Newcastle back to winning ways with Fulham thrashing

LONDON: It’s amazing what three points earned can do for the outlook on Tyneside. While many began to question whether Newcastle United’s one win in their opening seven games, even with just one defeat, was a positive or negative start to the season, doubters have been silenced thanks to their dominant display against Fulham. All three points were secured in southwest London thanks to a special Miguel Almiron double, as well as strikes from Callum Wilson and Sean Longstaff, in a 4-1 win.

Bobby Decordova-Reid netted a late consolation for the hosts, who had Nathaniel Chalobah dismissed after just eight first-half minutes. Due to a number of injury issues, head coach Eddie Howe was forced into changes to his usual defensive and midfield lines. Joelinton and Matt Targett, both failing to be passed fit to start, found themselves benched with Longstaff and Sven Botman recalled.

Jacob Murphy and Wilson were also restored to the Newcastle line-up, with Ryan Fraser and the injured Alexander Isak replaced. And it was Wilson, back after a five-game lay-off, who could have opened the scoring within minutes of the off. A Dan Burn shot was brilliantly saved by the impressive Bernd Leno but the rebound was poked wide with the goal gaping by last season’s top-scorer Wilson.

The game was turned on its head after just seven first half minutes when Chalobah’s late challenge on Longstaff was deemed to be a red card after a VAR check. While home complaints were vociferous, it was the right call by referee Darren England, with Chalobah late and high on the United midfielder’s ankle. Wilson made no mistake on 11 minutes, however — even if the goal, his third of the season, was a little cheeky, and much to the dismay of teammate Joe Willock.