Newcastle United and manager Rafael Benitez secured their place back at the top of the Championship Tuesday evening with a dramatic 2-1 victory at Brighton & Hove Albion. The result continues the Magpies’ impressive recent form, now unbeaten in their last seven matches.
Newcastle United Balance Great Expectation with the Premier League in Focus
The two clubs at the top of the table each knew that a victory would launch the other towards a league title, as Newcastle now hold a two-point lead over second-place Brighton. The match featured both a thrilling comeback and a little bit of luck as well for the visiting side.
Albion brought pressure to Newcastle early, as United’s defence had difficulty clearing out chances in front of goal. Quick passing and accurate crosses led to multiple early free-kicks for the home side, eventually earning Brighton a penalty in the 14th minute.
Glenn Murray sent goalkeeper Karl Darlow the wrong way to give the hosts an early advantage. Brighton appeared set to see out the victory, until a fortunate bounce from Mohamed Diame (81’) in the penalty area levelled the match. Substitute Ayoze Perez (89’) scored the match-winner just moments from the final whistle, capping a wild sequence and thunderous celebration from the travelling Toon support.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yZxdDeIixQ
Newcastle United’s relegation-bound season last year in the Premier League may have been devastating, but the club are now in an excellent position to make a fast return to the English top flight.
Benitez’s commitment
When Rafa Benitez was brought on as manager late last season, there was concern that their drop to the Championship may see him leave St. James’ Park. But true to his word, the Spanish tactician remained in the North East and has been a key component in guiding the squad to a strong campaign.
Relegated clubs can struggle returning to the Premier League, as the changes that can come about in the line-up make for an uneasy task.
But with the players and the massive support behind them, Newcastle and Benitez came into the season with the expectation to immediately return. The club and the manager have responded fantastically to a challenge that could have easily been a heavy burden.
Finances
The past summer saw a busy transfer period, as relegation brought the sales of players like Georginio Wijnaldum and Moussa Sissoko. But excellent signings coming to Newcastle United have helped to bring strong performances in the Championship.
Mohamed Diame and DeAndre Yedlin have been key contributors, while the side’s leading scorer Dwight Gayle has been truly magnificent.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7IcWgZS9xQ
A return to the Premier League would bring further modifications, but a talented and motivated squad has Newcastle United in a wonderful position to achieve automatic promotion and avoid the play-off places.
Matches ahead
With only 12 matches remaining in the 2016-17 league campaign, it is imperative that Newcastle United continue to earn positive results in their upcoming fixtures.
Saturday’s match at third-place Huddersfield Town will be critical, along with an encounter against Leeds United next month. The Magpies are currently eight points clear of the play-off places.
Expectations can be difficult to live up to. But with Tuesday’s magical result and Rafael Benitez leading the charge, Newcastle United may be returning to the Premier League for the 2017-18 season.
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