Newcastle United signed off in style as they ran in four goals against shell-shocked Fulham.
The Cottagers were relegated but on a good run of form as they headed into what could be Benitez’s final match as Newcastle manager. And they started well at Craven Cottage, pushing the visitors back into their own half before a glut of goals for the Magpies handed them the advantage.
The game turned when Jonjo Shelvey scored with a brilliant volley to hand United the lead. And within a few minutes, they had doubled their lead thanks to Ayoze Perez tapping home from close range.
And it got even better in the second half with Fabian Schar, who was one of the signings of the season, heading home before Salomon Rondon sealed the win with a very late fourth. Here are Lee Ryder's player ratings.
Martin Dubravka 8
Absorbed plenty of pressure and emerged with another clean sheet.
Isaac Hayden 8
Slotted in at right wing-back with no fuss at all. Kept the play flowing down the right. Some excellent blocks and tackles as well as 20 passes. Afforded a standing ovation as he came off for what could well be last appearance.
Fabian Schar 9
Dominant on the ball as he pushed out of defence time after time. Capped fine performance with headed goal.
Jamaal Lascelles 8
Recovered from poor show against Liverpool. Kept Mitrovic quiet and hit double figures with his clearance rate.
Paul Dummett 7
Battled hard. Moved over to right wing-back for closing stages and caused a few problems.
Matt Ritchie 8
Two assists and a big hand in the second goal too. Another full-blooded display from one of the top performers of the season.
Mo Diame 6
Didn’t make much impact in what was probably his final appearance for Newcastle.
Jonjo Shelvey 9
Sprayed the play for United and netted a screamer of a goal in the first half. Will be frustrated that the season comes to an end just as he’s getting his chance to impress.
Christian Atsu 8
Full of running in 65 minute appearance. Set up second goal with stinging shot and signed off for campaign with decent display.
Ayoze Perez 8
Another goal and another hard working display. But was this farewell?
Salomon Rondon 7
Finally found his way on to the scoresheet with a late goal but missed a few chances before that.
Subs
Yoshinori Muto 5 (for Atsu 65)
Couldn’t get into the game.
Federico Fernandez 7 (for Hayden 68)
Didn’t really put a foot wrong.
Kenedy (for Dummett 80)
*Subs must play 15 minutes to get a mark.
Mike Ashley returns to the scene at Newcastle United for final day clash with Fulham
