Newcastle United vs Chelsea player ratings: Kevin Mbabu enjoys impressive first start but Pedro disappoints

Aleksander Mitrovic also impressed at St. James' Park

Newcastle's spirited performance was not enough to take all three points (Getty Images)

Steve McClaren's Newcastle may not have found that elusive first win, but the former England manager will have been pleased with the aggression and desire his side showed against Chelsea.

After a torrid week, this 2-2 draw may be just what is needed to turn fortunes around at St. James' Park. The home side were brilliant in the first half, chasing and harrying the defending champions for every ball. They got their reward moments before half-time, when a defensive mix-up in the Blues' backline allowed Ayoze Perez to open the scoring.

Jose Mourinho's men crept back into the game but that did not stop Georginio Wijnaldum from doubling his side's advantage. However, the Toon Army's delirium did not last.

Substitute Ramires gave Chelsea a foothold in the game with a spectacular long-range strike and there was an air of inevitability around Willian's equaliser, a free-kick which evaded Tim Krul and nestled in the left hand corner of the Dutchman's left.

How did new boy Kevin Mbabu get on? Did Kurt Zouma justify his selection ahead of John Terry.

Open the gallery below to see The Independent's player ratings...