Match Recap: Newcastle United 0-0 Leeds United

Leeds United ended an eventful 2022 with a 0-0 draw at St James’ Park against Newcastle, but it was certainly not boring.

The first-half was a hard-fought one. The Toon had the chances but Leeds didn’t look totally out of it. Gnonto was the most dangerous for the visitors, who frankly were using the tactic of ‘get it to Gnonto and hope’. His effort on three minutes served as a warning shot for Nick Pope.

At the other end, it was the Meslier show from a defensive aspect, as Jesse Marsch’s side once again relied on the Frenchman to keep his team in the game. He made several stops throughout, but Dan Burn will rue not managing to test him on 25 minutes. Joelinton’s header back across goal from the preceding corner dropped for Burn in the six-yard box, and his big swing to finish the move wasn’t enough to force the ball toward goal.

Newcastle picked up all the momentum possible in the second half. Three big chances fell to Sean Longstaff in the penalty area, all of which were blazed over the crossbar to the relief of the Leeds defence who never seemed to keep a grip on the Toon midfielder.

Chris Wood might’ve come back to haunt The Whites when he was put through on goal from a Trippier free-kick (one of many), with Meslier quickly out to make a huge save for the away side.

Tempers flared as the match came to a close, with Guimares and Adams clashing, as did Callum Wilson and Illan Meslier. It ultimately worked to Newcastle’s detriment, as Leeds managed to hang on for the point.

A hard-fought game, no doubt, but a dreary and uninspiring performance from the visitors who have work to do if they wish to improve their position in the league.