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:
9. Jacob Murphy - 7
Brilliant released Isak for the 1-1. A lively display down the right although his deliveries were hit and miss. | Getty Images
10. Anthony Gordon - 7
Cut a frustrated figure in the first-half but improved after the break. Assisted Guimaraes’ goal and won the penalty that Isak converted for 3-1. | Getty Images
11. Alexander Isak - 8
The hat-trick still evades him but Isak’s double increased his tally for the season to 23. | Getty Images
12. Emil Krafth (on for Schar, 45) - 6
Slotted into the backline without minimal fuss. | Getty Images