Barnes netted twice, including a late winner confirmed by VAR, to secure a hard-fought victory for Newcastle at St. James’ Park, marking Eddie Howe’s 100th win as manager.
Newcastle United delivered a “wonderful display” at St. James’ Park to secure a 2-1 victory over Manchester City, earning only the club’s second Premier League triumph against the visitors in a quarter of a century and giving Eddie Howe his 100th win as Magpies manager.
The result successfully redeemed the team following a “disappointing defeat at Brentford two weeks ago.”
The first half was a thrilling affair, with City’s top scorer, Erling Haaland, slicing a shot “horribly off target” after two minutes, while Newcastle’s Nick Woltemade was twice denied by an “outstanding save” from City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Despite the pressure, the deadlock was finally broken in the 64th minute when Bruno Guimarães fed Barnes, who drilled a shot “low and hard into the Gallowgate net.”
City responded quickly as United “failed to clear a corner” allowing Rúben Dias to rifle home via a deflection.
However, Barnes sealed the win late on; after Woltemade headed across goal and Guimarães struck the bar, Barnes showed “composure and quality to take a touch and drill beyond Donnarumma.”
Following a “lengthy VAR check,” the goal was confirmed. Despite eight minutes of additional time, United held on to secure a deserved three points.