In a compelling FA Cup clash, Newcastle exhibited a resurgence of form, securing a convincing 2-0 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage. The Magpies, who last played on January 13 and have been without a league win in four matches, showcased their prowess as they eliminated Fulham from the competition. Sean Longstaff’s first-half goal and Dan Burn’s decisive strike in the fourth-round tie added to Fulham’s recent cup woes, following their Carabao Cup semi-final defeat to Liverpool earlier in the week.
Despite the west Londoners making seven changes from the XI that featured in the Carabao Cup exit on Wednesday, their performance lacked cohesion. Sloppy in possession, Fulham struggled to thwart Newcastle’s advances. Marek Rodak’s quick-thinking save denied Kieran Trippier’s cross-shot, and Anthony Gordon’s long-range effort narrowly missed the target, sailing past the Fulham goalkeeper’s left-hand post.
Rodrigo Muniz, given a rare start, showcased promise for Fulham, forcing a fingertip save from Martin Dubravka. His pace earned Fabian Schar a yellow card on the break after 21 minutes. Despite these efforts, Fulham failed to capitalize on opportunities, and a chance went begging for Newcastle when Alexander Isak rounded the keeper but failed to capitalize.
Newcastle eventually breached Fulham’s defense in the 39th minute. Trippier’s inswinging cross, seemingly routine to deal with, turned disastrous for Fulham as Kenny Tete and Bobby De Cordova-Reid collided, leaving Longstaff to power home from inside the area.
Manager Marco Silva turned to the experienced Willian from the bench, aiming to shift momentum in Fulham’s favor. Despite Willian’s long-range goal being disallowed for offside, he injected energy into Fulham’s attack, orchestrating neat touches and exchanges around the Newcastle area as they sought an equalizer.
However, it was Newcastle who capitalized on Fulham’s defensive lapses in the 61st minute. Trippier’s corner found Sven Botman, whose powerful header proved too much for Rodak to handle. The Cottagers’ backup goalkeeper parried the ball into the path of Burn, who clinically finished from inside the six-yard area, sealing Newcastle’s 2-0 victory.
The result not only knocked Fulham out of the FA Cup but also highlighted Newcastle’s resurgence, providing a much-needed boost after recent struggles in the league. As the Magpies advance in the tournament, their performance suggests a renewed determination and capability to compete at a higher level, leaving fans and pundits alike optimistic about their prospects in the remainder of the season.