Scorers: Saint-Maximin (55’), Ritchie(69’), Joelinton (78’)
Red card: John Egan
3 points from the game:
- Post COVID means every mistake is an opportunity.
The game between a team in 7th and 12th was pretty even for most of the first half. Fans can be critical of the players and expecting more from them seems to be justifiable but one can only look at the series of matches available from the European leagues to know that the players are not match ready because of the lockdown. A lot of the goals would come from individual errors because they have not trained for such a long time.
This can be seen in a string of high profile errors that would be analyzed over and over again by pundits should it have happened in a normal season. In this match the 2 yellow cards that John Egan that turned the tide of the game.
Joelinton had a wonderful opportunity in the 16th minute after being set through by Almiron only to fluff his shot. He did however trouble Egan enough to ensure the Sheffield defender picked up 2 yellow cards – first for a scuffle and the second after pulling on Joelinton’s shirt 5 mins after the restart.
With Sheffield 10 man down and Newcastle actually growing into the game, just 5 mins later, when a routine low cross into the box from Matt Ritchie found its way to Saint-Maximin courtesy of Enda stevens who completely missed his attempted clearance that allowed Saint-Maximin to convert the gifted opportunity into the near post.
As the momentum moved towards Newcastle’s favour, they pressed on looking for the second goal and Sheffield were at the panic stations in the clearances opting for safety first without and regrouping as wave after waves of attacks came. This was rewarded in the 69th minute when Matt richtie picked up a ball on the left handside of the pitch via Hayden’s simple switch of play, and belted a shot into the left side of goal beating a clearly stranded Dean Henderson who did not expect the shot.
Newcastle wrapped up the game 9 mins later as Joelinton scored a tap in goal after his pass found almiron free on the flanks and duly cut back for his strike partner to score.
2. Sheffield’s opportunity for European spot
This was supposed to be an opportunity to capitalize on Manchester United’s draw to Tottenham, but a loss to Newcastle was unexpected considering they were in fine form before the lockdown. A draw against relegation battlers Aston Villa and a big loss to Newcastle may be warning signs for the club with a difficult run in. They have certainly captured the attention for what they have achieved this season, but seemingly, the COVID lockdown might work against them. Known for their defensive strength, the lack of training seems to be working against them at the moment. With key battles against the European chasing pack of Tottenham, Wolves, Chelsea and Leicester awaiting them with the latter 3 games being back to back and will take space in a period of 7 days, Sheffield must somehow rediscover their defensive solidarity if they were to end their season with a European slot. A win against Manchester United on 25 June would be a good place to start, though they would have that tantalizing FA cup match against an Arsenal side in chaos as something to consider.
To go to Old Trafford in 2 days with no Dean Henderson, unable to play against parent club, and a suspension, it will be a tough ask especially with a Manchester United side able to call on the now fit again Paul Pogba.
3. What’s Newcastle’s motivation now?
A mid table finish is a certainty for Newcastle now. Sitting at 38 points with 8 games to play, they are just 2 points away from the magical 40 point mark – the minimum needed traditionally to avoid relegation – and 13 points away from mathematical safety should both relegation battlers – West Ham and Bournemouth mount an unlikely 8 game winning streak. 4 Wins and a draw in their last 8 games is their target, but Steve Bruce has certainly got many plans to consider.
Firstly, should he still be around, he would certainly be in the market for a striker. 2 goals in 30 games from Joelinton is not the kind of striker you need if you want to aim higher. With a takeover bid by one of the wealthiest families in the world, let alone by a singular company, would it be easy in the summer transfer window for them to secure that?
Next, with Saint Maximin and Almiron, he needs a player that can consistently supply them the opportunity. With money not being an issue, can Newcastle attract players with that ilk by flaunting money at them?
Should the takeover be completed and a change in manager to take place – how would Newcastle shape up for next season? This are some of the key plots that will unveil itself in the coming weeks but for now settling their mid table status in their next 3 games – Aston villa, Bournemouth and West ham – all of whom are in that relegation mix would certainly allow them to ease up and maybe experiment for the next season.
Written by: Bazli
