Magpies striker Dwight Gayle opened the scoring after coming off the bench for the hosts, yet another substitute, Villa’s Ahmed Elmohamady, equalised seven minutes from time. Our Newcastle United reporter Miles Starforth has dished out his player ratings from the game – scroll down and flick through our picture gallery to see them:
9. Matt Ritchie - 6
Switched flanks with Saint-Maximin, and had United’s first shot on target in the 44th minute, left the field after receiving treatment. 6 Photo: Laurence Griffiths
10. Miguel Almiron - 5
Not an influence with the ball, but covered a lot of ground and worked hard for the team. 5 Photo: Pool
11. Joelinton - 5
Had a shot blocked before the break, well marked by Villa and replaced by Carroll. 5 Photo: Laurence Griffiths
12. Andy Carroll - 7
(for Joelinton, 64) Combined with Gayle for the goal, changed the game. 7 Photo: Laurence Griffiths