It would be difficult to argue that Newcastle United deserved anything at Tottenham.
Eddie Howe’s side remain a frustrating one to analyse. Yes, the injury crisis has not helped matters but it does not explain why Newcastle have struggled on the road so much this season.
Still, and while not to take anything away from Spurs, there was a flashpoint towards the end of the game.
Indeed, defender Cristian Romero was booked for a tackle on Callum Wilson, though it could have arguably have been a red.
Gary Neville on commentary certainly thought as much, with Wilson getting up off the ground before Romero planted his foot on his ankle.
“He’s mad him, honestly,” Neville told Sky Sports.
“Absolutely mad. I think it’s a red card at first look. He’s crazy, Romero. He always has to tackle. Slowing players down doesn’t come into his head.
“For me it’s a red. I have very little sympathy with him. He’s just gone straight over the ball into his ankle. He’s defenseless.”
After the game, Howe addressed the decision not to send Romero off.
Cristian Romero: Eddie Howe addresses Tottenham defender’s tackle on Newcastle star Callum Wilson
Speaking to BBC Sport (18:58 GMT) after the game, Howe said: “I was pleased to see Callum get up from that because it looked dangerous. But we can’t use that as an excuse.”
Cristian Romero: Tottenham star lucky – but it wouldn’t have changed much
To suggest Romero going off at that late stage of the game would have changed the complexion of the final result would of course be too much.
Still, it can equally be true that the Argentine got away with one too. Hardly without a reputation for his physicality and intensity, it was a nasty challenge.
Thankfully, Wilson was fine to continue and could lead the line against AC Milan on Wednesday, with Alexander Isak fairly anonymous against Spurs.
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