Goals from Jacob Murphy and Joelinton sealed a deserved victory for Newcastle United, as they put away League One side Burton Albion away with a comfortable 2-0 win at the Pirelli Stadium last night.

After a rocky start to preseason with a loss to National League North side York City and a point against League One side Rotherham United, the Magpies finally got off the mark in what was a professional performance by Steve Bruce's men.

A familiar shape 

Newcastle played an hour in their now coveted and comfortable 5-3-2 formation, with Ryan Fraser and Joelinton having free roles. this caused Burton problems early as balls over the top of the Brewers backline were simple yet very effective. 

This allowed Matt Ritchie and Jacob Murphy to flex their positions and showcase what they can deliver this season. 

Isaac Hayden was another who flexed into a similar role but still showcased his ability. 

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The shape also allowed Newcastle fans to see what Joelinton can bring to this side. His play along the channels was a force to be reckoned with. His pace dazzled fullbacks and central defenders alike. The Brazilian also looked for a pass whenever possible, which many fans dislike as they want Newcastle United's record transfer to score goals. Of course, Joelinton scored the second with a powerful header, a more consistent goal tally this season might shed his narrative. 

However, a creative side to Joelinton is what was mainly showcased at Burton, and it could be what Newcastle fans see throughout the Premier League season.  

More youth players get a run out

Newcastle United finished with six academy graduates in the squad, with five finishing the game. 

A pre-season trope is to play youngsters, and fans are delighted with the brand new untapped potential and excitement, only for that player never to be seen again all season. 

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Newcastle fans have been hurt by this before with Elliot Anderson and Matty Longstaff. Last night in Burton felt different. The young players featured were brilliant, with a special mention to Joe White, who didn't look out of place with the first team in last night's game. 

The Freddie Woodman debacle

Many fans know of Freddie Woodman and how good a goalkeeper he is. A lot of this offseason has been dedicated to how Newcastle have three good goalkeepers and what to do with them. 

Woodman was denied a move due to Martin Dubravka's injury and with Karl Darlow contracting Covid-19. First team minutes look available for the U17 World Cup winner who excelled on loan Swansea City last year in the championship. 

So the decision to substitute him after 46 minutes was a strange one from Steve Bruce. Sharing the payload around the goalkeepers is what preseason is about. With Woodman and Mark Gillespie having to self-isolate (due to training with Darlow and being in close contact with him), it makes sense, but if Woodman is here for first-team minutes not to be a back up then allowing the young keeper a full 90 minutes under his belt would have been wise. 

Now, Newcastle have another pre-season game against Norwich City still to play before the season begins, so fans may see 90 minutes of Woodman. 

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