Newcastle United Player’s Ratings: 8/10 ‘Powerhouse’ and ‘Unsung Hero’ 8/10 in 2-0 Carabao Cup win
Newcastle United secured a 2-0 victory over Chelsea at St James’ Park, advancing to the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup.
Facing Enzo Maresca’s team for the second time in just four days, manager Eddie Howe made five changes from the previous 2-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge.
Lloyd Kelly, Emil Krafth, Sean Longstaff, Joe Willock, and Anthony Gordon came in for Tino Livramento, Dan Burn, Bruno Guimaraes, Miguel Almiron, and Harvey Barnes. Chelsea, on the other hand, made a complete overhaul with 11 changes.
Newcastle started strong, pressing Chelsea high, which led to the opening goal. Joelinton and Sandro Tonali won possession, allowing Alexander Isak to score in the 23rd minute. Just three minutes later, a quick free-kick from Lewis Hall found Isak, whose deflected cross was flicked in by Willock, with the final touch credited to Axel Disasi.
Our writer Jordan Cronin was at St James’ Park, and here are his player ratings for Newcastle United:
Nick Pope – 6
Had some shaky moments but was reliable in shot-stopping, achieving his third clean sheet of the season.
Emil Krafth – 7
Though he was caught out a few times on the right, he demonstrated good recovery speed and was effective in winning second balls.
Fabian Schar – 7
Started the game poorly after receiving a yellow card and giving away a chance to Christopher Nkunku, but he improved as the match went on, remaining composed on the ball.
