One of Newcastle United’s stars found himself at the center of Pat Nevin’s praise as the Magpies secured a 3-0 victory in regulation against PSV Eindhoven.
Newcastle easily win against PSV
It was far from a classic on a wintry night on Tyneside, but Eddie Howe’s side did what they had to do in front of a jubilant crowd of 52,076, with PSV looking over their shoulder to face Bayern Munich as they secured a top-16 finish and a chance for automatic qualification.
The visitors, who arrived with just one defeat in their previous 21 games, enjoyed a bright start, but it was the Magpies who took the lead as Matej Kovar’s scuffed clearance gave Wissa a crucial opening goal.
Sven Botman then recycled Trippier’s free-kick with central defensive partner Malik Thiau before firing an ambitious volley wide of the target, but the Magpies extended their lead on the half-hour mark as things continued to get rougher, once again pleasing Gordon with a helping hand.
The pattern of the first half was repeated after the restart, with the visitors dominating possession and Barnes’ momentum undeniable. PSV captain Jerdi Schouten could only help Pope clear into his own goal in the 65th minute, but he ran towards the ball with good tempo and fired his 12th powerful shot of the season past the stranded Kovar.
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Everything was refreshingly simple for the Magpies as they returned to winning ways in style in the Champions League. Many, including Joelinton, stood out at St James’ Park and received well-deserved praise.
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The Brazilian particularly surprised Nevin, praising the former Chelsea and Everton star on commentary for the BBC after the hosts’ first goal.
“When Newcastle got into midfield they had the advantage. I was very impressed with Joelinton and thought he was going to get a shot and played a smart ball, but Wissa could do nothing but tap in.
“Eddie Howe has the look of a man who saw it coming. He looks at the PSV players and all over their shoulders as if their plans have already been dismantled.”
It is also difficult to argue with Nevin’s ruling. The Brazilian put in a great performance, creating an assist and two chances all-round.
Joelinton vs PSV | statistics |
|---|---|
assist | 1 |
An opportunity has arisen | 2 |
collect | 5 |
dribble pass | 0 |
To sum up how impressive the midfielder has been going forward, he created more chances than Anthony Gordon and enjoyed a great night himself.
Howe’s side will next host Aston Villa at home, aiming to continue their Champions League form and qualify for the Champions League.
