Newcastle secured a crucial 2-1 triumph against Manchester United at St James’ Park on Wednesday evening, bringing their winless streak to an end in the most dramatic fashion.
The victory also marked the first loss for Michael Carrick since taking charge of the Red Devils.
Despite being reduced to ten men following Jacob Ramsey’s dismissal for simulation in the opening period, Eddie Howe’s side produced a remarkable display of resilience.
William Osula proved the hero, striking a stunning 90th-minute winner to seal three points for the Magpies against the numerical odds.
The result will provide significant relief for Howe after a difficult run of form.
The match descended into chaos during first-half stoppage time when Ramsey received his marching orders from referee Peter Bankes.
The midfielder, already cautioned for a foul on Cunha, went to ground after attempting to round goalkeeper Senne Lammens, with Bankes deeming the contact insufficient and showing a second yellow for diving.
Newcastle’s frustration quickly turned to jubilation moments later when Gordon was brought down by Bruno Fernandes inside the area.
Michael Carrick suffered his first loss since taking charge of the Red Devils
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The England international stepped up to take the resulting spot-kick himself, coolly stroking the ball straight down the middle to give the hosts a 1-0 advantage.
Casemiro ensured the visitors would not trail for long, heading home from a Fernandes free-kick in the ninth minute of added time to restore parity.
The Brazilian had endured a difficult opening 45 minutes but rose highest to beat Hall and guide his effort into the far corner.
Tempers flared as the players made their way towards the dressing rooms.
Newcastle secured a crucial 2-1 triumph against Manchester United
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Fernandes and Joelinton came closest to a physical confrontation.
The tunnel became a scene of heated exchanges between both squads.
Home supporters directed their anger at Bankes, who had brandished four yellow cards and one red during a chaotic first period.
Osula entered the fray as a substitute in the 86th minute alongside Murphy, replacing Elanga and Gordon.
Eddie Howe’s side produced a remarkable display of resilience
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With the clock showing 90 minutes, the Danish striker produced a moment of magic that will live long in the memory of the St James’ Park faithful.
Collecting the ball on the counter-attack, he kept possession in play before cutting inside and curling a magnificent left-footed effort into the far corner.
Manchester United peppered the Newcastle box with crosses during five minutes of added time, but the ten men stood firm.
Ramsdale had earlier denied Zirkzee with an excellent save as the hosts defied their numerical disadvantage to claim a superb victory.
