Bruce hails Karl-ossal display from goalkeeper
STEVE Bruce admitted he owed an important point to his goalkeeper Karl Darlow after a wonder show against Liverpool.
The Magpies kept the champions at bay but Darlow looked unbeatable between the posts at St James’ Park and sparked fresh talk of an England call-up.
After the stalemate, Bruce said: “The goalkeeper has produced some great saves but [we had] the spirit and attitude and we created a few chances ourselves.
“When you play against arguably one of the best teams in the world you need a bit of luck but the spirit and the endeavour was there for all to see.
“I am delighted with them. “Overall, very, very pleased with the performance.”
Bruce was then asked about style and despite having just 27% possession on the night, reflected: “We are trying to be a little higher up the pitch and I think that has been the case in the last few games.
“We’ve had Manchester City and now Liverpool so to get a point is terrific.”
Bruce has two first-class goalkeepers pushing for the No 1 spot with Martin Dubravka now back from injury and taking a place on the bench.
Bruce said: “The one thing you want is competition and you can see Karl Darlow is doing all he can to keep the shirt.
“He works tirelessly behind the scenes but of course Martin Dubravka has won all the plaudits and the player of the year award.”
Bruce then looked back on a week in which Newcastle lost to Brentford and Man City but ended the week on a bit of a high with a point.
He said: “For us, we knew we let everyone down in a big cup tie.
“We blew it.
“We have to take the criticism that comes our way and accept it but I hope the supporters who watched this game today could really enjoy the performance. It was a great performance. Let’s look forward to Sunday.”