‘It’s nowhere near good enough,’ say boss
MAGPIES UNDONE BY THEIR SORRY SECOND HALF PERFORMANCE
STEVE Bruce admits that Newcastle United were “nowhere near” the levels he feels they are now capable of during the second half against Watford.
The Magpies slipped into holiday mode to allow the Hertfordshire outfit back into the game, although Bruce still believes that Craig Pawson was wrong to award a penalty against Matt Ritchie.
The decision rejuvenated Nigel Pearson’s side and a second penalty, conceded by Javier Manquillo, allowed Troy Deeney to slam home his second of the day.
Now the former Hull City and Aston Villa manager is eager to put things right against Spurs this evening at St James’ Park.
Bruce told the Chronicle: “It’s very difficult, they have just had a big result and it puts them into a really good position as far as they’re concerned for Europe.
“Spurs are coming to town and they’re a really good side. We will have to be at our best if we are going to get something out of the game.
“We’re looking to bounce back from a difficult few days.
“I was delighted with the first half at Watford. Second half? It was nowhere near the levels.
“We have to make sure against Spurs we’re ready for that challenge.”
Bruce was still incensed over a penalty conceded just after the break at Vicarage Road – a moment which swung the game back into Watford’s favour.
But even then he admits his players should have produced more.
Bruce said: “We should have done better second half.
“But the big turning point for me is that the first penalty. It’s not a penalty for me.
“I thought going into the game that the only way Watford would beat us is by set-pieces.
“I didn’t think that the set-pieces would be two pens.
“We’re disappointed in the second half but we didn’t get anywhere near the first half.”