Newcastle 4-0 Crystal Palace
by Roger Domeneghetti
at St James Park

AFTER their brief, early season blip, Newcastle look like the well-oiled, intimidating machine that bullied their way into the top four last season.

Jacob Murphy, with his first start in the Premier League this term took his chance to show he can be an instrumental part. He grabbed the opener after just four minutes, latching onto a pass from Kieran Trippier and hooking the ball over Sam Johnstone.

Before the crowd had the opportunity to debate whether it was audacious skill or luck although (not many will have cared), the linesman flagged for offside. After the inevitable wait for the VAR gods to cast judgement, the goal was given.

Newcastle never looked back. They were utterly dominant and had several opportunities to extend their lead before Murphy turned provider a minute before the break, his arching cross finding the onrushing Anthony Gordon, who made no mistake at the far post.

Any lingering hope Palace had was extinguished two minutes later as Sean Longstaff found himself one on one with Johnstone and slotted home with ease.

Palace did not muster a shot on target until the 65th minute, Nick Pope denying Cheick Doucoure with a dive to his left.

It spoke volumes of Newcastle’s dominance that seconds later Murphy — that man again — was on hand to sweep a delightful pass from the right into Calum Wilson, who capped a sparkling home performance with a well-deserved fourth. Four goals from four English scorers.

“We play in England, so it’s great to see English players doing well,” said Toon boss Eddie Howe. “We were very good, really incisive and clinical.”

None of Newcastle’s summer signings joined the fray until the 70th minute when Sandro Tonali replaced Bruno Guimaraes.

It is likely to be the Italian’s last game before a lengthy ban for betting irregularities. On this evidence, Newcastle will cope just fine without him. Yet he still gained a local hero’s reception, perhaps the biggest cheer of the day.

“A big thank you from me to our supporters today, because that reaction at the end was incredible. I could feel the love between him and them. He’ll feel a lot better tonight, I’m sure.”

For Newcastle, thoughts now turn to the Champions League and Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.

If The Magpies can extend their home winning run to six, they will be in the box seat for a spot in the knockout rounds.