Newcastle United were below Bournemouth in the Premier League table prior to their lunchtime meeting at the Vitality Stadium, but there is little doubt which squad is best equipped to avoid relegation.
The Magpies’ superior quality was evident in Ayoze Perez’s 27th-minute goal, with summer signings Aleksandar Mitrovic and Georginio Wijnaldum producing delightful touches in the build-up.
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Perez’s effort was Newcastle’s only shot of the first half. The Cherries managed 12 and four on target, but could not get the better of goalkeeper Rob Elliot as the visitors took a 1-0 lead into the break.
While Bournemouth’s team, in the absence of a couple of key attackers, is largely made up of players who brought them up for the Championship, Newcastle possess international class. Mitrovic and Wijnaldum, who cost a combined £27.5m according to BBC Sport, are proof that you get what you pay for.
A second league victory of the season for Steve McClaren’s side will lift them up to 16th in the table, above Bournemouth who will drop into the relegation zone for the first time since their promotion.
Half-time: Bournemouth 0-1 Newcastle United
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