Anthony Gordon will get the credit but 56-touch star was an unsung hero for Newcastle United vs Man City
Sean Fisher
3 – 4 minutes
Newcastle United put on an emphatic display against Manchester City on Saturday afternoon.
Until Saturday, the story of the season had been Newcastle United picking up results despite not playing well.
However, after losing their unbeaten start to the season with an “awful” defeat to Fulham last week, Newcastle bounced back in style with a great performance against the reigning Premier League champions.
Eddie Howe‘s side pushed forward from the very first kick of the ball and starved City of time and space. The visitors took the lead against the run of play through Josko Gvardiol, but it did not discourage Newcastle’s press.
Anthony Gordon was superb on the day and earned Newcastle a penalty in the second half which he calmly slotted home. The Magpies pushed on to find a winner but Newcastle ended up sharing the points with City.
Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United (10) celebrates with teammates after scoring Newcastle’s opening goal during the Premier League match between Ne…
Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images
Anthony Gordon stars vs Manchester City
Gordon will understandably hog the headlines after an incredible performance at St James’ Park.
The 23-year-old winger had already been a hot topic after it was revealed that Gordon is set to sign a six-year contract with Newcastle United.
With his transfer speculation now over, he proved that his head and heart are with Newcastle with a spirited display.
Gordon started up front in place of Alexander Isak who is out injured with a toe issue. He led the press superbly and Howe is now confident Gordon is returning to peak fitness.
After earning and scoring the penalty just days after extending his contract at Newcastle it is clear that Gordon is going to be considered the star of the show, but one Newcastle defender also deserves credit.
Lewis Hall was an unsung hero vs Manchester City
Heading into Saturday’s clash, City were buoyant from their last-minute equaliser against Arsenal and they also could rely on Erling Haaland up front.
Haaland had scored in every game so far this season and netted 10 goals in five matches.
However, Newcastle’s defence shut down Haaland and starved him of chances. Every player across the back line was impressive, but Lewis Hall in particular deserves a spotlight of his own.
READ MORE: Eddie Howe now names the strongest position in his squad at Newcastle
The 20-year-old started at left-back and was tasked with keeping Bernardo Silva quiet. Hall did his job superbly and ended the match having only been dribbled past once in 90 minutes.
He was also very composed and creative in possession with 56 touches, one key pass and a 100 percent dribble success rate.
It was not the kind of performance that will perhaps catch attention, but Newcastle’s £28m man was incredible and cemented the left-back position as his own moving forward.
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