Leicester spoil the party at St. James’ Park with a win over Newcastle United

Just when things seem better, they somehow get worse.

Newcastle United and the Toon Army came into tonight’s match at St. James’ Park in a festive mood, celebrating the 125th anniversary of the club forming. Despite another early advantage, it was a frustratingly similar ending for the Magpies.

Leicester City earned a 3-2 victory on Saturday in a match that featured incredible energy and late drama. The result extends Newcastle’s win-less streak to seven games, and manager Rafa Benitez’s side are now only two points above the relegation zone in 16th.

The encounter began with great promise, as striker Joselu opened the scoring early with a perfect strike in front of goal.

Both teams brought a frantic pace and an entertaining approach in the first half. Newcastle’s lead would not last long though, after Riyad Mahrez levelled the match with a thunderous strike.

1-1 at the half-time break, it was difficult to tell which direction the points would go. After fan voting, an incredible all-time starting line-up for the Toon was revealed as well (how about that midfield?!).

The second half and disappointment

Home support was at a tremendous level in the first 45 minutes, and truly created a thrilling atmosphere.

However, in the second half, that was not necessarily the case.

Anxious times were clearly to blame, and Demari Gray made the Magpies pay with a goal in the 60th minute.

All appeared lost at that point, but Newcastle responded admirably in a difficult scenario. Dwight Gayle’s equaliser in the 73rd minute gave United new life.

But the final minutes brought despair in the form of an Ayoze Perez own-goal (86’), and the Foxes collected all three points on the evening.

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Wednesday brings Newcastle United’s next Premier League fixture, hosting Everton. More consistency will be needed against the Toffees to end this discouraging run of form.