Newcastle United took an important step towards qualifying for the EFL League Cup final after a 2-0 away win over Premier League title contenders Arsenal at the Emirates.
Scorers: Isaac 38′, Gordon 51′
Arriving at this crucial encounter in north London this evening, the Magpies have once again showcased their capabilities as they look to re-establish themselves as one of the leading forces on the English football landscape.
The best chances of the opening 15 minutes fell to the home side after Arsenal pushed for a crucial opening against a side in great form of late.
First, Kai Havertz nearly grabbed a loose ball in the box just before the 10th minute, followed by Jurriën Timber sending his header over the bar less than four minutes later from inside the six yards .
Newcastle created a few pretty decent chances while showing real intent to take their chance away from home ahead of the second leg.
Gabriel Martinelli should have given Arsenal the lead when he found himself in a one-on-one with Martin Dúbravka in the 30th minute after being thrown in from deep, but the Brazilian only managed to hit the post with his attempt.
Swedish striker Alexander Isak made the Gunners pay dearly soon after, when he opened the scoring in the 38th minute with a close-range shot past David Raya.
Eddie Howe’s men took full control of the match six minutes after the restart thanks to Anthony Gordon, when the England international pushed home the ball which was pushed aside by Isak.
The Magpies head into Sunday’s FA Cup match against Bromley at St. James’ Park with confidence, while Arsenal will be wise to be wary of their tough clash with rivals Manchester United, as a series of matches tough times ahead for the Gunners.
???? GLYN KIRK – AFP or licensors
