Newcastle threw away a first-half lead to lose 2-1 away at Marseille in the Champions League. The Magpies took the lead just six minutes into the game in France when Joe Willock passed the ball down the right flank to Sandro Tonali, who remained onside before slicing it across the penalty area.
Anthony Gordon helped it on before Harvey Barnes, who is currently in top form, nudged it into the corner of the net, sending the 3,300 Newcastle supporters into raptures. However, the Magpies were left reeling after the interval as veteran striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang formerly of Arsenal and Chelse ascored twice within five minutes, sinking Newcastle. Express Sport rates the Magpies’ players…
Newcastle player ratings vs Marseille
Nick Pope – 5
A reckless decision to rush out and make things easier for Aubameyang and Marseille at a time when the game required composure and level-headedness.
Jacob Murphy – 5
Started well but his effectiveness dwindled before he was substituted.
Malick Thiaw – 7
One of the few who can hold his head high after this match. Made some crucial tackles. He was the visitors’ man of the match.
Fabian Schar – 6
Made things easy for Aubameyang. Fought valiantly but the speed of Marseille proved challenging for him.
Dan Burn – 6
A disappointing return to the team. Had some uncertain moments, received a yellow card and missed an opportunity to equalise.
Tino Livramento – 6
Could have performed better when Timothy Weah bypassed him, but one must consider fatigue given that the full-back has just returned from injury. He was near the halfway line when Darryl Bakola spotted the gaping hole behind him to play in Aubameyang.
Joe Willock – 6
Started off brightly and contributed to the goal, but his performance dipped in the second half as Marseille took control.
Bruno Guimaraes – 5
His possession was sloppy with several mis-timed passes.
Sandro Tonali – 7
He stood out among Newcastle’s players, passing with intent.
Harvey Barnes – 6
He gave Newcastle a dream start but then struggled to make a mark. He wasn’t the only one.
Anthony Gordon – 5
Began well but vanished from the game after Newcastle fell behind 2-1.