Newcastle United bounced back from their midweek UEFA Champions League disappointment in Paris with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Manchester United at St. James’ Park in the Premier League on Saturday.
This win propelled them to fifth place in the table, putting Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Man United in serious jeopardy.
The Magpies, previously on a five-game winning streak at home, showcased their dominance in the first half with 14 shots and majority of the possession.
Despite Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana’s save from Miguel Almirón’s attempt and Kieran Trippier’s exceptional free-kick from just outside the area hitting the crossbar, Eddie Howe’s side finally broke through in the second half. Anthony Gordon tapped in Trippier’s cross, securing their lead and marking Trippier with the joint-most assists in the league.
Newcastle didn’t settle for their lead, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka blocking a goal-bound strike from Alexander Isak. Although there was a moment of tension when Harry Maguire’s late equalizer was disallowed for offside, the hosts secured their deserved victory.
Concerns rose late on for Newcastle when goalkeeper Nick Pope was withdrawn due to injury, leaving fans hopeful it’s not a serious issue.
Apart from Maguire’s disallowed goal, United’s other realistic goalscoring chance fell to Alejandro Garnacho who had his shot parried away by Pope on the angle in the first half when the scores were still level.
The victory extends Newcastle’s impressive form, winning seven of their last 10 PL games. In contrast, Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United drops to seventh in the table, raising concerns both on and off the pitch.
In the next games, United will host Stubborn Chelsea on Wednesday evening at Old Trafford, while Newcastle will be away in Meseryside against Everton on Thursday.
