But there was only one man of the match as Newcastle United beat Norwich City 6-2 at St James’ Park…
Rob Elliot – 6.5/10
A steady performance in the absence of Tim Krul. As was needed, Newcastle’s players took the onus off their stand-in goalkeeper by taking the game to Norwich.
Paul Dummett – 5/10
Produced the odd good delivery but was poor defensively, being replaced by Massadio Haidara in the second half.
Fabricio Coloccini – 5/10
Newcastle were brilliant going forward against Norwich but, at the back, were still a shambles, with their Argentine skipper not leading his back four.
Chancel Mbemba – 7/10
More of the same from the summer signing, who made several brilliant interceptions and tackles – despite the odd slip-up.
Daryl Janmaat – 6/10
Some flaws defensively and really should have done better for Norwich’s goals. But, going forward, the right-back produced some superb deliveries.
Cheick Tiote – 4/10
It is perhaps a legitimate defence that the 29-year-old hasn’t had much game time but he was poor from the off. Booked after a terrible tackle just minutes in, Tiote was hooked by Steve McClaren at half-time.
Jack Colback – 7/10
A typically solid midfield performance, with one vital block in particular leading to a goal for the Magpies.
Moussa Sissoko – 8/10
This was the Sissoko Newcastle fans had grown to love – superb going forward. And yet he was Jekyll & Hyde! Tracking back, Sissoko was terrible for both of Norwich’s goals. Against better teams, the midfield engine must do better in all areas.
Georginio Wijnaldum – 9/10
A four-goal haul: incredible. The Dutchman worked superbly with Sissoko and even cleared the ball off the line in the second half. Doesn’t get a 10 because of a lack of tracking back at times, similarly to his Newcastle team-mate.
Ayoze Perez – 7.5/10
The odd poor touch and slow reaction but, overall, worked very hard and deserved his goal during a strong attacking performance.
Aleksandar Mitrovic – 7.5/10
Like Perez, the Serb’s work-rate was notable. The Newcastle striker produced a poor challenge in the second half but also deserved his goal and is already an icon among the St James’ Park faithful.
Subsitutes
Massaido Haidara – 6.5/10
A definite improvement on Dummett and supporters are calling for him to start v Sunderland in next week’s Tyne-Wear derby.
Vurnon Anita – 6.5/10
Likewise, an improvement on the struggling Tiote.
Papiss Cisse was also brought on with minutes remaining.
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