Newcastle United produced a clinical performance against Union Saint-Gilloise, cruising to a 4-0 win at Lotto Park. The traveling Geordie fans roared in delight as their team showed ruthless efficiency in front of goal.
The Magpies struck first in the 17th minute. Sandro Tonaliโs driven shot deflected off Nick Woltemade and looped onto defender Kevin Mac Allister, who diverted the ball into his own net.
Newcastle kept the pressure high. Anthony Elangaโs dangerous crosses forced saves from Kjell Scherpen, while Joelinton nodded narrowly wide from Kieran Trippierโs delivery. The hosts struggled to cope with Newcastleโs pace and movement.
Just before halftime, in the 43rd minute, Elanga drew a clumsy foul from Fedde Leysen inside the box. Anthony Gordon stepped up and coolly converted the penalty, doubling the visitorsโ advantage.
Union SG tried to respond after the restart. Nick Pope produced a sharp stop to deny Ousseynou Niang, before pushing away a drive from Adem Zorgane. Despite flashes of resilience, their defense looked fragile under Newcastleโs pressing.
In the 64th minute, VAR spotted a Leysen handball in the area. The referee awarded Newcastle a second penalty, and Gordon made no mistake, sending Scherpen the wrong way for his brace.
The game was effectively sealed in the 80th minute. Will Osula carved open the Union defense with a clever run and cutback, leaving Harvey Barnes to tap in from close range.
Eddie Howe praised his team afterward. โIt was a big step in the right direction. These competitions demand so much, if weโre slow starters, we leave too much to do. Iโm leaving here positive and looking forward to the next one.โ
Union SG coach Sรฉbastien Pocognoli remained defiant despite the heavy defeat. โIโm proud of my team. They fought hard, even at 3-0 down they didnโt give up. Newcastle were just on another level tonight.โ
The win hands Newcastle three vital points after their opening loss to Barcelona, pulling them off the bottom of the league phase standings. Union SG, who started with a win over PSV, are level on three points but now face questions over defensive frailty.
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