Newcastle United produced a heroic performance in the second half as they came from 3-1 down to secure a 4-3 win against West Ham in the Premier League on Saturday (30 March) at St James’ Park.
Alexander Isak scored twice, both from penalties, while Harvey Barnes also netted a brace as the Magpies picked up all three points.
Newcastle scored the opening goal through Isak but West Ham ended the half brightly by going 2-1 at the break. Michail Antonio restored parity after Lucas Paqueta found him in space with a delicate through ball over the top.
The second goal came from Mohammed Kudus who fired in with his right foot from close range. Newcastle boss Eddie Howe was livid with the decision as it felt like Fabian Schar had picked up a head injury, but replays showed that Kudus’s arm had hit his face instead.
Newcastle players didn’t react as the freekick was taken quickly, and Chris Sutton was left unimpressed with Schar, as he called him a “daft” on BBC Radio 5.
“I didn’t think there was anything wrong with the second West Ham goal. It was daft from Fabian Schar to stay down as long as he did, it wasn’t a head injury. Quickly taken free kick and West Ham have the lead,” said Sutton, as relayed by BBC Sport.
“Newcastle only have themselves to blame, they had the chances but didn’t take them, and West Ham did take theirs.”
Newcastle United will be lifted by this win
This has been a tough season for the Magpies but Eddie Howe should be aiming to finish the season on a high. The primary aim should be to secure a European spot next season.
The biggest problem for Newcastle this season has been their fragile defence. They have conceded some poor goals this season, and Sutton described some of the errors today as “Schoolboy defending”, which is probably apt for them.
The Magpies have struggled with injury problems throughout the season and they have more problems now after Jamaal Lascelles, Tino Livramento and Miguel Almiron all picked up injuries against West Ham. All three are doubtful for the next game.
In other news, Chris Sutton has raved about Newcastle winger in 4-3 win against West Ham.
