some momentum after claiming two straight victories, but they split the points with Brighton at the Amex Stadium yesterday. The 1-1 result was fair in the end. Ayoze Perez scored a cracking goal for Newcastle in the 18th minute and Pascal Gross scored the crucial equalizer for Brighton in the 75th minute.
Top Toons
Ayoze Perez: He only played for 32 minutes due to a hip injury, but he kept his hot streak going by scoring an impressive goal that gifted the Toon with a point on the road. Perez has scored 11 goals this season.
Christian Atsu: The Ghanian midfielder was in top form yesterday. He seemed unstoppable with the ball at his feet and he did well to find open players in the penalty area.
Paul Dummett: Dummett did well to frustrate Brighton’s attack, but he was also the catalyst for Newcastle’s goal. His involvement on both ends of the pitch helped the Toon secure a point.
Mediocre Magpies
Kenedy: The Brazilian youngster might have played his final game for the Toon yesterday. His impact on the game was minimal and he wasted a great chance that could have been the winner.
Salomon Rondon: Yes, Rondon found Perez for the goal, but he did nothing else all game. He applied some pressure off the ball, but never called for the ball to create chances offensively.
Quick Kicks
- The Magpies took control of the first half, but the second half belonged to Brighton.
- Both teams created nine chances and completed over 450 passes
- Isaac Hayden and Jonjo Shelvey looked good in central midfield. Hayden won several duels in the middle of the park and Shelvey’s passing was spot on all game.
- Newcastle should have been awarded a penalty in the 20th minute after Rondon was tripped from behind, but Mike Dean ignored the Toon’s appeals.
- Brighton might have secured their safety with this draw as they go four points clear of the drop zone with two games remaining on the schedule.
What’s Next?
The Magpies will host Liverpool at St. James’ Park next Saturday. Liverpool need three points to keep their title hopes alive, but Newcastle will look to spoil the party. The Reds will be strong favorites to win next weekend, but the Toon to put up a good fight.