Newcastle United played well at Wembley, but Tottenham’s lone strike was sufficient to see off the Magpies.
Tottenham’s 1-0 victory over Newcastle on Wednesday solidified the Spurs’ place in the UEFA Champions League next season. The Magpies played impressive football on both ends of the pitch and they deserved at least a point from the match.
It only took one touch from Harry Kane to take an undeserving lead in a relatively poor match for Tottenham. Newcastle essentially did everything right except for execute on some clear looks at goal. Here are five things we observed during the match.
Rare Confidence
Confidence has been nonexistent within the Newcastle camp, but that changed on Wednesday. The Magpies looked like a club that has had enough of losing and were determined to change that trend. From the opening whistle, Newcastle showed that they were not afraid of Tottenham’s punishing attack.
Newcastle failed to score, but their confident style of play enabled them to keep searching for the breakthrough goal. Players in every position utilized Tottenham’s slow place to bully their opposition around and win every loose ball possible. A loss is a loss, but at least the Magpies regained their urgency and confidence that was lacking in recent weeks.
Gayle and Perez
Dwight Gayle and Ayoze Perez did everything to perfection on Wednesday except for find the back of the net. The attacking duo did not shy away from their opposition and pressed high for 90 minutes. Their energy proved beneficial for the Magpies on multiple occasions, as the two strikers came close to scoring.
One thing that was evident on Wednesday, as it has been all season, is that Newcastle need a prolific scorer up top. Gayle and Perez did all that they could to score for Newcastle, but at times their lack of precision and execution is what wastes opportunities.
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Defensive Bunker
Unlike the dismal performance against Watford, Jamaal Lascelles and company enjoyed a comfortable evening against Tottenham. Newcastle’s defenders were largely impenetrable as they intercepted passes, shut set pieces down quickly and defended tightly.
Kane and his colleagues were frustrated all night, and it is that defensive solidity that has contributed to Newcastle’s survival this campaign. Over the weekend, Newcastle will host Chelsea and if the defense keeps this energy up it should be a close affair.
Kenedy
The Toon Army knew this day was coming, but they do not want to admit it, and rightfully so. Wednesday evening marked Kenedy’s last appearance for Newcastle United as he cannot play against his parent club, Chelsea. Everyone on Tyneside is hopeful that Newcastle can secure his services through a permanent deal over the summer.
Before being subbed off by Jacob Murphy after 70 minutes of play, Kenedy put in a decent final performance for the Magpies. He maintained quick pace, dribbled the ball effectively and won a few 50/50 balls to prolong Newcastle’s possession. It will be interesting to see what will happen with Kenedy this summer, but his return to Tyneside would be welcomed.
Toon Army
3,300 seats were designated for the Toon Army at Wembley Stadium, and every supporter could be heard during the match. The support Newcastle have received this season is unmatched. The Toon Army have been there for the club at every away match and they served as motivation for the players on the pitch.
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The Toon Army’s loyalty during the lowest points deserves recognition and praise. The fact that 3,300 supporters traveled to London mid-week for the club’s final away match of the season demonstrates why they are the best supporters in England.