Eddie Howe had his say on a 2-0 win for Newcastle United against Crystal Palace.

The Toon took the lead in the first half when Yoane Wissa latched onto a through ball and set up Anthony Gordon for the simplest of finishes. However, the officials had deemed the striker to be in an offside position, and as half time approached at a goalless game state, questions grew at St. James’ Park about whether or not the Geordies would get the year started with the consistency required.

In the end, the team delivered the goods. Bruno Guimaraes grabbed the opening goal of the game as he buried a flick-on from Lewis Miley at the far post before Malick Thiaw stuffed away a loose ball at a set-piece. Newcastle have now won back-to-back games after a 3-1 triumph over Burnley at the end of 2025, and they have jumped into ninth position on 29 points, only two fewer than Chelsea.

A longer run of form will be needed to fully reinspire belief in the group, but things are looking up.

“It was a tough game. It always is against Palace. Oliver has done an amazing job. We had to be patient. It was bitty at times. I think the substitutions made a difference and helped us over the lines.”

“I think they were two good moves for the goals that weren’t. We needed that first goal to relax us. I think we got better and better in the game.”

“Lewis Miley has been incredible since he came into the team. You wouldn’t know it [isn’t his natural position]. He’s excelled in this position [at full-back]. He’s doing a great job in the team.”

“It’s a better position but we’ve got more work to do. We’ve got a massive month ahead. We need to build some momentum and confidence and today is a big step forward.”

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