Howe admits Newcastle fell short in Arsenal defeat | OneFootball

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe conceded his side were below their best as they fell 2-1 at home to Arsenal.

The Magpies had taken the lead in the 34th minute through Nick Woltemade’s header, against the run of play, and Nick Pope produced a string of fine saves to keep Arsenal at bay.

But the visitors broke through late, with Mikel Merino equalising in the 84th minute before Gabriel Magalhães struck deep into stoppage time to hand Arsenal all three points.

The victory ended Arsenal’s poor run at St James’ Park, having lost their last three visits there

“We gave everything, but weren’t at our best”

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Howe praised his team’s effort but admitted the performance was lacking.

“I thought we tried. We gave everything to the game. It was really physical,” he said.

The Newcastle manager was honest in his assessment of how the match unfolded.

“I don’t think we were at our best today, being honest. Arsenal played very well,” Howe admitted.

Howe points to missed chances and late setback

Despite leading for much of the game, Howe felt his side could not take full advantage of the opportunities they created.

“We had our chances in the game and we took the lead and we were desperate to try and hang on to that lead,” he explained.

He singled out goalkeeper Nick Pope for keeping Newcastle in contention with key interventions.

“Nick [Pope] made some good saves for us, but it wasn’t to be, and we conceded set-pieces at the end. It was so disappointing,” Howe added.

Newcastle’s difficult start continues

The defeat leaves Newcastle 15th in the Premier League table with just one win from their opening six games.

They will now turn their attention to Europe, where they face a crucial trip to Belgium to meet Union Saint-Gilloise in the Champions League.