August 12, (THEWILL) – A Sandro Tonali debut goal and an Alexander Isak brace helped Newcastle United kick off their English Premier League campaign with an emphatic 5-1 home victory over Aston Villa on Saturday.
The hosts took an early lead through new signing Tonali before Villa debutant Moussa Diaby equalised. But Isak struck twice before the break to give Newcastle control. Second-half goals from Callum Wilson and Harvey Barnes completed the rout for Eddie Howe’s men, despite a spirited performance from the visitors.
The match also saw a serious injury to Villa defender Tyrone Mings, who was stretchered off after clashing with Isak. It allowed Pau Torres to make his EPL debut. Still, Villa face an uphill battle after the demoralising opening-day defeat.
Next up, Newcastle travel to the Etihad, hoping to build on the momentum when they tackle defending champions Manchester City on Saturday. On Sunday, Villa host Everton at Villa Park.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
