Daijiworld Media Network – Newcastle
Newcastle, Jan 13: Newcastle United overcame an early setback to defeat a spirited Bromley side 3-1, booking their place in the FA Cup fourth round. The Magpies, riding high on an eight-game winning streak, faced stiff resistance from the National league team, managed by former Newcastle goalkeeping coach Andy Woodman.
Bromley struck early in the eighth minute when Cameron Congreve, on loan from Swansea City, unleashed a spectacular 22-yard strike that left goalkeeper Martin Dubravka rooted. Bromley nearly doubled their lead moments later, but Danny Imray's shot after a dazzling run went wide.
Newcastle responded swiftly, equalising in the 10th minute through Lewis Miley. In his first start in nearly a year, Miley capitalised on a deflected clearance after William Osula’s persistence in the box, firing a stunning shot into the top corner.
Despite dominating possession, Eddie Howe's heavily rotated side struggled to break Bromley’s disciplined defence in the first half. Both Harvey Barnes and Osula came close but couldn’t find the net.
The second half saw Newcastle up the tempo, with substitutions proving decisive. Anthony Gordon replaced Barnes and immediately made an impact, converting a penalty in the 47th minute after Matt Targett was brought down in the box.
Osula put the result beyond doubt in the 62nd minute, cutting inside the Bromley defence and drilling home his first goal for the club in style. Newcastle controlled the game thereafter, with Matt Targett and Bruno Guimaraes narrowly missing opportunities to add to the tally.
The Magpies will now look forward to the FA Cup fourth round as they continue their remarkable form under Eddie Howe.