EPL: Schar, Wilson strikes see dominant Newcastle past Forest

Superb second-half goals from Fabian Schar and Callum Wilson saw Newcastle ease past Nottingham Forest 2-0 in their Premier League opener.

They really should have won by more too after a dominant but frustrating first half. The Magpies registered 14 shots – six on target – and had seven corners, but were guilty of being wasteful in front of goal.

Full time at St James’ Park. ⏱

🌳🔴 #NFFC | #PL pic.twitter.com/EmdU5zztWQ

— Nottingham Forest FC (@NFFC) August 6, 2022

Joelinton should have buried at least two of his first-half chances, dragging one wide and seeing another well saved by Nottingham Forest loanee Dean Henderson. Along with fellow debutant Moussa Niakhate, the pair were key in keeping Forest from a opening weekend mauling at St James’ Park.

It took something special to break the Nottingham Forest defences. Scott McKenna’s clearance fell to Schar, who drove into the space ahead of him without being closed down before thundering a shot past Henderson.

The perfect start to ’22/23! 🙌#NEWNOT // #NUFC pic.twitter.com/wHsDhPX2Sv

— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) August 6, 2022

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Soon after, it was a smart finish from Wilson to make it 2-0. Joelinton picked out the striker inside the area, as he majestically lifted the ball over the goalkeeper’s head at the near post, continuing his trend of scoring early on in the season.

It was ultimately an easy three points for Newcastle, who will have ambitions of a European push this season. Nottingham Forest failed to register a shot on target in their first Premier League match since 1999 with a tough start to life back in England’s top flight.