Newcastle edge past Bournemouth into last of Eight

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Newcastle reached the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup with a hard-fought win over Bournemouth at St James’ Park.

Adam Smith’s own goal proved decisive for the hosts, with the defender inadvertently heading past Cherries goalkeeper Mark Travers from Kieran Trippier’s superb delivery.

It was no more than Eddie Howe’s side deserved with the home team creating the bulk of the goalscoring chances.

Newcastle will find out who they meet next in Thursday evening’s draw.

Magpies boss Howe included goalkeeper Nick Pope, full-back Trippier and forward Callum Wilson, who were all part of England’s World Cup squad in Qatar, in the starting XI against Howe’s old club.

Switzerland defender Fabian Schar and Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes also began the contest for a home side that appeared close to full strength in a first competitive outing for both clubs since 12 November.

In front of a 51,579 crowd, Newcastle repeatedly pressed forward with Trippier, Schar, Miguel Almiron and Wilson all going close to breaking the deadlock in the first half, with the latter also having an effort ruled out for offside.

Gary O’Neil’s determined and disciplined Bournemouth side will though also count themselves a little unfortunate after not making the most of their few clear-cut opportunities.

Wales striker Kieffer Moore headed wide when well placed, substitute Jack Stacey forced Pope into a good save, and Dominic Solanke also saw a late effort superbly blocked by the Newcastle goalkeeper.