Newcastle United missed a golden opportunity to climb into the Premier League’s top four after Fulham produced a stunning second-half fightback to snatch victory.
The Magpies needed just a point to leapfrog Manchester City into fourth place ahead of City’s crucial clash against Arsenal on Sunday, February 2. However, their hopes were dashed when substitute Rodrigo Muniz sealed Fulham’s comeback in the 82nd minute. The Brazilian got the faintest of touches on Andreas Pereira’s dangerous free-kick, guiding the ball into the net to complete an impressive turnaround.
Newcastle had initially taken control, breaking the deadlock in the 37th minute through Jacob Murphy. The winger was on hand to slot home after Anthony Gordon’s deflected cross found him in space, marking his fourth goal of the campaign.
Just moments before Murphy’s opener, Sandro Tonali came close to giving the hosts the lead, striking the upright with a thunderous 30-yard effort that had St James’ Park gasping.
Fulham responded strongly in the second half and found their equalizer in the 61st minute. Raul Jimenez met Antonee Robinson’s cross, and a slight deflection helped his effort find the back of the net, restoring parity for the visitors.
Despite Newcastle pushing forward, Fulham defended resolutely, keeping the in-form Alexander Isak quiet for most of the match. The Swedish striker came closest in the 76th minute when he cut inside from the left and unleashed a curling effort, only to see it crash off the upright.
Newcastle’s defeat marked the first time in a year they have suffered back-to-back home losses in the league. Meanwhile, Fulham secured a rare feat, completing their first Premier League double over the Magpies since the 2008-09 season.
Marco Silva’s men climbed to ninth in the table, reducing the gap to just five points behind Newcastle in fifth, as the race for European spots continues to intensify.
SOURCE: BBC
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