Longstaff on a high with Mags strike

Sean Longstaff told of his joy after netting a goal for Newcastle United on his debut last night.

The midfielder netted in last night’s 2-0 friendly win over Dublin side St Patrick’s Athletic. Christian Atsu netted a second from the spot in the dying minutes.

“It’s something you dream of as a young kid,” said 20-year-old Longstaff, who impressed on loan at Blackpool last season.

“You dream of playing for Newcastle, and I got to do that and top it off with a goal. I’m in a pretty lucky position, and I’ve really enjoyed tonight.”

Manager Rafa Benitez had also handed defender Josef Yarney his debut, and there was a second senior appearance for winger Victor Fernandez, who was fielded in defence – in a match which saw nine changes for the second half.

The breakthrough came on 42 minutes, when Perez and Joselu combined well on a break. Joselu’s crossed was half-cleared to Longstaff, whose low shot went in off the post.

Longstaff said: “Luckily it’s came in, and I’ve just tried to hit it as quick as possible. Luckily for me, it’s found the back of the net.”

Ciaran Clark almost scored headed an own goal past keeper Matz Sels in the 72nd minute when he headed a cross backwards.

DeAndre Yedlin, presented with an empty net after a loose ball rolled to him, somehow shot over the bar, and Kenedy struck the bar with a fierce shot.

Atsu doubled the leadwith an 86th-minute penalty after Dwight Gayle was brought down in the box.