Newcastle United Edges Birmingham City 3-2 In FA Cup Thriller With Joe Willock's Brace

Add as a preferred source on Google

Joe Willock's two goals, including a debated one, helped Newcastle United secure a 3-2 victory over Birmingham City, advancing them to the FA Cup fifth round. The match at St Andrew's was intense, with Newcastle overcoming early challenges. Birmingham took an early lead just 43 seconds in when Ethan Laird's deflected volley found the net.

Newcastle responded in the 21st minute under unusual circumstances. Willock redirected William Osula's cross towards goal, and although Bailey Peacock-Farrell initially saved it, the linesman ruled it had crossed the line. Without goal-line technology until later rounds, the goal stood despite unclear replays.

Five minutes after their equaliser, Newcastle went ahead through a scrappy effort. Callum Wilson scored after Osula accidentally blocked his own shot. However, Birmingham levelled again before halftime with Tomoki Iwata's stunning strike from outside the box.

The second half saw fewer chances until Willock scored the winning goal eight minutes from time. Sean Longstaff's pass deflected into Willock's path, allowing him to finish confidently and secure Newcastle's place in the next round.

Newcastle's Recent Success

This win comes shortly after Newcastle's EFL Cup semi-final victory over Arsenal. Eddie Howe's team has now reached the FA Cup fifth round for consecutive seasons for the first time since 2004-05 and 2005-06. Their recent form highlights their growing strength in cup competitions.

Birmingham City's exit ends their impressive 18-match unbeaten run across all competitions. They have also struggled against Premier League teams in the FA Cup, failing to win any of their last 11 encounters with top-flight opposition.