Goals from Yoan Gouffran and Loic Remy gave Newcastle United fans something to cheer as they checked the momentum of Premier League title contenders Chelsea at St James' Park. If you haven't checked out my match report to get the full story of this famous Magpies win already then take this a friendly plug to do so! The question is who shone and who disappointed. Here are our player ratings:
Newcastle
Tim Krul: A more mature and sensible display compared to his performance against Manchester City in the Capital One Cup midweek. Had little to do, but kept out Willian in the second half. 6/10 Mathieu Debuchy: One of his best defensive displays in a Newcastle shirt. So often the criticism of Debuchy has been he is good going forward, but cannot defend. This was an all-action performance, punctuated by a heroic block to deny Samuel Eto'o. Earlier Debuchy played a lovely through-ball that gave Moussa Sissoko a chance. 7/10 Mike Williamson: Assured at the back and raised his game. Most of the clearances and blocks fell to other defenders, but Williamson did his claims no harm at all here. 6/10 Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa: Recovered from dodgy defending at early set pieces and lucky to get away with a handball when an Eto'o shot hit him on the floor. Marshalled Torres well, however. 5.5/10 Davide Santon: Importance clearances from Italian, who played under Mourinho at Inter Milan. The second Terry chance in particular. All in all a fine defensive display. 7/10 Click on next below for the Newcastle front six and substitutes.
Jamie Clark is a qualified Web Journalist after undergoing professional training at the University of Sheffield. A prolific and accredited sports writer, he also enjoys classic comedy, historic fiction, 80s music and heritage.
