Newcastle United put themselves right back on course for silverware as teenager Lewis Miley headed a dramatic stoppage time winner to see off Fulham 2–1 and send the Magpies into the Carabao Cup semi finals. After the disappointment of derby defeat against Sunderland days earlier, Eddie Howe’s side responded when it mattered, and they now stand just two games from lifting the trophy.
For long spells it looked like the quarter final was drifting towards penalties. Yoane Wissa had fired Newcastle ahead, only for Fulham to cancel it out in the second half, and tension grew around St James’ Park as the minutes ticked away. But in the dying moments, Miley rose highest to meet Sandro Tonali’s corner, guiding his header past Benjamin Lecomte and sparking wild celebrations.
The goal was all the more remarkable given the circumstances. Miley, still only 19, had been deployed at right back due to Newcastle’s growing injury list. Yet when the chance came, he showed composure beyond his years. It was a reminder that this squad, even stretched, has depth and belief, two things you need to win cups.
Newcastle’s opener came through Wissa, making his first start since arriving from Brentford in the summer. Jacob Murphy’s cross caused chaos in the Fulham box and Lecomte could only fumble, allowing Wissa to react quickest and poke home. Fulham responded well though, and were level soon after when Antonee Robinson picked out Sasa Lukic, left unmarked to power a header beyond Aaron Ramsdale.
Fulham goalkeeper Lecomte kept his side in the contest, denying Bruno Guimaraes and Harvey Barnes as Newcastle pushed for a winner. The visitors defended deep, hoping to drag the game into a shoot out. But Newcastle kept knocking, kept believing, and eventually got their reward in stoppage time.
This result sends Newcastle into their third EFL Cup semi final in four seasons, and that’s where the pressure really starts. With experience in the latter stages and a squad packed with internationals, there’s no hiding place now. The draw may still throw up problems, but Newcastle have shown they can handle nights like this.
Carabao Cup glory is within touching distance, and Newcastle United have no excuses left. If they fail to finish the job from here, it will be on them. The opportunity is there, the path is clear, and silverware is beckoning.
