Opinion

It ended Newcastle 3 Benfica 0.

Ahead of each game we ask one of our writers to come up with three positives and three negatives following the match.

An interesting game at St James’ Park…

Plenty to talk about after this one.

On this occasion it is David Punton:

POSITIVES

Revivalism

That was a much-needed win and an enormous confidence boost after a tawdry international break, where I think precious momentum was lost.

This was our best outing of the season so far. No doubt. Manna from heaven for Eddie Howe. The hard work pays off.

We’ve downed one of Europe’s most famous football clubs in the shape of Benfica, a wee note of revenge for that 2013 Europa League quarter final.

We didn’t just win, we tonked them.

Mourinho and his merry men just couldn’t live with United’s pace, power, and pressing.

They seemed to wilt.

The first goal saw them carved open with consummate ease.

Gordon would even have had time to brush his hair before tapping that ball in, such was the space he found himself in.

The third was a thing of beauty too. Flowing football. A big six side scores...