Newcastle thrash Everton to close in on Champions League
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Newcastle United's Callum Wilson (centre) scores the opening goal.
PHOTO: AFP
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LONDON – Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe was pleased his side have returned to form at the right time, as they clinched a 4-1 Premier League win at Everton on Thursday, following a 6-1 thrashing of Tottenham Hotspur over the weekend.
The two victories – coming after a 3-0 loss to Aston Villa – were a big boost to their Champions League hopes as they sit in third and two points ahead of Manchester United, although they have played a game more.
The Magpies were far from their best but still far too good for the struggling Toffees as Callum Wilson scored twice. Joelinton and Jacob Murphy were also on target.
“It’s a return to scoring ways in the last couple of games which is great to see,” said Howe, whose side scored three goals only in the last 18 minutes.
“First half was not perfect, but second half was very good. We scored some very good goals. Second half, we really put our foot to the floor and showed what we are capable of.
“I think it is just a case of onto the next game. The end table will tell us where we are and for now we are just focusing on the next game. We have returned to form in a really good way.”
The defeat leaves Everton still rooted in the relegation zone, two points adrift of safety, and with a huge task ahead to extend their 69-year stay in the English top flight.
No side have scored fewer goals than Everton (25) in the Premier League this season and they were again made to pay for a lack of cutting edge despite an impressive start.
“The game changed on their second goal and that is what we have to change,” said Everton boss Sean Dyche as Dwight McNeil netted a late consolation for the home side.
“At 2-0, it is difficult but you are still in it and our reaction to that was so soft.”
Newcastle United’s Callum Wilson scores their third goal.
PHOTO: REUTERS
Only Southampton are keeping the Toffees off the foot of the table and the Saints are now six points adrift of safety after a 1-0 home defeat by Bournemouth on Thursday.
Marcus Tavernier scored the only goal at St Mary’s to take the Cherries up to 14th and seven points clear of the drop zone.
Southampton thought they had snatched a dramatic 89th-minute equaliser but Che Adams’ effort was ruled out for offside following a video assistant referee review.
“I don’t think we were good enough,” said Southampton boss Ruben Selles.
“Until we conceded the goal, we weren’t in the game.” AFP, REUTERS
Newcastle United’s Joelinton scores their second goal.
PHOTO: REUTERS
