Newcastle United’s first major cup final in 24 years started as a cagey affair with few real chances for either side in the opening half hour. Loris Karius, on his competitive Magpies debut, had a couple of simple saves to make but wasn’t tested until Casemiro found the net with a header after 33 minutes.
Marcus Rashford then doubled Man United’s lead shortly before half-time with an effort that nicked off Sven Botman on its way to finding the net.
That leaves Newcastle with a mountain to climb heading into the second half.
5. Dan Burn - 6
A little bit loose in possession at times. Headed a great opportunity wide just before half-time. | Getty Images
6. Bruno Guimaraes - 6
Blasted the ball over on the volley following Allan Saint-Maximin’s first half chance. Not the return to the side he would have been hoping for but it was still good to see him back. | Frank Reid
7. Sean Longstaff - 5
Worked hard as usual but struggled to get a real foothold in the game. Taken off at half-time. | AFP via Getty Images
8. Joelinton - 7
Battled well in the middle and remained reasonably tidy in possession. Saw a second half effort blocked. Booked. | AFP via Getty Images