NEW DELHI: Newcastle United snapped their four-game losing streak in the Premier League with an impressive 3-1 victory against Aston Villa, as Fabian Schar's brace stole the show at Villa Park.
The Swiss center-back showcased his scoring prowess, netting twice within four minutes late in the first half. Schar's clinical finishing set the tone for Newcastle's resurgence, with Alex Moreno's second-half own goal further extending their lead.
Ollie Watkins managed to pull one back for Villa, but it proved too little, too late, as the Magpies secured a crucial win. The result sees Newcastle climb to seventh place in the league standings, rekindling hopes for European qualification in what has been a challenging season.
Eddie Howe, Newcastle's manager, expressed mixed emotions after the match, stating, "It was mixed emotions for me because that is an elite team. The mixed part is that we haven't seen that for a number of weeks. We looked much more like ourselves. We've been on a disappointing run in the Premier League, especially away from home. It was a big result."
The defeat dealt a significant blow to Aston Villa's unexpected title challenge, leaving them five points behind league leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand. Unai Emery, Villa's manager, acknowledged Newcastle's strength in set pieces, stating, "Today we have to accept because they deserve it. Newcastle's power is in the set pieces. The first 60 minutes, they were better."
Newcastle took the lead in the 32nd minute when Fabian Schar capitalized on a Kieran Trippier corner, guiding his shot past Villa's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Schar struck again just four minutes later, benefitting from a deflected shot by Anthony Gordon that hit the bar before he applied the finishing touch.
The Magpies sealed the victory in the 52nd minute when Alex Moreno's attempt to block Jacob Murphy's goal-bound effort resulted in an own goal. Moreno also suffered a painful injury during the collision with the post.
Despite a late goal from Ollie Watkins in the 71st minute, Villa couldn't mount a comeback, and the defeat marked their first home league loss in 17 matches.
With the transfer deadline looming, Newcastle has been surrounded by speculation about potential departures, but Howe does not expect any new signings. The victory provides a much-needed boost for Newcastle amidst the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the squad.
(With inputs from AFP)
