- Andy Reid lauds Jacob Ramsey
- Englishman impressive vs West Ham
- Newcastle 2-0 up vs Hammers
Newcastle produced one of their best performances in recent times as they raced to a commanding 2-0 lead against West Ham United.
The atmosphere at St James’ Park was fantastic from the get-go as the home fans rallied behind Eddie Howe and the players for the Magpies’ final home game of the season.
West Ham were expected to put up a fight due to their position in the relegation battle. However, Newcastle started on the front foot and took the lead through Nick Woltemade, after which William Osula continued his fine run of form by doubling his side’s advantage.
But Andy Reid singled out another Newcastle United player for special praise for his decisive contribution in the first half.
Andy Reid lauds Jacob Ramsey
With Anthony Gordon on the bench due to his uncertain future at the club, Jacob Ramsey and Harvey Barnes started in attack, either side of Osula.
And the Englishman produced a spirited display as he was heavily involved in the second goal.
His brilliant through ball sent Osula clean through on goal and the striker did the rest as he put the ball through Mads Hermansen’s legs and into the back of the net for the second goal of the game.
And Reid feels Ramsey’s through ball was just as good as Osula’s finish as he heaped praise on the former Aston Villa man.
“When the ball turns over, they find space between the units,” said Reid on BBC Sport.
“It’s a great through ball, then the timing of the run from Osula and the weight of the pass into him, an excellent goal.
“The question when he goes through there is, can he stay composed? And he does. Newcastle are running riot now.”
Ramsey showed his class for Newcastle
Both Barnes and Ramsey showed their class in the first half vs the Hammers as they picked up an assist apiece.
Alan Smith was also on hand to sing Newcastle and Ramsey’s praises, as the former Arsenal man lauded the quality of their one-touch football that led to Osula’s goal.
“This is as good a move that Newcastle have put together this season. It’s all one-touch stuff, it’s beautiful football,” said Smith on BBC.
“They cut through West Ham, blistering start for the home team. It’s devastating for the Hammers this.”
If Newcastle see off the game and pick up three points, they will move to 11th in the Premier League table.
West Ham, on the other hand, are running out of time to save themselves from relegation.
If the result remains the same and Tottenham beat Chelsea on Tuesday, they will officially be doomed for the drop.
