Newcastle United officially began their pre-season campaign with a 1-1 draw to National League side Gateshead.
Luke Supyk fired the hosts into an unlikely lead on 35 minutes. Throughout the contest, Newcastle dominated possession for large spells but struggled to find the killer touch in the final third.
Lewis Hall forced a Ben Willams own goal late on to spare United’s blushes - with Jacob Ramsey also denied a late clincher. A 7,000-strong crowd were treated to a first glimpse of new signings Sean Steur and Ewen Jaouen. Here are your NewcastleWorld player ratings - with a trip to Bristol City next up on Wednesday.
1. GK - Nick Pope - 5
Had little to do aside from the goal. While his defence napped, Pope was slow off his line to deal with the onrushing Supyk. There is a reason why the Magpies remain in the goalkeeper market. | Getty Images
2. Leo Shahar - 6
Someone who would have been keen to make an impact from the start. A solid - albeit unspectacular - game for the under-21s captain. | Getty Images
3. Alex Murphy - 5
Partnered Schar at the heart of defence and was hardly tested. Like the rest of the backline, it is hard to give him a high score as the goal was Gateshead's only clear-cut chance. | Getty Images
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4. Fabian Schar - 5
Conceded the free-kick for the goal. Could have scored a first-half header. Today was all about getting Schar minutes after a lengthy lay-off. | Getty Images