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‘It’s a miracle they didn’t all die’ says rescuer after tanker with war fuel hits ship carrying toxic sodium cyanide

A TANKER and cargo ship collided in dense fog yesterday — with a rescuer admitting: “It’s a miracle they didn’t all die.”

The trawlerman was with dozens of small boats which responded to the North Sea mayday call just before 10am.

Burning ship engulfed in black smoke following a collision at sea.
A tanker and cargo ship collided in dense fog with a rescuer admitting: ‘It’s a miracle they didn’t all die’
Oil tanker and cargo vessel collision with fire and rescue efforts underway.
Getty
Rescue boats with firefighting gear try to put out the North Sea inferno off Hull[/caption]
Black smoke billowing from a fire at sea.
A fireball burns and emits heavy smoke after the collision
PA

Multiple explosions tore through US-flagged oil tanker the Stena Immaculate, loaded with ten million gallons of fuel for war planes.

It was anchored when hit by the Portuguese-flagged Solong — carrying highly toxic sodium cyanide.

The impact tore a hole in the Stena’s cargo tank.

Jet fuel spilled into the sea, ignited then engulfed both ships in a fireball.

Crew dived into life-rafts as a major operation swung into action ten miles off Hull.

Last night one of Solong’s crew was missing but 36 others on both ships were accounted for.

The trawlerman, who did not give his name, said: “We were two miles away when the mayday call came in. When we approached it was very scary. We could see the plumes of smoke. There was a really strong smell of fuel burning.

“We were told there was a person missing at sea and to begin a search. Crew began abandoning both ships around 30 minutes later.
“Its a miracle they didn’t all die. The fog was pretty horrendous.”

The alarm was raised at 9.48am. A mayday call urged vessels “with firefighting equipment or who can assist with search and rescue to contact Humber Coast Guard on Channel 16”.

It added: “Vessel Stena Immaculate is carrying Jet A-1 fuel which is on fire and in the water. Request vessels remain at a safe distance.”

Lifeboats scrambled from Bridlington, Cleethorpes, Mablethorpe and Skegness, along with East Midlands Ambulance Service.

By 2.34pm crew from the ships were brought to shore in Grimsby.

The Stena Immaculate is one of ten tankers which serve the US military and is seen as critical to national security.

A White House official refused to rule out foul play.

They confirmed the 50,000-ton tanker was carrying military jet fuel, adding: “The collision and explosions will not impact operations or combat readiness.”

The tanker was anchored off Hull after travelling from Agioi Theodoroi in Greece.

Meanwhile, the 460ft Solong had left Grangemouth, Scotland, and was approaching at 16 knots (18mph).

Oil tanker Stena Immaculate carrying jet fuel.
VesselFinder
Multiple explosions tore through US-flagged oil tanker the Stena Immaculate, loaded with ten million gallons of fuel for war planes[/caption]
Cargo ship Solong carrying shipping containers.
VesselFinder
It was anchored when hit by the Portuguese-flagged Solong — carrying highly toxic sodium cyanide[/caption]
Casualties from a collision between two vessels in the North Sea being brought ashore.
The scene in Grimsby as crew arrived on land
MEN Media

Experts said it would have taken the Stena an hour to haul up the anchor — leaving it a sitting duck.

US naval history professor Sal Mercogliano said it had struck the Stena’s port side and pushed it for some distance.

The Solong’s cargo included 15 containers of sodium cyanide used for metal cleaning, plating and extraction, and photography.

It was very scary. We could see the plumes of smoke and smell the fuel

Trawlerman

The chemical can react with water to make hydrogen cyanide gas but it is unclear how much got into the sea.

Frantic efforts were being made to assess the environmental impact.

Greenpeace UK said the scale of the disaster would depend on the size of spill, speed of response, weather and sea conditions.

Unlike crude oil, which breaks up more slowly, the fuel is classed as “non-persistent” or “light oil” and will evaporate very quickly.

But it can still be deadly to wildlife.

East Yorkshire’s coast is home to protected seabirds such as puffins, razorbills, gannets and kittiwakes.

Illustration of a vessel crash in the North Sea, showing the location of the collision and the involved ships.

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Aldi’s sell-out Le Creuset casserole dish dupe is back on shelves this week – and it’s 180 per cent cheaper

KITCHENWARE lovers should be ready to rush to Aldi this week as a beloved item returns to shelves.

The German retailer known for its top-quality but budget friendly items is set to delight Le Creuset fans once again.

Pink cast iron casserole dish with lid.
The Crofton Cast Iron Casserole Dish hitting Aldi’s shelves from March 16
Aldi
Pink Le Creuset cookware and tableware arranged on a pink background.
lecreuset
Aldi’s casserole dish is a dupe of the popular Le Creuset kitchenware items[/caption]
Aldi supermarket opening in Bakewell, UK.
Getty
Aldi will be selling their dupe for a fraction of the cost (stock)[/caption]

The iconic casserole dishes from the French-Belgian company are a dream part of any kitchen but one that many are willing to pay for.

But from this week, Aldi will once again be filling shelves and hearts with their dupe of the popular dishes.

From March 16, shoppers will be able to get their hands on the Crofton Cast Iron Casserole Dish at Aldi.

Customers will have to be quick as the kitchen essential is set to fly off the shelves.

At just £19.99 per dish, they are 180 per cent cheaper than the Le Creuset version.

A 4L dish from the iconic kitchenware brand is a whopping £305.

While customers enjoy choosing between the array of colours on offer at Le Creuset, Aldi will also give customers some choice.

Shoppers will get to choose between a light pink gradient finish or a Navy blue.

“Designed for slow cooking, braising, baking and roasting, this Cast Iron Casserole Dish is a must have kitchen essential,” Aldi says.

The dish has three-layer enamel coating and a stainless steel knob.

It is safe to go in the oven at temperatures as high as 250C but must be hand washed only.

Whether you have a gas, electric, or induction hob, this casserole dish suits them all.

In November, Aldi brought out a selection of hugely popular Le Creuset dupes including the casserole dish and griddle pan.

The cast iron cookware dishes cost between £1.99 and £24.99 compared to the over £200 price tag of the designer brand.

Aldi’s range was dropped days after police in Hampshire were put on alert as hundreds showed up to Le Creuset’s Andover warehouse for a half-price sale.

The huge queue that stretched for miles to snatch up casserole dishes, pans and baking trays.

But The Sun’s review of Aldi’s dupes concluded that it too would have “cooks queuing around the block” and it is likely the new pans set for release on Sunday will be exactly the same.

Meanwhile, other Aldi shoppers have found another Le Creuset dupe already on sale at the budget-retailer for just 99p.

Other items set to land on shelves from March 16 include Mother’s Day gifts ranging from Silent Night lavender pillows, ceramic aroma diffusers, and spring hanging flower baskets.

And those who love a tipple should check out a new Aldi cocktail that is only £4.50.

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How Ruben Amorim’s genius tweak unleashed Noussair Mazraoui to give Man Utd new attacking threat vs Arsenal

RUBEN AMORIM has a new attacking threat at his disposal following a successful “tweak” to his Manchester United side against Arsenal.

The Red Devils shared the spoils with the north Londonrs thanks to a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford last Sunday.

Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United kneeling on the field.
REX
Manchester United shared the spoils with Arsenal in last Sunday’s meeting at Old Trafford[/caption]
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim reacts during a Premier League match.
REX
Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim was frustrated to not have bagged all three points[/caption]
Noussair Mazraoui of Manchester United playing soccer.
REX
But the attacking threat shown by Noussair Mazraoui will have pleased the Portuguese gaffer[/caption]

Amorim, however, wasn’t happy with his troops’ failure to hold on to all three points, which Declan Rice denied them of with a stunning second-half finish.

But he’ll be happy with the auxiliary attacking threat defender Noussair Mazraoui showed he can be on the right-hand side.

And in the latest episode of SunSport’s Tactics Exposed, our tactics expert DEAN SCOGGINS looks at how the Moroccan showed how he can be a versatile threat going forward when paired up with Alejandro Garnacho.

Here are four of Dean’s observations on Mazraoui from the draw…

1) Understanding with Garnacho

Garnacho is creating that indecision because he trusts Mazraoui’s decision making to give him the ball when he can and not go bombing up the outside and leave him in a dodgy position.

And also it means that Garnacho can then spring that counterattack when United win it back.

And we saw that three or four times where Garnacho carried the ball up the right in the first half.

At half time, fantastic from Amorim. What he’s done is just a subtle little tweak with their positioning to bring Garnacho wide to the right and running out to wing, and then Mazraoui going up the inside channel inside him.

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Man Utd ratings vs Arsenal as De Ligt shows exactly why Man Utd signed him but Zirkzee is as frustrating as ever

IT was a performance that would have pleased Ruben Amorim but a 1-1 draw with Arsenal does little to paper over the cracks at Manchester United.

On a day when the Old Trafford crowd protested the owners, the players stood up to show their remains life in a club that fans say is experiencing a “slow death”.

There was a lack of clear-cut chances in the opening 45 minutes as both sides goalscoring troubles continued.

A moment of magic was needed and Fernandes stepped up as he so often does.

Arsenal‘s wall was full of man mountains, but Fernandes found the power, dip and accuracy to beat David Raya with his free-kick – even if the wall was marched 11.2 yards back instead of the regulated ten.

Mikel Arteta’s side came out swinging in the second-half with their makeshift No9 up top, and it took a brilliant effort from Declan Rice to level the scores.

United were able to frustrate them and remain a threat on the counter but eventually had to settle for a point in a much-improved performance.

Here is how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the United performances.

2) Making trouble

Mazraoui was [often] the free man. He found himself in a number ten position, a striker position and a right wing position.

He was the one causing all the problems and we saw the ideal Amorim scenario – [Diogo] Dalot, one wing back, crossing it to Mazraoui, the other wing back.

[The] save from David Raya probably should have been the winner for United because they played really, really well in that second-half period on the counterattack.

They were comfortable out of position. And with the crossover of Mazraoui and Garnacho and understanding where each other are going to go, they caused Arsenal a real problem on that left-hand side.

3) Inside and outside threats

Oh, definitely, [this is the Mazraoui Manchester United they were signing].

And also, I think it’s a credit to Mazraoui that he’s done the job that Amorim has asked of him.

Amorim is having to tick a few boxes as we go through here.

They defended brilliantly against Liverpool, Man City and Arsenal away in the FA Cup.

Noussair Mazraoui of Manchester United playing soccer.
REX
Noussair Mazraoui was a constant threat on the right wing[/caption]
A soccer player in a light blue uniform kicks the ball while a player in a red uniform defends.
AFP
The defender caused the Gunners trouble thank to a great understanding with Garnacho[/caption] Touch map of Noussair Mazraoui vs Arsenal.

Is Mazraoui playing as a proper fullback in a back five? They did that in the first half. So he did get up the right sometimes.

Mazraoui, he was the one going up the outside in the first half.

In the second half, they switch that over and Garnacho going wide and then Mazraoui is coming up on the inside.

He is a good baller in those positions. He can pick it up at number ten and he’s two-footed.

He can play between those lines as well.

And as we’ve said week after week, Amorim’s formation relies on wing-backs driving forward.

Otherwise, they’re just nullified. Mazraoui provided. That was really good.

4) Versatility

I think that he was an example [of a player who says to his manager], ‘Where?’ ‘Left back, boss? No problem.

‘Right back, boss? No problem? Wing back? Yeah I can do that attacking role. Second off? No problem. I’ll do that as well.’

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Three EastEnders theories on who Tommy’s mystery ‘friend’ is – from returning show legend to wild AI theory

EASTENDERS fans have been buzzing with speculation over the identity of Tommy Moon’s mysterious new friend.

Viewers have grown increasingly concerned about Tommy’s (Sonny Kendall) interactions with an online contact, raising fears of potential grooming.

Tommy Moon from EastEnders holding a game controller.
BBC
EastEnders fans have been buzzing with speculation over the identity of Tommy Moon’s mysterious new friend[/caption]

After returning home from a stay with Zack Hudson (James Farrar) due to previous behavioural issues, Tommy becomes distressed when he is unable to access the internet.

This prompts his mum, Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace) and her partner Alfie Moon (Shane Richie) to investigate.

When they discover Tommy’s messages, tensions rise, leaving fans eager to uncover the truth about his online associate.

Several theories have emerged, ranging from the return of a former character to a bizarre AI twist.

Could it friend be Matthew Rose?

One suggests Tommy’s mysterious contact could be Matthew Rose, played by Joe Absolom.

Matthew was a key character in EastEnders from 1997 to 2000, wrongly imprisoned for the murder of Saskia Duncan before later being exonerated.

A fan speculated on Reddit: “So, I had a little snoop on Google and found a character called Matthew Rose from 1997-2000. Do we reckon that this is the Matt that Tommy is talking to?”

However, another disagreed, saying: “Knowing the current writing, it will be some random he met in the game who turns out to be Kat’s long-lost adopted son.”

AI twist?

A second theory takes a futuristic turn, suggesting that Tommy’s friend might not be a person at all, but an AI entity.

One viewer wrote on the site: “Tommy’s friend is an AI. The way the words appeared on the screen seemed too mechanical, there was no time for a read and reply. His friend is a beep boop.”

Another agreed: “Yeah, after today’s episode I have to agree with you. I picked up on that too and thought it was too automated.”

They added: “It’s definitely not Zoe. Since Denzel & Nugget tease him about it, it most likely will be, but I can see this snapping Tommy and he will seriously hurt Kat as he will blame her for Avani overhearing Kat & Alfie talk about it.

“IIRC, I read a while back that Tommy was set to seriously injure Kat and leave her for dead, which hospitalises her. It’s either still to come or they have had to scrap it due to Jessie’s surgery.”

Is Joey Branning behind it?

Some fans believe Tommy’s friend could be Joey Branning, who appeared in EastEnders from 2012 to 2013.

Joey is the son of Derek Branning and brother to Alice Branning. His storylines involved complicated family relationships and a controversial romance with his cousin, Lauren Branning.

One fan asked: “Do you think Tommy’s gaming friend could be Joey Branning? A little mention from Bianca recently. Maybe because Kat told him not to go over to his dad when he was having a heart attack and he hasn’t forgiven her / holds a grudge.”

Another added: “Oh, I seriously hope it’s not Joey. Not just because the actor was terrible, but because I do NOT want that incest storyline starting up again. :-/

“I’d love it to be Zoe. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that it’s Luke or both of them, but I can’t call it.”

With speculation running wild, EastEnders fans will have to wait and see whether Tommy’s friend is someone from Walford’s past – or if the truth is even more shocking.

EastEnders facts and figures

THE beloved British soap has been captivating audiences for decades.

EastEnders follows the lives of the residents of Walford as they navigate love, loss, family drama, and community struggles.

Here’s the latest on:

Last year, Kat faced a heartbreaking and painful battle when Tommy became abusive toward her and his siblings.

She kept her torment a secret until Jean Slater (Gillian Wright) stepped in, secretly contacting social services after worrying for the safety of Tommy’s younger twin brothers.

Kat was devastated when she discovered this betrayal and was told Tommy would be placed in social care.

Thankfully, Zack, an approved foster parent, stepped up and agreed to care for Tommy, allowing him to stay with Zack until he could return home.

Kat and Alfie were thrilled when the social worker confirmed Tommy could come back to the family home.

But Kat’s joy was short-lived when Tommy had another outburst over not being able to access the internet.

This only deepens her concerns for her son’s emotional well-being.

Later, Kat is taken aback when Mo leaves Tommy alone with the twins, and it leads to further strain between her and Tommy.

Feeling betrayed, Tommy shuts down emotionally.

Kat, realizing the situation, apologises and gifts Tommy a new games console, hoping to rebuild their connection.

But as Tommy begins chatting with his online friend, Kat’s worries only intensify.

Alfie urges Kat to have a frank conversation with Tommy.

Eventually, Tommy opens up about his mysterious new friend.

The situation continues to raise questions for Kat and Alfie, with tension mounting throughout the week.

  • EastEnders airs on BBC One and is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Sonny Kendall from EastEnders holding a video game controller.
BBC
Viewers have grown increasingly concerned about Tommy’s (Sonny Kendall) interactions with an online contact[/caption]
Headshot of Joe Absolom as Matthew Rose in EastEnders.
BBC
Kat Slater and her partner Alfie Moon soon investigated[/caption]
Headshot of Joe Absolom as Matthew Rose in EastEnders.
BBC
One theory suggests Tommy’s mysterious contact could be Matthew Rose[/caption]
David Witts, EastEnders actor, on the set of EastEnders.
Scott Hornby - The Sun
Some fans believe Tommy’s friend could be Joey Branning[/caption]

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Sir Keir Starmer faces first by-election test as disgraced MP Mike Amesbury quits after assault conviction

SIR Keir Starmer faces his first by-election test after disgraced MP Mike Amesbury announced he would quit Parliament following his conviction for assault.

The ex-Labour politician was sentenced to 10 weeks in jail, later suspended on appeal, for punching a constituent in a late-night street bust-up.

MP Mike Amesbury speaks to reporters outside Chester Crown Court.
PA
Sir Keir Starmer faces by-election test as disgraced MP Mike Amesbury quits after assault conviction[/caption]
Keir Starmer leaving a Commonwealth Day service.
The Mega Agency
The resignation hands Nigel Farage’s Reform a golden shot at snatching the seat, piling pressure on Sir Keir to fend off a major challenge in his first electoral test[/caption]

The MP was also ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and observe a 12 month alcohol monitoring program.

Amesbury was also made subject to 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days – including an anger management course.

Amesbury, who secured a 14,696 majority in Runcorn and Helsby, pleaded guilty in January confirmed he would step down.

He told the BBC on Monday he will begin the “statutory process” of closing up his office before resigning as an MP “as soon as possible”.

He said he regrets the attack “every moment, every day” and that he would have tried to remain as an MP if he had been given a lighter community sentence.

His resignation hands Nigel Farage’s Reform a golden shot at snatching the seat, piling pressure on Sir Keir to fend off a major challenge in his first electoral test.

After freeing the disgraced MP, Judge Steven Everett said that Amesbury had lost his temper “in a huge way” and that the case shows him in a “truly unfavourable light as an MP”.

But changing the sentence, he added: “It has been a very fine line, I tell you now.

“Because of the important change over the last three or four days, we can conclude you are a realistic prospect of rehabilitation.”

The MP has previously resigned his Labour membership.

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The staggering sum BBC has blown investigating scandal after scandal is an insult to the public forced to fund it

Bill for failure

THE staggering sum the BBC has blown investigating Huw Edwards rubs yet more salt in the wounds of the despairing public still forced to fund it.

The Jimmy Savile aftermath cost it £5million. Another £3.3million went on the alleged predatory behaviour of ex-DJ Tim Westwood.

Huw Edwards leaving court after sentencing.
PA
The BBC’s huge spend on the Huw Edwards probe and countless other scandals adds insult to injury for licence fee payers[/caption]

Its catastrophic recent Gaza documentary — thinly disguised Hamas propaganda — will doubtless cost it another fortune.

And now probing Edwards has swallowed another 8,076 licence fees.

Scandal after scandal after scandal.

Each time, eye-wateringly expensive consultants and lawyers are hired, seemingly to cover BBC backsides rather than get answers for victims.

Such profligacy is the result of giving a broadcaster nearly £4billion a year.

Chairman Samir Shah naturally sees little wrong with this ancient and unfair levy. His only gripe is that better-off families should pay even MORE.

Why? So the BBC has millions extra to probe the next pervert among its “talent”?

Legal weasels

THE crunch has come. We are about to find out whether we are run by elected politicians or unaccountable liberal judges.

A new sentencing regime the judiciary intends to impose will formally establish two-tier justice, with preferential (more lenient) treatment to criminals from ethnic, religious and gender minorities.

Horrified Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood says: “As someone from an ethnic minority background, I do not stand for differential treatment before the law.”

Good on her. But the judges couldn’t care less. Nor do they recognise she has any authority over them.

They are guilty yet again of monstrous overreach.

What they intend is manifestly unfair, repugnant to the public and fraught with danger. It cannot stand.

Ms Mahmood will have to follow through rapidly on her threat to legislate to curb the Sentencing Council.

The Sun will be right behind you, Shabana.

Vital surgery

FOR years we have railed against the top-heavy NHS. Too many useless managers, too few doctors and nurses.

So three cheers for Wes Streeting slashing staff at the vastly bloated NHS England quango and within his department.

The Health Secretary knows the service must do more with less.

Diversity and inclusion vacancies are indefensible given the finances too, Wes.

These job losses are bound to trigger the same rage among some Labour MPs as the welfare cuts which are now vital.

The party is divided into those who preferred opposition, where their principles never needed to be tested against reality, and those tasked with governing.

The latter have realised that, as Maggie Thatcher said, the facts of life are conservative. Especially if the country is skint.

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Five budget ways to deep-clean your bed for a proper night’s kip

GOOD sleep hygiene is essential for a proper night’s kip.

This Friday is World Sleep Day, so here are some budget ways to deep-clean your bed so you can get some shut-eye.

TURN IT UP: Wash your bedding at 60C or higher to get rid of any dust mites and bacteria.

For stubborn stains, mix equal parts water and white vinegar, dab gently and blot dry before putting in the washing machine.

When it comes to your ­pillows, it’s important to follow the washing instructions so check the label. But you can usually wash pillows in the machine, just make sure you plump them up at regular intervals as they dry.

SUNNY SAVER: Make the most of the spring weather and hang your freshly washed duvet covers and pillow cases outside to air dry.

Sunlight can naturally kill bacteria and in this weather, your washing should dry quickly. Everything will be left smelling fresh and clean which will aid a restful night’s sleep.

DEEP CLEAN: Vacuum both sides of your mattress thoroughly, especially in the seams and crevices.

Afterwards, sprinkle over baking soda mixed with a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil for a fresh scent to banish odours. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then vacuum again.

Remember to rotate and flip your mattress every few months to prevent sagging and extend its life, saving you from splashing out on a new one sooner than needed.

DUVET SLAY: Revamp your old duvet by giving it a good shake outdoors to get rid of dust.

Then dilute a little fabric softener and vinegar with water in a spray bottle and give it a good spritz to keep it smelling fresh. Air dry it with the rest of your bedding.

SLEEP ZONE: Dust and vacuum around your bed, including under the frame, to reduce allergens and ensure a hygienic sleeping environment. A tidy bedroom sets the stage for peaceful slumber.

  • All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
Woman in bed wearing a sleep mask.
Getty
We reveal ways to deep-clean your bed so you can get some shut-eye[/caption]

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Blue fabric loveseat.
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Supplied

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Cheap treat

Yankee Candle Home Inspiration sugared blossom candle.
Supplied
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What's new?

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BYOMA Brightening Serum bottle.
Supplied
The Byoma Brightening Serum is £12.99 from Boots[/caption]
Aura smoothing face serum bottle.
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Pair of gold glitter flip-flops.
Supplied
Save £26 on a pair of Havaianas flip-flops at TK Maxx[/caption]

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a red and white logo for the sun raffle
Join thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle

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West Ham 0 Newcastle 1: Bruno Guimaraes spoils Michail Antonio’s London Stadium return as Toon move 2 points off top 4

EDDIE HOWE has something to smile about at last.

A win to lift the Newcastle spirits ahead of what could be a week for the ages on Tyneside.

Michail Antonio of West Ham United applauding.
Alamy
Michail Antonio returned to the London Stadium for the first time since his December car accident[/caption]
Bruno Guimarães scoring a goal for Newcastle United.
AFP
Bruno Guimaraes reacted quickest to give Toon a deserved second half lead[/caption]
Bruno Guimarães celebrates scoring a goal.
AFP
The Brazilian’s goal was his first since January 18[/caption]
Bruno Guimarães of Newcastle United celebrates a goal with a teammate.
Reuters
The win moves Newcastle to within just two points of Chelsea in fourth[/caption] Shot map showing Bruno Guimarães's one shot and one goal against West Ham.

After losing a trio of stars to injury and suspension as well as being dumped out of the FA Cup, a little bit of confidence was returned to the Magpies as Bruno Guimaraes claimed three points at West Ham.

The Toon were far from their best and will have to show far more to down Liverpool at Wembley in the Carabao Cup final.

But they controlled West Ham for the most part, rode out some rough patches and found their way through to move sixth – level on points with Manchester City in those precious Champions League places.

All without the injured Sven Botman and Lewis Hall – and also lacking the pace and precision of Anthony Gordon, suspended for tonight and the final.

Howe, looking to avoid a third straight defeat in all competitions and gain some confidence ahead of the weekend, took the risk of starting Alexander Isak up top.

The Swede was quiet and looked a little off the pace – but he survived any injury scares ahead of the weekend.

There has been natural concern on Tyneside about players’ minds drifting to Sunday over the past couple of weeks.

The Toon have not quite looked themselves since reaching the final as Howe battles to correct patchy performances.

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It is a well-worn cliché rolled out by players that they only focus on the next game.

This side looks like they have been playing with Sunday’s showdown on their minds ever since the semi-final.

Potter, the only other English coach in the Premier League, has had his own problems but was able to welcome Lucas Paqueta back to the squad earlier than expected after his ankle injury.

The Brazilian, though, was only named on the bench as the Hammers boss stuck with the eleven which had won the last two games.

Potter had challenged his side to get the home fans invested and fired up for a game under the lights.

And they certainly raised the roof when welcoming back Michail Antonio to the London Stadium for the first time since his horrific car crash last year.

They could have had the start which would have delivered just that had Tomas Soucek not fired well over the bar from Mohammed Kudus’ cross inside the first minute.

The Hammers had the better chances but neither team looked dangerous across a fiddly first half.

Jarrod Bowen managed to wriggle into the box but fired a tame low effort straight at Nick Pope, before Kudus also saw a pot-shot stopped from range.

Even with Isak back, Newcastle looked out of sorts going forwards.

Harvey Barnes, bidding to keep his place for the final, had a couple of half chances but could not convert.

Harvey Barnes of Newcastle United heads the ball during a soccer match.
PA
Harvey Barnes went closest for Toon in a tepid first half[/caption]

Potter has improved West Ham’s defensive record since replacing Julen Lopetegui, but they were hardly being stretched to their limits by the visitors.

Despite being solid, the hosts were struggling to apply pressure or create anything clear cut.

Kudus passed up a golden chance on the break but struggled to control the ball and got in the way when Bowen had a crack with the loose ball.

West Ham’s two forwards found more gaps after the break, with Kudus causing particular trouble.

They looked dangerous but, with their two fit strikers on the bench, were lacking the support to be truly dangerous.

Newcastle had hardly come flying out the box, but finally found something to get them going.

Heatmap of Alexander Isak vs West Ham.

Alphonse Areola had to make an acrobatic stop after Jacob Murphy’s cross was almost sent looping into the Hammers goal by Max Kilman – though it may not have survived an offside check.

Two minutes later, there was a Newcastle shirt ready to meet the cross and put them ahead.

Having seen an initial effort blocked, Barnes collected the rebound and clipped a smart cross into the six yard box where Guimaraes slipped his markers and prodded home.

Potter responded with a triple change before, a few minutes later, also sending January signing Evan Ferguson on.

Sub Paqueta lifted a ball over for Bowen, who was sent tumbling by goalscorer Guimaraes.

Newcastle's next five games schedule.

There were cries for a Hammers penalty, but there was nowhere near enough contact.

While they had shown a flash of attacking intent there, the Toon goal seemed to knock West Ham flat.

They are not going down but nor are they in the mix for anything exciting further up, meaning this could be a rather meandering end to the season.

Sitting 16th but also 16 points clear of trouble, Potter has the time to experiment and find out which players are worth keeping hold of in the summer.

Valuable time for a manager – not very exciting to watch if you are paying for a ticket.

Match Stats

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