Newcastle United: 5 things we learned from the 3-0 win vs. Chelsea

The 2017/18 Premier League campaign ended on a positive note for Newcastle United, as they defeated Chelsea 3-0 at St. James’ Park.

The Magpies gave maximum effort in the season finale against Chelsea and their urgency was rewarded with a 3-0 victory. Newcastle were the definition of domination in this match as Chelsea spent most of the time chasing the ball in their own half.

St. James’ Park was booming on the final matchday as their side were motivated by the thought of finishing the campaign in the top ten. Newcastle also ruined Chelsea’s Champions League aspirations on Sunday, as the Blues will settle for the Europa League. Here are five things we learned from Newcastle’s victory today.

Flawless Attack

Newcastle was in top form against Chelsea, as the Magpies were firing on all cylinders. Chelsea had no answer for Newcastle’s constant attack. The cooperation between the midfield and front-line caused several problems for the London-based club.

Dwight Gayle and Ayoze Perez were able to find the back of the net for Newcastle, but Jonjo Shelvey and Mohamed Diame easily could have made it four or five goals for the Magpies. Overall, it was Newcastle’s best offensive performance of the season.

Comfortable Defense

Jamaal Lascelles and company enjoyed a comfortable 90 minutes against Chelsea. Aside from one cheeky attempt from Olivier Giroud, the Magpies were not tested all afternoon.

Newcastle’s offensive dominance forced Chelsea to defend for most of the match. The Blues’ inactivity up top enabled Martin Dubravka and his defensive line to relax and enjoy the atmosphere around them.

Rafa Benitez

As the final whistle was approaching, the chants for Rafa Benitez to stay came roaring down St. James’ Park. After suffering four consecutive defeats, the Spaniard was able to motivate his men against an elite opponent on the final day.

It remains unclear what will happen in his discussions with Mike Ashley, but everyone on Tyneside is hoping that Benitez extends his contract. The Spaniard transformed a Championship side into a mid-table Premier League club. For that reason alone, Benitez’s fiscal demands must be met.

Brace from Perez

Several Magpies have been in top form as of late, but none have played as well as Ayoze Perez. The young striker finished the 2017/18 campaign as Newcastle’s top goalscorer with eight goals. His brace against Chelsea secured three impressive points, and also guaranteed Newcastle’s top-ten finish.

Strong Finish

After 38 matches, the 2017/18 Premier League campaign has concluded and Newcastle United most certainly proved doubters wrong. After being selected as relegation favorites among many pundits, the Magpies defied all odds and finished in the top ten.

The victory against Chelsea showed that Newcastle have the heart and energy to compete with elite clubs. All Benitez needs now is some financial backing to make Newcastle a top-six contender over the next few seasons.

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20 positive results – twelve victories and eight draws – gave the Magpies 44 points, which were sufficient for a tenth-place finish. There were low points this season, but the important thing is that Newcastle ended this campaign on a positive note.