Newcastle claim slender win over Brentford as Wilson makes good
Having seen their team lose three PL games on the trot, there was an understandable level of tension among the home crowd and that only worsened as the visitors took control of the game early on.
Aaron Hickey had the best chance of the opening exchanges as he was found in acres of space in the box, but he could only thump an effort straight at Nick Pope.
Newcastle did eventually awaken and showed some life as the half wore on, with Bruno Guimarães’ downward header at the back post from close range was scrambled away by Mark Flekken.
The hosts took control of the game after HT and thought they had the lead just before the hour mark. Flekken had looked uneasy dealing with high balls into the area, and after unsuccessfully flapping at another delivery, Callum Wilson prodded home from close range.
The Dutchman was indebted to referee Craig Pawson who spared his blushes by chalking off the goal. Perhaps feeling a sense of injustice, the Magpies ramped up the pressure and took advantage of an increasingly nervous Flekken.
The Bees’ goalkeeper made a rash challenge on Anthony Gordon, wiping out the winger inside the area to concede a penalty.
Wilson confidently side-footed into the top corner from 12 yards to give the hosts the lead, much to the relief of a nervous home crowd.
Brentford were unable to mount a fightback, and Thomas Frank will undoubtedly look back to the opening half-hour of the game with regret as they dominated but failed to take advantage of their openings.
Newcastle move level with the Bees on six points, with a hard-fought victory just what Eddie Howe’s men needed as they gear up to face a wounded AC Milan outfit on their UEFA Champions League return.
Flashscore Man of the Mach: Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United)
