Newcastle United Snap Aston Villa’s Unbeaten Streak with Commanding Victory

Newcastle United Snap Aston Villas Unbeaten Streak with Commanding Victory

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Magpies End Villa’s Run

Newcastle United delivered a masterclass performance last night, halting Aston Villa’s impressive seventeen-game unbeaten streak in the Premier League. Eddie Howe’s team demonstrated their dominance for the second time this season against Unai Emery’s squad, leaving no room for excuses even after Villa’s winter break.

Villa’s Form in Question

It’s been a rough patch for Aston Villa, who haven’t shown their true potential since their victory over Manchester City in early December. Last night’s defeat at Villa Park may serve as a much-needed wake-up call for the team to regain their form.

Team Selections and Early Pressure

Both Emery and Howe fielded line-ups mirroring their recent FA Cup matches, with Villa’s Pau Torres still absent due to injury. Newcastle wasted no time, applying early pressure and swiftly exploiting gaps in the Villa defense.

Newcastle’s Quickfire Double

The visitors broke the deadlock just past the 30-minute mark when Fabian Schär capitalized on a corner from Kieran Trippier. Schär didn’t stop there, doubling the lead shortly after with a quick reaction to a deflected volley by Anthony Gordon, leaving the home crowd stunned.

Emery’s Half-Time Response

Despite a disheartening first half, Emery kept faith in his starting XI after the break. However, Newcastle’s relentless attack soon paid off again, with Matty Cash’s mistake leading to an own goal under pressure from Jacob Murphy.

Villa’s Late Surge and VAR Disappointment

Substitutions for Villa brought a renewed energy to the team, with Leon Bailey creating an opportunity for Ollie Watkins to score. Villa thought they had narrowed the gap further, but a second Watkins goal was disallowed by VAR for offside, dashing any hopes of a comeback.

Emery Stands by His Team

In the aftermath, Emery expressed pride in his players and the Villa Park supporters, acknowledging the inevitability of defeat and the challenge posed by a Newcastle side in form. He emphasized the need to maintain perspective, especially with Villa still in the top five and facing stiff competition for those spots.

Howe Credits Cup Momentum

Howe praised his team’s performance, likening it to their form from the previous year and attributing their success to the momentum gained from their FA Cup victory over Fulham.

Looking Ahead

Aston Villa and Newcastle United both look to bounce back into action on Saturday, with Villa visiting Sheffield United at Brammell Lane and Newcastle hosting Luton Town at St James Park.