Newcastle United ended their pre-season with a 1-0 defeat at home to Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach. The result was disappointing, the performance was definitely an improvement on last year – though that’s not saying much.
Gabriel Obertan caused problems throughout with his pace and got into dangerous positions on a number of occasions though his end product is woeful and he didn’t create many chances despite the good positions.
Gini Wijnaldum was impressive in midfield on his home debut, while Aleksandar Mitrovic and Moussa Sissoko both hit the woodwork from positions that they probably should have been finishing from.
So, heading into next weekend, there is certainly a bit of rustiness to shake off, but there are signs of improvement. Here are some photos from today’s game:
Steve McClaren, alongside Ian Cathro, watching on from the stands.
Jack Colback goes shoulder-to-shoulder with Brazilian forward Raffael.
Papiss Cisse applies some pressure to Swiss international Granit Xhaka early on.
Tony Jantschke and Papiss Cisse battle for an aerial ball.
Georginio Wijnaldum attempts to close down Granit Xhaka.
A top performance by Gabby, who used his pace to beat players constantly – though his end product was poor.
Daryl Janmaat on the ball, looking to play a cross to his Newcastle teammates.
Massadio Haidara is challenged for the ball.
New boy Chancel Mbemba applauds the Newcastle fans as Steve McClaren returns to the touchline.
Mbemba with some fancy footwork on his debut to beat Fabian Johnson.
Olivier Kemen and Aleksandar Mitrovic look on from the bench.
Moussa Sissoko arranges the wall ahead of Gladbach’s free-kick.
Aleksandar Mitrovic closes down Gladbach ‘keeper Yann Sommer.
Thorgan Hazard, the brother of Eden, celebrates scoring the winner at St James’ Park.
