Newcastle United's seven-game unbeaten run in the Premier League came to an end as AFC Bournemouth eased to a 2-0 victory on the South Coast.
Eddie Howe named three changes from the 2-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in midweek. Lewis Miley was handed his first Premier League start in place of the suspended Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon came in for the injured Callum Wilson. Meanwhile, Tino Livramento dropped to the bench with Miguel Almiron recalled.
A flat start by the Magpies was compounded by the loss of Almiron in the 31st minute as Howe's injury list stretched to 11 players. Newcastle, for the first time this season, genuinely looked depleted and their an air of inevitability when Dominic Solanke broke the deadlock on the hour mark.
If Howe hoped that would spark some life into his side then he was left disappointed as Solanke doubled the hosts' lead 13 minutes later.
The defeat at the South Coast brought an end to Newcastle's nine-game unbeaten run in domestic competitions. They must now wait two weeks until after the international break to try and react when Chelsea visit St James' Park.
Here's our Newcastle United player ratings:
5. Fabian Schar - 4
Made it too easy for Solanke. Didn’t at all tight for the Bournemouth striker. His worst performance for a long, long time. | AFP via Getty Images
6. Lewis Hall - 5
Another tricky night for the 19-year-old. He’s started four games this season and in three of those, he’s been withdrawn at half-time. | AFP via Getty Images
7. Lewis Miley - 6
Showed flashes of composure on his first Premier League start. By far the best of United’s three-man midfield, although the bar was low. | AFP via Getty Images
8. Sean Longstaff - 4
Skied both of United’s biggest chances on the night. Lost all composers in the closing stages with several misplaced passes. Not his usual self, but the same can be said for many others. | AFP via Getty Images