Saint-Maximin and Wilson fire Newcastle past Burnley

Newcastle United pick up a 3-1 win at home over Burnley.

On a rainy evening at St. James’ Park, Newcastle United defeated Burnley, 3-1. The win comes after Newcastle only took one point from the Clarets last season. Allan Saint-Maximin scored the opener and Callum Wilson bagged a brace.

Saint-Maximin…On the Wing…And In the Middle?

Returning from an ankle injury, Saint-Maximin had some magic for the Magpies today. His goal to open the scoring was full credit to his skill dribbling the ball, getting Burnley defenders twisted around, and snuck his shot inside the post. On Wilson’s first goal, the skillful Frenchman got beyond his defender and put a ball across the front of goal for Wilson on a platter.

He did well playing out on the wing as he usually does, but he also excelled when he played more in the middle as a number ten. ASM said after the match that he loves playing there because he is closer to goal.

Newcastle’s Star Striker

Callum Wilson is proving to be exactly what Newcastle have needed. He knocked in a close-range chance for the match-winner and converted a penalty for the third goal. Wilson’s work rate is quality and he’s able to impact the match when he’s on the ball or making a run off of it.

Injury Concerns

Despite picking up the three points, there are some concerns leaving this match. Saint-Maximin spent multiple moments on the ground nursing an ankle knock in the first half and not long after assisting on Wilson’s goal, he went down again and hobbled off.

Fabian Schar also appeared to suffer a shoulder injury and had to sub off in the second half. Thankfully, the international break will give both the chance to recover.

Quick Kicks

• He hasn’t proven his price tag, but I’ve liked what I’ve seen from Joelinton in recent weeks. When he’s not isolated up top, he’s able to move off the ball, hold up play, and try to combine with Callum Wilson.
• One of the announcers mentioned an outside chance that Karl Darlow could end up with England on the international level. That’s quite far-fetched and Darlow dropped a cross minutes after that was said. He has been decent in place of Martin Dubrakva.
• Nick Pope’s match was what Newcastle fans feared they would get from Darlow at some point this season. He had some major miscues that allowed Newcastle some chances.
• Jonjo Shelvey was great today and deserved an assist or two.
• Jamal Lewis will need to be more responsible with his passing. He gives the ball away a little too often and that would be a fear for Newcastle against a team that can capitalize.

What’s Next?

An international break is next on the schedule before Newcastle United host Manchester United on 10/17.