Newcastle United came from behind to defeat League Two newcomers Bromley 3-1 at St. James’ Park.
In doing so, they booked their spot in the FA Cup fourth round against Birmingham City and extended their winning streak to eight matches across all competitions.
Bromley’s Dream Start Ends in Heartbreak
In their first-ever meeting with Premier League opposition, Bromley stunned the 52,088-strong crowd by taking the lead in the eighth minute. Cameron Congreve capitalised on a defensive lapse, curling a stunning strike into the bottom corner after a long delivery was not cleared. Moments later, Bromley’s Danny Imray had a golden opportunity to double their lead, racing 70 yards down the right before narrowly flashing his shot wide.
Newcastle’s equaliser came soon after, thanks to an impressive long-range strike by 18-year-old Lewis Miley in the 16th minute. The young midfielder, making only his fourth appearance for the Magpies, picked out the top corner from 25 yards with a thunderous effort set up by Matt Targett.
Targett, returning to the starting line-up after a lengthy injury, was pivotal again early in the second half. He won a penalty after being fouled, allowing substitute Anthony Gordon to step up and calmly convert from the spot in the 49th minute.
Newcastle extended their lead in the 61st minute when William Osula, a summer signing from Sheffield United, netted his first goal for the club. Osula surged down the right, cut inside, and smashed a brilliant shot into the far corner, sealing a comfortable victory for Eddie Howe’s side.
“It was important we responded,” Howe told reporters after the game. “The longer it goes on the more anxiety can creep in. What a brilliant finish from Lewis Miley. From that moment we settled into the game.”
A Historic Effort for Bromley
Bromley, managed by former Newcastle goalkeeping coach Andy Woodman, can hold their heads high despite the result. The London club, in their first-ever season in the Football League after 132 years, reached this stage of the FA Cup for the first time in their history. Woodman praised his team’s effort, saying, “We got the goal that gave us a little bit of hope. That’s what the FA Cup is about. I’m proud of my team. The way we got beaten was the right way to get beaten.”
Writer’s View
This match epitomised the magic of the FA Cup, showcasing the ability of lower-league teams to push top-flight sides to their limits. Bromley’s courage and determination were admirable, but Newcastle’s class ultimately prevailed. Eddie Howe’s decision to bring on key players like Anthony Gordon and Bruno Guimarães at half-time proved decisive, underlining the Magpies’ depth.
