A stunning late free-kick from Joe White sealed a comeback win for Newcastle United U21s over Southampton to maintain their Premier League 2 unbeaten run. The young Magpies had taken an early lead through Dylan Stephenson, but had to came from behind after the break with a set-piece settling the entertaining contest at Whitley Park on Sunday afternoon.
Elliott Dickman named seven changes to the side that lost their final Papa John's Trophy group fixture at Lincoln City on Tuesday night. Niall Brookwell, Jamie Miley, Alex Murphy, and Joe White were the only players to keep their place from the 2-0 defeat at Sincil Bank, with summer signings Jordan Hackett and Jude Smith among those to drop out.
Stephenson quickly fired Newcastle in front, but this was soon overturned with first-half goals from Dom Ballard and Nico Lawrence. Isaac Westendorf pulled the Magpies level just before the hour mark, and White's 25-yard effort proved to be the winner 10 minutes' from time, and here are three things we learned from Newcastle U21s latest win
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Januarys signing's comeback
Westendorf made his first start of the season, having suffered a thigh injury. The striker appeared as a second-half substitute in the midweek defeat at Lincoln, but was handed the number nine shirt to face the Saints.
Westendorf joined the Magpies from Isthmian League North Division side Barking in January following a successful trial. The 21-year-old netted five times in Premier League 2 in the second-half of last season, and marked his comeback with a second-half equaliser.
There was an early chance for the striker as he used his power to force his way into the area, only to see his effort deflected clear of danger. Westendorf often cut an isolated figure in the opening 45 minutes, and was visibly frustrated in the closing stages as he shouted 'come on' and urged his team-mates to press.
However, the striker capitalised upon his only clearcut opportunity as he brought the hosts level just before the hour mark. Westendorf used his pace to pull clear of Lawrence, and his low effort found its way through Oliver's Wright's legs and into the net.
Unbeaten run continues
Newcastle may have exited the Papa John's Trophy without a win, but the young Magpies have quietly put together a four-match unbeaten run prior to the clash with Southampton. Victory at Villa Park in their last outing was followed with home wins over Derby County and Nottingham Forest.
Dickman's side had made a poor start to the season with three straight defeats, but had a chance to move level with their opponents in fifth position on Sunday with victory. It looked like the opportunity might be spurned at the break, with the Saints ahead and perhaps unlucky not to add to their lead.
However, Dickman must be proud with the response from the young Magpies after they overturned the deficit with a markedly improved second-half display. Westendorf's equaliser was just reward, and Newcastle looked the side most likely to score a winner throughout the second-half.
In the end, it took a moment of sheer quality from White to settle the contest. It was an important character test for the young Magpies, and one they passed with flying colours to extend their PL2 unbeaten run and record a third straight home win.
White's stunner
The highly-rated midfielder has made no secret of his ambition to play first-team football this term - whether it be with Eddie Howe's side or on loan. White signed a new contract while on loan with Hartlepool United last term, but a succession of injuries have contributed to a slow start to the season for the playmaker.
It is a seventh straight second-string start for the 20-year-old, and it was undoubtedly his best performance of the campaign. White created Newcastle's opening goal in the opening minutes, with a smart turn and pass allowing Dylan Stephenson to score with a first-time effort.
The former Hartlepool loanee was often the Magpies' most positive player in possession, and there were a number of stray attempted through balls. White was unlucky not to register a second assist shortly after the restart, as his deep free-kick was headed wide by Niall Brookwell.
But it was with another set-play that the midfielder ultimately settled the contest, as he expertly guided a 25-yard free-kick beyond the reach of Wright via the far post. It was a passionate celebration from White who had at times cut a frustrated figure on the pitch, and served as a timely reminder of the quality he possesses.
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