Manchester United stumble in race for top four after defeat to Newcastle

Manchester United suffered their first defeat in five games in a 2-0 loss to Newcatle at St. James’ Park in the Premier League.

Goals from ex-Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock and England forward Callum Wilson ensured that the three points stayed on Tyneside and helped the home side climb above Manchester United to third place in the Premier League.

The loss leaves Manchester United in fourth place, one point better than Tottenham in fifth, although they have played a game less than Spurs.

Both sides started the game full of confidence and either of them could have taken the lead but missed chances littered the first few minutes of the game. 

After the opening period, Newcastle grew in confidence and outplayed the visitors who had goalkeeper David De Gea to thank for a scoreless first half. 

In the second half the Spanish goalkeeper turned from hero to villain after a mix-up between him and defender Raphael Varane resulted in the opening goal of the match as Willock scored unmarked with a tap-in at the far post after being found by Allan Saint-Maximin. 

After the goal, Newcastle continued to apply pressure to Manchester United and things threatened to get out of hand for the Red Devils, with Newcastle firing 11 shots in the second half compared to their four. 

Newcastle got further reward for their dominance as substitute Callum Wilson scored after being on the pitch for only eight minutes, after another set-piece, this time by Kieran Trippier.