Newcastle United battled their way to a dramatic 2-1 victory over Fulham at St James’ Park, securing another vital three points in what proved to be a frustrating yet thrilling afternoon for Eddie Howe’s side.
It was a game filled with moments of quality, wasted chances, and a late burst of energy that turned frustration into celebration. For much of the contest, Newcastle looked uncertain and disjointed, but the introduction of Will Osula late in the game completely changed the tempo, sparking a response that helped Bruno Guimarães seal the win.
Eddie Howe made just one change to the team that comfortably beat Benfica in the Champions League earlier in the week. Joelinton returned to the starting lineup, replacing Jacob Ramsey, who dropped to the bench.
Sandro Tonali, recovering from illness, was also named among the substitutes, missing out on the Premier League starting XI for the first time this season.
Newcastle started the game positively, showing early intent. Within the opening minutes, Nick Woltemade hit the post, and Bruno Guimarães dragged a shot just wide, setting the tone for what looked like a lively performance.
The early pressure paid off inside 20 minutes when Jacob Murphy pounced on a sloppy pass from Calvin Bassey, charged forward, and coolly slotted the ball into the bottom corner via the post. It was a well-taken goal his first of the season and a perfect example of Newcastle’s pressing paying off.
The Magpies controlled most of the first half but failed to find a second goal to give themselves breathing space. That missed opportunity came back to haunt them after the break.
Fulham grew into the game and equalised before the hour mark when Sasa Lukić reacted quickest to Raul Jimenez’s strike that cannoned off the bar. Lukić slotted home from close range, making it 1-1, and the visitors suddenly had momentum.
Adding to Newcastle’s worries, Sven Botman suffered a head injury in the same sequence after colliding with Lukić. The Dutch defender needed lengthy treatment before being taken off, clutching an ice pack as he headed straight to the tunnel. Fabian Schär replaced him, making his first appearance since early October.
Howe used that stoppage as an opportunity to make further tactical changes. Sandro Tonali and Harvey Barnes were introduced to bring fresh energy, replacing Lewis Miley and Jacob Murphy, who had given everything but looked fatigued. Anthony Gordon, lively down the left, also made way later in the half for Anthony Elanga, as Newcastle pushed for a late winner.
The turning point came in the 86th minute with the introduction of Will Osula. The young forward immediately injected pace, urgency, and aggression into Newcastle’s attack.
His fearless pressing caused problems for Fulham’s defence, and his determination proved decisive in the 90th minute. Driving forward with purpose, Osula unleashed a shot that was parried by Bernd Leno, only for Bruno Guimarães to pounce on the rebound and slot home his third goal of the season. The roar around St James’ Park said it all — relief, joy, and pride.
Player performances varied, with some standing out more than others. Nick Pope made a crucial save to deny Emile Smith Rowe late in the first half but could do little to prevent Fulham’s equaliser. Kieran Trippier had a mixed afternoon solid defensively but wasteful in possession at times.
Malick Thiaw was impressive, bringing energy and intensity from the back while covering for teammates effectively. Dan Burn was typically strong in the air and disciplined in his duels, though he had moments where his positioning was questionable.
Lewis Miley showed flashes of composure on the ball but also moments of inexperience. Joelinton fought hard through early knocks, driving forward with determination.
Bruno Guimarães, despite missing earlier chances, embodied leadership and persistence his late goal proving once again how vital he is to this team.
Jacob Murphy’s goal gave Newcastle the perfect start, and while he could have made it 2-0 before being subbed, his overall performance was sharp and positive.
Anthony Gordon worked tirelessly and linked play well before coming off, while Nick Woltemade’s early promise faded as the game progressed.
Among the substitutes, Schär impressed with composure and key interceptions, while Tonali added some midfield balance despite still looking short of full fitness.
Harvey Barnes made some clever runs and helped stretch Fulham’s backline, creating a late chance for Elanga, who himself had an opportunity to score but was denied by a well-timed block.
But the biggest talking point was Will Osula. In just a few minutes on the pitch, he changed the mood of the match. His energy, pressing, and direct running gave Newcastle the edge they had been missing. His involvement in the winning goal showed his impact the kind of drive and hunger that can lift a team in difficult moments.
Newcastle may not have been at their best, but this win mattered. It showed resilience, character, and the ability to dig deep even when performances fall short of expectations.
If the team can channel the intensity from those final moments into their full performances, they’ll soon find their rhythm again. For now, all that matters is the result three vital points, a reminder of what determination can bring, and a young striker who proved himself a true game-changer at St James’ Park.
