Few thoughts, they really kept Saka and in particular Martinelli much more quiet than usual. This is one match where Jesus's ability on the ball would've been extremely useful to break up the low block and drag their defenders around. Nketiah had a decent game but his limitations also showed a bit. Perfect example of why it would be great to be able to bring on an elite forward after 70 minutes.
Xhaka was showing signs of a return to type when things got niggly for 20 minutes in the first half and the ref—who had a nightmare—was giving out yellow cards willy-nilly. He really can't handle emotional strain too well.
I was really proud of how we rallied and ratcheted up the pressure as the match was closed out, despite that chance wasted by Xhaka. Thought we had the moral victory especially given how clear it was that a hard-edged, joyless Newcastle were revelling in the negative energy of the match and wasting time.
