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.
13. Max Thompson - 5
Likewise with Hernes, had little to do once introduced. | Newcastle United
14. Harrison Ashby - 6
Teed Gordon up with a decent chance. Showed good energy when he came on. | AFP via Getty Images
15. Seung-Soo Park - 6.5
Showcased lovely footwork when he came on to draw a huge roar from the local fans. An eye-catching cameo. | Newcastle United