The Rafalution: March progress report for Newcastle United
By Durim Halimi
Newcastle United sit 12th in the Premier League table after two consecutive wins in March.
Newcastle United only played three times in March as a result of a three-week break in Premier League action. In those three matches, the Magpies earned six points from a possible nine. The primary focus of the club was to utilize a lenient schedule in March to climb the table and that is what the Magpies did.
With several bottom-half clubs in panic mode, Rafa Benitez urged his men to build on their solid form from February. Although March was a quiet month for Newcastle, the three matches the Magpies played were of major importance for survival.
March Overview
With two matches at home and a road trip to Anfield, Newcastle were successful in taking advantage of two weaker opponents at St. James’ Park. The Magpies concluded March in style with two victories and an expected loss against a top side.
Below is a list of results from the March fixtures:
March 3: Liverpool 2-0 Newcastle
March 10: Newcastle 3-0 Southampton
March 31: Newcastle 1-0 Huddersfield Town
Rafalution Progress Report
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The expectation from supporters, pundits and Rafa Benitez himself was to earn maximum points against Southampton and Huddersfield Town. Through an attacking style of play, high energy and aggression, Newcastle United accomplished this goal and now sit seven points clear of the bottom three.
Over the course of the season, the Magpies created a sense of frustration on Tyneside by dropping too many points in winnable matches. However, the consolidation of intense training and confidence on the pitch enabled the Magpies to see their objectives through.
The improved form of multiple players, such as Florian Lejeune, DeAndre Yedlin , and Matt Ritchie, has greatly contributed to the success of the club last month. In addition, the Brazilian youngster on loan from Chelsea, Kenedy, was an integral component in Newcastle’s two victories at St. James’ Park.
The two home victories in March also means that the unbeaten streak at St. James’ Park was extended to six matches. Benitez and his players can thank the Toon Army for their unwavering support so late in the season with top flight survival within reach.
Phase Two Status
Phase two of the Rafalution is centered on avoiding relegation in the 2017/18 campaign and the Magpies are close to achieving this goal. With seven matches left in the season, the Magpies can earn sufficient points to secure their survival. It is worth noting that the list of fixtures in April consists of quality opponents, but Newcastle’s recent form is also worth praising.
The Magpies will take on Leicester City this weekend and then play Arsenal at St. James’ Park on April 15. Two difficult matches back-to-back, but even a few draws could help secure Newcastle’s survival at this point.