Aston Villa ended a long-standing hoodoo at St James’ Park, claiming their first away league win over Newcastle United since 2005 with a composed 2-0 Premier League victory inspired by Emiliano Buendía, Softfootball reports.
Both sides arrived in confident mood after midweek European outings, with Villa fresh from a narrow 1-0 Europa League win that sealed qualification for the round of 16. That sharpness showed early on in an open start, as Sandro Tonali tested Emiliano Martínez inside the opening exchanges, while Ollie Watkins forced Nick Pope into a smart save at the other end.
The breakthrough arrived in eye-catching fashion after 19 minutes. Buendía collected the ball well outside the box and bent a sensational strike into the top corner, leaving Pope with no chance and underlining Villa’s growing authority. It was a moment of real quality that settled the visitors and quietened the home crowd.
Newcastle, who had been held to a goalless draw away at Wolves last week, tried to respond with greater urgency before the break. They enjoyed spells of pressure, but Villa remained the more dangerous side going forward. Martínez was again decisive late in the half, producing an excellent stop to deny Lewis Miley from close range and preserve Villa’s lead at the interval.
The pattern continued after the restart, with Newcastle pushing without truly clicking in the final third. Harvey Barnes and Jacob Ramsey were unable to trouble Martínez, while Villa stayed disciplined and dangerous on the counter. Watkins came close to doubling the lead midway through the second half, only for Pope to push his long-range effort over the bar.
Villa’s resistance was finally rewarded late on. With three minutes remaining, Watkins rose highest to meet Lucas Digne’s pinpoint cross, heading home to seal the points and spark celebrations among the travelling support. The goal killed off any lingering hopes of a Newcastle comeback.
After the game, Aston Villa shared via it’s official X handle the post match reactions of its players particularly Amadou Onana celebrating with fans after the much needed three points. They posted:
The result moves Unai Emery’s side to within four points of league leaders Arsenal, capping off an excellent week for the Midlands club following their European progression. For Newcastle, it was another frustrating outing at home, as their solid recent form failed to translate into goals when it mattered most.
