A frustrating afternoon for Newcastle United, who were left to regret missed chances in the first half in a 1-0 defeat at Arsenal.

Here’s our marks out of 10 and comments on each player involved at the Emirates as our push for a top five finish moves to the final day of the 2024/25 season:

Starting 11

Pope (6) – Tremendous point blank save from Partey in the first half and could do nothing about the goal. Typical heart in mouth moments with the ball at his feet.

Murphy (6) – Was rarely seen in an attacking sense but showed his value with some astute defensive work at times. Was hooked after an hour.

Schar (6.5) – Looks comfortable in either formation and showed good pace tracking back to stop Martinelli. Had an opportunity late on but blasted the free kick into the wall

Botman (7) – Surprising to see him named to start and got through a solid hour. Showed what he is capable of in the first half with a great run and through ball which Tino should’ve done better with

Burn (6.5) – Not at his best today but still solid, covering that left channel with decent success when Livramento bombed on. Was denied a goal by a miraculous save from Raya.

Livramento (7) – Handled Saka really well and got forward on occasions but should’ve made more of a great position in the first half. Seemed to lack the confidence to back himself and looked for support.

Guimaraes (7.5) – Controlled the midfield in the first half and performed well in the second, despite a slight drop off after his outstanding opening 45. One of the better performers on the day and won his fair share of duels.

Tonali (7) – Sounding like a broken record but he covers so much ground and has to be the first name on the team sheet. Offers so much with his recovery runs and is always available to receive the ball.

Barnes (5.5) – Was denied by Raya in the first half and made a couple of half decent runs but was poor in the second half, typified by skying a great opportunity just before he went off.

Gordon (4) – Awful giveaway which led to the goal. Not for the first time his first touch has let him down but he gets away with it with his pace. Mistake aside, he didn’t do a whole lot right except a good one-two with Tino in that first half. Lucky to not be subbed.

Wilson (5) – Showed good strength to hold the ball up on occasions but never looked a threat to the Arsenal defence. Good to see him fit but it feels like the end is nigh for his Newcastle career.

Subs

Miley (6.5) – Showed some neat touches with his composure coming to the fore. Seems to be growing into his body too and is a good physical presence in the air.

Krafth (6) – Nervy moment which led to a yellow card just after coming on but was otherwise dependable. Every squad needs a Krafth.

Osula (5.5) – Showed his inexperience when he was caught on his heels on a counter attack but was more involved when shifted to the right. A lot of energy but not much in the way of end product

Willock (5) – Blazed a great opportunity high and wide. Showed glimpses but never looked likely to score. Very poor season.