Newcastle United came away from Old Trafford with a point after a stalemate on Sunday afternoon.
Reflecting on a ‘very positive start to the season’, Eddie Howe offered his comments on the game itself, Rashford’s big chance at the death, and the fact that Newcastle have only lost once in 10 matches this campaign.
We looked the better team in the first half, with Joelinton hitting the woodwork twice within quick succession and Callum Wilson seeing a penalty claim waved away, but neither side were able to break the deadlock after Manchester United largely dominated the second 45.
Commenting on the result, performance and penalty claims, Eddie said: “Especially in the first half I thought we were very good. Joelinton had the two chances when he hit the woodwork, we could potentially have had a penalty for the challenge on Callum Wilson. I thought it was a strong shout for a penalty. Callum looked like he caught the lad’s calf when running. I’ve seen them given another day. We lost our way really in the second half and I’m glad the full time whistle has gone.“
On Rashford’s gilt-edged chance in the final moments, he added: “The [Marcus] Rashford header is a big moment. We did really well to contain them but that’s the one that possibly could have lost us the game but the players didn’t deserve that.”
On just one defeat in 10, Howe said: “Yeah you’d take that. It’s been a very positive start to the season, the players have given everything and that’s all you can ask for. The team spirit is very high at the moment.
“Every team needs a solid base”, he continued. “ I also have to compliment the guys in front, we have some really good athletes who break up play. You want goals at the other end but I believe we have players that can hurt teams.”
The Magpies now turn their attention to Wednesday evening, where they host Everton back at St James’ Park. Let’s hope we can get back to winning ways after another solid result!
