Newcastle ended their four-game losing streak in the Premier League as Fabian Schar’s double inspired a 3-1 win against Aston Villa on Tuesday. Switzerland centre-back Schar struck twice in the space of four minutes late in the first half at Villa Park. Alex Moreno’s second half own goal increased Newcastle’s advantage and Ollie Watkins’ reply came too late to spark a Villa escape act.
For the first time since beating Fulham on December 16, Eddie Howe’s side were able to celebrate three points, although they managed victories in the FA Cup against Sunderland and Fulham during their winless league run.
Newcastle are up to seventh place as they try to salvage European qualification from a difficult season.
“It was mixed emotions for me because that is an elite team. The mixed part is that we haven’t seen that for a number of weeks. We looked much more like ourselves,” Howe said.
“We knew all eyes were on us. We’ve been on a disappointing run in the Premier League, especially away from home. It was a big result.”
The defeat was a major blow to fourth placed Villa’s unexpected title challenge, leaving Unai Emery’s men five points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.
It was Villa’s first home league defeat in 17 matches since losing to Arsenal in February 2023.
Villa have boasted the Premier League’s best home record so far this season.
But Newcastle thrashed them 5-1 at St James’ Park at the start of the campaign and once again they were too strong for Emery’s team.
“It’s a little frustrating. Today we have to accept because they deserve it. Newcastle’s power is in the set pieces. The first 60 minutes, they were better,” Emery said.