How we rated the Irons in Newcastle

Hugh hands out the marks on a special afternoon

Fabianski: What a great signing – several top saves, parries and punches and really cominating in the areas that count. Unlike many not afraid to leave his line 7

Zabaleta: Some dodgy moments early on but grew into it and always providing an outlet offensively and tight defensively. 6

Diop: Same as ever – dominant for the most part and well in advance of his tender years. Love watching the bloke 8

Balbuena: Maybe he has suffered a little in Diop’s shadow but again a great performance in a partnership which looks made to last for a long time to come 8

Cresswell: Was substituted in second half with what may be a hammie which was seriously unfortunate if its the case because he was having his best game for some months 7

Noble: The usual mixed bag. Energetic but those stray passes can so often lead to trouble. He got away with it today 5

Rice: We are getting used to his high level game and are disappointed when one pass goes awry as it did with Anderson looking for a free run on goal but the usual excellent performance by and large 8

Snodgrass: Fabulous assist for Chicharito’s first and always at the heart of things making it tick. Top performance 8

Anderson: He’s getting the drift of PL football and is showing himself as  master of the disguised pass. He also gave that great feeling that missing was not an option for the third goal 8.5.

Chicharito: Could ask no more of the man. What a comeback. Two goals, great passing, terrific off the ball running. The job’s your’s son 8.5

Arnie: Had a couple of chances which went begging and was finally taken off after 70 mins or so. So wholehearted but not at his very best today 7

Subs:

Obiang: Sorry didn’t really notice him 4

Masuaku: Gave away a dangerous free kick 20 yards out with a sloppy and untidy challenge but defended reasonably okay after that and got forward towards the end. 4

Wilshere: Late arrival but provided the assist for Anderson’s goal No rating