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...
13. Harvey Barnes - 8
On for Gordon 68: Grabbed an assist on his debut. Should have gone himself after breaking through but decided to be unselfish as Wilson squandered the chance. Still got to enjoy a debut goal with a smart finish late on. | Getty Images
14. Jacob Murphy - n/a
On for Almiron 85: Played a smart ball through for Harvey Barnes to score late on. | Getty Images
15. Sean Longstaff - n/a
On for Guimaraes 85: Added legs for the closing stages. | Getty Images
