Twenty-one games into the EPL season the Magpies are currently 10th in the EPL, with Man United, Brighton and Chelsea sitting above them. Tricky away trips to Man United, Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Chelsea make the prospect of qualifying for Europe next team highly unlikely. Even soccer betting sites, offering futures bets are non-believers, with DraftKings given out odds of +1200 of Newcastle making the top 4.
It therefore, it seems that route into Europe may lie in the FA CUP.
Newcastle’s last domestic trophy victory dates back seven decades to the summer of 1955, when they triumphed 3-1 over Manchester City. The current season needed a boost for the Magpies, and it came last night in the FA Cup, where Sean Longstaff and Dan Burn, both Geordies, provided a lifeline. While it’s early in the competition, Newcastle aims to keep their season alive and remains in contention, bringing hope.
For Eddie Howe, this victory is a relief, marking only the third win in 11 games, with eight defeats. It ensures that Newcastle is still competing for more than just a top-seven finish in the league.
The away terrace witnessed the presence of Alan Shearer, who enjoyed the win with his family and was serenaded with his old songs when spotted.
The current campaign has been challenging for Howe and his players, with this match showcasing a more organized and solid but less energetic side. Despite lacking precision after a winter break, the victory on the road to Wembley mattered greatly for Newcastle fans. This season has seen missed opportunities in the Carabao Cup, Champions League, and the Premier League, but the expectation remains high after substantial investments and ambitions from the Saudi owners to be “No 1.”
The assumption that reaching the Carabao Cup final last season would be the first of many successes has faced the harsh reality of intense competition in English football. A poor summer transfer window, injuries, and financial constraints have added to the challenges, yet the hope persists.
Newcastle faced their 32nd game of the season, dealing with a physical and mental demand not experienced in the previous season. The last fortnight was marked by disruptions, with For Sale signs metaphorically hanging over players due to revealed losses of £150m over two years. Despite nine unavailable players, Newcastle managed to get the job done, showcasing resilience and determination.
The injury crisis persists, with key players like Miguel Almiron, Jamaal Lascelles, and Callum Wilson unavailable. However, the emergence of Alexander Isak as a dynamic force has been a positive aspect for the team. Despite these challenges, Eddie Howe’s side is only three players away from their best starting XI, and their solid performance in this match reflects their ability to overcome adversity.
