For the second time in the space of just under a week, Newcastle United were hit with heartbreak in cup competition.
After taking a lead against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup at Stamford Bridge, a late mistake from Kieran Trippier allowed the Blues to force the quarter-final to a penalty shootout.
Trippier then missed to compound his mistake before Matt Ritchie saw his spot-kick saved as Newcastle threw another game.
Eddie Howe’s side now have only the FA Cup to target in terms of realistic silverware this season, while they face a battle to get back into top four.
Perhaps what was so gutting about the defeat to Chelsea was just how close the team came. Granted, it was hardly the most swashbuckling performance but there were real moments of defensive solidity.
As was picked up by Sky Sports commentator Don Goodman.
Bruno Guimaraes: Newcastle star praised for block vs Chelsea
Indeed, before the late turnaround, Bruno Guimaraes prevented what was surely a certain goal.
Raheem Sterling had a shot from point-blank range before the Brazilian put his body on the line to block it with his groin and duly celebrated it as if it were a goal.
Goodman was impressed, telling the Sky Sports broadcast: “It is brilliant! It is a goal-saving block from Bruno! His anticipation and desire to stop it going in the goal was impressive.”
Bruno Guimaraes: The £40m bargain for Newcastle
It’s hard to put a positive spin on what happened on Tuesday evening of course.
Still, moments like that only underline just what a bargain Newcastle got when they spent a reported £40m on the midfielder.
He’s capable of moments of real magic, just as he pulled off against Fulham on Saturday, but is not afraid to celebrate the less glamorous moments of the game.
It’s that kind of spirit that will help Newcastle get through their sticky patch.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
