Eddie Howe Bournemouth
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Newcastle United’s encounter with Arsenal at St James’ Park was marked by controversy as the Magpies suffered a 2-1 defeat. The match, which saw Newcastle take an early lead through Nick Woltemade, was marred by contentious refereeing decisions that left fans and pundits alike questioning the officiating.
Keith Hackett said: “It’s effectively a punch, which is a red-card offence. Therefore, VAR should have brought this to the referee’s attention, and had that happened, he might have decided there was sufficient force. Players are expected to play with their feet and not punch opponents. This is a clear strike on an opponent.”
Hackett added: “Here, we can see Lascelles of Newcastle United grab the face of Gyokeres, and pull it to one side. This is an offence that should have received a sanction, but this depends on whether excessive force has been used. It is certainly reckless, and it cannot and should not be ignored.”
Eddie Howe said: “Two really late goals here at home hurts. We have to reflect and acknowledge that we weren’t at our best. There was not lack of effort but from a footballing side, it wasn’t quite there. Probably the key thing, the number of corners. I think Odegaard made a difference to their overall performance. The weight of pressure eventually told. No lack of effort but the little details have cost us. I thought we tried. We gave everything to the game. It was really physical. I don’t think we were at our best today being honest – Arsenal played very well. We had our chances in the game and we took the lead and we were desperate to try and hang on to that lead. Nick (Pope) made some good saves for us but it wasn’t to be and we conceded set-pieces at the end so disappointing.”
The match saw Newcastle United’s Jamal Lascelles introduced in the 77th minute for the injured Tino Livramento. Lascelles quickly became involved in a controversial incident that went unpunished by referee Jarred Gillett and VAR official Darren England. The incident, along with others, sparked outrage among Newcastle supporters, especially as Arsenal’s Gabriel remained on the pitch to score the winning goal after allegedly striking Nick Woltemade.
Former referee Keith Hackett criticized the officiating, suggesting that VAR should have intervened in the incident involving Gabriel, which he deemed a red-card offense. Hackett also expressed his views on Lascelles’ actions, labeling them as reckless and deserving of a sanction, depending on the perceived force used.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe reflected on the defeat, acknowledging that his team was not at their best and highlighting the impact of Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard on the game. Despite Newcastle’s efforts and Nick Pope’s crucial saves, the Magpies were unable to hold onto their lead, ultimately conceding two late goals.
Further controversy arose when Newcastle’s penalty appeal in the second half was dismissed after Anthony Elanga’s shot appeared to hit Gabriel’s arm. The decision was upheld by VAR, with former Premier League official Dermot Gallagher explaining on Sky Sports’ ref watch that the ball’s deflection off the body onto the arm did not warrant a penalty.
Newcastle United will need to regroup and address these challenges as they aim to bounce back from their second defeat of the season. Fans can continue to follow the team’s journey through ChronicleLive’s comprehensive coverage and analysis, as well as the Everything is Black and White podcast.
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