Newcastle Rout Palace, Boost Champions League Hopes

Newcastle United delivered a dominant 5-0 victory over Crystal Palace at St James' Park, moving to third in the Premier League and strengthening their Champions League ambitions despite manager Eddie Howe's absence due to pneumonia. Jacob Murphy opened the scoring with a spectacular goal and dedicated the win to Howe, while Harvey Barnes, Fabian Schar, Alexander Isak, and an own goal from Marc Guehi completed the tally. Palace nearly leveled through an Eberechi Eze penalty, but Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope saved it, shifting momentum firmly in the hosts' favor. Despite the lopsided scoreline, Palace created chances but struggled defensively and failed to capitalize. Newcastle's improved away form under Howe this season has been pivotal to their league position. The win leaves Palace 12th as they turn their focus to the FA Cup semi-final, while Newcastle stay in the Champions League race.