On December 21, 2024, Newcastle United delivered a stunning performance by defeating Ipswich Town 4-0 at Portman Road, marking their ascent up the Premier League standings with this emphatic win.
The match kicked off with fireworks as Alexander Isak scored merely 26 seconds after the whistle blew. Following a move initiated by Jacob Murphy, Isak capitalized on defensive confusion from Ipswich to net the first goal, which was validated following a thorough VAR check. This early strike set the tone for Newcastle’s dominance throughout the match.
Newcastle radiated confidence from the outset, and before the half-time whistle, Isak would not be the only name on the scoresheet. Jacob Murphy doubled the lead for Newcastle at the 32-minute mark, dribbling through the defense after receiving the ball from Anthony Gordon and unleashing a powerful shot beyond Arsenal keeper Arijanet Muric. His clinical finish left Ipswich defenders scrambling.
Just before the break, Isak took advantage again when Ipswich's defense faltered, scoring his second goal after Bruno Guimarães intercepted poor play from the hosts. This relentless pressure saw Newcastle head to the locker room with a comfortable 3-0 lead.
After half-time, Newcastle continued their offensive strategy, with Isak completing his clean hat-trick nine minutes after the restart. Murphy's clever back-heeled pass allowed Isak to finish coolly, highlighting the Swedish forward’s skill and precision. The three-goal performance not only demonstrated Isak's natural talent but also ended the club's five-year search for a hat-trick hero since Ayoze Pérez's impressive performance against Southampton back in April 2019.
Manager Eddie Howe expressed his satisfaction post-match, stating, "Our creative play has returned to what it always was – we seem capable of creating dangerous chances at any moment," emphasizing the cohesion and confidence displayed by his squad. The victory marked Newcastle’s second consecutive win, propelling them from 12th to 7th position on the Premier League table, amassing 26 points.
Unfortunately for Ipswich, whose defeat marked its ninth loss out of 17 matches this season, the prospect of relegation looms as they sit at 18th place with just 12 points, two behind Leicester City.
Eddie Howe took note of the excellent teamwork behind Newcastle’s success, particularly praising Isak's performance. Isak remarked, "(The hat-trick) had been a long time coming for Newcastle, my first here, I’m excited. Just scoring goals gives confidence and helps me and the team." His selfless acknowledgments reinforced the squad spirit as he also highlighted Murphy's valuable contributions on the field.
The match statistics reflect Newcastle's efficiency: Isak had three goals to his name and created one significant chance. Meanwhile, Bruno Guimarães assisted one goal and registered impressive passing accuracy. Newcastle could have scored even more, with missed opportunities by Anthony Gordon and Dan Burn, the latter seeing his goal disallowed due to offside.
This commanding win is coupled with anticipation for their next match, where Newcastle will host Aston Villa on Boxing Day. With the players firing on all cylinders and the quality of play improving drastically, fans are optimistic about what lies ahead for the Magpies.
Newcastle United’s emphatic victory against Ipswich serves as both a statement and a reminder of their capabilities this season, laying the groundwork for consistent performances moving forward. With Isak's form peaking and the team's unity flourishing under Howe’s leadership, the squad looks set to make significant strides as they push for broader ambitions within the Premier League.
