Player Ratings: Newcastle Survive Forest Fightback to Claim Crucial 4-3 Win | OneFootball

Newcastle Triumph in Seven-Goal Thriller Against Nottingham Forest

Electrifying First Half Paves the Way for Newcastle Victory

In a game that encapsulated the unpredictability of the Premier League, Newcastle United edged past Nottingham Forest in a pulsating 4-3 encounter at St James’ Park. The Magpies, chasing a top-four finish, responded emphatically to an early Forest goal with a ruthless first-half display, only to endure a nervy finish as the visitors threatened a remarkable comeback.

Forest’s Callum Hudson-Odoi stunned the home crowd with an early strike, capitalising on a defensive lapse. However, Newcastle’s response was swift and devastating. Lewis Miley’s composed finish brought the hosts level before Jacob Murphy atoned for his earlier error by bundling home from close range.

From that point, Alexander Isak took centre stage. The Swedish striker netted twice in quick succession, his first coming from the penalty spot after a slightly unconvincing effort that Matz Sels almost kept out. His second, a deflected strike, marked his 50th Premier League goal—a milestone reached in just 76 appearances, making him one of the quickest players in the league’s history to hit the landmark.

Forest Fight Back as Newcastle Lose Grip

Leading 4-1 at the break, Newcastle appeared to have the game won. However, complacency crept in, and Forest sensed an opportunity. Nikola Milenkovic reduced the deficit with a delicate flicked finish from Chris Wood’s lofted pass, a moment that exposed Newcastle’s sudden vulnerability.

Despite making substitutions to regain control, Newcastle failed to stem the tide, and Ryan Yates’ late strike ensured a frantic finale. Forest pushed for an equaliser, but the Magpies held firm, securing three crucial points to move level with reigning champions Manchester City.

Photo: IMAGO

Newcastle’s Top-Four Ambitions Strengthened

This result places Newcastle firmly in the mix for a Champions League spot, though Eddie Howe will be concerned by the defensive frailties that allowed Forest back into the game. While Isak’s clinical finishing proved decisive, the lapses in concentration could have been costly.

For Forest, this spirited fightback will offer encouragement. Despite trailing by three goals at half-time, they demonstrated resilience and an ability to exploit defensive weaknesses in top sides. If they can tighten up at the back, they remain a dangerous opponent in the Premier League’s mid-table battle.

Player Ratings

Newcastle United

Nottingham Forest