What Rayo Vallecano boss Andoni Iraola said about Newcastle United after friendly meeting

Rayo Vallecano boss Andoni Iraola has provided his thoughts on Newcastle United following the two clubs’ meeting at St James’ Park.

The Magpies beat the La Liga side 2-1 in front of 35,000 fans. Sean Longstaff opened the scoring four minutes before Chris Wood converted his penalty midway through the second-half.

Matt Targett netted an unfortunate own goal in the remaining quarter of an hour after attempting to clear a low cross into the area but United held out for a morale-boosting victory.

Providing his post-match verdict, Iraola said: “Well, I think it’s a game that has been very good for us at this point in the season because they’ve demanded a very high pace from us.

“It is a team that is third in the Premier League and well, I think we have had to catch up with them from above to be able to compete with them.

“They have very strong players who don’t stop running, the game has a very high physical demand. And well, I think I’m very happy, really.

“In the end, after we have reset all the teams, we don’t really know what our fitness is until we start competing. But I have good feelings.”

Eddie Howe’s men resume their competitive season on Tuesday night when they entertain Bournemouth in the last 16 of the Carabao Cup.

Vallecano tweeted after the game: “It has been a pleasure visiting you. Good luck this season, @NUFC!”