Eddie Howe showered praise on Martin Dubravka and Chris Wood yesterday, after Newcastle United beat Leeds United 1-0 in the Premier League.
The Magpies secured three absolutely massive points, with Jonjo Shelvey’s free-kick proving to be the difference between the two teams.
The midfielder fired home past Illan Meslier, who might have done better.
After going ahead, Newcastle needed to do something they have struggled to do all season: stay in front.
The club have dropped 21 points from winning positions so far in 2021/22 (BBC Sport). But there was to be no bottling the lead yesterday as Newcastle saw the saw job through.
The result puts Newcastle on 15 points, one behind 17th-placed Norwich City.
After the game, manager Eddie Howe picked out a couple of Newcastle players for praise.
He said (BBC Sport, 6.24pm): “Martin Dubravka played really well today. He made the save, commanded his box, took crosses. I thought our second half performance was really, really good.
“Chris Wood also gave us a platform as well from the central position. His work-rate was tireless.”
Slovakia international Dubravka made a vital stop from Dan James at point-blank range.
Had that gone in, the game could have panned out very differently.
Martin Dubravka steps up as Newcastle huge second win of 2021/22
Shelvey proved to be the match-winner for Newcastle yesterday, but huge credit must go to Dubravka.
The save from James was a big moment in the game. If that goes in, Newcastle more than likely don’t win the game.
His level hasn’t been where Newcastle fans know it can be in recent weeks. He has needed to improve, amid speculation the club’s new owners might actually move for a new goalkeeper.
But he was it it yesterday, and Newcastle need him to continue in this fashion for as long as possible.
On his day he is a top Premier League stopper.
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