Eddie Howe named a strong Newcastle line-up to face the La Liga side on Saturday afternoon with Nick Pope and Kieran Trippier starting after returning from the World Cup with England.
And it took the hosts just four minutes to find a breakthrough as Kieran Trippier’s cross wasn’t properly cleared as Jacob Murphy picked up the loose ball to find Sean Longstaff to smash Newcastle ahead from a tight angle.
Here are the half-time player ratings from the match so far...
9. Allan Saint-Maximin - 6
His pace caused Rayo trouble as he chased down through balls, though his decision making could have been slightly better. Photo: Ian MacNicol
10. Jacob Murphy - 6
Did well to set-up Longstaff as he got into some good areas in the attacking third. Skied a shot in the second half. Photo: George Wood
11. Chris Wood - 8
Put the ball in the net early on but was ruled out for offside. Often found himself unexpectedly but effectively dropping deep into the midfield and spraying the ball around well as Saint-Maximin, Murphy and Willock pushed forward. Led the line well and was rewarded for his efforts with a well-taken goal from the penalty spot in the second half. Photo: George Wood
12. Jay Turner-Cooke - n/a
On for Shelvey 77: Had a couple of neat touches as he tried to link things up in the attacking third. | Frank Reid