Eddie Howe has been speaking to the press following Tuesday night’s shootout win over Blackburn, revealing his ‘relief’ after some Martin Dubravka heroics helped us reach the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.
Reacting to the late drama after a 1-1 draw after extra-time, Howe said: “I think there is only one emotion and that is relief. I think it was a hard-fought cup tie. Both sides gave everything to get the win and didn’t give an inch but we are delighted to be in the hat for the next round.”
Howe made five changes from Saturday’s defeat to Arsenal, seeing Dubravka, Lascelles, Burn, Willock and Murphy come into the side, but it was noted that Sven Botman missed out on the squad.
However, the boss has revealed that the Dutchman was simply rested, denying any talk of an injury ahead of this weekend’s clash with Wolves.
Howe then discussed our struggles to break Blackburn down and hailed our character in the shootout, praising Dubravka for his heroics as our “season cracks on” following a nervy but vital win at Ewood Park:
“They packed the backline and packed the midfield so it was difficult for us to penetrate them. It could have been better but we got that first goal and it was a really well-worked goal.
“The lads kept their heads and remained calm and I think every penalty was taken well.
“I think when you see the season we have had and the situation we are in, this was never going to be an easy cup tie. Martin [Dubravka] made some great saves that we needed him to make and we also missed some golden opportunities in the final third.
“The most important thing is that our season cracks on and we are thrilled to get through to the next round.”
The boss reflects on this evening's FA Cup fifth round victory over Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park. 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/4VQGKrdNNc
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) February 27, 2024
