Newcastle United are feeling ecstatic after this weekend. But is it too soon?
Newcastle United and manager Rafa Benitez earned a crucial victory on Saturday, a 2-1 win at Leicester City that moved the club up to tenth in the Premier League table. The Magpies finished the day ten points above the final relegation place, and fans are rightfully feeling like top-flight safety has been achieved.
Perhaps premature in some respects, but this outlook does have its merits at this point in the season. With six games remaining in the term, Benitez’s side are in an enviable spot compared to others in the league. Where some like Southampton and Stoke City will likely need help in various fixtures, Newcastle truly control their own destiny.
There is a confidence that the team are exuding at the moment, and it has been building over time. The Toon have won three consecutive league matches, and lost only one in their last eight (at Liverpool).
Newcastle sit 10th as it stands! Massive 2-1 win. “We are staying up” sing the fans. Brilliant performance. Perez being hailed by away end. #nufc
— Simon Bird (@SimonBird_) April 7, 2018
With all of the ups and downs that 2017-18 has provided, seeing the team in this type of form right now is extremely encouraging.
The uncertainty of their future could have been a distraction, but the players have only appeared to increase their effort and focus.
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Benitez stated recently that 40 points is the goal, and that objective is definitely within reach after Saturday’s result.
Two points from six
Now on 38 points, one more victory would get the Magpies to where they want to be. A home date with West Brom on April 28 stands out, and that should provide the necessary outcome.
However, there is plenty of potential positivity in matches against Arsenal and Everton as well. The Gunners will be coming off mid-week action in the UEFA Europa League next weekend, while the Toffees have struggled in their last two outings.
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Newcastle United fans believe that their club will avoid relegation, and the festive mood around St. James’ Park can be felt throughout the North East. Is it correct? It absolutely is.