Mueez Ajao
– Edinson Cavani came off the bench to score an equaliser for an out-of-sorts Manchester United and dash Newcastle’s hopes of a priceless second win of the Premier League season.
– The Uruguayan was introduced after an error-strewn and at times shambolically poor first half from the visitors, during which they conspired to partly gift Allan Saint-Maximin the opening goal.
– Cavani immediately added greater threat to a blunt attack, side-footing one effort wide before finding the net at the third time of asking with a poked shot from inside the box.
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– It was cruel on Newcastle, who defended with determination and counter-attacked with intensity to produce their finest display of the campaign at a vociferous St James’ Park.
– Had Saint-Maximin followed up his superb first-half run and finish with cleaner contact on a shot from point-blank range soon after the break, or Jacob Murphy’s late effort found net instead of post, the home side would likely have the victory they deserved.
– David de Gea must also take some credit courtesy of a number of superb saves, none better than the one-handed tip over to deny Miguel Almiron’s follow-up drive following the Murphy shot.
– The point is scant reward for the Magpies and leaves them 19th on 11 points, two from safety but having played more games than all their rivals – and four more than Burnley in 18th.
– Cavani’s goal ensured that Ralf Rangnick did not suffer a first loss as interim Red Devils boss, but the point does not help them hugely in their quest for a top-four spot.
– They have games in hand on those above them, but are seven points behind fourth-placed Arsenal.
– To add to Newcastle’s sense of injustice they also lost influential forwards Saint-Maximin and Callum Wilson to injury during the game.
