Newcastle United have finally beaten Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League after failing to do so since 2012. That record was a major talking point ahead of the game, and it ended thanks to Anthony Gordon’s 18th-minute winner.
Joe Willock, who was hailed by fans, put it on a plate for the English attacker who tapped home into an empty net. It was a much-needed victory and means Eddie Howe’s men will head to Barcelona next Wednesday (March 18th) full of confidence.
The Newcastle boss made several changes to his side, including in midfield, with Sandro Tonali sidelined with illness. He was able to rely on Tino Livramento at right-back, and the Englishman was excellent against his former club.
Schwarzer hails Livramento
Livramento was the catalyst behind Gordon’s winner, finding Willock with a superb ball that put the midfielder through on goal. It was just one of his several important contributions.
Former Chelsea goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer was full of praise for the 23-year-old. He said on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra:
“Wow, what a ball from Livramento. It was straight in to the path of Willock, who has two options; he can take the goalkeeper on himself, but instead he draws Sanchez out and lays it square, It is a simple tap in for Gordon. Against the run of play, Chelsea are absolutely stunned.”
Livramento is enjoying a fine season, prompting many to insist he should be a starter at the World Cup with England. He faces competition from Reece James, who was fortunate not to give away a penalty in today’s game.
Terrific Tino
Livramento’s future is uncertain amid speculation linking him with Arsenal and Manchester City. But he isn’t letting the noise distract him, and his consistency has been crucial for Newcastle and Howe.
| Minutes played: | 90′ |
| Goals: | 0 |
| Assists: | 0 |
| Expected assists (xA): | 0.21 |
| Clearances: | 1 |
| Recoveries: | 3 |
| Key passes: | 1 |
| Passes in opposition half (acc.): | 13/15 (87%) |
| Carries: | 11 |
This was his 22nd appearance across all competitions this season and bodes well ahead of the Barca clash at Camp Nou next week. He played his part, as did Newcastle’s back four, with Lewis Hall again catching the eye after dominating Lamine Yamal at St James’ Park midweek.
Howe will be eager for Livramento to be at his best against the Catalans on Wednesday. His side head to Catalonia with the Champions League Round of 16 tie level at 1-1 on aggregate.
