Newcastle United gave champions Manchester City a real scare on Friday night.
On paper it looked like a game where Pep Guardiola’s side would dominate, and they’d win by as many as they wanted.
But the Magpies refused to roll over.
Newcastle led twice on the night, first through Emil Krafth then later thanks to Joe Willock.
Alas, a Ferran Torres hat-trick won it for Manchester City. But Newcastle deserve credit for their endeavour.
There were some impressive performances in black and white, particularly from Jacob Murphy.
The 26-year-old played as a right wing-back once again, and unsurprisingly impressed.
Despite playing in an unfamiliar position as of late, Murphy has been one of our best players.
It’s all the more shocking considering he was nowhere near the starting XI at the start of the season.
But Murphy has taken every chance he’s been given, despite having to play out of position.
The former Norwich man did well against the champions, despite having his hands full. Not only did he have Raheem Sterling to deal with, but he also had an overlapping Joao Cancelo.
But Murphy was up to the task, even making a mockery of Cancelo early in the second half.
He was a threat offensively as well, although his final ball often let him down.
While it was a night that ended in defeat, Newcastle put in a performance that fans could be proud of.
Murphy should be proud of himself. He’s gone from the forgotten man to being undroppable and impressing against the best team in the country.
Fans hail Murphy’s performance vs Manchester City
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
