Newcastle earned a huge three points in their battle for survival at St. James’ Park, as they beat Chelsea 1-0 on Saturday afternoon.
Newcastle were looking to end a torrid run of four league games without a win, with their last victory coming before Christmas. Chelsea on the other hand were hoping to build on last week’s 3-0 win over Burnley, affirming their grip on fourth place in the race for the top four.
?Joelinton came closest to opening the scoring early on, but his bullet header cannoned off the crossbar. The Magpies were enjoying a lively start to affairs, and were desperately unlucky not to go in front at St. James’ Park.
Joelinton hit the crossbar! So close! Come on Newcastle #nufc
— Martin Lidbury (@martin_lidbury) January 18, 2020
NOOOOO JOELINTON THAT IS AGONISING
— barry c homeowner (@jesscumpsonx) January 18, 2020
Chelsea were next to come close, having a double chance to take the lead. First, Tammy Abraham’s audacious flick came off the bar before being flagged for offside, then N’Golo Kante was denied by a smart save from Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.
The visitors needed a stroke of luck to break through, and it looked as if they had received exactly that when a loose Newcastle ball fell inside the box. Abraham picked it up and went around Dubravka, but the angle was too tight as he could only fire wide of the post.
Come on Tammy Abraham lad, bury one my mate
— Henry Parish (@henry_parish18) January 18, 2020
Tammy ?
— CAREFREE ????????? (@BlueArmy1905_) January 18, 2020
With seconds left on the clock in the final minute of stoppage time, Newcastle defied all odds and snatched the win. Isaac Hayden’s header from Allen Saint-Maximin’s ball in was all it took, as the Magpies broke Chelsea hearts and stole a priceless victory in front of their adoring fans.
Goal for Newcastle. Hayden heads home late on in stoppage time.
?? 1-0 ? [90′] #NEWCHE
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) January 18, 2020
ISAAC HAYDEN MA BOY??????????????
— Chunky Gee (@kristiant28) January 18, 2020
WHAT A RESULT!! RESILIENT PERFORMANCE FROM THE LADS!! GET IN!!!
— beth (@bethmann99) January 18, 2020
Both sides are back in Premier League action midweek, with just three days before they both play next. Newcastle welcome Everton at Goodison Park, while Chelsea host rivals Arsenal in
a tasty London derby at Stamford Bridge.
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