Steve Harper (6) - Went off in what looked like a serious injury. Didn't have much to do before he went off though.
James Perch (7) - A much more composed game from the young right back. I think his starting to settle in this league now but unfortunately for his sake, he got yet another booking and he'll miss the next game.
Mike Williamson (7) - There were a few moments where he looked a bit guilty of committing a foul in the box but other than that he was solid in the air and had a good game.
Fabricio Coloccini (7.5) - Another outstanding and composed performance by the centre back. Was very elegant on the ball and really has become very consistent as of late.
Jose Enrique (8) - Just like his teammate, he was very reliable and was very much involved in both defending and attacks. He put in a few fine crosses and linked up nicely with Ben Arfa.
Wayne Routledge (6.5) - He wasn't as involved as he normally is but he certainly contributed to the win. Nothing spectacular from him but he did his job.
Cheick Tiote (8) - What a debut from the man from the Ivory Coast. He looked solid, good on the ball and as if his been playing at Newcastle for many years. Formed a good partnership with Joey Barton.
Joey Barton (7.5) - He certainly seems to be getting back to the form that once made him an England international. He played some good balls on attack, particularly in the second half and was prepared to take some heavy tackles. His set pieces were a bit of a mixed bag though.
Hatem Ben Arfa (8.5) - This lad is quite special. He scored an absolute beauty, and looked so good on the ball. Always willing to take on his man and beat a player or three. He worked hard on defence also so although he comes with some baggage, on this display, he's the best player we've had for some time.
Kevin Nolan (7.5) - Initially I was thinking he should be dropped but after today I feel he still has a big role to play for us and as skipper too. He linked up nicely with the midfield and striker and just like the others he played his part in the win.
Andy Carroll (6.5) - Today wasn't his best day at the office but he worked hard and helped us out on defence a few times. Made one great block of note as well.
Substitutes
Tim Krul (7) - Considering it was his first real taste of Premier League football he did well. Never looked out of place at all.
Jonas Gutierrez (N/A) - Only had a few minutes in which it was hard for him to make an impact.
Man of the Match : Hatem Ben Arfa
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I only saw the 2nd half but thought Barton looked outstanding. Totally dominating against a team loaded with good midfielders; I'd have rated him a 9. Very promising debut from Tiote who reminded me a bit of Alex Song in that he looks endlessly talented but always a few better decisions away from a truly awesome performance. I think you're right about Ben Arfo too, he could be another Ginola/Robert type which would be a welcome breath of fresh air after several seasons of smith, butt, geremi, duff etc.
ReplyDeleteThanks for those comments. Tiote certainly looks a talent and just the player we needed while Barton seems to regaining some form. The reason I didn't give Barton a 9 was that his set pieces were a bit of a mixed bag. Good to see the comment though.
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