Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak scored an easy winner to secure a 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur as the Magpies overcame a second-half storm to claim all three points in an entertaining Premier League clash at St James’ Park on Sunday.
Newcastle took the lead through Harvey Barnes in the first half but an own goal from Dan Burn after the break equalised for Tottenham after dominating the second half but wasting several chances and being beaten by a rapid counter-attack from the home side.
Joelinton’s defence-splitting pass was perfect for Jacob Murphy who played the ball in for Isaac after rounding goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario to put it on a platter to secure the three points for Eddie Howe’s side who have not lost at home since January.
Adding to Newcastle’s joy, midfielder Sandro Tonali made his first league appearance since serving a 10-month ban for breaching betting rules, and received a rapturous reception from the home fans.
Newcastle now have seven points from their first three games, while Tottenham remain in fourth place.
“In general we didn’t expect to have so much possession. We wanted to be dangerous on the counter-attack. It wasn’t the prettiest game from our side but we defended very well and scored two goals which is good,” Isaac told Sky Sports.
“You always have to be focused. It’s easy to get frustrated. It was a tough, tough match for me – I wasn’t at my best.”
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou was disappointed with the result but not with the performance as his team dominated the game for long periods.
“We missed the chance unfortunately,” Postecoglou said. “We had chances to win the game, maybe easily, but we came away with nothing, so it was very bitter.”
Isaac hit the woodwork with an early chance before Newcastle took the lead against the run of play in the 37th minute.
A quick throw-in allowed Lloyd Kelly to send in a low cross from the left, which Barnes brilliantly struck into the far corner.
The visitors equalised when Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope failed to deal with James Maddison’s shot and pushed the ball to Brennan Johnson, whose effort was pushed into his own net by Byrne.
Tottenham continued to press Newcastle’s goal but it was the home side who found the winner thanks to Joelinton’s vision and Murphy’s calm pass to Sweden international Isak.
