Alexander Isak was one of Newcastle United’s standout performers against Aston Villa, netting a brace on the opening day of the season.
The 23-year-old kicked off the new campaign in spectacular fashion, scoring twice as Eddie Howe’s side smashed Villa 5-1 at St James’ Park.
Sandro Tonali was Newcastle’s man of the match, but it was also a special performance from Isak. He got the nod ahead of Callum Wilson, and justified his selection in style.
Both of his goals were impressive finishes, but they were very different. The second was reliant on a mistake from Ezri Konsa before a moment of magic, but the first was put on a plate by Sven Botman.
Alexander Isak really happy with Sven Botman’s assist
After the game, Isak spoke to NUFC TV. He praised Botman for his role in Newcastle’s second goal of the afternoon against Aston Villa.
“First one was more about positioning,” he said.
“I was in a good position. I think Sven did great to get that ball to me in that position. Then I just stayed focused and put it in the goal.”
Newcastle’s second goal was marginally onside
It was a well-worked free-kick that led to Isak scoring his first goal. Kieran Trippier changed the angle by passing it to Tonali, whose cross picked out Botman. The £35million Dutchman then lunged to play it into the path of Isak, whose one-touch finish regained Newcastle’s lead.
It was a great goal, but one that was very nearly not given.
There was a lengthy delay after the ball hit the back of the net, with VAR officials trying to determine whether or not it was onside. It was certainly very tight, and looked offside in real time.
However, the replays showed that there was no offside, and Isak’s goal stood.
The Sweden international took the plaudits, but the goal was made possible by Botman. He did really well to play the ball into Isak’s path, and it clearly looked like a routine that the players had worked on in training.
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