Newcastle put ‘classless’ Erik ten Haag and Red Devils to the sword to undercut Champions League ambitions
Newcastle: “No need to waste any time” was the post on Newcastle United’s official Twitter following what felt like a hugely important win over Manchester United.
It was an acknowledgment of rather strange pre-match comments, a precursor to February’s Carabao Cup final, by boss Erik ten Haag.
And while it felt like a small travesty in many ways, it was right. It was not a victory of the Dark Arts, but one based on grit, determination, energy, speed and class. Ten Haag should take care of the last bit.
Second-half strikes from Joe Willock and Callum Wilson ensured that it was the “real” United, the two clubs formed – Newcastle East End and West End in 1892 – that emerged from an entertaining, entertaining encounter at St James’ Park. with three points.
The win, Newcastle’s third in a row in the Premier League, sees them move up to third in the Premier League – and with only 11 games left to play, their Champions League destiny lies in their own hands.
Coach Eddie Howe stuck with the same side that served him so well in the land of Robin Hood, as his side looked to plunder more points from the riches of the traditional Premier League.
Despite the return of Joelinton and Anthony Gordon to the team, Howe retained Jacob Murphy and Allan Saint-Maximin down the side – and it was the pair who found particular joy.
Murphy’s foray down the right opened the door for an Alexander Isaacs header, which was saved by David de Gea, then Willock’s follow-up was fired straight at the giant Spaniard’s body.
Shaun Longstaff was next as his curling strike from the edge of the area sailed inches past the post as Newcastle remained firmly on the front foot.
Another break from the lively hosts just before the break saw Saint-Maximin link up with Isaac, and then up the tee to Willock, who fired over.
At the other end, Wat Weghorst hit the side-netting with a drive, while Antony volleyed over a Luke Shaw corner as the visitors attempted to register.
After the break, with legs tiring and Newcastle’s dominance heading towards the visitors, the opening goal came as a shock to the system.
Some excellent hold-up play by Isaac freed Bruno Guimaraes on the right and his chipped cross found Saint-Maximin at the back post and he squared in for Willock. This time he just missed from three yards out. It was third time lucky for the former Arsenal man.
Howe threw on Joelington, Gordon and Wilson as Ten Haag broke down – and it proved to be just what the doctor ordered, adding much-needed fresh legs to Newcastle’s forward attack.
Man of the match contender De Gea somehow lofted a Joelinton header over the crossbar, which was followed by Fabian Schar, who saw his header cannon off the post.
Willock fired wide on the break as Newcastle put the game to bed; He finally did when Kieran Trippier’s cross was met by substitute Wilson.
This win may only be worth three points, but it is more important than that as Newcastle underline their credentials in the race for the top four this season.