LONDON: Newcastle boosted their Champions League qualification hopes with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over West Ham on Monday.
Bruno Guimaraes scored the decisive goal in the second half, though the Hammers were left frustrated as their appeals for a foul in the build-up were ignored.
The win lifts Eddie Howe’s side to sixth place in the Premier League, level on points with fifth-placed Manchester City and just two points behind fourth-placed Chelsea.
A top-four finish would secure a Champions League return, while even fifth place might be enough depending on other English clubs’ European performances.
Newcastle’s victory comes at a crucial time, following three losses in their previous four matches.
It also serves as a confidence boost ahead of their League Cup final against Liverpool on Sunday, where they aim to win their first major trophy since 1969.
West Ham, despite an early missed opportunity by Tomas Soucek, struggled to capitalize on their chances.
Goalkeeper Alphonse Areola made several fine saves, but Guimaraes eventually broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute.
Controversy surrounded the goal, with West Ham claiming Alexander Isak fouled Max Kilman, but VAR did not intervene.
Despite late penalty appeals from Jarrod Bowen, Newcastle held firm to claim an important three points. – AFP
