A bitterly cold afternoon on Tyneside was set alight by a classic FA Cup encounter, as Newcastle United finally overcame AFC Bournemouth in a dramatic 7-6 penalty shootout to book their place in the fourth round. The hero of the hour was Aaron Ramsdale, whose three crucial saves in the shootout, including the decisive stop from Bafodé Diakité, sealed a pulsating victory after a 3-3 draw over 120 minutes.
A Rollercoaster of Emotions in Normal and Extra Time
The match was a tale of relentless momentum shifts. Newcastle, fielding a much-changed side, took the lead shortly after half-time through Harvey Barnes, who finished coolly after a neat one-two with Nick Woltemade. However, Bournemouth responded with two quickfire goals to turn the game on its head. First, Alex Scott tapped in at the far post after a slick move involving David Brooks and Evanilson. Moments later, Brooks himself curled a superb effort past Ramsdale after his initial pass was blocked.
With time running out, Newcastle won a late penalty which Anthony Gordon converted in added time, seemingly sending the tie to extra time. The drama escalated further in the additional 30 minutes. Harvey Barnes thought he had won it for the Magpies with a headed goal, only for Marcus Tavernier to snatch a sensational equaliser for the Cherries in the 122nd minute, sending the tie to the ultimate lottery of penalties.
Ramsdale Steps Up as the Shootout Hero
After 14 successful spot-kicks in the shootout, the outcome rested on the shoulders of Bournemouth's Bafodé Diakité. Aaron Ramsdale, on loan from Southampton and deputising for the absent Martin Dúbravka, guessed correctly, diving to his left to make a strong save. The eruption from the St James' Park faithful was immediate, with defender Malick Thiaw among the first to rush and congratulate the match-winner.
Ramsdale had already saved from Evanilson and Álex Jiménez during the shootout, showcasing the composure and shot-stopping ability that ultimately decided this epic cup tie. His interventions capped a man-of-the-match performance that had earlier included crucial saves in open play to keep his side in contention.
What This Means for Both Sides
For Eddie Howe and Newcastle, this represents a vital morale boost and progression in a competition they will be keen to challenge for. Surviving such a stern test, despite rotating the squad, highlights the depth and character within the group. For Andoni Iraola's Bournemouth, it is a heartbreaking exit after a magnificent effort, contributing to one of the matches of the third round. They can take immense pride from their performance but will rue the fine margins that decided the contest.
The focus for both teams now returns to the Premier League, but Newcastle fans will eagerly await Monday's fourth-round draw, knowing they have a goalkeeper in Aaron Ramsdale who can be the difference on the biggest stages.
