Newcastle United’s first half performance against Bournemouth had fans purring, and former Arsenal striker Alan Smith singing their praises.
The Magpies dominated from the start at the Vitality Stadium, with goals from Dwight Gayle and Sean Longstaff putting them in complete control.
Coming up against a side famed for their easy on the eye style, it was actually the visitors that caught the eye on the south coast.
Newcastle ran a largely hapless Bournemouth side ragged, and at one point during the opening 45 minutes could boast 74 per cent possession over their opponents.
That display certainly caught the eye of former Gunner Smith, who was commentating on the game for Sky Sports.
“They looked sharp from the outset,” Smith said.
“I said in commentary, mid-table, not fighting for anything substantial, but you can play with that little bit of freedom, the shackles are off, and we’ve seen that from the Newcastle players.
“I’ve not actually seen them knock the ball about as well as they have done today.”
High praise indeed for Steve Bruce’s side, and the Toon army were equally enamoured with their side’s free-flowing display.
The Magpies will be aiming to finish the job off at Bournemouth as they look to continue their impressive return to Premier League action.
Bruce’s side would break through the 40-point barrier with victory, and with six games remaining after today’s clash, they’ll be aiming to secure a top-10 finish in the Premier League.
