Newcastle’s Premier League survival hopes gained further momentum as a superb free-kick from Kieran Tripper – who later left St James’ Park on crutches – earned them a 1-0 win over Aston Villa.
For the third game in succession, the Magpies scored from a direct free-kick, when the right-back curled home moments after the VAR had ruled a foul on Joe Willock had taken place outside the penalty area (35).
The 31-year-old was taken off injured shortly after half-time, however, and, after the final whistle, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe confirmed he had been taken to hospital for an X-ray on his foot.
Howe said: “Trippier got stamped on and he couldn’t continue with a problem on the top of his foot, so he’s gone for an X-ray at the hospital.
“We’re keeping everything crossed hoping that there’s no broken bone.”
The visitors thought they had levelled with an hour gone, but Ollie Watkins’ leveller was ruled out after he was adjudged to have strayed marginally offside following another VAR review, leaving Newcastle four points above the Premier League relegation zone.
Much of the first half-hour offered promise but lacked a cutting edge from either side, who struggled to bring their attacking players into play. If anything, Newcastle looked the more threatening, though, with Ryan Fraser’s runs and crosses from the right flank proving a nuisance for the visitors, who were largely passive.
Just after the half-hour, Newcastle were awarded a penalty when Calum Chambers clumsily tripped Joe Willock as he rampaged towards goal. After a moment’s hesitation, referee Craig Pawson pointed to the spot, though the decision was later downgraded to a free-kick on the edge of the area upon consultation with VAR Paul Tierney.
A lengthy delay followed as the teams organised themselves, before Trippier curled a beautiful effort around the Villa wall and past goalkeeper Emi Martinez, via the slightest deflection off Emi Buendia’s knee – his second goal in as many games.
The Magpies started the second half brightly, but Villa grew and took advantage of some slack defending, with Watkins heading in from a yard or two out after a cross was flicked into his path. He had strayed just millimetres ahead of Emil Krafth, though, and it was eventually ruled out, much to the delight of the home crowd.
Villa boss Steven Gerrard introduced Leon Bailey and Danny Ings in an attempt to freshen up his side’s attack and force an equaliser, but chances came at a premium thereafter and Newcastle took the points.
Man of the match – Dan Burn
Gary Neville on Sky Sports Premier League:
“Without a shadow of a doubt he is my man of the match. He was composed at the back and all of his work has been really good, particularly his headed clearances. I have not seen the Newcastle defence as organised as this for some time.”
