Manchester City kept their quadruple hopes alive with a 3-1 victory over Newcastle United at St James' Park in the FA Cup fifth round. The visitors came from behind after a spirited start from the home side, who took an early lead but could not sustain their intensity.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe admitted his team ran out of gas after a promising first 30 minutes. 'We couldn't sustain the level of intensity,' he said. 'They are a very good team. We didn't touch the ball at the start of the second half and conceded – that was a body blow.'
Pep Guardiola praised his side's performance as the best they have played at St James' Park. 'Savinho and Jeremy Doku were so decisive,' he said. 'Savinho in one-on-one situations is unstoppable. He will be a top-class player.' Guardiola also expressed frustration at a lack of foul given for a perceived pull on Doku.
John Stones, back from injury, said: 'It's nice to be out there playing and contributing. I'm so pleased for Savinho. There are so many big games coming up. Everyone is going to have to pull their weight.'
The victory keeps City on course for a fourth consecutive FA Cup final appearance. For Newcastle, the focus now shifts to Tuesday's Champions League clash with Barcelona. 'That is now really our season,' said Howe.
