For 65 minutes, the Magpies held out against the league leaders but fell apart when Reece James opened the scoring.
Indeed, James scored a brace as a penalty from Jorginho inflicted further relegation fears on Tyneside.
Our writer Jordan Cronin was at St James’s Park – and here’s how he rated each Newcastle player:
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9. Ryan Fraser - 5
Rarely used by Bruce but clearly liked by Jones. Fraser started brightly with a brilliant unmet low cross inside the opening two minutes but faded swiftly after that. Photo: George Wood
10. Allan Saint-Maximin - 5
A very quiet display from United’s talisman. Shown glimpses but Chelsea had him sussed, often putting three men around the Frenchman. Photo: Stu Forster
11. Callum Wilson - 6
Battled against Rudiger and Silva but needed more support up top. His only chance came from a Ritchie free-kick, which he headed over. Photo: Julian Finney
12. Miguel Almiron (on for Ryan Fraser, 66) - 6
Was introduced just after Chelsea scored the opener. As ever, a lot of running but nothing to show for it. Photo: Stu Forster