Jacob the provider: Murphy makes history with 12th assist as Newcastle United beat Chelsea

Newcastle United took a huge step towards sealing a top-five spot in the Premier League after beating Chelsea 2-0 at St. James' Park on Sunday afternoon.

English-born Nigerian forward Jacob Murphy, a player of interest to Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle, created a bit of history by becoming the first Newcastle United player to notch twelve assists in the Premier League in twenty-five years.

Football statisticians Opta confirmed that no Newcastle United player has managed twelve assists in the Premier League since the 1999-2000 season when Nolberto Solano provided fifteen.

An early goal and a late, late goal secured Newcastle United their twentieth Premier League win of the season, the first time they have won 20+ games in a single season in the competition since 2002-03 (21), which was the last time they finished in the top three of the division.

After 112 seconds, Sandro Tonali tapped in at the back post following a low cross from Jacob Murphy.

It looked as it was going to be an afternoon to enjoy for Newcastle but it turned into an afternoon to endure despite the considerable advantage given to them by Nicolas Jackson's moment of fury, a trailing arm catching Sven Botman, leading to a red card in the 35th minute.

But the reduction to ten men seemed to inspire Chelsea, who produced an excellent second half performance, with Nick Pope forced to make two outstanding saves to deny the visitors.

Bruno Guimaraes, via his deflected effort, was able to make the lead a decisive one in added time at the end. 

Following the win, Newcastle move up to third in the table with 66 points, just a point below Arsenal who go to the champions Liverpool in today's late game, and three clear of Chelsea who stay in fifth on 63 points.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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