Eddie Howe delighted with ‘first class’ Nick Pope against Brentford

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Newcastle United weren’t at the races until the second half against Brentford, but one player who was consistently brilliant was Nick Pope.

While Newcastle were unable to get another clean sheet, Pope played an absolutely vital role in the Magpies winning three points.

The Toon goalkeeper bounced back after a big error against West Ham on Wednesday night, producing a performance that has summed up his first season on Tyneside.

The 30-year-old saved a penalty from Ivan Toney midway through the first half. It was a routine stop for Pope, who becomes just the second goalkeeper to ever save a spot kick from the 27-year-old.

Pope also made some pivotal contributions in the second half, commanding his box as the Bees went in search of an equaliser. He relieved so much pressure, and was one of Newcastle’s best players at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Eddie Howe heaps praise on Nick Pope’s performance

After the game, Howe spoke to NUFC TV. He was asked about Pope taking the pressure off of the defence in the final stages of the game.

“He did, it’s what he’s been doing all season,” he said.

“The save from Ivan Toney can’t be underestimated how good that is, from someone who rarely misses.

“His command of his box, whether he’s catching or punching or sweeping up behind the back line was first class.

“He’s been absolutely magnificent for us this season.”

Pope stood up on a tough afternoon

Newcastle were really poor in the first half, while they had to dig in and defend in the second half. Throughout the entire 90 minutes, Pope stood up and dealt with pretty much everything that came at him.

Brentford found a way past the goalkeeper on two occasions. The first was offside, and the second was another penalty – and there was no chance Toney was going to miss twice from 12 yards.

But it was an excellent overall performance from Pope, who has had some shaky moments ever since he was sent off against Liverpool. He was lucky not to receive another red card against Wolves, while he was at fault for Kurt Zouma’s goal when we beat West Ham.

Despite those missteps, Pope has enjoyed a sensational first season with Newcastle United. He has been absolutely immense, and won his new side plenty of points. He did just that on Saturday, with his efforts lifting the Magpies back into third.