Newcastle United 0-2 West Ham United
West Ham United delivered one their best performances of the season, stunning St. James’ Park with a 2-0 victory that showcased defensive resilience, midfield class, and clinical finishing.
Lucas Paquetá’s brilliance in midfield proved decisive, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s unexpected attacking contribution offered a much-needed boost to Julen Lopetegui’s side.
Newcastle began brightly, with Alexander Isak seeing an early chip ruled out for offside after a sharp through ball from Anthony Gordon. However, West Ham struck against the run of play in the 10th minute.
Tomáš Souček, left unmarked near the penalty spot, rose to power home Emerson’s out-swinging corner. West Ham’s first goal from a corner this season and Newcastle’s first conceded
The hosts surged forward, with Lewis Hall’s low drive fizzing wide. Moments later Łukasz Fabiański reacted brilliantly to deny Gordon, who almost capitalised on a poor clearance from Tobido.
Despite their pressure, Newcastle struggled to break down West Ham’s disciplined 4-5-1 shape. At the other end, Jarrod Bowen’s long-range strike and Michail Antonio’s work rate epitomised the visitors’ intent to hit on the break.
The second half saw Newcastle’s frustration grow as they searched for a way back into the match. But it was Wan-Bissaka who stole the spotlight in the 54th minute with an uncharacteristic yet clinical finish.
After Paquetá dispossessed his fellow countryman Bruno Guimarães, the Brazilian orchestrated a quick counter, releasing Bowen, who slid the ball to Wan-Bissaka on the underlap. The right-back arrowed a shot off the far post for just the third goal of his career.
Newcastle’s night worsened as their midfield evaporated under West Ham’s counter-pressing. Bowen nearly added a third, dragging a shot wide after a 30-yard solo run.
Despite late changes, including Callum Wilson and Harvey Barnes, the Magpies failed to create any meaningful chances, with Isak’s hopeful swing at a late cross summing up their night.
Player of the Match: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Despite Paquetá’s dominance in midfield, where he ranked first in all key areas, it was Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s stand-out performance which claimed the Player of the Match award.
Lopetegui’s side executed their game plan to perfection. Their defensive block proved too strong for Newcastle to break down, with Max Kilman and Fabianski excelling, while the trio of Soucek, Paquetá, and Carlos Soler balanced grit and guile in midfield. Newcastle, on the other hand, lacked the cutting edge and were unable to convert their chances.
For West Ham, this victory provides a crucial morale boost following a run of inconsistent performances. However, they’ll face Arsenal without Lopetegui on the touchline, not because of a sacking, but due to a suspension following his second yellow card of the season.
Still, the confidence gained from tonight’s win could carry into the London derby.
Key Stats
- Distance covered (West Ham): 119.1 km, their highest this season.
- Corners: West Ham’s first successful goal from a corner after 55 attempts.
Stadium: St. James’ Park Attendance 52,094
West Ham United’s Michail Antonio (right) beats Newcastle’s Joelinton during the match at St. James’ Park (AP pic)