Newcastle v Fulham player ratings

Fulham left Tyneside disappointed after Hatem Ben Arfa scored a late goal to give Newcastle the points. Here’s how we rated the players in their defeat at St James’ Park.

David Stockdale: 8
Unlucky to end up on the losing side, having produced a number of saves – the pick of the bunch denying Papiss Cisse – before eventually being beaten.

Sascha Riether: 7
Was under pressure but having a good game before going off injured in the second half. Being without the German defender for a period of time would be a real blow for Fulham.

Aaron Hughes: 7
Was given a warm reception by the home fans against his former club and continued his impressive early-season form with another good display.

Brede Hangeland: 7
Caught out a couple of times in the first half but also rescued his team with some vital blocks and clearances.

John Arne Riise: 5
Was given a torrid time by the outstanding Ben Arfa. A game for the Norwegian to forget.

Bryan Ruiz: 6
Was often isolated on the right but almost put Fulham ahead when his fine free-kick was saved by keeper Tim Krul in the second half.

Scott Parker: 7
Another former Newcastle man who did well on his return to St James’. Parker’s tackling and positional sense helped Fulham avoid being overrun in midfield and he used the ball sensibly too.

Steve Sidwell: 6
Worked hard in midfield and was quick to try to pick up Ben Arfa when he drifted inside, but the Frenchman was largely unstoppable.

Alexander Kacaniklic: 6
Bright in spells and his clever movement made him awkward for the home defence to pick up.

Dimitar Berbatov: 7
Did very well in the first half, dropping into space and linking play well. Became a peripheral figure though as Newcastle took control.

Darren Bent: 6
Relies on service and had very little before being substituted.

Matthew Briggs: 7
Deserves credit for his performance as a makeshift right-back after coming on for Riether. Produced some important challenges.

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