Newcastle United missed a golden opportunity to rise to the top of the Premier League as Fulham delivered a masterclass in determination, handing the visitors their first defeat of the season. In an enthralling encounter at Craven Cottage, Fulham’s early goals and resolute defense proved decisive.
The match kicked off with intensity, but it was Fulham who struck first. Just 44 seconds in, Raul Jimenez showcased his sharpness with a deft turn and finish, putting the hosts ahead. This came moments after Newcastle’s Joelinton had a goal controversially ruled out for offside—a decision that left the visitors reeling.
Fulham doubled their lead when summer signing Emile Smith Rowe continued his impressive form. The 24-year-old’s low shot slipped under Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope, sending Craven Cottage into raptures. With Newcastle struggling to find their rhythm, they managed only one shot on target in a lackluster first half.
The second half began with a spark as Newcastle narrowed the gap within 28 seconds. Harvey Barnes, who has been a bright spot for the Magpies this season, found the back of the net, reigniting hope for the visitors. They pressed harder, but Fulham’s defense stood firm.
Fabian Schar came close to leveling the match, blasting a shot into the side-netting after seizing on a careless pass from Fulham’s Bernd Leno. Despite a more spirited performance from Newcastle, they were unable to find the equalizer.
Fulham’s resilience shone through, and they had opportunities to restore their two-goal advantage, showcasing the game’s fine margins. The decisive moment arrived in stoppage time when Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes’s miscalculated clearance fell to substitute Reiss Nelson, who confidently slotted home to seal a 3-1 victory for the Cottagers.
Newcastle drops to sixth in the league, while Fulham rises to eighth, continuing their impressive start.
Smith Rowe Shines for Fulham
A standout performer for Fulham was Emile Smith Rowe, who has thrived since moving from Arsenal. His decision to seek a fresh start has paid off handsomely, and he was a constant threat throughout the match.
Smith Rowe’s creativity and ball-carrying were evident, nearly scoring before sealing the contest with his goal. The home crowd’s standing ovation as he left the pitch highlighted his impact on the game.
Fulham’s attack featured seasoned Raul Jimenez, who seized his starting opportunity, and Adama Traore, whose pace added depth.
The team had squandered chances earlier this season, but their composure against Newcastle showed Marco Silva’s strategies worked.
Newcastle’s Stumble
For Newcastle, the defeat was a disappointing turn of events. With the chance to temporarily ascend to the top of the Premier League table, the Magpies fell short.
Despite a strong start, there were clear signs that Eddie Howe’s side wasn’t at their best yet. Howe acknowledged the poor start, saying, “It was slow, and the first goal was a killer blow.”
After a disjointed first half, Howe made tactical changes, bringing in Jacob Murphy and Lewis Hall for added pace. Murphy’s immediate impact led to Barnes’s goal, but Newcastle couldn’t capitalize on the momentum.
The Magpies have built a reputation for late drama, having secured wins against Tottenham and Wolves with late goals. This time, they couldn’t find the spark and missed their chance for an unbeaten start since 2011-12.
Looking Ahead
Fulham will build on their confidence, while Newcastle aims to regroup and refocus for their next match. The Premier League remains a thrilling spectacle, with plenty of twists and turns still to come.