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Eddie Howe has reflected on Newcastle United’s chaotic’ 1-1 draw away to Brighton & Hove Albion.
Former Magpies winger Yankuba Minteh handed the hosts the lead in the 28th minute before Alexander Isak’s penalty in the 89th minute rescued a point.
Eddie Howe’s side had been awarded two penalties before that, however both were overturned by VAR. Anthony Gordon was fouled by Tariq Lamptey but the contact happened outside of the box and Willock was penalised for simulation after referee Craig Pawson reviewed the incident at the pitchside monitor.
But it proved to be third time lucky as Isak kept his cool from the spot to ensure United’s Champions League qualification fate remains in their own hands.
Reflecting on a ‘pretty chaotic afternoon’, Howe said: “Yeah, I think you've hit the nail on the head, I think keeping our composure in those moments because it's not easy and also making sure our performance wasn't affected negatively by the outcomes of the decisions.
“I think that is what VAR is there for, so if Anthony's is outside the box, that's the right decision. If Joe's not touched by Van Hecke, that's the right decision, got no issue with those two calls if that's the case.
“The third one for me was a stonewall penalty the minute I saw it, I'm pleased that the right decision was made.
“I think if you look at our season as a whole, we probably haven't dug out enough points in games that are in the balance. I think it's the first draw since December. Yeah, which is surprising really but we are a team that's set up to try and win, so you've got to be careful what you wish for.
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“We want to win games and we'll attack and try and do that, but if you can't, make sure you don't lose the game. I thought today was a really battling performance. I thought we were the better team in both halves.
“I thought we were pretty good, maybe apart from around the box, especially in that first half, I thought we left a cutting edge. But the majority of the performance tactically substitutes. I was really pleased and to come here and come back from a goal down is a great thing, I think.”
Next Sunday, Newcastle host Chelsea at St James’ Park in a potential top-five decider. Both teams are level on 63 points in the Premier League table.
Late on against Brighton, Howe withdrew both Kieran Trippier and Fabian Schar. While United’s head coach confirmed Trippier had cramp, he was unable confirm the same, suggesting a potential muscle injury.
“I'm not 100% sure with Faby,” said Howe. “Faby was limping, I don't know whether that's cramp or a muscle issue, so I'd need to check. Kieran, I'm pretty sure was cramp.”
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