Newcastle vs Crystal Palace produced one of the most dominant performances of the 2024/25 Premier League season, as the Magpies demolished their visitors 5-0 in front of a roaring crowd at St. James’ Park. The result sent a clear message to their rivals about their serious intent to secure a Champions League place. From explosive wing play to clinical finishing, Newcastle were simply unplayable on the day.
⚽ Newcastle vs Crystal Palace: First-Half Masterclass
Newcastle vs Crystal Palace was over before the half-time whistle blew, with the home side netting four goals in a breathtaking first-half display. It was one of the most ruthless opening 45 minutes seen in recent Premier League history.
Jacob Murphy, starting on the right flank, opened the floodgates with a thumping finish in the 14th minute. Just over 20 minutes later, Harvey Barnes’ cross caused chaos in the Palace box, forcing an own goal from Marc Guehi, doubling Newcastle’s lead.
The third came from a swift counter-attack, again involving Barnes, who finished calmly in added time. And before the half could end, Fabian Schär powered home a header from a perfectly-weighted Murphy cross, making it 4-0 before the interval.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – APRIL 16: Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace sees his penalty saved by Nick Pope of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Crystal Palace FC at St James’ Park on April 16, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
🔥 Tactical Brilliance Shines Without Howe
Even in the absence of manager Eddie Howe, who was sidelined with pneumonia, Jason Tindall orchestrated a performance that was clinical, well-drilled, and aggressive. The Newcastle vs Crystal Palace fixture showcased how deeply the team has internalized Howe’s playing philosophy.
The Magpies pressed high, forced errors, and transitioned with speed. In contrast, Crystal Palace looked disjointed, passive, and lacking ideas in possession.
⭐ Star Men: Barnes and Murphy Deliver
One of the biggest talking points of Newcastle vs Crystal Palace was the return to form of Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy. Both wingers were instrumental in stretching Palace’s defence, delivering precision in their final balls, and causing continuous headaches for full-backs.
Harvey Barnes: A goal, an assist (via the own goal), and relentless movement made him one of the most threatening players on the pitch.
Jacob Murphy: Opened the scoring and assisted Schär’s goal, earning him the Man of the Match award.
Their chemistry with Alexander Isak was also notable, creating space and confusion for the Palace defenders.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – APRIL 16: Harvey Barnes of Newcastle United (11) celebrates with teammates after Marc Guéhi of Crystal Palace (6) scores own goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Crystal Palace FC at St James’ Park on April 16, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Michelle Mercer/Newcastle United via Getty Images)
🧤 Defensive Solidity and Pope’s Big Save
Despite dominating offensively, Newcastle remained sharp at the back. The clean sheet wasn’t without its challenges. Nick Pope had to be alert when Eberechi Eze stepped up for a penalty after Palace were awarded a spot-kick.
Pope guessed correctly and dived low to his right to deny Eze — a moment that preserved Newcastle’s commanding lead and deflated any slim hopes of a Palace comeback.
💥 Newcastle vs Crystal Palace xG and Stats Breakdown
This Newcastle vs Crystal Palace encounter wasn’t just about goals — the underlying statistics painted a fascinating picture of ruthless efficiency:
Despite having a lower xG, Newcastle made the most of every opportunity, highlighting their improved efficiency in front of goal.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – APRIL 16: Fabian Schaer of Newcastle United scores his team’s fourth goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Crystal Palace FC at St James’ Park on April 16, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
This wasn’t just a great win — Newcastle vs Crystal Palace reflected a team with top-tier ambitions. Newcastle played with hunger, confidence, and ruthlessness that is typically seen in title contenders. If this form continues, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to say they could challenge even the league’s elite in the final stretch of the season.
🧬 Squad Depth and Rotation Pays Off
Another storyline from the Newcastle vs Crystal Palace game was how squad depth contributed significantly to the result. With Callum Wilson, Miguel Almirón, and Joelinton unavailable, the likes of Murphy and Barnes took their chance with both hands.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – APRIL 16: Alexander Isak of Newcastle United scores his team’s fifth goal under pressure from Maxence Lacroix of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Crystal Palace FC at St James’ Park on April 16, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Moreover, Tonali’s midfield leadership, Guimarães’ defensive coverage, and Dan Burn’s adaptability provided solid support throughout the game.
This rotation strength could prove vital during the upcoming congested fixture list, including cup competitions and potential European ties.
📆 What’s Next After Newcastle vs Crystal Palace?
The aftermath of the Newcastle vs Crystal Palace clash sets up interesting battles in the Premier League top four race. Newcastle now sit third on the table, ahead of Liverpool and Manchester United, both of whom dropped points over the weekend.
Crystal Palace, on the other hand, have a tough run of fixtures ahead, including a London derby and a trip to Anfield. Manager Roy Hodgson will have to lift his squad quickly to avoid being dragged into a relegation fight.
Social media erupted during and after the Newcastle vs Crystal Palace game, with fans celebrating the dominant performance and pundits applauding the tactical setup.
“That first half was simply a demolition job. Barnes and Murphy were unstoppable,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).
“This is the Newcastle we were promised. Title contenders if they keep this form,” wrote a Premier League pundit on Instagram.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – APRIL 16: Harvey Barnes of Newcastle United scores his team’s third goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Crystal Palace FC at St James’ Park on April 16, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
📝 Final Thoughts on Newcastle vs Crystal Palace
Newcastle vs Crystal Palace was a statement victory. It underlined Newcastle’s depth, confidence, and ambition. With a five-goal haul, a clean sheet, and standout performances across the pitch, Newcastle United showed they are not just aiming for the top four — they are ready to dominate.
This comprehensive win is more than just three points; it’s a declaration to the rest of the Premier League. The Magpies are soaring again — and on this form, few can stop them.
