Geordie Glory: Newcastle End 70-Year Wait for Domestic Silverware

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Newcastle United finally shattered their seven-decade domestic trophy drought, beating defending champions Liverpool 2-1 in a pulsating League Cup final at Wembley on Sunday. Goals from local hero Dan Burn and Swedish superstar Alexander Isak ignited euphoric scenes as the Magpies lifted their first domestic trophy since 1955.

Burn’s Moment of Destiny

On an evening where history beckoned, it was fitting that a Geordie lad delivered the breakthrough. With Newcastle dominating the first half, Burn rose highest in the 45th minute, powering home a towering header from Kieran Trippier’s pinpoint corner. The goal sent the black-and-white faithful into raptures and set the tone for a night to remember.

Isak Seals the Deal

Seven minutes into the second half, Newcastle doubled their advantage. Jacob Murphy nodded a cross into the path of Isak, who instinctively rifled the ball past Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher. The Swedish striker’s 23rd goal of the season further cemented his cult status in a city that has revered its centre-forwards from Jackie Milburn to Alan Shearer.

Chiesa’s Late Reply Falls Short

Liverpool, uncharacteristically flat after their midweek Champions League exit, struggled to impose themselves. Mohamed Salah endured an anonymous evening, failing to register a single shot or key pass in 90 minutes – a first in his Liverpool career. Federico Chiesa pulled one back in stoppage time, his strike initially ruled offside before VAR intervened, but it was too little, too late.

Magpies Banish Wembley Demons

For Newcastle, this victory exorcised the ghosts of their 2023 League Cup final heartbreak against Manchester United. It also ended a nine-game losing streak at Wembley, a venue that had long been a graveyard for their silverware ambitions.

“It’s all for these fans,” an emotional Newcastle captain Bruno Guimarães declared. "They deserve everything. When I first arrived, I said I wanted to make history. Now, we are champions again."

Liverpool Left Lamenting

Liverpool, still on course to reclaim the Premier League crown, endured a forgettable night. Manager Arne Slot admitted his side played into Newcastle’s hands. "A disappointing result and performance," he conceded. "Newcastle deserved the win."

Despite a late surge from the Reds, Newcastle’s defensive resolve and Pope’s assured goalkeeping held firm. As the final whistle rang out, decades of frustration gave way to unfiltered joy, as the Toon Army’s long-awaited moment finally arrived.