Howe: Let's hope this can give us a lift

BRUNO Guimaraes hopes that his dramatic late winner against Fulham proves Newcastle United aren’t a “soft touch” any more.

- By LEE RYDER

The midfielder was ready to take full responsibility for the loss of two points after missing a second half header in front of the Gallowgate End before redeeming himself in spectacular fashion.

The Brazil international pounced in the 90th minute to claw three points from the fire after Marco Silva's side came close to a creditable draw. Having thrown away a lead handed to them by Jacob Murphy, the Magpies started the second half in sluggish manner and allowed Sasa Lukic to equalise at the Leazes End.

But just when it looked like Newcastle had capitulated, and lost another lead this season, after collapsing against Arsenal and Liverpool earlier in the campaign, Guimaraes struck to seal three points and cap a great week after the victory against Benfica.

Bruno emerged after firing home, after William Osula's shot had been pushed out by Bernd Leno, to say: “We were not at our best to be fair, but even with our difficulties we found a way to win the game.

“It was a special moment to score at the end because we have been punished that way against Liverpool and Arsenal.