August 17, (THEWILL) – Newcastle United started their 2024/2025 EPL campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over newly promoted Southampton at St James’ Park. Despite playing with 10 men for most of the match, the Magpies claimed all three points thanks to Joelinton’s goal just before half-time.
The game took a dramatic turn in the 28th minute when Newcastle defender Fabian Schar received a straight red card for violent conduct against Ben Brereton Diaz. However, this setback did not deter the home side, who broke the deadlock in the 45th minute. Alexander Isak capitalised on a loose pass from Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, setting up Joelinton for a neat finish.
Southampton dominated possession throughout the match, registering 19 shots to Newcastle’s three. The Saints came close to equalising on several occasions, with Adam Armstrong denied by a goal-line clearance from Lewis Hall and a fingertip save from Nick Pope. Substitutes Carlos Alcaraz and Cameron Archer also had chances, but Newcastle’s defence held firm.
The victory marks Newcastle’s fourth consecutive EPL win over Southampton, a feat they had never achieved before. Manager Eddie Howe has now won all six of his matches against the Saints as Newcastle boss, becoming the first to win three straight league openers at St James’ Park since Joe Harvey between 1972 and 1974.
The Magpies will look to build on this positive start as they aim for another successful season under Howe’s leadership.
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.
