“Make no sweat of the hole that you’re digging.”
Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez have been experiencing a mixture of bad luck and poor results as of late, win-less in their last nine Premier League matches. But the effort and determination have both been present, and that produced success Saturday at West Ham.
The Magpies earned a thrilling 3-2 victory at the London Stadium, in a game that was as important as it was entertaining. Both sides went at each other in the attack, and there was everything to play for right down to the final seconds.
A surprise selection in the line-up, Henri Saivet certainly made the most of his appearance. After his poor pass led to the opening goal for West Ham, the 27-year-old equalised with a spectacular free-kick.
GOAL! At the other end for Saivet! A wonderful free-kick levels the match! 1-1 (10'). #NUFC #WHUNEW pic.twitter.com/xb15zkn2hv
— Newcastle Toons (@NewcastleToons) December 23, 2017
The most amazing part? This all took place within the first ten minutes.
Curls it straight into the bottom corner! #NUFC pic.twitter.com/JZaOAgyh8L
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) December 23, 2017
Newcastle kept the pressure on, but entered the half-time break level with the Hammers.
The second half
Benitez’s team for the afternoon certainly brought some concern from fans, especially in the middle of the formation. Mikel Merino and Isaac Hayden were out due to injuries.
But along with Saivet, a shocking name gave Newcastle another goal when Mohamed Diame scored in the 53rd minute.
Moments later, goalkeeper Rob Elliot truly confirmed his first-choice status with an excellent save on a West Ham penalty-kick. Christian Atsu gave the Magpies a 3-1 lead, and the squad looked to be in a comfortable position.
However, Andre Ayew made it 3-2 with a goal in the 70th minute and nervous energy was launched for the Toon Army.
Such a key result. Newcastle now out of the relegation places. #NUFC #WHUNEW
— Newcastle Toons (@NewcastleToons) December 23, 2017
Despite efforts from the home side, Newcastle held on for their first win in two months. They now prepare for first-place Manchester City on Wednesday evening.
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Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez were truly struggling coming into their game at West Ham. Hopefully, three points will become a new trend at St. James’ Park.