Newcastle United’s coach, Eddie Howe has provided insight into how his team managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Manchester City in their Premier League match earlier today, September 28.
After witnessing Joško Gvardiol give Pep Guardiola’s side the lead, only for Anthony Gordon to level the score for the hosts at St. James’ Park, Howe commended his team’s strong defensive display, particularly in the final 20 minutes of the match.
In an interview with BBC Match of the Day, Howe expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, highlighting their bravery and resilience, especially in contrast to their previous week’s display.
“We are happy, especially after last week. That was a good display, that was us playing our way, brave,” Howe said.
“It was two teams going right at each other for probably 70 minutes. In the last 20 minutes, they were stronger than u,s, and we had to defend well to maintain the point.”
On the other hand, Manchester City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, reflected on the missed opportunities and “bad decisions” made by his players during the 1-1 draw with Newcastle United.
Despite taking the lead through Josko Gvardiol in the first half, City encountered a setback when Newcastle was awarded a contentious penalty.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Guardiola admitted that, although his team played well, overall, they faltered in the final moments, preventing them from securing a 2-0 lead.
He acknowledged the challenges posed by Newcastle’s physicality and deep defending while emphasizing the brilliance of Nick Pope in goal.
“They had moments in the first ten minutes and after their goal, but in general, we played well”, Pep Guardiola said.
“We made bad decisions at the last minute to make it 2-0. It is always difficult here with their physicality and they defend so deep. We had chances, but [Nick] Pope was brilliant, so we take the point.
“When we scored we played better. We make a mistake, and after that, they play better. But then we took the game again and had chances to win it.”