‘Best game in a Newcastle United shirt’: Player ratings as Magpies hold out to beat Brighton
Newcastle United opened up a seven-point advantage over the Premier League relegation zone with a 2-1 win against Brighton and Hove Albion.
While the Seagulls enjoyed the greater possession stats, Eddie Howe’s side were the more clinical.
Goals from Ryan Fraser and Fabian Schar inside the opening 15 minutes were enough for three points, although Lewis Dunk’s header on 55 minutes made it a nervy second-half.
That’s now eight games unbeaten for the Magpies, who are marching towards safety with a fifth win in six matches.
Here, our writer Jordan Cronin dishes out his player ratings from the victory at St James’ Park:
That’s now eight games unbeaten for the Magpies, who are marching towards safety with a fifth win in six matches.
5. Matt Targett - 7
Yet another strong showing from the on-loan Aston Villa left-back. Tariq Lamptey gave United a torrid afternoon on his last visit to St James’ Park but Targett played his part in keeping him quiet, hence his substitution midway through the second half.
6. Jonjo Shelvey - 6
A fairly anonymous showing in the midfield. Shelvey battled but struggled to live up to his previous display under Howe.
7. Joe Willock - 6
Similar to Shelvey, Willock had a quiet afternoon - if you compare to the recent standards he set. Only notable attacking involvement was his cross for Fraser, who brought Sanchez into action inside the opening two minutes.
8. Joelinton - 7
The best performer from the midfield three. Once again covered every blade of grass. Moved out to the right for the second game in a row as United saw out another massive three points.