Newcastle crush Crystal Palace 5-0 to go third in Premier League

Newcastle United delivered a dominant performance on Wednesday night with a resounding 5-0 victory over Crystal Palace, lifting them to third place in the Premier League and boosting their hopes of a Champions League return next season.

Despite the absence of manager Eddie Howe, who is recovering from pneumonia, the Magpies were in sensational form under the guidance of assistant manager Jason Tindall.

Goals from Jacob Murphy, Harvey Barnes, Fabian Schar, and Alexander Isak, alongside a Marc Guehi own goal, sealed the emphatic win at St. James’ Park.

The win marks Newcastle’s sixth consecutive victory in all competitions, extending their lead over sixth-placed Chelsea to five points.

With a top-five finish likely to secure Champions League football, the Magpies are now in a strong position.

Crystal Palace, currently sitting 12th in the table, will now shift their focus to their upcoming FA Cup semi-final clash against Aston Villa later this month.

Newcastle’s surge comes on the back of their historic League Cup triumph last month, their first domestic trophy in 70 years. Speaking after the match, Tindall highlighted the team’s renewed confidence.

“That gave us huge confidence,” Tindall said. “The manager always sets the standard, and the players have remained focused and consistent in their performances.”

Isak had two early opportunities but was kept out by Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson.

However, Newcastle didn’t have to wait long to break the deadlock, as Murphy scored from a tight angle in the 14th minute.

Palace were handed a lifeline when goalkeeper Nick Pope collided with Chris Richards, leading to a VAR-reviewed penalty. But Eberechi Eze’s tame effort was comfortably saved by Pope.

Just a minute later, Newcastle doubled their lead when Guehi accidentally deflected a cross into his own net.

The England defender also scored an own goal in the reverse fixture earlier this season.

Harvey Barnes added a third with a composed strike, before Schar flicked in Murphy’s free-kick to make it 4-0 before halftime.

Though Isak was denied multiple times, he finally found the net with a classy long-range finish, marking his 25th goal of the season.

Palace manager Oliver Glasner admitted his side was overwhelmed: “There are some days where nothing works, and at the same time everything worked for Newcastle.

We couldn’t cope with their pace and intensity.”

Newcastle now prepare for a crucial weekend clash against Aston Villa in the race for European qualification.