In a battle of in-form clubs, Newcastle United came out on top vs. Burnley.
Newcastle United kept the good times rolling at St. James’ Park as the Magpies secured a 2-0 victory over Burnley yesterday. Fabian Schar and Sean Longstaff scored for Rafa Benitez’s side.
Top Toons
Fabian Schar: At both ends of the pitch, Schar turned in a big-time shift for the hosts. What a goal!
Sean Longstaff: The youngster buried his first Premier League goal and continues to shine every time out.
Isaac Hayden: He pairs so well with Longstaff and established himself as the man in charge of the middle of the park, winning the ball and sliding in on tackles.
Mediocre Magpies
If I was nitpicking, I would put Ayoze Perez here because he didn’t get a shot off. But, alas, I am not dissecting a quality overall performance unnecessarily deep!
Quick Kicks
- I love Fabian Schar. There, I said it. The Swiss defender plays with such confidence and skill no matter where he is on the pitch. His goal was one for the ages and he’s within the first two names I’m writing on the team sheet every time out if I’m Rafa.
- The other name in that category is Miguel Almiron. I don’t even want to remember what it was like watching Newcastle United without him. His pace, creativity, and energy have transformed the club’s attack. He will score soon and when he does, the Toon Army will go insane!
- I thought Javier Manquillo had a quality day. He seems to be playing with a bit more confidence than he did last season and it’s important to have that depth.
- For me, Hendrick’s challenge was a red card but not an egregiously awarded yellow. Can you imagine if there were red cards in back-to-back matches for Newcastle’s opponent? The Earth might stop spinning.
- Jamaal Lascelles seems to be back to his normal self. Earlier in the season, he was struggling for consistency, partially due to injury, but now he is back to being a top defender and leader.
What’s Next?
Newcastle United will hit the road to London as they face West Ham United on Saturday. The Hammers face off against Manchester City today and sit 10th on the Premier League table.