Newcastle hold on to beat Villa
Milner was key to Newcastle's success
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Now that February is just around the corner we are coming to the end of the mid-season transfer window when all sorts of clubs are linked with any unsettled player that pundits feel would fit nicely into their set-up. |  |
Wednesday, 31, Jan 2007 10:30
A strong start and finish to the game allowed Newcastle to beat a valiant Aston Villa 3-1 at St James' Park.
The Magpies began the game at a fearsome pace and capitalised on their early chances to take a 2-0 lead after just seven minutes.
James Milner scored the first goal - a curling 20-yard effort into the top-left corner - the type of shot that is starting to become a trademark of the midfielder.
Milner then turned provider, crossing from the right wing to find Kieron Dyer in the middle and his header was good enough to beat Thomas Sorensen.
However, Villa dragged themselves back into the contest and matched the home side for the rest of the match.
Their reward came when Ashley Young netted on his debut after 25 minutes. The Magpies thought they had cleared a corner but Young returned the ball from close range and it flew past goalkeeper Steve Harper.
Young continued to look bright in the second half as Villa pushed for an equaliser but it was Newcastle who took the points - Antoine Sibierski adding the finishing touch in injury time.
Elsewhere, Bolton drew 1-1 with Charlton in a game of attrition at the Reebok Stadium.
Bolton took the lead early on when Gary Speed's cross was glanced in at the near post by Henrik Pedersen for his first goal of the season.
Charlton replied quickly though and levelled things five minutes later with a thunderbolt from Talal El Karkouri. Ivan Campo had given away a free-kick and El Karkouri converted from 30 yards out.