Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang fired Arsenal to a 1-0 win at Newcastle in their Premier League opener on Sunday, providing hope of an improved run this season for Unai Emery's side.

The Gunners finished last season in turmoil after blowing their bid for a top-four place with a disastrous spell in the final weeks.

Adding to Emery's woes, Arsenal were crushed by Chelsea in the Europa League final to shatter their dreams of Champions League qualification.

But Arsenal have enjoyed a profitable close-season, with a host of new signings raising morale around the Emirates Stadium.

And Aubameyang gave Arsenal fans renewed belief they can get back in the top four this term with a typically predatory second-half finish to give the north Londoners a winning start.

Arsenal had a wretched away record last season, keeping just one clean sheet on their travels, so taking three points without conceding was the perfect way to turn over a new leaf.

Their often-criticised defence held firm, with centre-backs Calum Chambers and Sokratis keeping Newcastle at bay.

Aubameyang's strike ruined Newcastle manager Steve Bruce's first match in charge of the club he supported as a boy.

Bruce left second-tier Sheffield Wednesday to join Newcastle in the close-season following the departure of fan favourite Rafael Benitez, who had grown tired of a lack of backing from controversial owner Mike Ashley.

Bruce's appointment was hardly greeted with widespread joy on Tyneside and the season started with Newcastle fans staging a protest against Ashley in the streets and then boycotting the match in large enough numbers to leave numerous empty seats around St James' Park.

Emery's decision to leave new signings David Luiz, Dani Ceballos and Nicolas Pepe on the bench was rewarded by a determined, if only sporadically cohesive, display from his team.

There were starts for 19-year-old academy graduates Reiss Nelson and Joe Willock, but Mesut Ozil and Sead Kolasinac were absent after two men were arrested following a fresh incident after the pair were the victims of an attempted car-jacking in July.

Cool finish

Joelinton made his first Newcastle start after his club-record £40 million switch from Hoffenheim and the Brazilian striker needed to impress to lift the gloomy mood on a rainy day in the north-east.

He had his first sights of goal when he flicked a header just wide from Matt Ritchie's cross and then blasted straight at Arsenal keeper Bernd Leno.

Jonjo Shelvey went even closer for Newcastle as the midfielder hit the outside of a post with a stinging strike.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan squandered a golden chance to give Arsenal the lead, the unmarked midfielder firing wildly over the bar from 10 yards.

After a quiet start, Arsenal star Aubameyang, the joint top-scorer in the Premier League last season, sprang to life when he tested Martin Dubravka with a powerful strike after superbly controlling Mkhitaryan's long pass.

It was a warning that Newcastle failed to heed as Aubameyang put Arsenal ahead in the 58th minute.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles was the provider, making a timely interception of Paul Dummett's under-hit pass to Jetro Willems and surging away from inside his own half.

Unfurling a pin-point pass that curled over the back-tracking Newcastle defence, Maitland-Niles found Aubameyang in space and the Gabon striker took a touch before clipping his cool finish past Dubravka.

Ivory Coast winger Pepe, Arsenal's £72 million club-record signing, and Spanish midfielder Ceballos, on loan from Real Madrid, came off the bench for the last 20 minutes.

The new boys didn't make much of an impact as Arsenal's much-maligned defence took the plaudits.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang fired Arsenal to a 1-0 win at Newcastle in their Premier League opener on Sunday, providing hope of an improved run this season for Unai Emery's side.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang fired Arsenal to a 1-0 win at Newcastle in their Premier League opener on Sunday, providing hope of an improved run this season for Unai Emery's side. The Gunners finished last season in turmoil after blowing their bid for a top-four place with a disastrous spell in the final weeks. Adding to Emery's woes, Arsenal were crushed by Chelsea in the Europa League final to shatter their dreams of Champions League qualification. But Arsenal have enjoyed a profitable close-season, with a host of new signings raising morale around the Emirates Stadium. And Aubameyang gave Arsenal fans renewed belief they can get back in the top four this term with a typically predatory second-half finish to give the north Londoners a winning start. Arsenal had a wretched away record last season, keeping just one clean sheet on their travels, so taking three points without conceding was the perfect way to turn over a new leaf. Their often-criticised defence held firm, with centre-backs Calum Chambers and Sokratis keeping Newcastle at bay. Aubameyang's strike ruined Newcastle manager Steve Bruce's first match in charge of the club he supported as a boy. Bruce left second-tier Sheffield Wednesday to join Newcastle in the close-season following the departure of fan favourite Rafael Benitez, who had grown tired of a lack of backing from controversial owner Mike Ashley. Bruce's appointment was hardly greeted with widespread joy on Tyneside and the season started with Newcastle fans staging a protest against Ashley in the streets and then boycotting the match in large enough numbers to leave numerous empty seats around St James' Park. Emery's decision to leave new signings David Luiz, Dani Ceballos and Nicolas Pepe on the bench was rewarded by a determined, if only sporadically cohesive, display from his team. There were starts for 19-year-old academy graduates Reiss Nelson and Joe Willock, but Mesut Ozil and Sead Kolasinac were absent after two men were arrested following a fresh incident after the pair were the victims of an attempted car-jacking in July. Cool finish Joelinton made his first Newcastle start after his club-record £40 million switch from Hoffenheim and the Brazilian striker needed to impress to lift the gloomy mood on a rainy day in the north-east. He had his first sights of goal when he flicked a header just wide from Matt Ritchie's cross and then blasted straight at Arsenal keeper Bernd Leno. Jonjo Shelvey went even closer for Newcastle as the midfielder hit the outside of a post with a stinging strike. Henrikh Mkhitaryan squandered a golden chance to give Arsenal the lead, the unmarked midfielder firing wildly over the bar from 10 yards. After a quiet start, Arsenal star Aubameyang, the joint top-scorer in the Premier League last season, sprang to life when he tested Martin Dubravka with a powerful strike after superbly controlling Mkhitaryan's long pass. It was a warning that Newcastle failed to heed as Aubameyang put Arsenal ahead in the 58th minute. Ainsley Maitland-Niles was the provider, making a timely interception of Paul Dummett's under-hit pass to Jetro Willems and surging away from inside his own half. Unfurling a pin-point pass that curled over the back-tracking Newcastle defence, Maitland-Niles found Aubameyang in space and the Gabon striker took a touch before clipping his cool finish past Dubravka. Ivory Coast winger Pepe, Arsenal's £72 million club-record signing, and Spanish midfielder Ceballos, on loan from Real Madrid, came off the bench for the last 20 minutes. The new boys didn't make much of an impact as Arsenal's much-maligned defence took the plaudits.

Aubameyang gives Arsenal winning start at Newcastle

Divock Origi headed&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;back to the top of the Premier League despite losing Mohamed Salah to a head injury in a thrilling 3-2 win at Newcastle.&nbsp;

At the other end of the table, Cardiff were relegated after their 3-2 defeat against Crystal Palace.

Liverpool's thrilling title battle with Manchester City is now guaranteed to go down to the final day of the season as Jurgen Klopp's men moved two points ahead once more at the top.

City have a game in hand, at home to Leicester on Monday, but&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;refuse to give up in their pursuit of a first title for 29 years.

"If we are champions then we are champions, you can't feel pressure when you do your best," said Klopp.

"94 points is incredible. Today was a battle of will but it was a victory of passion, heart and absolute desire -- absolutely brilliant."

Virgil van Dijk headed the visitors into an early lead at St. James' Park, but&nbsp;Liverpool were fortunate when Newcastle levelled through Christian Atsu.

Liverpool&nbsp;right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold had handled Salomon Rondon's effort on the goal line and could have conceded a penalty and been sent-off after just 20 minutes had Atsu not put home the rebound.

Alexander-Arnold was the creator as Klopp's men quickly retook the lead through Salah.

However, Rondon levelled once more for Newcastle early in the second half.

Salah then had to be stretchered off with a head injury after clashing with Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, which will make him a doubt for Tuesday's Champions League semi-final, second leg against Barcelona.

Yet, despite also missing Roberto Firmino through injury,&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;found a response four minutes from time when Origi flicked home Xherdan Shaqiri's free-kick.

"You feel the emotion. It's a very special season for everyone," said Origi. "But as a player you have to channel that feeling into the performance and in the end it worked out."

Divock Origi headed Liverpool back to the top of the Premier League despite losing Mohamed Salah to a head injury in a thrilling 3-2 win at Newcastle. At the other end of the table, Cardiff were relegated after their 3-2 defeat against Crystal Palace.

Divock Origi headed Liverpool back to the top of the Premier League despite losing Mohamed Salah to a head injury in a thrilling 3-2 win at Newcastle. At the other end of the table, Cardiff were relegated after their 3-2 defeat against Crystal Palace. Liverpool's thrilling title battle with Manchester City is now guaranteed to go down to the final day of the season as Jurgen Klopp's men moved two points ahead once more at the top. City have a game in hand, at home to Leicester on Monday, but Liverpool refuse to give up in their pursuit of a first title for 29 years. "If we are champions then we are champions, you can't feel pressure when you do your best," said Klopp. "94 points is incredible. Today was a battle of will but it was a victory of passion, heart and absolute desire -- absolutely brilliant." Virgil van Dijk headed the visitors into an early lead at St. James' Park, but Liverpool were fortunate when Newcastle levelled through Christian Atsu. Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold had handled Salomon Rondon's effort on the goal line and could have conceded a penalty and been sent-off after just 20 minutes had Atsu not put home the rebound. Alexander-Arnold was the creator as Klopp's men quickly retook the lead through Salah. However, Rondon levelled once more for Newcastle early in the second half. Salah then had to be stretchered off with a head injury after clashing with Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, which will make him a doubt for Tuesday's Champions League semi-final, second leg against Barcelona. Yet, despite also missing Roberto Firmino through injury, Liverpool found a response four minutes from time when Origi flicked home Xherdan Shaqiri's free-kick. "You feel the emotion. It's a very special season for everyone," said Origi. "But as a player you have to channel that feeling into the performance and in the end it worked out."

Liverpool regain Premier League lead with 3-2 win at Newcastle

An inspired Ayoze Perez helped Newcastle United put any lingering Premier League relegation fears to bed with a hat-trick in a 3-1 win over Southampton at St James' Park on Saturday.

The Spaniard scored twice before halftime to put the hosts in command and killed off Southampton late on after Mario Lemina's goal had revived the Saints.

Victory lifted Newcastle 10 points above third-bottom Cardiff City who face title-chasing Liverpool on Sunday.

Southampton remained five points clear of the drop zone.

"I feel very happy to get the hat-trick and help the team to get three important points that puts us in a great position," said Perez, who took his league tally for the season into double figures for the first time at Newcastle.

"We're now 12th which means a lot. It's been a couple of months that are very important for us. We've done very well, We've got great results and now that we're safe we're going to start looking forward and up and finish even better."

The home crowd were still moaning about a James Ward-Prowse body-check on Miguel Almiron when Perez scored twice in three minutes to fuel a jubilant mood in the Easter sunshine.

First he turned beautifully before firing right-footed past Angus Gunn in the 27th minute and with Southampton still reeling he slid in to meet Salomon Rondon's low cross.

When Ki Sung-yueng was denied a third for Newcastle shortly after halftime, his skidding shot thudding against the post, the hosts were in complete control, but Southampton were not done.

Mario Lemina halved the deficit just before the hour mark with a clinical finish from Stuart Armstrong's cross and the visitors were suddenly looking the more likely to score.

In a frantic end-to-end finale, Almiron went off with a hamstring injury and Gunn made a superb save to keep out Isaac Hayden's deflected volley before Perez touched home in the 86th minute to calm the home crowd's jitters.

There was still time for Southampton to threaten again but Maya Yoshida's header was brilliantly saved by Martin Dubravka.

An inspired Ayoze Perez helped Newcastle United put any lingering Premier League relegation fears to bed with a hat-trick in a 3-1 win over Southampton at St James' Park on Saturday.

An inspired Ayoze Perez helped Newcastle United put any lingering Premier League relegation fears to bed with a hat-trick in a 3-1 win over Southampton at St James' Park on Saturday. The Spaniard scored twice before halftime to put the hosts in command and killed off Southampton late on after Mario Lemina's goal had revived the Saints. Victory lifted Newcastle 10 points above third-bottom Cardiff City who face title-chasing Liverpool on Sunday. Southampton remained five points clear of the drop zone. "I feel very happy to get the hat-trick and help the team to get three important points that puts us in a great position," said Perez, who took his league tally for the season into double figures for the first time at Newcastle. "We're now 12th which means a lot. It's been a couple of months that are very important for us. We've done very well, We've got great results and now that we're safe we're going to start looking forward and up and finish even better." The home crowd were still moaning about a James Ward-Prowse body-check on Miguel Almiron when Perez scored twice in three minutes to fuel a jubilant mood in the Easter sunshine. First he turned beautifully before firing right-footed past Angus Gunn in the 27th minute and with Southampton still reeling he slid in to meet Salomon Rondon's low cross. When Ki Sung-yueng was denied a third for Newcastle shortly after halftime, his skidding shot thudding against the post, the hosts were in complete control, but Southampton were not done. Mario Lemina halved the deficit just before the hour mark with a clinical finish from Stuart Armstrong's cross and the visitors were suddenly looking the more likely to score. In a frantic end-to-end finale, Almiron went off with a hamstring injury and Gunn made a superb save to keep out Isaac Hayden's deflected volley before Perez touched home in the 86th minute to calm the home crowd's jitters. There was still time for Southampton to threaten again but Maya Yoshida's header was brilliantly saved by Martin Dubravka.

Ayoze Perez hat-trick ends Newcastle relegation fears

Goals from Aaron Ramsey and Alexandre Lacazette gave Arsenal a 2-0 win over Newcastle United on Monday and lifted them to third place in the Premier League above rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.

Ramsey found his way through a packed defence on the half hour to score with a low shot before Frenchman Lacazette put the game to bed in the 83rd minute with a chip over the keeper.

The result put Arsenal on 63 points with seven games left, two above Spurs and Manchester United, with Chelsea a further point behind, as Unai Emery's side boosted their hopes of a top-four finish and Champions League football next season.

Five of Arsenal's remaining seven fixtures are away, where they have picked up fewer than half of their points this season, a fact Emery was quick to pick up on after the match.

"Our challenge is away - to be as consistent as we are at home," the Spaniard told reporters. His players, nevertheless, seem confident that they can return to Europe's elite club competition for the first time in three seasons.

"I can feel the difference in the atmosphere from last season. Now we can maybe go to the Champions League," Lacazette told Sky Sports after a convincing win over the Magpies.

Sweeping Move

Newcastle had not beaten Arsenal since November 2010 and not won away since December and they appeared to set themselves up for a draw at best in North London, with five men in the back line and another four in front of them for most of the game.

The tactics worked until a sweeping Arsenal move in which Welsh midfielder Ramsey found Lacazette and then raced forward into the area to meet the return pass with a sweetly timed left-foot shot that went into the net off the far post.

Arsenal pushed forward repeatedly as the opening period came to a close but failed to finish off any of their moves, with Sead Kolasinac particularly guilty of some wayward passing.

Their best chance came just before halftime when Lacazette latched onto a pass from Mesut Ozil, spun round and lashed the ball goalwards only for Matt Richie to head it off the line.

Lacazette wrapped up the points, however, when Newcastle captain Jamaal Lascelles failed to clear a header into the area from Arsenal substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

The Frenchman nipped in behind Lascelles and chipped an inch-perfect ball over Martin Dubravka to seal the win.

Newcastle remain in 14th place on 35 points, seven points above the relegation places, and have six games left.

"For us every game is a final. We should focus, concentrate, not be overconfident," manager Rafael Benitez told reporters ahead of their next match at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Goals from Aaron Ramsey and Alexandre Lacazette gave Arsenal a 2-0 win over Newcastle United on Monday and lifted them to third place in the Premier League above rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.

Goals from Aaron Ramsey and Alexandre Lacazette gave Arsenal a 2-0 win over Newcastle United on Monday and lifted them to third place in the Premier League above rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United. Ramsey found his way through a packed defence on the half hour to score with a low shot before Frenchman Lacazette put the game to bed in the 83rd minute with a chip over the keeper. The result put Arsenal on 63 points with seven games left, two above Spurs and Manchester United, with Chelsea a further point behind, as Unai Emery's side boosted their hopes of a top-four finish and Champions League football next season. Five of Arsenal's remaining seven fixtures are away, where they have picked up fewer than half of their points this season, a fact Emery was quick to pick up on after the match. "Our challenge is away - to be as consistent as we are at home," the Spaniard told reporters. His players, nevertheless, seem confident that they can return to Europe's elite club competition for the first time in three seasons. "I can feel the difference in the atmosphere from last season. Now we can maybe go to the Champions League," Lacazette told Sky Sports after a convincing win over the Magpies. Sweeping Move Newcastle had not beaten Arsenal since November 2010 and not won away since December and they appeared to set themselves up for a draw at best in North London, with five men in the back line and another four in front of them for most of the game. The tactics worked until a sweeping Arsenal move in which Welsh midfielder Ramsey found Lacazette and then raced forward into the area to meet the return pass with a sweetly timed left-foot shot that went into the net off the far post. Arsenal pushed forward repeatedly as the opening period came to a close but failed to finish off any of their moves, with Sead Kolasinac particularly guilty of some wayward passing. Their best chance came just before halftime when Lacazette latched onto a pass from Mesut Ozil, spun round and lashed the ball goalwards only for Matt Richie to head it off the line. Lacazette wrapped up the points, however, when Newcastle captain Jamaal Lascelles failed to clear a header into the area from Arsenal substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The Frenchman nipped in behind Lascelles and chipped an inch-perfect ball over Martin Dubravka to seal the win. Newcastle remain in 14th place on 35 points, seven points above the relegation places, and have six games left. "For us every game is a final. We should focus, concentrate, not be overconfident," manager Rafael Benitez told reporters ahead of their next match at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Arsenal climb to third with victory over Newcastle

Everton boss Marco Silva has been fined 12,000 pounds ($16,000) by the Football Association for confronting match officials after his side's 3-2 Premier League defeat at Newcastle earlier this month, the FA said.

Silva had approached referee Lee Mason and the linesman to complain about Newcastle's winner, insisting Salomon Rondon was offside in the buildup, after Everton allowed Newcastle to mount a spectacular comeback from 2-0 down to win 3-2.

"The Everton manager accepted an improper conduct charge from the FA, which resulted from his behaviour on the field of play at the end of the Premier League fixture against Newcastle United on March 9," the FA said.

Everton, 11th in the standings, next travel to ninth-placed West Ham United in the league on March 30.

Everton boss Marco Silva has been fined 12,000 pounds ($16,000) by the Football Association for confronting match officials after his side's 3-2 Premier League defeat at Newcastle earlier this month, the FA said.

Everton boss Marco Silva has been fined 12,000 pounds ($16,000) by the Football Association for confronting match officials after his side's 3-2 Premier League defeat at Newcastle earlier this month, the FA said. Silva had approached referee Lee Mason and the linesman to complain about Newcastle's winner, insisting Salomon Rondon was offside in the buildup, after Everton allowed Newcastle to mount a spectacular comeback from 2-0 down to win 3-2. "The Everton manager accepted an improper conduct charge from the FA, which resulted from his behaviour on the field of play at the end of the Premier League fixture against Newcastle United on March 9," the FA said. Everton, 11th in the standings, next travel to ninth-placed West Ham United in the league on March 30.

Everton's Marco Silva fined for confronting officials in defeat at Newcastle

Matt Ritchie's last-gasp equaliser earned Newcastle United a point at his former club Bournemouth in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Vitality Stadium in the Premier League on Saturday.

On a blustery day on the south coast, Newcastle coped best with the conditions early on, taking the lead in first-half stoppage time when Salomon Rondon curled a sublime free-kick into the net.

Their lead did not last long, though, as Josh King converted from the penalty spot three minutes into the second half to equalise, after Nathan Ake had been fouled in the penalty area.

The chances kept coming after the break, with Ritchie almost getting on the end of a low Rondon cross, before Paul Dummett brilliantly cleared off the line at the other end to keep Bournemouth at bay.

However, the pressure from the home side told, as King swept home Dominic Solanke's pass to turn the match on its head nine minutes from time. His double took King's season tally to 11 in all competitions.

Newcastle were not to be denied, though, as former Bournemouth player Ritchie's half-volley in stoppage time denied the hosts victory as Newcastle pulled further clear of the relegation zone in 13th, while Bournemouth climbed to 11th.

"It's a strange feeling as I owe so much to this club and then I wheeled away and realised I have a lot of respect for this club," Ritchie said.

"It shows good spirit from us and we can really build on that."

With 18th-placed Cardiff not in action this weekend, Newcastle had the chance to increase the gap between them and the relegation zone and, after escaping when King hit the post early on, they took the lead through Rondon.

After Federico Fernandez had fouled Ake in the box, King levelled things up, with the momentum staying with the Bournemouth in the aftermath.

Jefferson Lerma should have done better from close range, before Dummett's heroics denied Bournemouth again, but the second came through a familiar source with King finishing well.

Ritchie, though had the final say on a ground he is familiar with, smashing the last-gasp strike into the net to secure what could be a crucial point for Newcastle.

"We thought we'd done enough to win...but Matt Ritchie's left foot is deadly and he showed it today," Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said.

Matt Ritchie's last-gasp equaliser earned Newcastle United a point at his former club Bournemouth in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Vitality Stadium in the Premier League on Saturday.

Matt Ritchie's last-gasp equaliser earned Newcastle United a point at his former club Bournemouth in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Vitality Stadium in the Premier League on Saturday. On a blustery day on the south coast, Newcastle coped best with the conditions early on, taking the lead in first-half stoppage time when Salomon Rondon curled a sublime free-kick into the net. Their lead did not last long, though, as Josh King converted from the penalty spot three minutes into the second half to equalise, after Nathan Ake had been fouled in the penalty area. The chances kept coming after the break, with Ritchie almost getting on the end of a low Rondon cross, before Paul Dummett brilliantly cleared off the line at the other end to keep Bournemouth at bay. However, the pressure from the home side told, as King swept home Dominic Solanke's pass to turn the match on its head nine minutes from time. His double took King's season tally to 11 in all competitions. Newcastle were not to be denied, though, as former Bournemouth player Ritchie's half-volley in stoppage time denied the hosts victory as Newcastle pulled further clear of the relegation zone in 13th, while Bournemouth climbed to 11th. "It's a strange feeling as I owe so much to this club and then I wheeled away and realised I have a lot of respect for this club," Ritchie said. "It shows good spirit from us and we can really build on that." With 18th-placed Cardiff not in action this weekend, Newcastle had the chance to increase the gap between them and the relegation zone and, after escaping when King hit the post early on, they took the lead through Rondon. After Federico Fernandez had fouled Ake in the box, King levelled things up, with the momentum staying with the Bournemouth in the aftermath. Jefferson Lerma should have done better from close range, before Dummett's heroics denied Bournemouth again, but the second came through a familiar source with King finishing well. Ritchie, though had the final say on a ground he is familiar with, smashing the last-gasp strike into the net to secure what could be a crucial point for Newcastle. "We thought we'd done enough to win...but Matt Ritchie's left foot is deadly and he showed it today," Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said.

Matt Ritchie's last-gasp equaliser helps Newcastle draw at Bournemouth

Manchester City's title hopes suffered a huge blow as Newcastle came from a goal down to record a remarkable victory over the defending champions.

Manchester City was stunned 2-1, blowing a 1-0 lead for its fourth loss of the season.&nbsp;

After Sergio Aguero scored in the first minute, it was Salomon Rondon's goal in the 66th minute that drew level. Then in the 80th minute, Newcastle was awarded a penalty and Matt Ritchie finished for the winning goal.&nbsp;

By virtue of this win, Liverpool could go seven points clear atop the table with a win over Leicester City at Anfield on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The expectation still is for Liverpool and City to be neck-and-neck to the finish line, but this shocking loss by City gives the Reds a chance to earn the three points back that it dropped at the Etihad.&nbsp;

Manchester City's title hopes suffered a huge blow as Newcastle came from a goal down to record a remarkable victory over the defending champions. Manchester City was stunned 2-1, blowing a 1-0 lead for its fourth loss of the season.

Manchester City's title hopes suffered a huge blow as Newcastle came from a goal down to record a remarkable victory over the defending champions. Manchester City was stunned 2-1, blowing a 1-0 lead for its fourth loss of the season. After Sergio Aguero scored in the first minute, it was Salomon Rondon's goal in the 66th minute that drew level. Then in the 80th minute, Newcastle was awarded a penalty and Matt Ritchie finished for the winning goal. By virtue of this win, Liverpool could go seven points clear atop the table with a win over Leicester City at Anfield on Wednesday. The expectation still is for Liverpool and City to be neck-and-neck to the finish line, but this shocking loss by City gives the Reds a chance to earn the three points back that it dropped at the Etihad.

Premier League: Newcastle shock Man City, Liverpool take control of title race

It was back to thrilling business as usual for&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;on Saturday as Sergio Aguero&#39;s hat-trick helped the Premier League leaders to a 3-1 victory over abject Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola demanded a response from his table-toppers following the 4-3 loss to Liverpool last Sunday that ended their unbeaten start to the league season.

The&nbsp;City manager got just that as the hosts dominated, despite Newcastle making it interesting for a while in the second half thanks to Jacob Murphy&#39;s fine finish.

The city&nbsp;is again 12 points clear of second-placed&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;United thanks to a ruthless performance capped by the brilliant Aguero, their all-time leading scorer, whose 11th hat-trick for the club took his tally for the season to 22 goals.

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Back on track ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cityvnufc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cityvnufc</a> highlights... 
 
SHORT: <a href="https://t.co/Wr7IPLf2zx">https://t.co/Wr7IPLf2zx</a> 
 
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Newcastle&#39;s supporters must look at&nbsp;City&nbsp;and wonder how close they are to getting their own rich new owners after a week in which a potential takeover of the club by British businesswoman Amanda Staveley was branded &quot;frustrating and a complete waste of time&quot; by owner Mike Ashley.

With Newcastle suffering from a lack of investment and hovering at the wrong end of the table, this contest was never going to be a comfortable one for Rafa Benitez&#39;s visitors, especially as the gifted David Silva returned for&nbsp;City&nbsp;after overcoming a stomach complaint.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Yet Newcastle still looked sharper at the start as Christian Atsu snatched at a great chance just 90 seconds in, failing to connect properly when well positioned on the penalty spot.&nbsp;

City&nbsp;then began to dictate the match and John Stones went close for the hosts, poking just wide after an intelligent ball from Silva inside the area.&nbsp;

The city&nbsp;remained on top, with Silva, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kevin De Bruyne posing problems for Newcastle.

&nbsp;

Manchester City is again 12 points clear of second-placed Manchester United

It was back to thrilling business as usual for Manchester City on Saturday as Sergio Aguero's hat-trick helped the Premier League leaders to a 3-1 victory over abject Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola demanded a response from his table-toppers following the 4-3 loss to Liverpool last Sunday that ended their unbeaten start to the league season. The City manager got just that as the hosts dominated, despite Newcastle making it interesting for a while in the second half thanks to Jacob Murphy's fine finish. The city is again 12 points clear of second-placed Manchester United thanks to a ruthless performance capped by the brilliant Aguero, their all-time leading scorer, whose 11th hat-trick for the club took his tally for the season to 22 goals. Back on track ????#cityvnufc highlights... SHORT: https://t.co/Wr7IPLf2zx EXTENDED: https://t.co/Cum2pNAv2t pic.twitter.com/9wep6bVA09 — Manchester City (@ManCity) January 21, 2018 × Newcastle's supporters must look at City and wonder how close they are to getting their own rich new owners after a week in which a potential takeover of the club by British businesswoman Amanda Staveley was branded "frustrating and a complete waste of time" by owner Mike Ashley. With Newcastle suffering from a lack of investment and hovering at the wrong end of the table, this contest was never going to be a comfortable one for Rafa Benitez's visitors, especially as the gifted David Silva returned for City after overcoming a stomach complaint. Yet Newcastle still looked sharper at the start as Christian Atsu snatched at a great chance just 90 seconds in, failing to connect properly when well positioned on the penalty spot. City then began to dictate the match and John Stones went close for the hosts, poking just wide after an intelligent ball from Silva inside the area. The city remained on top, with Silva, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kevin De Bruyne posing problems for Newcastle.

EPL: Aguero hat-trick reboots Man City's title charge

Matt Ritchie condemned Manchester United to a shock 1-0 defeat at struggling Newcastle, while Huddersfield climbed out of the relegation zone after a 4-1 win against Bournemouth on Sunday.

United&#39;s second defeat in their last three Premier League games leaves them 16 points behind leaders Manchester City.

Jose Mourinho&#39;s second placed side, beaten by Tottenham in their last away game, were rarely at their best at St James&#39; Park and paid the price in the 65th minute.

United defender Chris Smalling was booked for diving inside his own half and from the resulting Jonjo Shelvey free-kick, Dwight Gayle latched onto a header and played a backheel towards Ritchie.

Ritchie&#39;s run was completely untracked by United&#39;s sloppy defence and the Newcastle winger fired low past David De Gea.

Mourinho responded by pulling off Paul Pogba after another underwhelming display from the France midfielder.

And United should have equalised soon after, but when Newcastle failed to clear a corner, Anthony Martial saw two shots blocked on the line by Gayle.

Newcastle had kicked off in the relegation zone, but a first win in five league games -- their first success against United since 2013 -- lifts them to 13th place.

At the John Smith&#39;s Stadium, David Wagner&#39;s team took a seventh-minute lead as Alex Pritchard took Mounie&#39;s pass and drilled in his first Huddersfield goal since his January move from Norwich.

Junior Stanislas equalised for Bournemouth with a cool finish from Ryan Fraser&#39;s cross seven minutes later.

But Mounie restored Huddersfield&#39;s advantage with a 27th-minute header and the Benin striker netted again from Aaron Mooy&#39;s pass to put the hosts in control in the 66th minute.&nbsp;

Rajiv van La Parra converted a stoppage-time penalty to lift Huddersfield out of the bottom three after they had sunk to five consecutive league games.

The Terriers are one point above the relegation zone, while Bournemouth remain in mid-table.

Huddersfield&#39;s first league win in nine matches was marred by an injury to Australia midfielder Mooy, who was stretchered off with a knee problem 15 minutes from time.

Later on Sunday, Liverpool face Southampton at St Mary&#39;s as Jurgen Klopp&#39;s side look to bolster their bid for Champions League qualification via a top-four finish.

United's second defeat in their last three Premier League games leaves them 16 points behind leaders Manchester City

Matt Ritchie condemned Manchester United to a shock 1-0 defeat at struggling Newcastle, while Huddersfield climbed out of the relegation zone after a 4-1 win against Bournemouth on Sunday. United's second defeat in their last three Premier League games leaves them 16 points behind leaders Manchester City. Jose Mourinho's second placed side, beaten by Tottenham in their last away game, were rarely at their best at St James' Park and paid the price in the 65th minute. United defender Chris Smalling was booked for diving inside his own half and from the resulting Jonjo Shelvey free-kick, Dwight Gayle latched onto a header and played a backheel towards Ritchie. Ritchie's run was completely untracked by United's sloppy defence and the Newcastle winger fired low past David De Gea. Mourinho responded by pulling off Paul Pogba after another underwhelming display from the France midfielder. And United should have equalised soon after, but when Newcastle failed to clear a corner, Anthony Martial saw two shots blocked on the line by Gayle. Newcastle had kicked off in the relegation zone, but a first win in five league games -- their first success against United since 2013 -- lifts them to 13th place. At the John Smith's Stadium, David Wagner's team took a seventh-minute lead as Alex Pritchard took Mounie's pass and drilled in his first Huddersfield goal since his January move from Norwich. Junior Stanislas equalised for Bournemouth with a cool finish from Ryan Fraser's cross seven minutes later. But Mounie restored Huddersfield's advantage with a 27th-minute header and the Benin striker netted again from Aaron Mooy's pass to put the hosts in control in the 66th minute. Rajiv van La Parra converted a stoppage-time penalty to lift Huddersfield out of the bottom three after they had sunk to five consecutive league games. The Terriers are one point above the relegation zone, while Bournemouth remain in mid-table. Huddersfield's first league win in nine matches was marred by an injury to Australia midfielder Mooy, who was stretchered off with a knee problem 15 minutes from time. Later on Sunday, Liverpool face Southampton at St Mary's as Jurgen Klopp's side look to bolster their bid for Champions League qualification via a top-four finish.

EPL: Newcastle rock Man United as Huddersfield win at last

Luka Milivojevic&#39;s second-half penalty secured a point for Crystal Palace as they recovered from a goal down to earn a 1-1 draw at home to fellow strugglers Newcastle United on Sunday.

Mohamed Diame gave Newcastle the lead from a corner midway through the first half when he slotted the ball in at the far post after Ayoze Perez&rsquo;s cross from the right had gone through a packed goalmouth.

Palace equalised 10 minutes into the second half when they were awarded a penalty for Ciaran Clark&rsquo;s foul on Christian Benteke and Milivojevic converted despite Karl Darlow getting a hand to the ball.

Newcastle might have been two goals up at halftime but Palace goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey made two good saves in quick succession, blocking Brazilian winger Kenedy&rsquo;s shot with his chest then diving to his left to palm away Perez&rsquo;s effort from the rebound.

Palace, who came close to a winner several times in a frantic final half hour, climbed to 14th on 27 points, three clear of the relegation zone and two ahead of Newcastle in 16th.

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Palace climbed to 14th on 27 points, three clear of the relegation zone and two ahead of Newcastle in 16th

Luka Milivojevic's second-half penalty secured a point for Crystal Palace as they recovered from a goal down to earn a 1-1 draw at home to fellow strugglers Newcastle United on Sunday. Mohamed Diame gave Newcastle the lead from a corner midway through the first half when he slotted the ball in at the far post after Ayoze Perez’s cross from the right had gone through a packed goalmouth. Palace equalised 10 minutes into the second half when they were awarded a penalty for Ciaran Clark’s foul on Christian Benteke and Milivojevic converted despite Karl Darlow getting a hand to the ball. Newcastle might have been two goals up at halftime but Palace goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey made two good saves in quick succession, blocking Brazilian winger Kenedy’s shot with his chest then diving to his left to palm away Perez’s effort from the rebound. Palace, who came close to a winner several times in a frantic final half hour, climbed to 14th on 27 points, three clear of the relegation zone and two ahead of Newcastle in 16th.

EPL: Crystal Palace fight back to draw relegation tussle with Newcastle

Pep Guardiola refused to be drawn into a war of words with Jose Mourinho after Manchester City maintained their impressive progress towards the Premier League title.

City stretched their commanding advantage at the top to 15 points over Manchester United as Raheem Sterling sealed a 1-0 win at Newcastle to record an 18th consecutive league victory, one short of Bayern Munich&#39;s current best for Europe&#39;s top five leagues of 19 straight wins.

United manager Mourinho attempted to provoke Guardiola on Tuesday after pointing to their rivals&#39; huge spending power by claiming &quot;City buy full-backs for the price of strikers&quot; and insisting that the &pound;300 million ($402 million) he has spent since taking charge at Old Trafford 18 months ago as &quot;not enough&quot;.

Mourinho paid &pound;93 million to sign France midfielder Paul Pogba, while also recruiting &pound;30 million defender Eric Bailly, and midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan for &pound;26.3 million.&nbsp;

This year, United spent &pound;75 million on striker Romelu Lukaku, as well as &pound;31 million on defender Victor Lindelof and &pound;40 million for midfielder Nemanja Matic.

In comparison, City bought three defenders -- Kyle Walker from Tottenham for an initial &pound;45 million, Benjamin Mendy from Monaco for &pound;52 million and Danilo from Real Madrid for &pound;26.5 million as part of a summer outlay that topped &pound;200 million.

When asked about the comments made by the Portuguese, Guardiola said: &quot;I&#39;m so delighted to be here to speak about what happened on the pitch.&nbsp;

&quot;About what happened with my colleague speaking off the pitch in the press conference, I&#39;m not the right guy. You want to talk about what happened today on the pitch, I will answer.&quot;

City remain on course to win the title in record time after equalling Chelsea&#39;s English top flight record of 11 consecutive away wins.&nbsp;

But Guardiola will await medical updates on Vincent Kompany, after the injury-prone skipper limped off with a recurrence of a long-term calf problem.

City face a minimum of eight games in 34 days in a hectic start to the New Year, and Guardiola added: &quot;Of course we are happy to break records but when we prepare for games we don&#39;t speak about them. Until now, we have found a way to win.

&quot;I saw the schedule in my office the other day and I wanted to escape, because it&#39;s terrible. The games we are going to play, it&#39;s tough.&nbsp;

&quot;We&#39;ve played all these games in December then in January you have the Carabao Cup and FA Cup and then the return of the Champions League in February.&nbsp;

&quot;It will be tough but it will also be tough for our opponents.&quot;&nbsp;

Guardiola&#39;s opposite number Rafa Benitez hit back at criticism of his negative approach after his team slid to a fifth consecutive home defeat, Newcastle&#39;s worst run at St James&#39; Park for 64 years to leave them just a point above the bottom three after one win in their last 11 matches.

Substitute Dwight Gayle almost snatched a dramatic late equaliser to in-part justify the manager&#39;s ultra-cautious approach, and the Spaniard said: &quot;We were in the game until the end and very close to getting a point against a very good team.&quot;

Newcastle face the key visit of relegation rivals Brighton before the turn of the year, and Benitez added: &quot;We have a couple of games in the space of a few days against teams near the bottom of the table and hopefully we&#39;ll have some of our injured players back before then.&quot;

'City buy full-backs for the price of strikers,' Mourinho said

Pep Guardiola refused to be drawn into a war of words with Jose Mourinho after Manchester City maintained their impressive progress towards the Premier League title. City stretched their commanding advantage at the top to 15 points over Manchester United as Raheem Sterling sealed a 1-0 win at Newcastle to record an 18th consecutive league victory, one short of Bayern Munich's current best for Europe's top five leagues of 19 straight wins. United manager Mourinho attempted to provoke Guardiola on Tuesday after pointing to their rivals' huge spending power by claiming "City buy full-backs for the price of strikers" and insisting that the £300 million ($402 million) he has spent since taking charge at Old Trafford 18 months ago as "not enough". Mourinho paid £93 million to sign France midfielder Paul Pogba, while also recruiting £30 million defender Eric Bailly, and midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan for £26.3 million. This year, United spent £75 million on striker Romelu Lukaku, as well as £31 million on defender Victor Lindelof and £40 million for midfielder Nemanja Matic. In comparison, City bought three defenders -- Kyle Walker from Tottenham for an initial £45 million, Benjamin Mendy from Monaco for £52 million and Danilo from Real Madrid for £26.5 million as part of a summer outlay that topped £200 million. When asked about the comments made by the Portuguese, Guardiola said: "I'm so delighted to be here to speak about what happened on the pitch. "About what happened with my colleague speaking off the pitch in the press conference, I'm not the right guy. You want to talk about what happened today on the pitch, I will answer." City remain on course to win the title in record time after equalling Chelsea's English top flight record of 11 consecutive away wins. But Guardiola will await medical updates on Vincent Kompany, after the injury-prone skipper limped off with a recurrence of a long-term calf problem. City face a minimum of eight games in 34 days in a hectic start to the New Year, and Guardiola added: "Of course we are happy to break records but when we prepare for games we don't speak about them. Until now, we have found a way to win. "I saw the schedule in my office the other day and I wanted to escape, because it's terrible. The games we are going to play, it's tough. "We've played all these games in December then in January you have the Carabao Cup and FA Cup and then the return of the Champions League in February. "It will be tough but it will also be tough for our opponents." Guardiola's opposite number Rafa Benitez hit back at criticism of his negative approach after his team slid to a fifth consecutive home defeat, Newcastle's worst run at St James' Park for 64 years to leave them just a point above the bottom three after one win in their last 11 matches. Substitute Dwight Gayle almost snatched a dramatic late equaliser to in-part justify the manager's ultra-cautious approach, and the Spaniard said: "We were in the game until the end and very close to getting a point against a very good team." Newcastle face the key visit of relegation rivals Brighton before the turn of the year, and Benitez added: "We have a couple of games in the space of a few days against teams near the bottom of the table and hopefully we'll have some of our injured players back before then."

Mourinho provokes Guardiola but he does not bite

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