Front three in perfect Union as United end away-day woe in superb style

NEWCASTLE United ensured there was no hangover from Sunday’s disappointing defeat to Arsenal by brushing aside Union SG in the Champions League.

- By SEAN MCCORMICK

Goals from Nick Woltemade and Harvey Barnes, as well as a brace from Anthony Gordon from the penalty spot, ensured the Magpies ran out 4-0 winners over Union SG in Brussels, as United got off the mark in this season’s competition following defeat in their opening game to Barcelona.

After a difficult start to the season, Newcastle showed the best of themselves in the Belgian capital and the challenge now is to back that up in the Premier League when Nottingham Forest make the trip to St James’ Park on Sunday.

Here are five things we learned from the win in Belgium.

WINGERS RISE TO PRE-MATCH CHALLENGE

Eddie Howe said in his pre-match interview on TNT Sports that his Newcastle side had a ‘point to prove’ and that applied to both Gordon and Anthony Elanga more than most.

The pair are recognised as Newcastle's strongest two wingers but their output so far this season has been underwhelming.

Fingers were beginning to be pointed ahead of the game and the general consensus was that this was a huge game for both players to prove their worth.

And both of them stood up to the pre-match challenge. Elanga was dangerous throughout and his direct running caused the Belgian champions nightmares.

Newcastle's first goal came from Elanga’s early cross which could only be cleared into Sandro Tonali’s path.

His first-time effort was flicked home by Nick Woltemade to hand the Magpies the lead.