Newcastle United came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, clinching their fifth consecutive Premier League win and deepening the struggles of an injury-hit Spurs side.
Tottenham, missing 11 key players, made a strong start at St James’ Park with Dominic Solanke scoring in the fourth minute. Solanke, who was one of five players recalled to the starting lineup, capitalized on a brilliant cross from Pedro Porro, heading the ball into the bottom corner for his 11th goal of the season.
However, the lead was short-lived as Newcastle equalized just two minutes later. Anthony Gordon slotted the ball into the bottom corner, bringing the score level at 1-1. The goal was marred by controversy, as Joelinton had handled the ball in the build-up, but after a VAR check, the goal was allowed to stand.
Despite the contentious equalizer, Newcastle continued to press. Eddie Howe’s side took the lead before halftime thanks to Alexander Isak, who netted his 14th goal of the season. Isak’s effort came after a failed clearance from Spurs’ Radu Dragusin, and he made no mistake in converting Jacob Murphy’s cross, giving the hosts a 2-1 lead.
Spurs, who won this fixture 4-1 last season despite their own injury woes, were already down to their third-choice goalkeeper, Brandon Austin, due to illness to Fraser Forster. Manager Ange Postecoglou also started captain Son Heung-min and James Maddison on the bench.
Tottenham began the second half with renewed energy and nearly equalized in the 55th minute. After a spill from Newcastle’s goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, Brennan Johnson’s shot hit the post, and Dejan Kulusevski’s follow-up was blocked. Tottenham continued to push but couldn’t find the back of the net.
A stoppage in play for treatment to Gordon allowed Postecoglou to make changes, introducing Yves Bissouma, Maddison, and Son in an attempt to turn the game around. Despite their efforts, Tottenham struggled to break down Newcastle’s defense. Maddison came closest with a free kick in the 81st minute, which curled agonizingly wide.
Tottenham had a few more chances in stoppage time, but Solanke’s headers failed to find the net, and Newcastle held firm to claim all three points.
The victory sees Newcastle continue their impressive form, while Spurs face more challenges with their depleted squad as they look to bounce back from another disappointing result.
