Garth Crooks is seriously impressed by Newcastle striker Harvey Barnes
Newcastle UnitedEdit produced one of their best performances this season, as they recorded a 4-3 victory against western ham at St James' Park on Saturday (March 30) in the first division.
The Magpies are out of all competitions and it has been a frustrating campaign for them. But they are looking to finish the season on a high. The victory will give them a lot of confidence, especially since they came back from 3-1 down to secure the three points.
Eddie Howe's team started the game strongly and took an early lead thanks to Alexander Isak who scored the goal. West Ham responded strongly with Michail Antonio restoring parity after a goal from Lucas Paquetá.
The Hammers took the lead just before half-time after Mohammed Kudus scored from close range, taking advantage of some sloppy Magpies defending. Jarrod Bowen increased the lead just after the break and it looked like there was no way back for the hosts.
A controversial penalty decision helped the Magpies get back in the game with Isak scoring again. Harvey Barnes, who came on as a substitute, then stole the show with two fantastic goals, the last of which was top-notch.
Garth Crooks praised Barnes for his team of the week for BBC Sportand believes the 26-year-old has been “rejuvenated”.
Criminals praise Newcastle attacker Harvey Barnes
“Harvey Barnes looks rejuvenated and back in business having come on for the Magpies and scored two goals brilliantly, and could have had a hat-trick in 30 minutes,” Crooks told BBC Sport.
Barnes joined from Leicester City last summer but missed much of the season due to injury. In fact, the Magpies can hardly believe their luck with the number of injuries they have faced this season. He is crazy.
Against West Ham, Howe lost Jamaal Lascelles, Tino Livramento and Miguel Almirón to injuries. Although Livramento and Almiton are big doubts for the next game, Captain Lascelles will be out for the rest of the season after tearing his ACL..
Anthony Gordon will also miss the next match after receiving a red card (two yellows) against the Hammers.
