There could hardly have been a worse start for Newcastle as they fell behind in only the fourth minute, after some fine individual skill by Shane Long – and some hapless defending. The first two were scored by Graziano Pelle, who headed in the first before capitalising on an error by Mike Williamson, who was also at fault for the third as Jack Cork found the net. The Irish forward has had a nice season, and this performance was one of his very best, though that’s largely because he was facing Newcastle. Jack Colback missed the game through suspension and Fabricio Coloccini remained on the sideline through injury.
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“This is different”, he admitted after Saturday’s 3-1 capitulation at Southampton.
Taylor made way for Jamaal Lascelles for the second period but Saints were three up on 55 minutes, as Fonte’s shot from Mane’s cross was blocked, only for Victor Wanyama to hammer in the rebound.
The young Serbian star must therefore start every upcoming match for Newcastle United this season, for without the passionate striker solidly involved among the first-team fold down at St. James’, Rafa Benitez’ Magpies stand no chance of survival whatsoever…
That was as good as it got for Newcastle though, as Southampton cruised to an easy victory to push the North-East side closer to the Premier League trapdoor.
“It’s been frustrating just because of little niggly injuries, but hopefully I’ve shaken them off now, and can stay fit now until the end of the season”, said Austin.
Janmaat limped off the pitch after slipping in the build-up to the home side’s second goal. Southampton’s Sadio Mane in action with Newcastle’s Chancel Mbemba. “The first half was really poor in everything”. This time Andros Townsend had a thumping effort from 25-yards, forcing Forster into a tough diving save. We had a quick start in the game.
Ronald Koeman brought on the former Barcelona and Chelsea midfielder Oriol Romeu with 15 minutes to go to sure up the Saints midfield.
The home faithful must have thought it was their lucky day as Newcastle’s statuesque and uncompetitive nature during the match set the scene for a game full of goals.
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Benitez slammed his side’s lacklustre loss at Southampton, admitting travelling supporters were right to protest with negative chants during the St Mary’s drubbing on Saturday.
