Sean Longstaff reacts to a memorable debut goal for Newcastle

The midfielder netted in tonight's 2-0 win over Dublin side St Patrick's Athletic.

Longstaff scored late in the first half at Richmond Park with a low shot.

And substitute Christian Atsu netted a second for Newcastle from the penalty spot in the drying minutes.

"It's something you dream of as a young kid," said 20-year-old Longstaff, who impressed on loan at Blackpool last season.

"You dream of playing for Newcastle, and I got to do that and top it off with a goal. I'm in a pretty lucky position, and I've really enjoyed tonight."

United manager Rafa Benitez had also handed defender Josef Yarney his debut, and there was a second senior appearance for winger Victor Fernandez, who was fielded in defence.

Newcastle, captained by forward Ayoze Perez in the absence of skipper Jamaal Lascelles, dominated a physical first half, but they struggled to create chances against a physical and spirited team.

And United, also without Jacob Murphy and Paul Dummett, didn't get their breakthrough until the 42nd minute, when Perez and Joselu combined well on a break forward. Joselu's crossed was half-cleared to Longstaff, whose low shot went in off the post.

Longstaff said: "Luckily it's came in, and I've just tried to hit it as quick as possible. Luckily for me, it's found the back of the net."

Benitez made nine changes for the second half – only Longstaff and Josef Yarney stayed on the pitch – and Kenedy and Jonjo Shelvey were among those players who got a second-half run-out.

Newcastle, backed by a large travelling following, had the better of the half, though Ciaran Clark almost scored scored an own goal past fellow substitute Matz Sels in the 72nd minute when he headed a cross backwards.

DeAndre Yedlin, presented with an empty net after a loose ball rolled to him, somehow shot over the bar, and Kenedy soon struck the crossbar with a fierce, dipping shot struck from outside the box, and had another effort saved.

Atsu doubled United's advantage with an 86th-minute penalty after Dwight Gayle was brought down in the box.