Newcastle Boss Eddie Howe Makes “Very Difficult” Liverpool Claim After First New Year Defeat at Anfield

Eddie Howe has shared his thoughts on Newcastle United’s recent 4-2 loss to Liverpool on New Year’s Day.

During the match, the Magpies had to contend with a total of 34 shots. This onslaught saw Mohamed Salah scoring twice, and Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo also finding the net in the second half. This defeat marked Newcastle’s third consecutive loss in the Premier League.

Salah managed to open the scoring in the 49th minute. However, shortly after, Alexander Isak managed to equalize against the overall flow of the game. Any hope of a comeback was quickly dashed as Jones and the substitute Gakpo increased Liverpool’s lead to 3-1.

There was a brief glimmer of hope for Newcastle when Sven Botman scored with a header, hinting at a potential turnaround. Yet, Salah’s second penalty of the match ensured Liverpool’s victory.

After the match, Eddie Howe voiced his reservations about referee Anthony Taylor’s decision. He specifically highlighted the penalty awarded, questioning the minimal contact Martin Dubravka made on Diogo Jota.

Howe said: “I think there are two ways to look at it. The challenge on [Sean] Longstaff was a penalty and that changes the game massively and then Liverpool go up the other end and for me that wasn’t a penalty. That’s a very tough moment for us.”

The manager of United, however, did proceed to commend Liverpool. They achieved an XG of seven, setting a new record for a single Premier League game.

“It was a really good performance from Liverpool,” said Howe. “They made it very difficult for us and we did very well to come in at half-time at 0-0.

“We were in the game right until the end. The character and commitment was of the highest level. Maybe not our best performance but a lot of effort given.