A 1-0 win over Brentford might not instantly sound the most entertaining of games but Newcastle United’s victory on Saturday was full of incident.
Indeed, it may have not been the best game but Newcastle edged it thanks to Callum Wilson’s penalty, one that came after he had a goal harshly ruled out.
The Bees camp certainly weren’t happy with the manner in which referee Craig Pawson awarded the spot-kick after goalkeeper Mark Flekken felled Anthony Gordon but it is hard to have too much sympathy.
Wilson’s effort being struck off and VAR overturning a second penalty decision did afford them the chance to get back into the game but, fortunately, Eddie Howe’s side stuck it out.
Having been involved in the major incident from the game, Gordon spoke after.
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Anthony Gordon does not understand Brentford’s problem with the penalty
Indeed, the winger was speaking to Premier League Productions (via the Shields Gazette) after the full-time whistle.
Unsurprisingly, he could not understand the furore surrounding the penalty call and insists he was brought down by Flekken.
“From what I can remember it was a lose ball and I’ve reacted first, sprinted, got their first and the keeper wiped me out,” Gordon said.
“I was delighted when he wiped me out.
“I don’t understand if there is any controversy because he clearly wipes me out. I get there first he wiped my foot and it’s a clear penalty.”
Clever work from Gordon
The desire Gordon showed to get to that loose ball and win the penalty underlines just how important he is for Newcastle these days.
Whatever you think of the decision, Newcastle simply wouldn’t have been in a position to benefit had the winger not chased down Aaron Hickey’s back pass.
After a pretty underwhelming start to life on Tyneside, the 22-year-old looks to have turned the corner. Given his impact, he’s surely almost certain to start in Milan on Tuesday night.