Eddie Howe: Newcastle quality ‘lacking’ after late collapse against Arsenal | OneFootball

Eddie Howe believes Newcastle have “taken some early blows this season” after Arsenal scored a dramatic later winner to beat them 2-1.

Gabriel scored a 96th minute winner for Mikel Arteta’s side after an action-packed affair at St. James’ Park. When asked his thoughts on the game, a dejected Eddie Howe answered: “I don’t feel this was our best performance, but winning that game 1-0 would’ve been the perfect boost for us. But we couldn’t hold on.”

It is the second time in three home games in the Premier League this season that Newcastle have conceded a stoppage time winner, after succumbing to Liverpool in August.

Nick Woltemade scored his second Newcastle goal as he headed home to give the hosts the lead in the 34th minute, before the Gunners fought back through goals from Mikel Merino and match winner Gabriel.

Arsenal won 12 corners throughout the game, with both of the visitors’ goals stemming from set piece situations. “The number and the weight of the corners told in the end.” Howe said, adding “They’re very different goals but from the same source. I think the last one is a killer-blow.”

Newcastle have now only managed one win in six Premier League games this season.

“An over-emotive reaction never helps. I think sometimes harsh words are needed.” Howe said. “But the big thing I look at is effort, commitment and desire. The effort is 100% there, but the quality is lacking slightly.”

“I’ll be very reflective tonight and figure out the way forward tomorrow.”

On the VAR decision which denied Newcastle a penalty, he said: “I was hopeful the penalty would be given, I saw Gabriel’s arm raised. But I’ve not seen them again, I have to trust VAR.”

Newcastle travel to Belgium next week as they are welcomed to Brussels by Union Saint-Gilloise in the Champions League, with Howe hoping a change in scenario will aid his side. “I think a change in competition is a good thing for us. We can leave the Premier League and focus on getting our campaign underway in the Champions League,” Howe added: “We’ve taken some early blows this season, but we’ll be better and come back stronger.

“Football’s a strange game. Sometimes you end up not getting what you feel you deserve.

“But I’m seeing the desire and commitment on a daily basis and we’ll come back stronger.”