Newcastle United moved up to fifth in the Premier League table with a 2-1 victory over Brentford at St James’ Park.
Newcastle returned to competitive action for the first time since winning the Carabao Cup with a 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Wembley 17 days ago. Eddie Howe named an unchanged starting XI for the third successive match.
Harvey Barnes saw a goal disallowed for offside before Alexander Isak broke the deadlock on the brink of half-time when he guided home Jacob Murphy’s cross. Brentford then levelled from the penalty spot in the 66th minute through Bryan Mbeumo.
But Newcastle found a winner through a huge stroke of fortune when Sandro Tonali’s cross-cum-shot caught goalkeeper Mark Flekken out at his near post. It was the Italian’s third goal against the Bees this campaign after scoring a brace in the Carabao Cup meeting in December.
The win moved Howe’s side into the Champions League qualification spots. Here are our Newcastle United player ratings from the victory at St James’ Park:
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2. Nick Pope - 6
Had little to do in terms of shots but ended up conceding a penalty after bringing down Yoane Wissa. Beaten by Bryan Mbeumo. Important save right at the death. | Getty Images
3. Kieran Trippier - 8
Picked up where he left off at Wembley with a mammoth display down the right. Rarely gave Kevin Schade a sniff. | Getty Images
4. Fabian Schar - 7.5
Made an important block to deny Kevin Schade. Stayed alert throughout the 90 minutes. Cleared a shot off the line in injury time. | AFP via Getty Images