Newcastle United legend Les Ferdinand was blown away by one Toon player during the defeat to Manchester United.
It was a night of agonizing lows for the Magpies, as they were beaten 3-2 by a Manchester United side that were made to look much better than they actually are.
Defensive errors cost Newcastle United, while fans will also point to the terrible decision not to give Anthony Gordon a penalty after a clear foul by Sofyan Amrabat.
But there also a few positives to take from the trip to Old Trafford. Lewis Hall’s record-equalling goal was outstanding, as was the overall performance from Gordon.
Anthony Gordon was exceptional for Newcastle against Man United
The 23-year-old was Newcastle’s best player against Manchester United, as he continued his mission to force his way into Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the Euros.
Gordon played with so much responsibility on Wednesday night, wanting to be the difference maker for his side.
And he was briefly just that, netting an equaliser for Newcastle shortly after half time. He got on the end of a great cross from Jacob Murphy to make it 1-1, and it was a goal that really impressed Sir Les.
Les Ferdinand loved Anthony Gordon’s goal
Les Ferdinand knows a thing or two about scoring goals, and he explained to Optus Sport why he really enjoyed Gordon’s strike.
“Great ball from Murphy and this is an absolutely fantastic finish,” he said.
“I can’t tell you how good this is. Real difficult skill. He’s hit this on the outside of his boot. The momentum takes it in. It’s a great cross and it’s a great finish to keep that down.”
The former Toon striker then went on to praise Gordon further, and stated that he thought Newcastle were going to kick on after the former Everton man had dragged them level.
Ferdinand added: “His numbers are fantastic. And so is his energy and what he brings to the side. Once he scored that goal, you felt like they can go on and get a few more. They’ve had a bit of a telling off in the changing room and they’re going to take it on from there.”
Newcastle did not take advantage of Gordon goal
Newcastle started the second half brilliantly, and it was only a matter of time before Gordon found the net. It was his 11th Premier League goal of the season, and his second of the campaign against Manchester United.
This was similar to his first, albeit a bit more difficult. Gordon showed great anticipation to get in at the back post, and his finish was sublime.
At that point in the game, Newcastle had momentum. They were on top and had Man United on the ropes. Eddie Howe’s side were playing as they were expected to, and it felt like only a matter of time before they took the lead.
But they were unable to, with defensive errors costing the Magpies. A cheap corner was conceded, and that resulted in Amad Diallo restoring Man United’s lead after Murphy’s poor clearance.
Gordon’s efforts were all for nothing, and now Newcastle’s European ambitions are hanging by a thread heading into the final game of the season.
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