A dominant afternoon started when Jacob Murphy opened the scoring in the 30th minute. United then ran riot in the opening stages of the second-half with Bruno Guimaraes, Alexander Isak and another from Murphy making 4-0 before the hour-mark.
The victory ended a run of four matches without one as Eddie Howe’s side moved up one place to 11th.
Howe made three changes from the 4-2 defeat at Brentford with Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Martin Dubravka coming into the side in place of Harvey Barnes, Sean Longstaff and Nick Pope, who has a knee injury.
Murphy put United in front when a short corner routine involving Lewis Hall, Tonali and Gordon set up the winger, who slotted home from the edge of the box.
Bruno Guimaraes doubled the advantage in the 47th minute when another innovative set-piece routine saw Gordon find Hall, whose header across goal was converted by the Brazilian.
Three minutes later, it was 3-0. Hall grabbed his second assist of the afternoon as Isak produced a simple finish. Murphy then added his second after good work from Isak to build-up.
Our writer Jordan Cronin was at St James’ Park - and here are his Newcastle United player ratings:

13. Kieran Trippier (on for Tino Livramento, 64) - 7
A much needed half-hour under his belt after his recent hamstring injury and illness. | AFP via Getty Images

14. Sean Longstaff (on for Guimaraes, 64) - 6
Made some good runs into the box. Had a chance to score but didn’t pull the trigger quick enough. | Getty Images

15. Will Osula (on for Isak, 73) - 7
Got involved. Intelligent play to set up a chance for Barnes. | Getty Images

16. Joe Willock (on for Gordon, 81) - N/A
Getty Images


