Buendía, Watkins score as Aston Villa cruise to 2–0 win at Newcastle

Aston Villa extended their Premier League title push with a convincing 2–0 victory over Newcastle United at St James’ Park, with goals from Emiliano Buendía and Ollie Watkins securing all three points on Sunday.

Villa took the lead in the 19th minute when Buendía unleashed a curling, powerful shot into the top corner, giving the visitors an early advantage and punishing Newcastle’s defensive lapse.

ESPN reported that the second goal came deep into the second half, as Watkins rose highest to head home in the 88th minute, sealing the result and dampening the home side’s hopes of a comeback.

The result pushed Villa to level on points with second-placed Manchester City and intensifying the title race, while Newcastle were left to rue missed chances at home.
Reuters

Villa dominated large spells and managed the game well, absorbing pressure from a Newcastle side who controlled possession at times but couldn’t find a breakthrough.

Newcastle’s efforts were hindered by a lack of clinical finishing despite creating opportunities, with the home crowd growing restless as the minutes ticked down.

For Villa, the win was a professional performance on the road, with Buendía’s moment of individual brilliance and Watkins’ lateheaded finish standing out as decisive.

The victory lifts Aston Villa further into the Premier League’s upper echelons, keeping them in strong contention across the busy January schedule, while Newcastle will look to regroup after the international break.

Contributed by Emmanuel Lungu

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