Isak is spot-on but frustration grows for Magpies fans
AS the league table is never meant to lie, it must be galling for Newcastle to still be level on points with newly-promoted Bournemouth going into the international break.
For all the plaudits given to Toon boss Eddie Howe, his side are still looking for their first win since the opening day.
Five of their seven matches have been draws and there were a few signs of frustration at St James’ Park after their failure to overcome Howe’s former side who were beaten 9-0 at Liverpool not long ago.
To his credit, Howe didn’t try to duck his side’s below-par performance, though grateful they came from a goal down to take a point with a penalty from £60million striker Alexander Isak after VAR had intervened in their favour.
Newcastle had 70 per cent possession, struck the woodwork twice and forced Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto into a couple of excellent saves.
Even so, it’s not the type of result expected from a team backed by Saudi owners who want to push towards a European place.
‘It was a performance below the levels we set ourselves,’ said Howe.
‘This was the first time this season we’ve dipped. We were a bit off and the end part was a difficult watch because after our equaliser, the game was set up for us to win.’
Bournemouth were fortunate to reach half-time level with Kieran Trippier striking the post with a free-kick, Joelinton hitting the other upright and Neto spreading himself to save from the Brazilian, as well as Scotland international Ryan Fraser.
But the visitors kept their shape and hit the jackpot on the break after 62 minutes. A slick passing move found Jordan Zemura in space and from his cross, Philip Billing stretched out a long left leg to divert the ball past Nick Pope.
Newcastle rallied quickly and levelled eight minutes later.
Referee Craig Pawson didn’t see Jefferson Lerma’s left hand blocking a cross by Trippier and was called to the monitor to check, the official then pointing to the spot.
Isak netted the penalty but Newcastle couldn’t find the winner as the Cherries held firm.