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Sandro Tonali was the match-winner as Newcastle United beat Brentford 2-1 at St James’ Park.
Alexander Isak handed the Magpies the lead on the brink of half-time before Bryan Mbeumo drew the visitors level from the penalty spot in the 66th minute. Nick Pope brought down Yoane Wissa and Mbeumo stepped up to send the goalkeeper the wrong way.
But Newcastle found a winner when Tonali scored in the 74th minute. The victory moved Eddie Howe’s side up to fifth in the Premier League table and inside the Champions League qualification places.
"The start of the second half was tough and Brentford pushed but we are a solid team as well and we had a good reaction,” said the Italian. “This win is nice for the Champions League for us, we have a good week and it is perfect for this week."
Did Sandro Tonali mean to score?
Tonali scored after his cross-turned-shot caught out Mark Flekken at his near post. So, did the midfielder mean it? "Honestly, it was 70% cross and 30% shot,” he replied. “It was difficult for the goalkeeper and difficult also for me. Also a little bit of luck."
Newcastle now aren’t in action until Monday when they visit second bottom Leicester City. Qualifying for the Champions League the aim after winning the Carabao Cup.
Tonali added: “Now we play only for the first five teams, for the Champions League. It is a little bit tough but we are lucky because there are five teams in the Champions League this season. The team is a little bit free so it is much better for me and for the fans. Now we have nine finals to get back into the Champions League.
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"I think I am happy for the trophy for these fans because these fans deserve it. Every game we have 52,000 people in the stadium and this is amazing for football. I am so happy to play every game in this stadium and with these fans it is amazing."
Sandro Tonali praises Alexander Isak
Isak scored his 20th league goal of the campaign, becoming the first Newcastle player to score 20+ goals in consecutive Premier League seasons. And Tonali thinks the Swede is the best in the world.
Tonali said: "I am happy for him because Alex is a great striker and maybe one of the best in the world now. I think he scores every game. We work for him because when Alex scores, very often we win the game. We are happy. I think Alex now is the best in the world."
YOUR NEXT READ:Newcastle United player ratings from the 2-1 win over Brentford.