Wayne Rooney saved the day for the second consecutive match, giving Manchester United the lead with only 11 minutes remaining over Newcastle.
The play started when Memphis took a great run up the box, but his shot was deflected. The bounce came to Rooney, who sent it top the top corner, over the outstretched arm of Rob Elliot.
United jumped out to a two-goal leaded, aided by a controversial Newcastle handball penalty. Jesse Lingard had United up 2-0, but Newcastle crept back into the match scoring off a corner three minutes before halftime. That led to a breakneck pace in the second half, culminating with Smalling tackling a Newcastle player in the box on a corner. Mitrovic converted the penalty, completing the comeback for the Magpies.
It could be a huge goal for United, who are fifth in the table. A win would put them back into European contention, forcing a tie with Tottenham. It would be a tough blow for Newcastle, who have played solid football this season but haven’t been able to keep it for a full 90 minutes. With the loss, they would stay two points deep in the relegation zone.
It’s Rooney’s 7th career goal at St. James Park.