Premier League: Quick Double from Murphy Propels Newcastle to Fifth Place
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Synopsis
On April 8, 2023, Newcastle United defeated Leicester City 3-0 at King Power Stadium, strengthening their UEFA Champions League prospects while pushing Leicester closer to relegation. Jacob Murphy's early brace and Harvey Barnes' goal ensured Newcastle's win, moving them to fifth place in the Premier League standings.
Key Takeaways
- Newcastle United aims for UEFA Champions League qualification.
- Leicester City faces relegation struggles.
- Jacob Murphy scores two quick goals.
- Newcastle has won 11 of their last 15 league games.
- Leicester has lost eight consecutive home matches without scoring.
Leicester, April 8 (NationPress) Newcastle United enhanced their chances of securing a spot in the UEFA Champions League while edging Leicester City closer to relegation with a commanding 3-0 victory at King Power Stadium.
With several contenders for a top-four finish faltering over the weekend, Newcastle seized the opportunity to ascend to fifth place in the standings with a resounding performance.
Jacob Murphy struck twice in quick succession, giving Eddie Howe's squad a two-goal lead early in the match, followed by Harvey Barnes sealing a third before halftime.
Newcastle, with a game in hand, is now one point ahead of Manchester City and trails only Chelsea on goal difference, while Leicester remains 15 points behind 17th-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers, with just 21 points still available.
"We are extremely satisfied. This is a significant win for us. We were aware that it wouldn’t be straightforward. Our strong start laid the groundwork for our success," said Newcastle manager Howe.
Leicester's coach Ruud van Nistelrooy remarked, "It’s evident where we faltered early in the game again. If we analyze the three goals closely, we could have performed better on all counts. Newcastle is lethal on the counterattack and concluded the game swiftly."
Newcastle has triumphed in 11 of their last 15 Premier League outings (L4), beginning with a 4-0 victory against Leicester on December 14; only Liverpool (38) has garnered more points in the league during that span than Newcastle's 33.
Leicester has become the first club across the top four tiers of English football to suffer eight consecutive home league defeats without scoring.
