Newcastle United returned to winning ways in the Premier League after thrashing Sheffield United 5-1 at St James’ Park.
The Magpies fell behind to Anel Ahmedhodzic’s opener before Alexander Isak levelled before half-time. And in the second-half, the home side stormed to a victory with Isak getting his second while Bruno Guimaraes and Callum Wilson were also on the scoresheet. Ben Osborn netted an own goal.
The win sees Eddie Howe’s side sit one point behind 6th place Manchester United, who were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Burnley.
Howe reverted back to his 4-3-3 formation following Wednesday night’s 2-0 defeat at Crystal Palace. Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento started as the two full-backs with Harvey Barnes and Emil Krafth dropping to the bench.
The Magpies got off to the worst possible start, falling behind just five minutes in when Anel Ahmedhodzic headed home at the back post from Gustavo Hamer’s free-kick delivery.
United struggled in the first-half, lacking any kind of intensity and urgency in the final third, but went into the break level when a smart ball in behind by Jacob Murphy was cooly finished by Alexander Isak.
It all changed in the second-half. Bruno Guimaraes put Newcastle 2-1 up in the 54th minute when he headed in Anthony Gordon’s free-kick delivery. A penalty by Isak then made it 3-1 after Gordon was fouled by Mason Holgate.
An own goal by Osborn made it 4-1 before substitute Wilson added a fifth. Here’s our Newcastle United player ratings:
1. Martin Dubravka - 6
Had to be alert to deny Ben Brereton Diaz twice but otherwise a quiet afternoon.
2. Tino Livramento - 7
A slow start on his first start in four weeks but improved as the game progressed. Got forward well.
3. Fabian Schar - 5
Looked to be struggling with an injury in the first-half so no surprise to see him withdraw at half-time.
4. Dan Burn - 7
Made several important blocks and got back to clear Ben Brereton Diaz’s off the line. Another solid display from the stand-in skipper.