An improved Newcastle performance isn’t enough in a loss vs. Leeds
Newcastle United entered today’s match with a ten-match winless streak and some severely disappointing recent performances. But, the Magpies were much-improved in their matchup with Leeds United today. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to end the slump as they suffered a 2-1 defeat at St. James’ Park.
Leeds’ Raphinha found himself with too much space just inside the penalty area and converted the opening goal in the 17th minute. That 1-0 scoreline would hold through halftime.
In the second half, Newcastle United increased the intensity and found an equalizer before the hour mark. Jonjo Shelvey found Callum Wilson near the edge of the box and he played a lovely pass to the onrushing Miguel Almiron. The Paraguayan buried his chance, despite goalkeeper Illan Meslier getting a piece of the shot.
Jack Harrison, who we identified as the Player to Watch for Leeds, gave Marcelo Bielsa’s side another lead less than five minutes after Miggy’s goal. He was left unmarked on the left side of the box and was allowed plenty of time to perfectly strike the ball past Karl Darlow.
Steve Bruce’s side did well as they pushed for an equalizer with Allan Saint-Maximin providing a huge boost off the bench. He set up Jamal Lewis early in his appearance, but the left-back’s effort couldn’t find the net. Jamaal Lascelles, Jonjo Shelvey, and Fabian Schar also had close calls, but nobody could find the tying goal.
Despite outshooting Leeds 22-9 (5-2 on target), it was a sixth consecutive loss for Newcastle United, their longest such streak since 2015. They are now winless in their last eleven matches, nine of those in the Premier League.
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What’s Next?
It won’t get much easier for Newcastle United as they are set to face Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday. Carlo Ancelotti’s club currently sits 7th on the table and will take on Leicester City tomorrow.