Newcastle United were back to their best as they beat Southampton at St Mary’s.
It was a fine afternoon on the South Coast for Newcastle United who will finish the game week in fifth place, boosting their chances of qualifying for the Champions League.
Newcastle’s 3-1 win against Southampton meant that the Magpies immediately bounced back from their first defeat in 10 games the week prior – they did it in style.
Despite initially going behind, it did not hinder Eddie Howe’s side who levelled the game through Alexander Isak’s penalty after 26 minutes. The Swede would give Newcastle the lead just four minutes later before Sandro Tonali would guarantee the Magpies ended the game with all three points.
Isak has Jacob Murphy to thank for his involvement in his second goal, but he still had work to do. His first touch and finish was admirable, exactly what a striker in his form is expected to do.
There was also an emotional moment for Miguel Almiron after the game. Almiron looks set to join Atlanta United in the coming days.
With Newcastle travelling back to Tyneside with the win, club legend Alan Shearer has had his say one one particular moment in the game.
Alan Shearer praises Isak’s ability in Newcastle win
Shearer was known for his eye for goal at Newcastle – it looks like that is how Isak will be remembered by Toon fans as well.
After Isak’s second goal, Shearer took to social media to comment on it. He said: “Oh man that touch and finish from Isak.”
Newcastle’s record goalscorer has always been a big admirer of the 25-year-old whose brace made it 53 goals in 92 games since signing for the Magpies in 2022.
Shearer has previously praised Isak for his ‘work-rate’, something that Toon boss Howe will surely be a big fan of given just how intense he likes his team to play.
Newcastle will now look to carry on from the win against the Saints to push on for a top-four finish.
Isak’s performance vs Southampton by numbers
Isak was undoubtedly the best player on the pitch against Southampton on Saturday. He was given the highest FOTMOB rating for his performance.
As well as the two goals, Isak had 100% shot accuracy (4/4), 41 touches including eight in the opposition box, completed two successful dribbles, two passes into the final third, won four ground duels, and completed two recoveries.
It was a truly tireless performance from the 25-year-old who was brought off after 80 minutes when the game looked wrapped up.
The Swede is now level on Premier League goals with Erling Haaland this season and is just two goals behind leader Mohamed Salah.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
