Newcastle United is experiencing a special moment in the Premier League. With a 3-1 victory over Southampton on Saturday, the Magpies achieved their fourth consecutive away win, a feat they hadn’t accomplished since 1996. Led by Alexander Isak and a decisive goal from Sandro Tonali, Eddie Howe’s team now sits among the league’s top four, reaffirming their credentials for a historic season.
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The initial test and the response of a confident team
The match at St. Mary’s Stadium began with Southampton surprising Newcastle. In the 10th minute, Jan Bednarek took advantage of a perfect cross from James Bree and headed it precisely, putting the home team ahead. The goal gave the impression that Newcastle would face difficulties, but Howe’s team managed to react.
Dúbravka was crucial in preventing what could have been Southampton's second goal minutes later, firmly saving Adam Armstrong's strike. The solid defense kept Newcastle alive and set the stage for their comeback.
Isak shines once again
Alexander Isak remains at one of the best moments in his career. In the first half, Swedish striker Alexander Isak scored a double and proved why he's among the top forwards in the Premier League. First, in the 26th minute, with a penalty he himself earned after being fouled by Joe Aribo. As confirmed by VAR, Isak slotted calmly into goal, sending goalkeeper Alex McCarthy the wrong way.
Just four minutes later, Isak was in the headlines again. Found by an inch-perfect pass by Jacob Murphy, he controlled it so well and coolly finished into the bottom-right corner. The goal not only turned the tide of the game but also left him as the second-highest scorer in the club's Premier League history.
"I thought he was fantastic in the first half. He connected the game very well and was decisive, said Eddie Howe for Isak's performance."
The influence of Sandro Tonali
The second half of the game started with pressure from Southampton. Dúbravka's stunning save from a bicycle kick from Taylor Harwood-Bellis, kept the lead intact for Newcastle. That's exactly how it goes in the proverb- if you don't score, you concede.
In the 51st minute, Sandro Tonali scored thanks to a great move by Anthony Gordon, who split the defense with a perfect pass. Tonali slotted the ball into the bottom-left corner with composure, celebrating with the traveling fans. It was his first goal since August and came at a crucial moment.
Tonali’s strike gave Newcastle breathing space and allowed them to control the match. However, the game wasn’t without drama. Jacob Murphy hit the post with a powerful shot, and Mateus Fernandes had a late goal disallowed after a lengthy VAR review confirmed he was offside.
Resilience and a winning mentality
Newcastle proved they are not only technically good but also mentally stable. From being conceded early in the game, they never went into panic mode; instead, they coolly did the business as planned. For Eddie Howe, this victory was a real test of character. "We really had to dig deep, and this was a massive win for us. Conceding early was a test, but we responded impressively," he added.
This victory brings Newcastle to fifth place with 41 points, level with Manchester City, while Southampton stays at the relegation zone in 19th place with just six points.