Manzambi header lifts Aston Villa past Newcastle in Premier League

By Halis Sunnetci

ISTANBUL (AA) - Aston Villa secured a 1-0 away victory over Newcastle United in the seventh round of the English Premier League on Saturday, with Johan Manzambi's first-half header earning manager Unai Emery his 100th win in the competition.

Manzambi broke the deadlock in the 36th minute, rising unmarked inside the penalty area to head home Joao Gomes' cross from the right, beating goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek.

Villa nearly doubled their advantage three minutes later when Emiliano Buendia's effort struck the post, rebounded off Hornicek and stayed out.

The visitors continued to threaten, with Ross Barkley denied by a sharp save, while Sven Botman also tested the opposition goalkeeper with a powerful effort.

Newcastle pushed for an equalizer late on, but Yoane Wissa missed two opportunities as Villa held on for their second consecutive league victory.

The result lifted Villa level with Newcastle on eight points after seven matches and marked their first successive league wins at St. James' Park since the 1957-58 season.

Halis Sünnetci