Newcastle United edge past Brest thanks to Harvey Barnes goal | OneFootball

Scorers: Barnes 15'

A moment of brilliance from Harvey Barnes settled an otherwise low quality friendly in Newcastle's favour as they warmed up for the new Premier League season with a 1-0 win over Brest at St James' Park.

The winger, who missed much of the 2023-24 campaign through injury, cut inside from the left before curling the ball into the far corner after a quarter of an hour to hand his side the lead.

They thought that they had doubled their lead when new signing William Osula calmly slotted home eight minutes later, only to be denied by the offside flag.

The first half continued in an even fashion, with both sides guilty of wasting efforts from close range as they headed into the break just a goal apart.

Substitutions peppered the second half as the hosts struggled to get going again while Brest, who were the much better side, couldn't find a way to put the ball in the net despite dominating the possession.

Their wastefulness ensured that the home fans went home happy ahead of the Premier League restarting in a week's time, but knowing they will need better performances to make it anywhere near the top four this season.