Almiron continues scoring run as Magpies rain down on sorry Saints
The host began proceedings on the front foot, but a Gavin Bazunu (20) miscue almost presented the visitors with a gift, before several dangerous counter-attacks signalled a change in the game’s tide.
With the Magpies now in the ascendancy, Almirón’s enthusiastic penalty appeals were ignored, but the Paraguayan didn’t have to wait long for something to celebrate. Somewhat predictably, another fast transition from Eddie Howe’s side resulted in the opener, as Almirón burst through the Saints’ defence, showing tenacity to keep his footing and sweep beyond Bazunu - his seventh PL goal in seven games.
Late in the half, Mohamed Elyounoussi (28) wasted a golden opportunity to convert at the back post, firing wide to preserve Newcastle’s first-half clean sheet - their 12th in 14 PL matches.
Fearing an eighth PL defeat - the joint-worst in the league - Southampton searched for a way back into the game, but Ché Adams (26) couldn’t capitalise on a Newcastle defensive mistake, volleying across the face of goal.
By now, the rain was pouring down on the South Coast, perfectly matching Ralph Hasenhüttl’s mood as his side were struck with a quick one-two knock-out.
On for the injured Callum Wilson (30), substitute Chris Wood (30) curled in Newcastle’s second on the turn just before the hour mark. Just four minutes later, it was well and truly game over for the shell-shocked Saints, when Kieran Trippier’s (32) perfectly-weighted through-ball found Joe Willock (23), who poked home.
An unfettered Romain Perraud (25) danced into the box and curled in a late consolation for the home side, but the three-goal margin was swiftly restored thanks to Bruno Guimarães’ (24) accurate low strike.
Newcastle make it six wins from their last seven PL contests and continue their unlikely push for a first top-four finish since 2002/03. As for Southampton, their abysmal home form continues, having failed to win six of their seven PL encounters at St Mary's this season.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Miguel Almirón (Newcastle United)
