Gordon and Guimarães Survive Burnley's Fightback as Red Card Reshapes St James' Park Drama
Highly Entertaining Futmetrix Score: 70/100. Newcastle's 2-1 victory over ten-man Burnley proves that intensity and numerical advantage don't always guarantee comfortable passage—this was a six-pointer that required composure under siege.
Early Control, Then Chaos
Newcastle dominated possession with 69% and dictated the opening exchanges. Bruno Guimarães broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, slotting home to reward the hosts' superior control. The Brazilian midfielder's clinical finish suggested a routine afternoon lay ahead. But Premier League football rarely obliges.
In the 43rd minute, Burnley's Lucas Pires was sent off for a tripping offence, reducing the visitors to ten men. The red card arrived just before half-time—a critical juncture that should have ended the contest. Instead, it ignited a penalty drama. Anthony Gordon converted from the spot in the 45th minute (45+8), extending Newcastle's lead to 2-0 and seemingly putting the tie beyond reach.
Substitute Flemming's Late Sting
Yet balance shifted in Burnley's favour when substitute Z. Flemming scored a penalty in the 94th minute (90+4), clawing the visitors back to 2-1. The late goal transformed a comfortable scoreline into a nervy finale, proving that even numerical disadvantage cannot suppress Burnley's desperation in a relegation battle.
Malick Thiaw anchored Newcastle's defence throughout, delivering an outstanding performance that kept the hosts' backline resolute despite Burnley's attacking forays. The 24 combined shots (10 on target) and 18 corners created relentless stakes—goalkeepers made 8 saves between them, showcasing the chaotic nature of proceedings.
Newcastle's 91% pass accuracy and dominance in possession proved decisive, but Burnley's refusal to capitulate—even down to ten men—demonstrated why they remain dangerous opponents despite their league position. The lead changed hands once; the match never settled.
Key Questions
How did the red card for Lucas Pires impact the match?
Pires' 43rd-minute dismissal handed Newcastle numerical control, yet Burnley remained competitive. The red card preceded Gordon's penalty, but late substitute Flemming's goal proved the ten-man visitors still possessed threat.
What made Anthony Gordon the standout performer?
Gordon scored twice (penalty included), delivered 2 key passes, and earned a 9.2 rating. His movement and finishing were clinical when Newcastle needed composure most.
Did Burnley's late penalty change the narrative?
Flemming's 94th-minute conversion transformed a 2-0 lead into a tense finale. Though Newcastle held on, Burnley's late strike proved even ten-man teams can threaten.
Why is this match rated 70/100?
Our Futmetrix algorithm analyzed intensity, balance, and stakes. The final score of 70/100 places this match in the "Highly Entertaining" category.
