Tottenham v Newcastle | Premier League | Match Highlights

Gordon and Isak Shine as Newcastle Edge Spurs to Extend Winning Run

Newcastle United continued their impressive Premier League resurgence with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, making it five consecutive league wins. In a match that showcased their attacking prowess and defensive resilience, Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak once again emerged as the pivotal figures for Eddie Howe’s side, as they overcame an early setback to claim all three points in North London.

Fresh from a commanding 2-0 win at Old Trafford against Manchester United, Newcastle entered the clash with Tottenham brimming with confidence. Spurs, on the other hand, were reeling from a series of injuries and illnesses that forced manager Ange Postecoglou to field the club’s youngest starting XI in Premier League action since March 2015. At an average age of just under 24 years, the youthful Spurs lineup was eager to prove their mettle, and for a fleeting moment, it seemed they might deliver.

An Early Exchange of Goals

The hosts struck first in the 11th minute, courtesy of Dominic Solanke’s well-timed header. Pedro Porro, a constant threat on the right flank, delivered a sublime cross into the box, where Solanke rose above his marker to glance the ball past Nick Pope and into the net. The goal offered a glimpse of Spurs’ attacking potential, with Porro’s precision and Solanke’s movement leaving the Newcastle defense flat-footed.

However, Newcastle’s response was immediate and emphatic. Barely two minutes after Solanke’s opener, Anthony Gordon restored parity. The equaliser came amidst controversy, as Joelinton appeared to use his hand to intercept a pass from Lucas Bergvall in the build-up. While Spurs’ players appealed vehemently for a foul, the referee waved play on, and Gordon capitalised on the opportunity with a composed finish into the bottom corner.

For Gordon, the goal marked the continuation of an extraordinary run of form. Having now contributed a goal or assist in five successive Premier League matches, the 22-year-old is enjoying the most productive spell of his top-flight career. His ability to find spaces and deliver decisive contributions has been integral to Newcastle’s surge up the table.

Isak's Clinical Finish Puts Newcastle Ahead

Newcastle took control of the game as the first half progressed, asserting themselves in midfield and probing for weaknesses in Spurs’ makeshift defensive setup. Their persistence paid off in the 38th minute when Alexander Isak scored what proved to be the winning goal.

The move began with Jacob Murphy, whose driving run down the right flank created chaos in the Spurs penalty area. Murphy’s low cross deflected off Radu Dragusin, but the Romanian defender was unable to clear the danger. Isak, displaying his trademark anticipation and sharpness, stretched out a foot to divert the ball goalwards, leaving goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario with no chance.

Isak’s strike was his seventh goal in as many Premier League games, a feat that places him in elite company. The Swedish forward became only the third Newcastle player in the competition’s history to score in seven consecutive matches, joining club legends Alan Shearer and Joe Willock. His remarkable form underscores his growing importance to Eddie Howe’s tactical setup, where his movement, finishing, and work rate provide a focal point for Newcastle’s dynamic attack.

Spurs Fight Back but Fall Short

Trailing at halftime, Spurs emerged from the break with renewed determination. Postecoglou’s men increased the tempo and began to exploit spaces in Newcastle’s defensive lines. Brennan Johnson came agonisingly close to an equaliser in the 54th minute when his powerful effort struck the post. The near-miss served as a wake-up call for Newcastle, who were forced to dig deep to preserve their lead.

Spurs’ best opportunities came in the final quarter of the match. James Maddison, a creative force throughout the game, found himself in a promising position with 10 minutes left but dragged his shot narrowly wide of the target. Moments later, a frantic goalmouth scramble saw Spurs come within inches of finding the net, but Newcastle’s defenders, led by the ever-reliable Sven Botman and Kieran Trippier, held firm.

Despite their second-half improvement, Spurs failed to convert their dominance into tangible results. The defeat extended their winless run at home in the Premier League to six matches, their worst stretch since the Juande Ramos era over a decade ago. For Postecoglou, the result highlighted the challenges of managing a depleted squad while maintaining a high-pressing, possession-based style of play.

Newcastle's Resurgence Continues

In contrast, Newcastle’s victory reinforced their status as one of the league’s most in-form teams. The Magpies have now amassed 35 points, drawing level with fourth-placed Chelsea, albeit temporarily. Eddie Howe’s meticulous approach has been instrumental in transforming Newcastle into genuine top-four contenders.

Much of Newcastle’s success can be attributed to their blend of youth and experience. Gordon, Isak, and Murphy have injected energy and creativity into the attack, while seasoned campaigners like Trippier, Botman, and Bruno Guimarães provide stability and leadership. Howe’s tactical flexibility, evident in his ability to adapt the team’s approach depending on the opposition, has further enhanced Newcastle’s competitiveness.

Looking Ahead

For Newcastle, the focus now shifts to maintaining their momentum as they navigate a packed fixture schedule. With European qualification within reach, the Magpies will be eager to consolidate their position in the upper echelons of the table. Their ability to deliver results against top-tier opponents, as demonstrated in back-to-back wins over Manchester United and Tottenham, bodes well for their aspirations.

Spurs, meanwhile, face a period of introspection. While injuries and illness have undoubtedly played a role in their struggles, the team’s lack of defensive cohesion and profligacy in front of goal are issues that must be addressed urgently. Postecoglou’s project remains a work in progress, and the Australian manager will need to find solutions quickly if Spurs are to reverse their downward trajectory.

Ultimately, Newcastle’s 2-1 triumph at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was a testament to their resilience, quality, and growing self-belief. As Gordon and Isak continue to deliver match-winning performances, the Magpies have every reason to dream of a successful campaign. For Spurs, however, the defeat served as a harsh reminder of the challenges they face in their quest to reestablish themselves as Premier League heavyweights.