Newcastle United fans didn’t hold back in their criticism of Matt Ritchie’s performance against Brighton & Hove Albion.
The wing-back had a torrid time, along with most of his teammates for the majority of proceedings, but with the cynical nature of Robert Sanchez, there was a bit more optimism amongst some supporters. They feel the three points should have gone back to St James’ Park after the last minute incident where Callum Wilson was denied a clear goal.
Despite the positives, the players were far from exempt of criticism from supporters, with Matt Ritchie being one of the main targets for the Toon Army. He was lambasted on Twitter!
How the Newcastle fans reacted
“Matt Ritchie is the worst set-piece taker I have ever seen.” @jordanwatson70
“Jonjo Shelvey shocking. Matt Ritchie shocking. They have a centre back in goal and we cross it in. I’m embarrassed honestly.” @ManquilloSZN
“I’d rather be tortured than have to watch Matt Ritchie take corners.” @jackcoe209
“Matt Ritchie couldn’t cross a road!” @Maddison5Daniel
“Matt Ritchie for all the effort is never a Premier League full back. Slow as #NUFC.” @Guesty22
“Matt Ritchie is getting ripped apart.” @XTHE_1892X
“Lascelles, Clark, Ritchie & Shelvey. Absolutely woeful. Change it now or forget getting a thing, other than another battering.” @PeterJLilley
Frustrations with Ritchie reached boiling point with a dreadful corner late on. Brighton had to use defender Lewis Dunk in goal for the closing stages of the fixture. Newcastle eyes will have lit up at the sight of a corner, the perfect chance to make things as uncomfortable as possible for the makeshift ‘keeper.
With plenty of expectation, Ritchie stepped up; his corner was shambolic and was unable to beat the first man. This wasted a glorious opportunity for Newcastle to exploit Dunk, and as it played out, their last of the evening.