In the last few months of incredible highs it looked like we were touching new levels for Hatters supporters when the Town took a 4-2 lead midway through the second half. The fact Newcastle came back was less important than the reality that Town went to St James Park and went toe-to-toe with a club who literally have billions.
The Town looked to attack at every opportunity employing a defensive line as high as we have seen this season. Newcastle grabbed the first goal when Trippier’s cross strangely found its way to the on-rushing Longstaff despite the presence of several Town defenders in the vicinity.
But the Hatters never lie down and quickly levelled with another gem of a set piece. Barkley flicked it over to Carlton who yet ago rose like a salmon to head across to Gabe Osho totally unmarked who couldn’t miss.
A straight ball from a Luton corner was cleared up to Gordon on half way. He outpaced Osho and his shot was parried by Kaminski out to Longstaff for the second goal.
Again Town hit back. Ross strode through the midfield, slipped in Alfie, his shot was knocked out by Dubravka straight to the feet of Barkley who had continued his run. Delightful placement into the corner. 2-2 half time.
Second half Chieo who had Burn on toast all afternoon was pulled back running into the area. VAR rightfully intervened and Carlton had spot kick duties. First attempt successful but ref ordered retake as he had apparently not blown his whistle. No problem for ice veins Carlton who promptly knocked the second attempt in.
Dreamland for Hatters when Ross again proved the creator sliding in Elijah whose finish was straight and true.
Could we have done anything at 4-2 to consolidate? No time to find out as Newcastle hit back first through Trippier and then through a multi-million substitute Harvey Barnes.
At 4-4 we got a bit worried but in truth Luton saw the game out pretty comfortably. There was even time for a difficult Chieo volley to find the arms of Dubravka.
What a game for the 3,000 Luton fans in attendance, many of whom then enjoyed a night out in the fabulous city of Newcastle.
Sheffield United at home next up.
#COYH
Town: Kaminski; Mengi, Osho, Bell, Ogbene, Doughty (sub Burke 79; Lokonga, Barkley; Clark (sub Mpanzu 68), Morris (sub Brown 79), Adebayo (sub Woodrow 88).
Benno