On paper, Manchester United's defeat to Newcastle United on Sunday afternoon was nowhere near as bad as their humblings at the Gtech Community Stadium, the Etihad Stadium and Anfield.
On the pitch, however, it was just as humiliating. Although David de Gea was only tasked with picking the ball out of the back of his net twice on this occasion, United were outclassed at St James' Park, losing 2-0 to present third place to Newcastle, albeit on goal difference, on a plate.
United, from the very first whistle, were second best on Tyneside. Newcastle, powered by the energy manufactured by their supporters in the stands, got at Erik ten Hag's side from the off. They understood the size of the occasion and the importance of scooping all three points.
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