Harvey Barnes struck twice to help Newcastle United cruise to a 4-1 victory over a struggling Manchester United side at St James’ Park on Sunday. The win moved the Magpies into fourth place in the Premier League table as they chase a Champions League spot.
Newcastle were without their manager Eddie Howe, who had been taken to the hospital two days earlier due to illness. In his absence, assistant coaches Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones took charge of the team — and they delivered an emphatic performance.
The home side took the lead in the 24th minute through Sandro Tonali, who finished off a neat passing move. Kieran Trippier advanced down the wing and played in Alexander Isak, whose clever chip over the defence allowed Tonali to finish from a tight angle. That goal came after United midfielder Manuel Ugarte had carelessly given the ball away, marking the 19th time Manchester United conceded first in a league game this season — equaling their worst record.
Despite Newcastle’s dominance, Manchester United drew level just before halftime. Diogo Dalot made a powerful run through midfield and passed to Alejandro Garnacho, who finished well to beat Newcastle keeper Nick Pope. It was only Garnacho’s second league goal of 2025.
However, United’s defense collapsed after the break. In the 49th minute, Tino Livramento’s cross was recovered by Jacob Murphy, who cut it back for Barnes to tap in unmarked. It got worse for United when Joshua Zirkzee limped off with what looked like a hamstring injury.
Barnes added his second just after the hour mark. He stole the ball from Noussair Mazraoui, sprinted towards goal, and smashed a low shot past Altay Bayindir, who was making his first Premier League start in place of Andre Onana. In the 77th minute, Bayindir’s poor pass handed Newcastle another chance. Joelinton intercepted and set up Bruno Guimaraes, who calmly slotted in the fourth goal.
With this win, Newcastle are just one point behind third-placed Nottingham Forest and have a game in hand over several top-five rivals. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s nightmare season continues. They’ve now gone four games without a win and sit in 14th place, facing the possibility of their lowest league finish since 1974.
