An enormous roar went up inside St James’ when 9 minutes of stoppage time had been added on. Understandably so.
It was simply final week that Newcastle scored two scarcely plausible late targets to defeat Leeds United in a 4-3 basic.
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The dwelling assist dared to dream as soon as extra – however there was to be no grandstand end for the hosts this time.
This time Rayan Cherki landed what felt like a mortal blow within the 98th minute as Newcastle supporters streamed out.
What a distinction to the scenes earlier than kick-off.
The dwelling followers actually believed as an enormous flag show depicted the Wembley arch above a banner, which learn “Gannin’ Alang Wembley Way”.
The noise was raucous.
James Trafford, who turned down a transfer to Newcastle to return to Manchester City final summer season, was booed mercilessly all through. Throw-ins and corners had been celebrated. The roar that greeted Semenyo’s objective being disallowed was deafening within the second half.
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Eddie Howe knew his aspect needed to feed off it and take one thing again to Etihad Stadium subsequent month.
There was a unique dynamic to this recreation in contrast with earlier semi-finals, in 2023 and 2025, when Newcastle went away first earlier than ending the job off at a febrile St James’.
But this was finally a case of what might need been on an evening they fired a uncommon clean.
An almighty problem now awaits.
Newcastle have solely gained as soon as on the Etihad, and Howe’s aspect have but to even rating within the stadium since he took cost in 2021.
This staff are going to need to lastly overcome that hoodoo – and a few – to return to Wembley.