Coming on the back of consecutive losses in the Premier League, expectations were few for Newcastle to defeat Arsenal in the PL. However, defying the odds, Eddie Howe's side grabbed a brilliant 1-0 win, continuing their solid run at St. James, just days after they had defeated Chelsea in the Carabao Cup fixture. While the home advantage did play a crucial role in Newcastle's favor, credit needs to be given to the Toon players, who stood commendable against Arsenal.
Isak's goal helps Newcastle break its winless streak as they edge past Arsenal 1-0
In their last few PL games, a major factor hindering their progress had been the lack of intensity and aggression as a combined unit. However, as many Magpies fans would have hoped for, Eddie Howe's side seem to have transformed for the better with star forward Isak's return, who has been leading their high press play from the front.
From the very beginning, Newcastle were firm in their intentions, being prepared to compete for the complete 3 points at home. Soon, the Magpies club got the result as an inch-perfect cross from wing star Anthony Gordon found Swedish ace Isak, who, with a beautiful finish past David Raya, gave his side the 1-0 lead in the 12th minute only. With this goal, the star forward moved to his season tally of 4, having scored a goal each in his last 3 appearances.
However, as was expected, Arteta's side responded with even more numbers in Newcastle's box. In fact, Arsenal had come close to getting the equalizer in the 28th minute only, but a solid block from ace prodigy Lewis Hall denied the visitors. Even in the second half, Arsenal tried on various occasions, but an excellent effort from Newcastle's backline devoid them of any points from the crucial fixture.
In the end, the scoreline remained 1-0 in Newcastle's favor, who bolstered their brilliant home record against Arsenal further, now having 3 wins out of their last 4 meetings at St. James. With this victory, the Magpies club returns back to the 9th position momentarily, having made the title race difficult for Arteta's Arsenal. Newcastle fans would hope that the club continues their recent form going forward, as they take on Nottingham a week later.