Miley’s Last-Gasp Header Sends Newcastle Past Fulham in Cup Drama
Let me talk you through what turned into a dramatic Carabao Cup night at St James’ Park, because Newcastle versus Fulham delivered far more than many expected. Coming into this quarter-final, there was already tension in the air. Newcastle were still licking their wounds from a painful derby defeat at Sunderland, injuries were piling up, and questions were being asked about momentum and belief. Going out of the cup at home simply wasn’t an option.
The story of the night quickly became Lewis Miley. At just 19, he was handed an unexpected task after Newcastle’s defensive injury crisis deepened. With several senior full-backs unavailable, it was decided he would start at right-back, a position he had barely trained for. In fact, it was admitted he had just one session to learn the role. Still, the responsibility was taken on without hesitation, and his performance showed maturity well beyond his years.
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Newcastle started brightly, and their early pressure was rewarded. Yoane Wissa, making his first start since completing his big-money move and returning from injury, opened the scoring inside 10 minutes. A sweeping pass found Jacob Murphy on the right, a low ball was driven across goal, and although Fulham’s keeper got a touch, the ball was turned home. It was a simple finish, but it offered a glimpse of the sharp instincts Wissa brings to this side.
Fulham refused to fold, though, and the game settled into a tense rhythm. Their equaliser arrived through Sasa Lukic, cancelling out Newcastle’s lead and pushing the match toward what looked like an inevitable penalty shootout. At that point, anxiety crept into the stadium. After recent disappointments, another setback felt dangerously close.
Then came the moment that changed everything. Deep into stoppage time, a corner was swung in by Sandro Tonali. Lewis Miley rose at the near post, timing his run perfectly, and headed the ball into the net in the 92nd minute. St James’ Park erupted. A teenager, playing out of position, had delivered the decisive blow when it mattered most.
After the final whistle, praise was rightly poured on Miley. Eddie Howe spoke about his all-round ability, confidence, and character, stressing that his potential knows no limits. For Miley, a boyhood Newcastle fan, it was described as an unreal feeling.
Beyond the goal, the night felt like a reset. The supporters rallied behind the team, banners were raised, and chants rang out despite recent frustrations. Newcastle booked their place in the semi-finals, kept their Wembley dream alive, and reminded everyone that, even in a stop-start season, belief can be restored in a single moment.
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