Sandro Tonali and Alexander Isak were the stars as Newcastle United thrashed Aston Villa 5-1 at St James' Park. The Italy midfielder opened the scoring after seven minutes, volleying home Anthony Gordon's cross. Moussa Diaby equalised for Villa but Isak restored the lead before half-time, turning in Sven Botman's square pass after Tonali had lifted a free-kick into the area.
Newcastle's dominance continued after the break. Isak scored his second of the night after Ezri Konsa's error allowed him to chip Emiliano Martínez. Callum Wilson and Harvey Barnes, both substitutes, added further goals to complete the rout. Barnes also set up Wilson's strike before scoring himself.
Villa's afternoon was compounded by a serious knee injury to defender Tyrone Mings, who was carried off in the 30th minute after a challenge with Isak. Manager Unai Emery said: 'The result is bad but losing Tyrone was worse. It doesn't look good. It's very sad for him and for us.'
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe praised his midfield maestro: 'Sandro was magnificent. It was a tight, tough game decided by our ruthlessness and we can improve. But we want our supporters to dream.' The victory keeps Newcastle near the top of the table ahead of a trip to Manchester City.
