Newscastle 1-0 Manchester United: Anthony Gordon breaks 53-year jinx

Anthony Gordon, 22 scored a 55th minute pocket finish from Kieran Trippier’s pass to defeat Manchester United for the third time this season. His goal also broke a 53-year long Manchester United’s jinx over the Magpies who have never recorded a double league wins over United. 

This is Gordon’s fifth goal contribution against EPL heavyweights this season. You can tell that Gordon has been instrumental to three EPL heavyweights’ downfall at the Saints James’ Park this season. 

The game

After a not-good performance on the continent for both teams, it was pertinent for them to give back a healthy result to their fans.

But only Newcastle could get that courtesy of Gordon’s solo goal to extend Newcastle’s victory over United to three across all competitions.

Newcastle went into the game a point behind Manchester United in the table, although they have lost one fewer game than Erik ten Hag’s squad. But St James’ Park, has been a fortress for the Magpies this season, winning six of their matches at home, and losing just one, having netted 14 goals in the process.

 Conversely, as they usually do, Eddie Howe’s team appeared more hungry right away and aimed to force United to give up.

Newcastle dominated the first half from start to finish. Andre Onana appeared nervous in the opening exchanges from the likes of Almiron Miguel and Bruno Guimaraes after his disastrous midweek performance away to Galatasaray.  Despite Newcastle giving up 14 shots in the first half, United kept them at bay as both sides played a barren draw.

But the second half was just the beginning of a barrage of opportunities. 

The game only got more intense, and before the hour-mark, Newcastle had their reward. Trippier, who was dominant in his defensive duel with Alejandro Garnacho, became the provider. 

His low cross from the right found Gordon for a straightforward finish at the back post, having stolen a yard on Aaron Wan-Bissaka. 

Six minutes later, Erik Ten Hag introduced both Antony and Rasmus Hojlund into the game for a switch in momentum.

Antony’s effort in the cusps of the second half was chalked off as an offside for Harry Maguire’s interference. 

 The home team also had to deal with goalkeeper Nick Pope’s injured.