Newcastle started the new season with £52million midfielder Sandro Tonali straight into the starting XI with fellow summer signings Harvey Barnes and Tino Livramento on the bench. And it proved to be an inspired decision from Eddie Howe as the Italian midfielder found the net just six minutes into his Premier League debut, sliding the ball home from Anthony Gordon’s cross.
Villa quickly drew level after 11 minutes as another Premier League debutant Moussa Diaby turned in on the volley from close range.
But the frantic started to the game continued as Newcastle were back in front by the 16 minute mark as a well-worked free-kick routine was eventually turned in by Alexander Isak.
After playing out a 3-3 thriller in the Premier League Summer Series last month, we have another game on our hands.
Here are our half-time player ratings from the match so far...
9. Miguel Almiron - 7
Gave the ball away cheaply early on which allowed Villa to break. Pressed the Villa backline hard to keep them under pressure. Grew into the game after a slow start and made things really difficult for Villa after the break. | Getty Images
10. Anthony Gordon - 8
Made an impact from the start and did very well to set-up Tonali early on. A real outlet for The Magpies down the left and played a role in the third goal. Faded slightly after a really bright opening. Booked. | Getty Images
11. Alexander Isak - 9
Led the line well and posed a threat. Kept his cool in front of goal with an instinctive first-time finish. Showed real class to win the ball and dink it over Martinez in the second half to make it 3-1. Could have made it a hat-trick moments later but was denied by Martinez’ legs. | Getty Images
12. Callum Wilson - 7
On for Isak 68: Came on to net his fourth consecutive opening day goal for Newcastle. Missed a sitter of a chance to make it 5-1. | Getty Images