A frustrating first half ended on a positive not for Newcastle as Callum Wilson converted a penalty in the sixth minute of stoppage time to give the hosts a 1-0 lead at the break after Ashley Young was penalised for handball.
Wilson then doubled Newcastle’s lead after the restart as he turned in a clipped cross from Kieran Trippier with his head. A swift counter attack saw Wilson denied a quick hat-trick but Joelinton was quick to react and make it 3-0 to The Magpies on the rebound.
Miguel Almiron then got in on the action with another sensational finish to make it 4-0.
1. Nick Pope - 7
Didn’t have much to do at all but got down bravely to deny Emi Buendia early on. | Getty Images
2. Kieran Trippier - 9
Another captain’s display on his 300th English league appearance. Also notched another assist following a well-worked corner routine. | Getty Images
3. Fabian Schar - 8
Was rarely tested and kept Villa at bay with ease while also distributing the ball well. | Getty Images
4. Sven Botman - 7
A couple of minor slips and miss-timed headers aside, another solid display for the young Dutchman. | AFP via Getty Images