Inside 20-man tunnel bust-up during Newcastle's fiery win over...

At St. James’ Park, there were three red cards, a 20-man tunnel bust, and fire and fury. There was the beauty in

Anthony Gordon’s outstanding opening goal, Alexander Isak on fire and continuing Newcastle’s scoring run.

On the touchline, Unai Emery was upset at Jhon Duran’s dismissal and was losing his rag. In the midst of the

mayhem, which included an all-in barney at the half, the Geordies won their fourth straight game and rocketed up to

fifth place.

Needle? There was plenty. Jason Tindall and Victor Manas, Villa’s lead analyst, were sent off for their tunnel

confrontation at the break.

Asked if it was a 20 man bust up, Howe said: “That is not far off. With these things it’s usually 17-18 people to try and

calm it down. Sometimes you stand up against what you think is right and protect each other. I was at the top of it.

The scene was a haze. Dissatisfaction from the events of the first half was evident. But we’re having a great year-end.”

After the final whistle Emery was still angry at Duran’s red card. “We will appeal of course. A three match ban for

that, it is harsh. It was not an action with intention to kick him. Not a red card. Completely not. I think he didn’t kick

him voluntarily, on purpose.”

Newcastle had the lead after 80 seconds. Tonali nicked the ball and allowed Bruno Guimaraes to release Joelinton.

Gordon overlapped on the left edge of the area, cut inside and curled in a stunning finish inside the far post looking

over Emiliano Martinez.

Jhon Duran was shown a red card in a fiery encounter

The second came after 58 minutes, with Alexander Isak notching his 11th goal in 12 games. It was laid on a plate four

yards out by Jacob Murphy’s cross after a brilliant pass by Bruno Guimaraes.

Isak is on fire and has seven goals and two assists in his last five league games. Howe said: “I love Alexander Isak. I

wouldn’t swap him for anyone.”

The red card flashpoint on the pitch saw Duran sent off in the 30 minutes for a stamp, and raking his studs down

Fabian Schar’s back. Duran’s left boot caught Shar’s backside as he fell.

Then Schar’s back was struck by his right boot, which flicked down his back. VAR supported referee Anthony

Taylor’s decision that it was obviously violent behaviour.

Duran booted a water bottle thirty yards as he left the field after momentarily refusing to leave. During a heated

argument with Toon No. 2 Jason Tindall, the Villa manager vented his frustration on the touchline.

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Inside 20-man tunnel bust-up during Newcastle’s fiery win over angry Aston Villa