Newcastle United produced a scintillating display at St James’ Park to thrash Manchester United 4-1, climbing up to fourth in the Premier League and completing their first league double over the Red Devils since the 1930/31 campaign.
Sandro Tonali opened the scoring with a sublime first-time hit after a slick team move, and, although Alejandro Garnacho briefly equalized with a neat finish, the Magpies dominated the second half. Harvey Barnes scored two goals and Bruno Guimarães added another as Eddie Howe’s in-form side made it emphatic.
Manchester United’s defensive shortcomings were once again exposed, with the debutant goalkeeper, Altay Bayındır, having had a night to forget after committing a costly mistake for Newcastle’s fourth. Integrate with injuries and tactical muddle beneath Ruben Amorim, they stumbled to their ever-worst points haul in a Premier League marketing campaign.
Newcastle, still on a six-match winning run in all competitions, are in a strong place to qualify for next year’s UEFA Champions League. On the other hand, United’s miserable season plummets on, with a maximum of 56 points even if they win all their remaining fixtures: two less than the lowest return in the club’s history, in 2021/22.
A night to remember for Newcastle, and another savage installment in Manchester United’s forgettable season.
