A more spirited second half show with at least some attacking intent showed this bunch have got some fight in them, but it still wasn’t enough to get a result against an out-of-form, out-of-sorts Leeds United side.
How did the 13 players used on the night perform at St James’s Park in the 2-1 defeat? Here Miles Starforth dishes out his player ratings, with some marginally improved marks...
1. Karl Darlow - 6
Exposed for both goals, kept busy by Leeds in both halves by a series of balls into the box. Photo: STU FORSTER
2. Jacob Murphy - 4
Gave the ball away for Raphinha’s goal on his return to the starting XI, didn't keep tabs on Harrison. Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY
3. Isaac Hayden - 6
Fielded out of position at right-back, stuck to his task and tried to get forward. Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY
4. Fabian Schar - 7
Needed treatment after hurting his shoulder early in the game, settled into the game and put in a very committed performance. Photo: LEE SMITH