Although Newcastle United might not know how to start a season, they certainly know how to finish one, delivering their biggest victory of the campaign on the Premier League’s final day.
The Toon recorded an emphatic 4-0 victory over relegated Fulham, with four different Newcastle stars getting on the scoresheet.
And it was fitting that three of those names were Ayoze Perez, Salomon Rondon and Fabian Schar.
The trio have been vital in Newcastle’s fight for safety this campaign, and have arguably been the team’s best players.
Perez and Rondon both scored poacher’s rebounds, while Schar nodded home confidently from a corner.
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There was even a goal for divisive midfielder Jonjo Shelvey, who opened the scoring with a delightful volley after being given a rare start.
His display was a reminder of just how important his performances were last season, despite his struggles this time around.
Even with rumours he will be sold in the summer, the playmaker clearly still has affection for the club, running the length of the pitch to celebrate with fans.
Although Newcastle’s actual performance was not the greatest, there won’t be many complaints from Newcastle fans this evening.
It’s now the fifth consecutive season in which NUFC have delivered a final day rout.
But not only is Newcastle’s recent final day record impressive, it’s quite frankly remarkable.
NUFC’s final day record
Although the Magpies never start seasons particularly well, it’s becoming a recurring event that whatever their successes or failures, the last day is always one to celebrate.
Newcastle have won their last five final days of the season, with some phenomenal results:
2018/19 Fulham 0-4 NUFC
2017/18 NUFC 3-0 Chelsea
2016/17 NUFC 3-0 Barnsley
2015/16 NUFC 5-1 Tottenham
2014/15 NUFC 2-0 West Ham
Last season the Toon hammered Chelsea 3-0, thanks to an Ayoze Perez brace and a Dwight Gayle header.
And the Toon also hit three again in 2016/17 season against Barnsley, winning the Championship on a dramatic final day in which 1st placed Brighton dropped points.
But they’ve even put their opponent to the sword on more sombre occasions.
Newcastle had already been relegated by the final day in 2015/2016 but still managed to humiliate 2nd placed Spurs 5-1.
Tottenham had battled Leicester for the Premier League title all season, but their loss to Newcastle meant they unbelievably dropped to third.
Newcastle’s recent final day record is so good, that they’ve conceded just one goal and scored 17 in their last five.
It should be noted that the last four of these victories have come under the stewardship of Rafa Benitez.
Prior to his appointment, Newcastle had won just one of their last four final days.
And that one win was a final day relegation battle in 2014/2015 in which the Toon beat West Ham.
The Spaniard has brought stability to Newcastle, their win against Fulham their first final day away victory since 1976.
The club now faces a battle to keep the manager on Tyneside, and fans will be desperate for the club to do anything it takes to secure Benitez’s services.
