Aston Villa secured a vital 2-0 victory at Newcastle, keeping their top-two Premier League aspirations intact. Emi Buendía's 19th-minute strike and Ollie Watkins' late header sealed the win, with goalkeeper Emi Martinez making crucial saves to deny the Magpies at St James' Park.

The result marks Villa's first league win on Tyneside since 2005 and moves them to 46 points, solidifying their Champions League charge. Newcastle, missing the injured Bruno Guimarães, struggled to create clear chances despite possession, highlighting a worrying trend for Eddie Howe's side without their captain.

Villa's performance was a blend of defensive grit and attacking efficiency, a formula that has served them well under Unai Emery. For Newcastle, the search for consistency continues as they sit mid-table. The result keeps the race for Europe wide open as the season enters its final third.