9-man Newcastle United hold on for a 3-2 win over So’ton

Newcastle United had to overcome the weather, injuries, and a two-man deficit at St. James’ Park today in a 3-2 victory over Southampton.

In his first start since returning from injury and illness, Allan Saint-Maximin made an early impact, as many expected he would. He got in behind the defense and played the ball across to loanee Joe Willock, who buried his chance on his debut.

Just before the half-hour mark, Saint-Maximin found Almiron, whose shot was deflected into the back of the net by Jan Bednarek, for a 2-0 NUFC lead.

Making his debut for So’ton, Liverpool loanee Takumi Minamino had an excellent solo goal to pull the Saints within one. But, before the break, Almiron found his second as he forced a turnover deep in the attacking half and took the chance himself.

Shortly after halftime, Jonjo Shelvey had a chance to put the Magpies up 4-1, but he scuffed the chance and James Ward-Prowse didn’t waste his opportunity minutes later from a free kick.

Things got more interesting minutes later when Jeff Hendrick received a second yellow card and was sent off in the 50th minute. Already facing a tall task, the situation got worse for Newcastle when Fabian Schar had to be stretchered off in the 79th minute after an apparent leg injury.

Unfortunately, Steve Bruce had already used three substitutes, two in the first half to replaced injured Javier Manquillo and Callum Wilson. But, the Magpies were able to bunker down and hold on to their one-lead and pick up all three points.

What’s Next?

Newcastle United will have some time to rest and get healthy ahead of their next match vs. Chelsea, which comes on 2/15. Thomas Tuchel’s side faces Sheffield United tomorrow at Bramall Lane.