Newcastle United’s attacking struggles were laid bare on Saturday as they failed to score in a goalless draw against Aston Villa, who played the final 24 minutes with ten men at Villa Park.
With star striker Alexander Isak absent amid his push for a move to Liverpool, the Magpies lacked a cutting edge despite dominating large spells of the contest.
Debutant goalkeeper Marco Bizot was forced into action inside three minutes, producing a fine stop to deny £55m summer signing Anthony Elanga. Anthony Gordon also wasted a golden chance, heading over from close range, before testing Bizot himself later in the half.
Despite Newcastle’s dominance, Villa offered little going forward in the opening period. Unai Emery’s side became the first home team since Fulham against Manchester City in May 2024 to go through a Premier League first half without registering a single shot.
After the break, Villa showed more intent. Boubacar Kamara’s header and Ollie Watkins’ effort both drew routine saves from Nick Pope. Their hopes of a late surge were dashed, however, when Ezri Konsa was shown a red card for pulling back Gordon as he raced clear.
Still, Eddie Howe’s men failed to capitalise on the advantage, leaving the manager visibly frustrated on the touchline.
For all their energy and control, Newcastle could not turn superiority into goals, leaving the clear message that the Magpies need a reliable goalscorer, whether Isak stays or not, as the transfer window enters its final weeks.
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