Tottenham did what they had failed to do for five Premier League games in a row against Newcastle on Sunday - and saw out a lead to win all three points.
Destiny Udogie's first goal for the club set Spurs on their way at Tottenham Stadium before Richarlison added a second before the break. The striker's brace ensured the victory was theirs before Heung-min Son added a late penalty.
Ange Postecoglou recalled Richarlison and Pape Sarr to his team following the defeat against West Ham in midweek, and victory was required to keep them within touching distance of the top four.
The Brazilian's return up front moved Son out wide and the Korean created the opener after 26 minutes, racing down the channel before whipping a low cross in for Udogie to turn home.
"He's deserved it"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 10, 2023
DESTINY UDOGIE RIGHT ON THE LINE FOR TOTTENHAM! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/maAzJMmDnf
It should have been two minutes later when Sarr popped up to get on the end of Brennan Johnson's low delivery, weakly shooting wide as Son and Richarlison waited at the far post.
Tottenham didn't have to wait long however as Son twisted Kieran Trippier inside out before teeing up Richarlison for what was his first goal with his feet for the club.
Newcastle's response after the break was only brief and punctured by Richarlison's second, teed up by Pedro Porro's crossfield ball and slotted home by the Brazilian - earning Porro a bear hug from Postecoglou on the touchline in celebration.
The sense of relief around the stadium broke into a thirst for blood as Tottenham almost grabbed a quickfire fourth, Johnson whacking the post seconds later.
It was not until the 85th minute that they wrapped it up however, Son downed by Martin Dubravka for a penalty which the club captain whipped home himself. Joelinton's late strike secured a consolation for Newcastle.
