Newcastle 1-2 Leicester

NEWCASTLE’S late fightback wasn’t enough as they fell to a 2-1 defeat to Leicester City at St James’ Park.

James Maddison and Youri Tielemans made the difference in the end with two excellent second-half goals, despite substitute Andy Carroll halving the deficit for the Magpies eight minutes from time.

Steve Bruce admits he anticipated a tough festive period, but insists Newcastle deserved more out of the game.

“We knew these three games would be difficult; Man City, Liverpool and Leicester is a tough ask,” he said.

“I didn’t think we deserved to lose the game today. We have to improve in the final third but I couldn’t have asked for anything more.”

Leicester reverted to their strongest side after making changes in their draw with Crystal Palace last Monday. Maddison, who scored a superb goal on his last visit to Tyneside a year ago, almost repeated the trick within two minutes, but his shot whistled wide.

Jamie Vardy was caught by Newcastle’s high line twice in the opening 15 minutes. First, he played the ball to Tielemans when he ought to have shot, before rounding Karl Darlow and finishing. The offside flag was raised late both times, but it was a warning for the hosts.

Newcastle’s first attempt came through a feeble Joelinton header, which didn’t test Kasper Schmeichel. Callum Wilson was again the target for their direct play, but he was twice thwarted by the Foxes goalkeeper’s bravery in coming off his line.

Moments after the break, Vardy sliced an effort wide after being found by Timothy Castagne. It was yet another example of how quickly he can punish defences.

Maddison struck soon after, lashing home after being played in by Vardy. Newcastle had started the second half well, but were caught by a blistering counter attack.

In response, Bruce made a double change, replacing Miguel Almiron and Joelinton with Jacob Murphy and Jonjo Shelvey. The former started a good move, but held his run and failed to get on the end of an excellent DeAndre Yedlin cross.

Leicester’s patience paid off, though, and with less than 20 minutes remaining, Tielemans swept the ball home from distance after being picked out by Harvey Barnes.

Carroll was Newcastle’s final change and, just over a week after the 10-year anniversary of his last goal for the club, he looked to have changed the game’s complexion with a well-taken volley. 

Darlow denied Barnes at the other end, Vardy turning provider again, before the winger fired wide as Leicester survived to take all three points.

Brendan Rodgers was pleased with the overall showing from his side.

“Today was a good chance to show our capabilities; the speed and movement,” he said.

“We had to fight, and the players showed that ability manfully.”