Newcastle United snuck past a 10-man So’ton by way of a late goal from Allan Saint-Maximin.
Playing on the road without a league goal in a month, Newcastle United had every opportunity to take a lead in the first half. But, neither a red card for So’ton or a penalty kick could give the Magpies a lead. Then, late in the second half, Allan Saint-Maximin stepped up to send NUFC past Southampton, 1-0.
Saint-Maximin to the Rescue!
With this match trending towards a disappointing 0-0 draw, Saint-Maximin pressed the action, stole the ball, and buried his opportunity. He wasn’t always at his best on the ball in this match, but when the club needed him most, he was there to be the hero.
Splendid Shelvey
Outside of an early second-half spell of cheap giveaways, Jonjo Shelvey was the top player for Newcastle today. Throughout the match, Shelvey was firing long passes all over the pitch for the Magpies. He set up multiple chances with beautiful, slicing passes from the outside of his boot. When he’s in form like this, he’s one of the most important players at Newcastle United and a special asset in the Premier League.
Gayle Disappoints at the Doorstep
Starting up top in place of Joelinton, Dwight Gayle had multiple chances in the first half and couldn’t find the back of the net. It was a very disappointing performance for a player that was thought to be a positive alternative for Joelinton. In limited appearances, he’s missed more than five sitters.
Quick Kicks
- While this was the first penalty awarded this season, it’s a fair question as to who should take them. Matt Ritchie’s effort was decent, but anything less than a goal isn’t good enough. Maybe that should have been Miguel Almiron? Or Shelvey?
- If this had ended 0-0 or in a Newcastle loss, it would’ve been the worst result of the season for me. Thankfully, that didn’t happen.
- Martin Dubravka and ASM both finished this match at less than 100%. Hopefully, neither is hampered by their knocks going forward.
- It’s wild that there is one Premier League goal amongst their four strikers (Joelinton, Gayle, Yoshinori Muto, and Andy Carroll). Opportunites to score are there up top, somebody just needs to take them.
- With the win, Newcastle United take the double vs. Southampton this season and move eight points above the relegation zone.
What’s Next?
The Magpies will return home to face Sheffield United. One of the surprise stories this season, the Blades sit in the top six after defeating Norwich City today.