Crystal Palace Stages Dramatic Comeback to Defeat Newcastle

Jean-Philippe Mateta came off the bench to score a double, securing a comeback 2-1 win for Crystal Palace over Newcastle. This victory keeps the pressure mounting on Newcastle's manager, Eddie Howe. Will Osula had initially given Newcastle the lead with a scrappy first-half goal, but Palace conceded at Selhurst Park for the first time in six games. Mateta, who scored his first goal since New Year's Day, headed in shortly after being introduced to level the score. He then slotted home a penalty in injury time to complete the fightback. Crystal Palace: Henderson (6), Muñoz (7), Richards (7), Lacroix (7), Canvot (8), Mitchell (7), Lerma (6), Hughes (6), Johnson (5), Pino (5), Strand-Larsen (4) Subs: Mateta (9), Wharton (8), Sarr (7), Kamada (7), Sosa (n/a) Newcastle: Ramsdale (7), Hall (5), Botman (3), Joelinton (4), Tonali (3), Gordon (4), Thiaw (5), Livramento (6), Murphy (6), Miley (7), Osula (7). Subs: Barnes (6), Ramsey (n/a), Woltemade (n/a), Elanga (n/a), Wissa (n/a) Player of the Match: Mateta. This defeat for Newcastle adds pressure on Howe, and their inconsistent form in recent weeks means their hopes of securing a spot in Europe next season are dwindling. Newcastle have now dropped 25 points from winning positions in the league this season, five more than any other side. The team's inability to hold onto leads has been a recurring issue, with manager Eddie Howe describing it as a 'blight' on their season. Newcastle must stop the rot, having lost seven of their last 10 matches, and their season is spiralling, with the pressure ramping up on Howe. The feeling that Howe's future could be contingent on Newcastle's European status or lack of going into next season is catching up with the Magpies boss.