Papiss Cisse’s 11th goal of the season proved vital in a fairly tight fixture against Aston Villa yesterday. Here are the player ratings from the 1-0 win at St James’ Park:
Tim Krul – 7
Only forced to make three saves all game but Krul remained alert to earn his side their second clean sheet of the calender year, despite several lengthy spells of inactivity during the match, as a result of Newcastle’s dominance after the break.
Daryl Janmaat – 8
Brilliant performance all round for the Dutchman: a number of key interceptions – including one early on to prevent Sinclair from tapping in Benteke’s cross, several successful take ons and an assist for Papiss Cisse’s winner.
Mike Williamson – 7
Unlike last week, Williamson successfully muted the oppositions threat – this time in the shape of Belgian international Christian Benteke.
Fabricio Coloccini – 7
The captain made a number of blocks and interceptions to protect Newcastle’s clean sheet, including a vital block of Ashley Westwood’s pile driver in the second half.
Massadio Haidara – 6
A solid defensive performance from the left-back, who was stretchered off at the hour mark. Carver’s post-match comments confirmed it looked worse than it actually was.
Gabriel Obertan – 5
Much like the Stoke City game, a poor performance capped off by some questionable decision making from the Frenchman prevented his side extending their lead.
Mehdi Abeid – 6
Abeid stepped in, in Colback and Tiote’s absense, and duly delivered. His defensive work ethic was brilliant, allowing Sissoko to roam in more advanced areas of the field.
Moussa Sissoko – 6
The Frenchman was back to his best with a tireless performance. Sissoko, partnered by Abeid, prevented Villa from creating much down the center and even managed to prove a threat, especially in the second half as Newcastle dominated.
Sammy Ameobi – 5
Despite a decent defensive performance, Sammy failed to make any real impact, having failed to link up with Haidara, down the left flank.
Emmanuel Riviere – 6
Rusty but promising. The Frenchman spurned a good chance just before the break to extend Newcastle’s lead to 2-0, but the performance as a whole was promising.
Papiss Cisse – 7
Top drawer performance from the Senegal international, who’s 11th goal of the season secured the win for his side. Although he only bagged the one on the afternoon, Cisse remained a threat throughout and could have scored more, had things had gone his way.
Ryan Taylor – SUB
Replaced Haidara at the hour mark and put in a solid performance – with some significant defensive moments to keep Villa at bay, as well as causing a threat when going forward.
Ayoze Perez – SUB
The Spaniard hit the wood work only minutes after entering the fray and posed a threat for the remainder of the match.
Yoan Gouffran – SUB
Replaced Obertan with 10 minutes to go and failed to make any impact, much like his compatriot.
