January 15, (THEWILL) – Joao Pedro’s 88th-minute header earned Watford a crucial 1-1 draw at St. James’ Park, putting Newcastle’s Premier League survival hopes in jeopardy.
Newcastle got off to a flying start, buoyed by the super support of the spectators inside St. James’ Park. Allan Saint-Maximin’s attempt was diverted through to Sean Longstaff inside the penalty box after only three minutes had passed, but the ball just slid past the midfielder.
Just seven minutes later, Joelinton diverted Ryan Fraser’s cross towards goal from six yards out, striking the crossbar for Newcastle. After failing to convert Fraser’s perfect delivery, Joelinton was left with his head in his hands again before Fabian Schar headed wide of goal.
On the stroke of half-time, Watford created their own crossing chance, but Josh King could only direct his header straight into the glad arms of Martin Dubravka.
Whatever Eddie Howe told his team during the halftime break worked incredibly and instantaneously, as Saint-Maximin put Newcastle ahead three minutes into the second half.
In the first half, the Frenchman had had little luck with Jeremy Ngakia, but he took advantage of the full back’s indecisiveness on the touchline before slipping infield and arrowing a fierce effort into the bottom corner.
When Watford generated two openings inside a minute of each other on the hour mark, they should have pushed Newcastle back. Both times, King was at the centre of it, breaking past the Newcastle backline and teeing up Joao Pedro. The Brazilian, on the other hand, was leaning back in his effort and could not produce enough speed to challenge Dubravka.
A brilliant threaded ball from Edo Kayembe then put the Hornets forward through one-on-one, but his first touch was poor and he poked his shot straight at the Newcastle goalkeeper.
The visitors continued to create a flurry of chances, with Moussa Sissoko squandering a clear chance. Their persistence paid off when Kiko Femenia, who came on to replace Ngakia in the second half, set up a lovely cross from the right, which Joao Pedro rose highest to head home and grab a point for Watford.
Ranieri’s side can be confident of expanding the distance between these clubs in the coming weeks after picking up a point in the first of three vital meetings – with Burnley and Norwich remaining to play before the end of the month. Newcastle, on the other hand, will be hoping to avenge their defeat to Leeds at Elland Road next week.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
