Jean-Philippe Mateta's dramatic late double secured a vital Premier League victory for Crystal Palace.
Crystal Palace secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Newcastle at Selhurst Park. Jean-Philippe Mateta emerged as the hero, scoring twice in the final ten minutes. His late penalty sealed a crucial Premier League win for the Eagles.
Coming into this Premier League clash, Crystal Palace sat 14th in the table. They aimed to improve their form, which included two wins and two losses in their last five. Newcastle, in 13th, sought consistency after a mixed run of results.
The first half saw a cagey affair with both sides testing each other. Newcastle broke the deadlock just before the break. William Osula netted in the 43rd minute, giving the visitors a valuable lead.
Osula's goal came from one of Newcastle's three shots on target. Crystal Palace created some opportunities but could not convert. The home side went into half-time trailing by a single goal.
Roy Hodgson's side needed a response after the interval. They had to find a way to break down Newcastle's defence. The second half promised more attacking intent from the Eagles.
The second half saw increased physicality. Newcastle's Malick Thiaw received a yellow card in the 68th minute. Joelinton followed him into the referee's book six minutes later.
Crystal Palace pushed for an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the 80th minute. Jean-Philippe Mateta found the back of the net, drawing the home side level.
The drama was not over. In the 90+3rd minute, Newcastle goalkeeper A. Ramsdale was booked. Mateta then stepped up to convert a penalty in the 90+4th minute. This late strike completed a stunning comeback for Palace.
Crystal Palace finished with 10 total shots, 5 on target, and an xG of 2.34. Newcastle managed 7 shots, 3 on target, with an xG of 1.13. Despite Newcastle's 58% possession, Palace proved more clinical.
This vital win boosts Crystal Palace's league position. They now sit 14th with 39 points, closing the gap on Newcastle. The Magpies remain in 13th, still on 42 points.
