Newcastle United were beaten 3-1 by Everton at Murrayfield, with the defeat highlighting the need for new signings as the Magpies' pre-season form dipped.
First-half struggles prove costly
Newcastle started brightly, with chances for Yoane Wissa, William Osula and Anthony Elanga, but failed to convert. Everton took advantage, establishing a 2-0 lead by the break. Thierno Barry, who scored the winner at St James' Park last season, capitalised on a Sven Botman error, and a Joelinton challenge conceded a penalty that Iliman Ndiaye converted past Lukas Hornicek.
Everton extended their lead through Tyrique George's strike with 17 minutes remaining, before Harvey Barnes pulled one back after a Jacob Murphy assist.
Player ratings: Hornicek and Toure impress
Lukas Hornicek earned a 7/10 rating, with the goalkeeper preventing a heavier defeat. Leo Shahar started well but faded, while Malick Thiaw had risky moments. Sven Botman's pre-season struggles continued after losing the ball for Barry's goal. Lewis Hall had a handy 45 minutes after missing the Valencia game.
Aladji Bamba was one of the positives, making 22 passes in the opposition half. Joelinton's lunge led to the penalty. Anthony Elanga caused issues, while Bazoumana Toure delivered dangerous crosses and earned an 8/10. Yoane Wissa wasted chances, and William Osula had moments but was judged on goals.
Second-half substitutes make an impact
Hornicek improved to an 8/10 in the second half, earning man of the match after facing over a dozen shots. Mason Miley also impressed with an 8/10, passing with purpose and creating a chance for Murphy. Henry Johnson delivered another composed performance, while Miodrag Pivas coped well when thrown in at the deep end.
Dylan Charlton made interceptions and recoveries, Sean Steur was turned for the goal but otherwise did OK, and Jacob Ramsey was unchallenged for his starting spot. Joe Willock opened Everton up with a pass for Barnes' goal, and Murphy brought threat with an assist. Barnes added another goal to his tally.
