Newcastle United: 5 things we learned from the 2-1 victory vs. Arsenal
By Durim Halimi
Newcastle United maintain their good run of form with an impressive 2-1 victory over Arsenal at St. James’ Park.
Newcastle United have fulfilled Rafa Benitez’s objective of reaching 40 points this season with their 2-1 victory over Arsenal. Composure and perseverance enabled the Magpies to come from behind to secure three points against Arsenal at St. James’ Park.
Arsenal never settled into the match despite taking an early lead through Alexandre Lacazette. Newcastle were full of energy and their unwavering work ethic paved the way for two goals from Ayoze Perez and Matt Ritchie. Here are five things we learned from Newcastle’s victory over Arsenal.
Fearless Magpies
Newcastle were not intimidated by the name on their opponent’s badge on Sunday. The confidence that Newcastle displayed against Leicester City last week carried over against Arsenal. Arsenal’s early lead did not instill panic among the Magpies as Benitez’s men remained focused on attacking.
Arsenal’s midfielders and defenders had no answer for Newcastle’s pressure, especially in the second half. Even after taking a 2-1 lead, the Magpies continued to put pressure on Arsenal’s defense as Kenedy and Islam Slimani kept moving the ball forward.
If Newcastle continue to play with such confidence and urgency to score goals, the Toon could claim a few more victories. With Everton and West Brom being the next two opponents, Newcastle will find it slightly easier to attack more frequently.
Aerial Attack
With Arsenal maintaining 72 percent of the possession, Newcastle struggled in their effort to create a proper rhythm in the match. The Magpies would have been more effective with better ball distribution on the ground. Jonjo Shelvey was still the key facilitator for Newcastle, but the lack of possession required him to pass in the air.
While Newcastle were fortunate to find success with minimal ground passes, the Magpies cannot become reliant on aerial through-balls going forward. Shelvey and company must work on finding their striker through the ground to create more scoring opportunities.
Ayoze Perez
The young Spaniard has been on fire for Newcastle United over the last three weeks. Ayoze Perez has found the back of the net three times in three matches. It is disappointing to see Dwight Gayle struggle up top, but it is reassuring to see Perez make up for Gayle’s woes.
Perez is not a player who creates his own opportunities, but he knows how to position himself. Perez timed his near-post run to perfection and made it impossible for Petr Cech to save his shot. If Perez can maintain this positive form, Newcastle will continue to climb the table.
Islam Slimani Must Start
The Algerian international striker must be on the field from the opening whistle. Seeing Dwight Gayle start the match in place of Islam Slimani was surprising and ineffective. It only took Slimani a few minutes to settle into the match and have an impact.
With five matches remaining this season, Benitez must alter Slimani’s role from a substitute to a starter. Slimani is known as a finisher, but he needs more minutes to have a significant impact for Newcastle United.
Appealing Investment
Newcastle are enjoying their placement in the top half of the Premier League table and this will be appealing to prospective buyers. The more success Newcastle has, the more probable the sale of the club becomes. Earning sufficient points to break into the top ten is one thing, but defeating Manchester United, Leicester City and Arsenal is convincing.
Potential buyers want to be assured that Newcastle are a stable club. Well, with this victory over Arsenal it is safe to say that the Magpies’ recent results are no fluke. Newcastle continue to surprise pundits and exceed expectations, which makes them even more appealing.