Jean-Philippe Mateta continued his impressive home form with a brace as Crystal Palace defeated Newcastle United 2-0 at Selhurst Park on Saturday. The win marked the Eagles’ third consecutive Premier League victory under the guidance of manager Oliver Glasner.
After a goalless first half, Mateta broke the deadlock in the 55th minute with a smart finish following a one-two with Jordan Ayew. The French striker doubled his tally late in the game, firing home through the legs of Martin Dubravka.
Mateta’s goals extended his scoring streak to five consecutive home matches and have now contributed to all but two of Palace’s nine league wins this season. The victory also ended Newcastle’s four-match unbeaten run and dented their hopes of securing European football next season.
Despite making his first appearance since February, Callum Wilson failed to inspire Newcastle, who never really threatened to get back into the match. Eddie Howe’s side remain in 10th place in the Premier League, while Palace move up to 12th.
Mateta’s impressive form and Palace’s resurgence under Glasner will be a boost to the Eagles as they look to finish the season strongly. Newcastle, on the other hand, will be disappointed to have seen their unbeaten run come to an end and will need to regroup ahead of their next match against Brighton & Hove Albion.
