Newcastle Toons
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Toon Takeaways from Newcastle’s first opening win since 2012

By Carson A Merk

Newcastle United's Andy Carroll (C) reacts after Jeff Hendrick (R) scored their second goal. (Photo by ADAM DAVY/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Newcastle United's Andy Carroll (C) reacts after Jeff Hendrick (R) scored their second goal. (Photo by ADAM DAVY/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) /
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Newcastle United opened their 2020-21 Premier League campaign with a 2-0 win over West Ham United. Callum Wilson scored the opener before Jeff Hendrick provided the insurance goal.

A Season-Opening Win!?

For the first time since Demba Ba and Hatem Ben Arfa gave the club a win back in August 2012, Newcastle United secured a victory in their first match of the season. They were the better team for nearly its entirety and it’s a well-deserved three points for Steve Bruce’s side.

Hendrick’s A Hero

Arriving on a free move this offseason, Hendrick headed the ball to Wilson for the opening goal before he smashed a shot in for the second score. His work rate was solid and he was confident passing the ball around.

Pushing The Action

After last season where a lot of the matches saw Newcastle bunkering down and occasionally springing on the break, the Magpies got out on the front foot and pushed the action in the attack. Allan Saint-Maximin did well to drive the ball forward and Andy Carroll and Wilson played well as a striking tandem up top.

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Quick Kicks

  • Interesting decision by Steve Bruce to start with Miguel Almiron on the bench. But, it worked out and Miggy came in with some great energy in the second half and he assisted on Hendrick’s goal.
  • There’s a chance that the feeling wears off, but I was nervous anytime the ball was heading towards Karl Darlow. But, the keeper starting in place of Martin Dubravka comes away with a clean sheet.
  • Both outside-backs, Jamal Lewis and Javi Manquillo, did well getting forward when the chances were there and sending in some quality crosses.
  • Wilson talked about his scoring record being great vs. West Ham and he added another today.

What’s Next?

After a win in the Premier League, Newcastle will kick off their EFL Cup run with Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday. In their Championship opener today, they were defeated by Bournemouth, 3-2.