NEWCASTLE United came out on top against Atalanta in their penultimate friendly of the pre-season campaign.

Chris Wood's penalty just before half-time was the difference between the two sides.

Digital Sports Writer Matty Jones was watching the game and scored the player's performances...

NUFC XI

7 Pope – With Newcastle struggling to get going, he made a couple of smart saves to keep them level in the game

8 Trippier – A true leader on the pitch. Talked his team mates through the game and led by example.

7 Burn – Manfully stood up to battles with Zapata who was a threat all evening and comfortably played out from the back.

6 Schar – Didn’t have an awful lot to do but stroked the ball around well at the back.

6 Targett – Carried a knock from the first half and continued to play on. Did well to marshal the left in the second half.

6 Longstaff – Ticked things over in midfield and got involved in some strong challenges which the fans enjoyed.

8 Anderson – Terrific performance. Energetic, creative and intelligent. He is giving Eddie Howe plenty to think about.

7 Almiron – Provided a threat all evening but did his defensive duties by working back. Another good pre-season performance.

7 Fraser – Was better in the first half and provided some dangerous moments but tired as the game wore on.

6 Murphy – Created little on the right hand side but combined well with Trippier on occasion.

6 Wood – Had a difficult evening up against some big defenders but did well to hold up play. Took his penalty well.

Man of the Match: Elliot Anderson