Calvert-Lewin decisive for Leeds in 4-1 win over dismal Newcastle

LEEDS, England (AP):

Three goals in a 13-minute spell before half-time, two involving the commanding Dominic Calvert-Lewin, set Leeds on the way to a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Newcastle yesterday and lifted them into third place in the Premier League.

Ao Tanaka’s deflected shot put Leeds ahead after 32 minutes before man-of-the-match Calvert-Lewin took centre stage.

The big striker boasts an impressive scoring record against Newcastle and had also found the net in each of Leeds’ previous five home matches.

Calvert-Lewin was unfortunate to see his 34th-minute header go down as an own goal after brushing teammate Jayden Bogle on its way into the net. There was no doubt about the third goal, however, as his effort squirmed under the goalkeeper after he poked it goalwards while under pressure from defenders.

“He is in outstanding shape and plays with confidence,” Leeds coach Daniel Farke said of his No. 9.

“I expect him to lead the group and he has taken that responsibility. I never doubt his goals but it isn’t just his goals, it is the way he plays for us. It is outstanding and he’s one of the standout strikers in this league.”

Leeds’ forward line was aided by Newcastle’s atrocious defending, and another weak clearance led to a fourth goal in the 59th minute, with Noah Okafor driving a low strike through a sea of legs into the far corner.

The visitors’ only bright spot came in the final minute when substitute Bazoumana Touré scored a consolation goal.

“That is football, that is the Premier League,” said Newcastle coach Matthias Jaissle. “You have to bring the fundamentals on the pitch, especially against a physical and intense team like Leeds. We couldn’t match that physicality in the first half and that was a key element. I don’t want to search for excuses now, we need to learn out of it and do better.”