Emi Buendia’s brilliant goal propelled Aston Villa to a hard-earned 2-0 victory over Newcastle in the Premier League, keeping their hopes of finishing in the top two alive.
The Argentine international’s exquisite finish, combined with Ollie Watkins’ late header, clinched the win at St James’ Park, marking Villa’s first triumph at this venue since 2005. The result was aided by two exceptional first-half saves from Emi Martinez, denying Sandro Tonali and Lewis Miley as Eddie Howe’s side struggled to find the net.
Villa deserved their points, showcasing slick attacking play and resolute defending, while the Magpies squandered opportunities to capitalize on their possession, especially in the second half.
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Newcastle could have taken the lead within the first minute if it weren’t for Martinez’s quick reflexes, blocking Tonali’s shot after the Italian maneuvered his way into the penalty area, although Nick Pope was called into action to stop Buendia’s attempt in the fifth minute after Tonali was dispossessed.
With Sven Botman unable to keep up with Morgan Rogers and Joelinton marking Youri Tielemans, Newcastle appeared to have the upper hand. However, a stunning 12th-minute save from Pope kept the score level as he denied Watkins after a clever pass from Jadon Sancho.
Buendia, Rogers, and Watkins began to unlock Newcastle’s defense, and they took the lead in the 19th minute. Buendia was given too much time to unleash a shot from 20 yards, skillfully placing it beyond Pope into the net.
With the visitors controlling the match, Rogers and Watkins consistently pressured the Magpies’ defense in a contest that grew increasingly tense, prompting referee Jarred Gillett to intervene frequently.
Newcastle fought back, with Miley, Anthony Gordon, and Harvey Barnes starting to find their rhythm. Martinez had to make another sharp one-handed save to deny Miley’s header in the 43rd minute.
Barnes then had a shot blocked following a quick break at the start of the second half, while Howe’s plans were disrupted when Joelinton had to be replaced by former Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey due to injury.
Ramsey’s attempt was deflected just wide, and Gordon missed a chance to convert Barnes’ cross at the far post as Newcastle pressed for an equalizer.
Pope was again tested when he saved from Rogers after Botman inadvertently flicked the ball into his path while under pressure. As Newcastle’s energy waned, Villa sealed their victory with just two minutes remaining. After Pope palmed away a powerful strike, Watkins capitalized on the ensuing corner to head in Villa’s second, courtesy of Matty Cash’s delivery, as the home side failed to clear their lines.