Spurs 1-2 Newcastle

&c

For the second time in a week, Newcastle went away to one of the Sky 6 as favourites and duly won.

This time, however, they were made to work for their three points, unlike at the stroll at Old Trafford.

For the fourth game in a row, Newcastle scored in the first six minutes, but here Gordon's cool finish in the 6th minute of a frenetic opening period was an equaliser.

Solanke had snuck in behind the returning Botman two minutes earlier to head in a wicked Porro cross.

Opinion seemed divided as to whether a fully fit and sharp Botman would have reached the ball first, or whether it was simply an un-defendable cross and good goal.

Either way, Botman grew into the game, looking class until cramp understandably did for him in stoppage time of the second half.

Gordon's goal had Ange Postecoglu fuming, as the ball was blammied off Joelinton's hand from close range before he played Gordon in.

I immediately assumed it would be ruled out, but because his hand was by his side it was good by the letter of the law and both Gordon and Big Joe kept their composure better than the Spurs defence to capitalise.

For the rest of the half, Newcastle dominated Spurs, Murphy getting his customary assist for Isak's customary goal, joining Joe Willock and a certain sheet metal worker from Gosforth's son in scoring in seven consecutive Premier League games.

Nobody has scored in more consecutive games, so there's a chance to break a record for the world class Swede at home to Wolves, following the cup games away to Arsenal and home to Bromley.

A word on Jacob Murphy, as this assist was everything I love about him, a drilled ball right into danger through a crowded box.

Old fashioned and effective in equal measure.

The finish was sharp from Isak too, his foot positioned just right as the ball took a small deflection just in front of him.

After half time, and the introduction of Son and Maddison, the game got away from us and we lost the total control we've become accustomed to, which in a way made the victory even more satisfying.

It's a useful skill, finding different ways to win, especially hanging on through a scarcely believable 13 minutes of added time were played.

The only other incident of note in the game was a broken nose for Anthony Gordon, shouldered in the face (probably accidentally) in the box by Kulusesvki.

Accidental or not, anywhere else on the pitch that's a free kick (see: Maddison running into Botman on the edge of our box and throwing himself down for a free kick and Botman yellow).

Incidental as it happens - that's six wins on the trot in all competitions and up to fifth, though with the sternest of tests up next as we travel to Arsenal in the first leg of the League Cup semi.

With Saka out this is arguably a good time to play them, but Arteta rotated a fair bit in their last game so looks like going strong against us.

If we can get them back to St James' in February within a goal, I'd probably take it.

But after six wins on the bounce, we really shouldn't be fearing anyone.