Joe Willock and Callum Wilson scored to give Newcastle United a well-earned 2-0 victory over Manchester United on Sunday which lifted them into third place in the Premier League standings.
Both teams have 50 points from 27 games but Newcastle have the better goal difference in the race to finish in the top four and qualify for the Champions League next season.
Eddie Howe‘s side dominated play at St James’ Park, narrowly missing the target from several excellent chances. Their persistence was rewarded in the 65th minute when Allan Saint-Maximin‘s headed cross found Willock for a close-range header.
Substitute Wilson put the game to bed in the 88th minute, heading in a freekick cross from Kieran Trippier.
The victory was some sort of revenge for Newcastle losing 2-0 to Erik ten Hag‘s Manchester United in the League Cup final in February.
Manchester United, who failed to register an attempt on target in the first half, have not tasted victory in the Premier League since ending their six-year trophy drought at Wembley in February.
Wout Weghorst fired an early chance into the side netting but the Red Devils were second best to a Newcastle side that showed far more urgency.
United were missing the influence of midfielder Casemiro, who is serving a suspension, and defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka due to illness. Marcus Rashford‘s return was good news, at least, after the striker sat out England’s Euro 2024 qualifying games with a knock.
