Newcastle’s Premier League survival hopes gained further momentum as a superb free-kick from Kieran Tripper – who later left St James’ Park on crutches – earned them a 1-0 win over Aston Villa. For the third game in succession, the Magpies scored from a direct free-kick, when the right-back curled home moments after the VAR had ruled a foul on Joe Willock had taken place outside the penalty area (35). The 31-year-old was taken off injured shortly after half-time, however, and, after the final whistle, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe confirmed he had been taken to hospital for an X-ray on his foot. Howe said: “Trippier got stamped on and he couldn’t continue with a problem on the top of his foot, so he’s gone for an X-ray at the hospital. “We’re keeping everything crossed hoping that there’s no broken bone.” The visitors thought they had levelled with an hour gone, but Ollie Watkins’ leveller was ruled out after he was adjudged to have strayed marginally offside following another V...