Newcastle returned to Premier League action following the international break looking to pick up their first win since the opening day of the season as they hosted an unbeaten Brentford side at St James’ Park.
Both teams have had chances to take the lead in the first half with Bruno Guimaraes coming the closest with a back-post header that was saved by Mark Flekken in the Brentford goal.
Rico Henry was withdrawn in the first-half for Brentford due to injury.
Here are the half-time player ratings from the first half...
1. Nick Pope - 7
Stood tall early on to deny Aaron Hickey and was alert to head clear a ball over the top. Was rarely troubled and confident in goal this time out.
2. Kieran Trippier - 7
Put in a couple of teasing balls that didn’t come to anything. Volleyed over after another free-kick was half-cleared. Covered very well defensively.
3. Fabian Schar - 7
Saw a shot from distance deflect out for a corner. Got stuck in and read things well to keep a first clean sheet of the season.
4. Sven Botman - 7
Inconsistent distribution out from the back but remained fairly solid defensively.