Newcastle Scores Two Late Goals To Beat Crystal Palace
Newcastle manager Steve Bruce says they are starting to see the real Joelinton after the forward had a hand in two late goals in a win at Crystal Palace.
It was his first Premier League goal of the season and a third in the top flight since joining Newcastle for a club-record £40m in July last year.
“Sometimes you need time – it doesn’t matter about price tag,” said Bruce.
“In Joe’s case, the price tag and number nine shirt meant he struggled at times.
“But the kid wants to do well. He had a lot of opportunities tonight but we are starting to see him now with his strength.”
The former Hoffenheim striker had gone 16 Premier League games without a goal or assist, before grabbing one of each in Friday’s victory, which moved Newcastle up to 10th in the table.
“There is no disputing that Joelinton has found it difficult,” added Bruce. “But I’ve said many times that some take a little more time than others. We’re delighted he’s scored a goal.”
Palace had looked more likely to break the deadlock and the visitors had goalkeeper Karl Darlow to thank for keeping them in the game.
He saved well from substitute Christian Benteke’s powerful header having earlier made a smart stop to keep out Jeffrey Schlupp’s angled left-footed effort, while Patrick van Aanholt fizzed a strike wide.
The result moves Newcastle up to 10th in the table, while Palace slip to 13th.