Harvey Barnes was the hero for Newcastle United as they came from behind to beat West Ham 4-3 on a bonkers Saturday afternoon at St James’ Park.
The hosts took the lead after just five minutes when Alexander Isak converted from the penalty spot, but the Hammers turned the game on its head before the interval thanks to a Michail Antonio equaliser and a controversial Mohammed Kudus goal deep into injury time.
West Ham were cruising to victory when Jarrod Bowen extended their lead shortly after the break, but the nature of the contest flipped again when Isak scored another spot kick in the 77th minute.
The Swede set up impact substitute Barnes for the equaliser before the English winger scored a dramatic winner right at the end of normal time.
“With the way the game was going, the second goal there was a bit of controversy, but we have always had that team spirit and today is one of those days we’ll remember for a long time,” Barnes told TNT Sports after the final whistle.
Barnes has barely featured for Newcastle since signing from Leicester City last season due to a four-month injury layoff.
“It has been a tough season for me and I have missed that feeling so much,” he said. “My playing time has been limited so every time I am on the pitch I went to help the team.
“The atmosphere here is always amazing. Today it is a winner and it is a great feeling.”
The victory is a huge boost to Newcastle’s hopes of qualifying for Europe next season. They now sit just one point behind seventh-placed West Ham, but have a game in hand over their rivals.
