Newcastle United are into the third round of the Carabao Cup following a 2-1 win against Tranmere Rovers at Prenton Park. The Magpies had the first chance when Sean Longstaff found Jacob Murphy, but his shot was comfortably saved.
But after settling well, Tranmere took the lead midway through the first half. The United defence was caught happing and Elliott Devitt broke to open the scoring.
United were dealt an injury blow when Emil Krafth was forced off with an injury, Kieran Trippier replacing him. But almost instantly they drew level, with Jamaal Lascelles alert to turn the ball home at the second attempt following a deep corner.
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Karl Darlow was then on the receiving end of bad challenge, but the United keeper was OK to continue. Jamal Lewis replaced Matt Targett at the break, and United continued to press.
Their dominance was rewarded just past the hour mark when Trippier's whipped corner was mey by Chris Wood to head United into the lead. Wood could have had a second, firing straight at the Rovers keeper after latching on to a long ball from Trippier.
Tranmere pushed for a leveller and Darlow had to stay strong to collect a series of crosses and keep out a deep header. Sven Botman came close to adding a third, but his header from a Trippier corner was tipped over the bar.
Here's how Lee Ryder has rated the players.
Karl Darlow 7
Some important claims after being left exposed for the opener. Survived a horror challenge from Hemmings.
Emil Krafth 6
Hit by injury blow and carried off. A really unfortunate night for the Sweden defender.
Jamaal Lascelles 7
Endured a rough night and picked up bloody nose. Shrugged off the equaliser - which some argue he could have done better with - but made amends with well-taken equaliser.
Paul Dummett 8
An influential display as he hacked away danger all night.
Matt Targett 7
Some powerful runs forward and offered a threat. The former Southampton man had 52 touches before going off at the break.
Elliot Anderson 8
The Academy product sailed through the game and created some positive moments. Done his chances no harm. Afforded a standing ovation as he went off for last throes.
Joe Willock 6
Offered a bit of a threat before being taken off. Maybe one game too many. Had 55 touches in all.
Sean Longstaff 6
Did not grasp a big opportunity. Perhaps he was shackled too much with defensive duties.
Matt Ritchie 6
Worked hard enough but could not find the openings when it mattered. The fact it was his competitive start since January probably had an impact.
Jacob Murphy 6
Wasteful in possession. Certainly had a couple of clear sights of goal.
Chris Wood 7
A quiet first half but rose to the occasion when it mattered with a great header. Very strong in the air with several aerial wins.
Subs
Kieran Trippier 9
(for Krafth 38)
Brought star quality to the table with a big hand in equaliser then assist for Wood. Calmly steered Newcastle through as skipper in latter stages.
Jamal Lewis 7
(for Targett 46)
A welcome return - but more importantly got through it unscathed after eight months out injured.
Joelinton 7
(for Willock 70)
Usual powerful impact in time he was on field.
Sven Botman 7
(for Lascelles 70)
A steady enough cameo. Almost got in on the goals with late header,
Bruno Guimaraes (for Anderson 85)
*Subs must play 15 minutes to gain a mark.
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