Newcastle United have proved a tough nut to crack this season as they scale the Premier League table in search of a European finish. That resolute defence was at its brilliant best once again on Tuesday as Bournemouth failed to land a blow in the Carabao Cup last 16.
Eddie Howe has created a resilient and reliable back line since taking the reins amid early scepticism over his capabilities in organising a defence. Whether it is a mix Fabian Schar, Sven Botman, Dan Burn or Jamaal Lascelles occupying the heart of the defence, the north east outfit are finding it easy to keep even the best sides out.
Newcastle are now 12 games unbeaten in all competitions and have kept five clean sheets in a row at St James' Park. However, a statistic that seems to have gone under the radar pertains to the lack of goals the Magpies are conceding in the first-half.
