Osula strike earns Newcastle dramatic win over Manchester United

• Substitute scores decisive late goal at St James’ Park
• Howe reveals forward practised the finish in training
• Newcastle secure crucial victory despite playing with 10 men

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe revealed substitute William Osula stayed behind for extra shooting practice before scoring the decisive goal in Wednesday’s 2-1 win over Manchester United.

The 22-year-old produced a superb individual effort late in the match at St James’ Park, sealing victory for the hosts despite them playing much of the contest with 10 men. Howe said the finish mirrored work Osula had asked to complete at the end of training on the eve of the game.

“There was a moment where I thought he was going to run out of grass and it was going to go out of play,” Howe said. “I think he does really well to keep it in.

“I’m not trying to be wise after the event, in that moment you back Will’s ability. That’s one of his biggest strengths, running with the ball and his pace.

“Will asked after training yesterday for 10 more balls. He wanted 10 more finishes and a carbon copy of the goal he scored today. He scored eight out of 10.

“That’s all credit to the player because he wanted it, he wanted to do more before he went in. I’m a great believer in do the work and you get the reward.”

United manager Michael Carrick saw his unbeaten start in charge come to an end in dramatic circumstances. Newcastle were reduced to 10 men late in the first half when Jacob Ramsey received a second yellow card for what the referee judged to be simulation.

Despite the setback, Newcastle took the lead through Anthony Gordon, who converted from the penalty spot. Casemiro levelled for United deep into first-half stoppage time before Osula settled the contest with a late solo goal.

The result provides a welcome lift for Newcastle after a difficult run of results at home in the Premier League.

“A massive win for us,” Howe said. “I think we needed it. We know we needed it. It’s been a tough run for us in the Premier League.

“Some of our performances haven’t been too bad in recent games but we’ve found a way to lose games when maybe we shouldn’t have done.

“Today we started the game really well and then we get a red card. There would have been an easy feeling for the lads to adopt of feeling sorry for ourselves.

“That’s the biggest compliment I can give the players. They stood up in the second half and believed we could win the game.”

Howe added that Osula’s goal was a moment worthy of recognition.

“A brilliant end to the game. It’s one of the best emotions I’ve felt, and I’m sure a lot of people will say the same. Hopefully that goal will be replayed quite a bit because I think Will has deserved it.”

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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