Toon Takeaways from Newcastle United’s 1-1 draw vs. Wolverhampton

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 27: Allan Saint-Maximin of Newcastle United battles for possession with Jonny Otto of Wolverhampton Wanderers during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Wolverhampton Wanderers at St. James Park on October 27, 2019 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 27: Allan Saint-Maximin of Newcastle United battles for possession with Jonny Otto of Wolverhampton Wanderers during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Wolverhampton Wanderers at St. James Park on October 27, 2019 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Newcastle United and Wolves played another close fixture, ending 1-1 at St. James’ Park.

Just like last season, Newcastle United and Wolves played a tightly-contested fixture at St. James’ Park. This one finished 1-1 with a Jamaal Lascelles’ first-half goal being countered by Jonny’s score in the 73rd minute.

Top Performers

Jamaal Lascelles: The captain made a smooth run into the area and blasted home the lone goal for the Magpies.

Allan Saint-Maximin: As has been the case for most of the season, the French winger made blazing runs down the flank and helped turned Newcastle’s deep defending into counter-attacking opportunities. He does need to start producing goals or assists, but his skill, pace, and aggressiveness help create danger for a side that often lacks it.

Federico Fernandez: His cross was perfect on Lascelles’ headed goal and he stepped in well for Fabian Schar.

Mediocre Magpies

Jetro Willems: The right side of Wolves’ attack featuring Adama Traore overran Willems, especially in the second half. He had a shot that narrowly missed at the other end, but his defending left much to be desired.

Joelinton: There wasn’t a whole lot going on for the Newcastle United lone striker and that’s the issue. I understand that he needs to be brought into the match at times, but as a record-breaking signing, you need to assert yourself.

Miguel Almiron: Another match, another chance squandered by Miggy. Shortly before Lascelles scored, the winger couldn’t bury a chance on the break.

Sean Longstaff: If Newcastle United had lost, his red card would’ve been devastating in hindsight. He’s a young player, but he needs to be smarter than going in that aggressively.

Quick Kicks

  • For the second straight season, Martin Dubravka not being able to handle a cross ended with a crucial second-half goal for Wolves. He needs to claim that ball or get a better punch on it.
  • Honestly, this is a nice little rivalry between Wolves and the Magpies. The last three matches between them in EPL play have finished with two draws and a 2-1 win for Wolves.
  • Newcastle United turned in another mismatched performance between the two halves. They had a little pep in their step in the first 45 minutes and chased the match and defended deep for the rest of it.
  • Speaking of the disappointing second half, Steve Bruce didn’t make his first change until Sean Longstaff was sent off. With your club lacking energy and conviction, why not switch things up earlier to energize the side?
  • It was a deserved red card for Longstaff. You can’t go in like that with both studs up and it was absolutely reckless.

What’s Next?

Newcastle United will travel to London Stadium to face West Ham. The Hammers finished level with Sheffield United yesterday and they sit in the top-ten on the table.