An uninspiring, disjointed display that mirrored the off-field situation at St James’ Park. Newcastle United could be forgiven for not wanting the new campaign to start despite the off-season feeling like a state of perennial limbo.
In the sticky South Korean humidity, a team of K-League all stars put Eddie Howe’s men to the sword 1-0. This was not an embarrassment akin to the Australian annihilation 14 months ago, when Newcastle’s novices were smashed 8-0 Down Under.
However, when the Magpies, a club desperately needing a jolt of optimism, walked off the field in Seoul, negativity took centre stage once again. The image of Joe Willock being stretchered off in stoppage time only compounded that misery. While only a pre-season encounter, there were little crumbs of comfort here.
It would be unfair to lay in to Will Osula - who missed several second-half chances - seeing he is a striker who at least bothered to travel to Asia with his teammates. The two Anthonys - Gordon and Elanga - ran aimlessly in the final third.
The brightest spark? One of South Korea’s own, Seung-Soo Park, who earned a rapturous applause from the local crowd every time he got the ball. His youthful fearlessness was there to be seen - this was a lad desperate to make an impression.
Overall, one to forget. Only the diehard Asian fans who caught the Magpies in action for the first time will remember this one. For the rest of us, the bigger focus lies elsewhere. Here are your Newcastle United player ratings in full.
9. Anthony Gordon - 4
One decent move, coupled with many aimless runs into no man’s land. A trip to the barbers should suffice as Gordon has not been the same player since growing the locks. | Getty Images
10. Anthony Elanga - 4.5
Started off as Newcastle’s brightest spark but proved hit and miss throughout. Needs to work on his end product. | Getty Images
11. Will Osula - 5
Missed several second-half chances but gave his all. That is more than Newcastle’s other striker can say right now. | Getty Images
12. Travis Hernes - 5
Nothing major to report when he came on. | Getty Images