Two days after the first game of the season, Jamaal Lascelles has reflected on the 1-0 defeat to Arsenal.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s goal was enough to give Arsenal the win, capitalising on a mix up between Paul Dummett and summer signing Jetro Willems.
The skipper was unable to inspire a comeback from his team, who looked all over the place in the second half following a couple of substitutions.
In the aftermath, fans have been heavily critical of the Magpies. A side that always had a game plan under Rafa Benitez looked clueless in Steve Bruce’s first competitive game.
But Lascelles believes there were some positives to take from the performance.
He tweeted: “Few days to reflect on the game… was a tough one to take. Good signs, and some learnings. Onto Saturday!”
The result really was tough to take. Arsenal were nowhere near their best, and it was a great chance for us to start the season strongly. And in the first half, we looked capable of getting something from the game.
Despite the immediate reaction to the defeat, there were some positives to take. Joelinton did really well, while Miguel Almiron was his usual positive self.
The big issue was the tactical blunder in the second half. Why Steve Bruce thought it was a good idea to name zero centre midfielders on the bench when he uses a system that relies on three centre midfielders is anyone’s guess.
You can guarantee it’s a mistake he won’t make again, starting against Norwich on Saturday.
Even though it’s the second game, there is a lot of pressure on Newcastle to get a result. Bruce needs three points quickly to get fans on his side after a disastrous start for the new manager.
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