Aston Villa have finally broken their long-standing curse at St James' Park, securing a memorable 2-0 victory over Newcastle United in the Premier League. This triumph marks their first win at the stadium since 2005, ending a frustrating 17-match winless run on Tyneside in spectacular fashion.
Historic Victory Ends Villa's Tyneside Woes
The breakthrough came through Emi Buendia's stunning first-half strike, followed by Ollie Watkins' eighth goal of the season in the closing minutes. This result means Unai Emery's side have now accumulated as many away points this season as league leaders Arsenal, with both teams sitting on 21 points from their travels.
Early Drama Sets the Tone
Newcastle nearly continued their tradition of fast starts against Villa when Sandro Tonali broke through the defence within the opening minute, only to be denied by Emi Martinez's crucial leg save. Villa weathered this early storm and gradually established control, with Buendia testing Nick Pope in the fifth minute.
Jadon Sancho, making his third league start, created an excellent opportunity for Watkins shortly after, but Pope again proved equal to the challenge. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 19th minute when Buendia received a pass from Morgan Rogers and curled a magnificent effort over the helpless Newcastle goalkeeper.
Villa's Defensive Resilience
Newcastle responded with increased pressure as the first half progressed, with Martinez making another vital save to deny Lewis Miley's header. The Magpies started the second period brightly, but Villa's defence held firm against crosses from Kieran Trippier and other attacking threats.
The match saw several significant substitutions, including Jacob Ramsey facing his boyhood club for the first time since his departure, and Leon Bailey returning to action following his loan spell at AS Roma. Bailey nearly made an immediate impact but was denied by Malick Thiaw's strong block.
Player Ratings Analysis
Outstanding Performers
Emi Martinez earned the highest rating with a 9 for his match-defining contributions. His early save against Tonali and subsequent denial of Miley's header were crucial to securing the clean sheet.
Several players received 8 ratings for their excellent displays:
- Matty Cash handled Anthony Gordon's pace effectively and contributed to Buendia's goal with his involvement in the build-up play
- Ezri Konsa provided defensive stability throughout the match
- Youri Tielemans demonstrated exceptional game awareness before his unfortunate injury
- Amadou Onana competed strongly in midfield battles
- Emi Buendia scored the opening goal with a spectacular finish
- Morgan Rogers contributed assists for both Villa goals
- Ollie Watkins secured the victory with his late strike
Solid Contributions
Pau Torres and Ian Maatsen both earned 7 ratings for their defensive work, while Jadon Sancho received the same score for his creative contributions before being substituted.
The victory was sealed in the 88th minute when substitute Lucas Digne delivered a perfect cross for Watkins to head home, putting the result beyond doubt and capping a historic away performance for Unai Emery's team.
This comprehensive victory not only ends Villa's long wait for success at St James' Park but also demonstrates their growing credentials as a force in away matches this Premier League season. The combination of defensive resilience and clinical finishing proved decisive against a Newcastle side that has traditionally been strong at home.
