Newcastle United halted Aston Villa’s 17-match unbeaten run in the Premier League at home, securing a commanding 3-1 win fuelled by Fabian Schar’s first-half brace.

Following a morale-boosting FA Cup triumph at Fulham, Newcastle aimed to avoid a fifth consecutive league defeat, a feat not experienced since 2021.

Despite early promise, clear-cut chances were scarce until Anthony Gordon’s close-range effort was deftly saved by Emiliano Martinez.

Undeterred, Newcastle capitalised on their positive start, with Schar netting two goals in four minutes, first converting Kieran Trippier’s corner and then doubling his tally after Gordon’s attempt hit the bar.

In the second half, Newcastle extended their lead as Jacob Murphy scored via a tricky deflection from Alex Moreno after Miguel Almiron’s delivery.

Villa responded with determination, as Ollie Watkins notched his 50th Premier League goal from Leon Bailey’s cut-back, setting the stage for a thrilling final quarter-hour.

Despite Villa’s late surge, Newcastle’s defence held firm, securing their first league win since mid-December.

Aston Villa hope to bounce back against Sheffield United on Saturday after their first home defeat in the Premier League since February 2023.