Anthony Gordon grabbed the winning goal giving Newcastle a deserved 1-0 win against Manchester United on Saturday.
Eddie Howe’s side moved above their opponents in the Premier League table after Gordon converted from a Kieran Trippier cross in the 55th minute.
It was a dominant performance from the Magpies with the scoreline not reflecting the one-sided nature of the game as Newcastle continued their rise into European contention.
Newcastle were utterly dominant throughout the first half with Andre Onana, under pressure following his calamitous display away to Galatasaray in midweek, looking nervy in the early exchanges.
14 of the game’s 16 shots came in the first half, with the only concern for Howe being that his threadbare squad might have faded in the second half. That was not the case though. The intensity only increased and Newcastle had their reward before the hour mark with Gordon’s strike.
Manchester United could blame their travel issues for their below-par display but that would be taking away the intense, almost complete display from the Toon.
Can Newcastle continue their push?
The surprising aspect of the recent form Newcastle have been in is the full-throttle nature of their games in recent weeks. This is despite having several injury problems with key players currently missing.
The thin squad could be forgiven for dropping in form but this game against MAnchester United is a testament to the togetherness and organisation being led by Howe.
Those factors, as well as one or two additions in January could be the difference for Newcastle pushing for a top four place.
Nick Pope blow
Despite the landmark win for Newcastle, the first time they’ve managed three consecutive games over Manchester United since 1922, they could be without Nick Pope for several months.
The former Burnley stopper may need surgery after suffering what appeared to be a dislocated shoulder after diving to save a shot in the closing stages of the 1-0 win at St James’ Park.
Speaking to the media after the game, Howe explained: “It looked innocuous and he’s made those dives thousands of times but those are normally the serious injuries. Nick was in distress.
“He was in pain. We’ll get a specialist opinion but it doesn’t look good.”
Losing Pope would be a huge blow to the European ambitions for Howe and Newcastle should his injury prove to be serious.
