If Allan Saint-Maximin or Miguel Almiron were a bit better in front of goal, that wouldn’t have been as nervy as it was.
In true Newcastle fashion, a three-goal lead nearly wasn’t enough to claim the win. Fortunately, we hung on and survived West Ham’s late rally.
However, it shouldn’t have been as close. Steve Bruce’s side had multiple chances to extend their lead, putting in their best attacking performance of the season. The Magpies’ front three caused countless problems for the Hammers, who were unable to deal with Saint-Maximin and Almiron.
The Frenchman went through on goal twice but was unable to finish, while Miggy also had multiple chances to put the game to bend. But alas, the wait goes on for either of the pair to get their first Newcastle goal.
But despite their woes in front of goal, the duo were sensational. Pablo Zabaleta will be having nightmares about Saint-Maximin, while Almiron was fantastic too. He was excellent defensively, and his pace allowed us to get up the pitch when the pressure was on in the second half.
The reaction to the duo’s performance would have been very different if we didn’t hold on, but thankfully we did. ASM and Almiron deserve the plaudits.
Saint-Maximin and Almiron dazzle for Newcastle
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