Newcastle United’s unbeaten start to the Premier League season came to an abrupt end at Craven Cottage, where a determined Fulham side claimed a 3-1 victory. This result not only halted Newcastle’s recovery, but also demonstrated Fulham’s growing standing under Marco Silva, who continue to make progress in the top flight. Fulham’s assertive performance, highlighted by goals from Raul Jimenez, Emile Smith Rowe and Reiss Nelson, showed their ability to combine resilience with accurate finishing.

Newcastle, on the other hand, suffered a lackluster first-half performance in which they managed just one shot on goal and struggled to break through. Despite a spirited response in the second half, the Magpies were ultimately unable to recover and dropped to fifth in the table, while Fulham moved up to ninth.

Fulham strikes early

The game began with dramatic tension. Newcastle had the ball in the net through Joelinton in the first minute, but the celebrations were quickly ended by an offside flag. Fulham immediately capitalised on this early scare, as Raul Jimenez took advantage of a sharp turn in the box and shot past Nick Pope to give the home side the lead just 44 seconds after Newcastle’s goal was disallowed.

It was Jimenez’s first goal for Fulham since his summer arrival and it couldn’t have come at a better time. His agility and ability to break up play caused problems for Newcastle’s defence and his finish showed the hunting instinct that once made him one of the Premier League’s most feared strikers.

Emile Smith Rowe shines for Fulham

Fulham’s confidence grew as the half progressed and their fluid passing and pressing caused problems for a disjointed Newcastle side. Emile Smith Rowe, another summer signing, continued his impressive start at Craven Cottage, doubling Fulham’s lead in the 27th minute. After a nifty move by the team that included a series of intricate passes, the ball fell to Smith Rowe, who calmly slotted the ball past Pope to send the home fans into cheers.

Smith Rowe’s contribution in midfield has transformed Fulham, adding creativity and energy that was previously lacking. His ability to link up with Fulham’s strikers and apply pressure high up the pitch has been a key part of Marco Silva’s strategy this season.

Newcastle’s reaction in the second half

Eddie Howe’s half-time team speech seemed to inspire Newcastle as they came back after the break with renewed vigor. Within 28 seconds of the restart, Harvey Barnes found the net to reduce the deficit to 2-1. Barnes’ goal, the result of a quick move and a well-timed run, gave Newcastle hope of turning the game around.

Newcastle increased the pressure throughout the second half and Fabian Schar came closest to equalising. A weak pass from Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno found Schar’s feet but the Swiss defender’s shot hit the side netting. The Magpies became more dangerous as the game went on but their lack of composure in the final third prevented them from equalising.

Fulham holds firm and secures victory

As Newcastle pushed for an equaliser, Fulham continued to defend resolutely, with centre-backs Issa Diop and Tim Ream putting in convincing performances. The home side’s defensive organisation, combined with Leno’s commanding presence in goal, ensured Newcastle’s attacks were thwarted time and again.

Fulham had their own chances to restore their two-goal lead in the second half, with Jimenez and Smith Rowe both coming close. But it was deep into injury time that Fulham sealed the win. A poor attempt at clearance from Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes fell straight to substitute Reiss Nelson, who scored with a powerful shot to make it 3-1.

Nelson’s goal capped an impressive performance from Fulham that secured their second Premier League win of the season and cemented their position in the top half of the table. For Newcastle, it was a frustrating end to a game in which they paid the price for a slow start.

What’s next for Fulham and Newcastle?

Fulham’s performance will have pleased manager Marco Silva, particularly the way his side controlled the first half and survived Newcastle’s second-half surge. The win moves Fulham up to ninth in the Premier League table and if they can continue their solid start, a place in the top half of the table looks increasingly attainable.

For Newcastle, this defeat is a reminder of just how tight the margins are in the Premier League. Their slow start has cost them dearly and, although their second-half response was encouraging, they need to develop more consistency if they are to challenge for a top-four place this season. Eddie Howe will no doubt reflect on his side’s defensive weaknesses and lack of creativity in the first 45 minutes, both of which need to be addressed as the season progresses.