Newcastle United defender Matt Targett believes the Everton game was a missed opportunity.
The Magpies went into the clash full of confidence, looking to bounce back after defeat to Chelsea on the weekend. They faced an Everton side that were desperate for a result, in front of a restless crowd that has watched their club slump into a relegation battle.
It was another chance for Newcastle to show how far they’ve come under Eddie Howe, but they blew it. A strong first half wasn’t followed up, and a late Alex Iwobi goal ensured the three points went to Everton.
The second half was really disappointing from a Newcastle perspective. The Toffees even went down to 10 men, but we didn’t capitalise at all. If anything, we got worse.
Matt Targett assesses Newcastle’s defeat to Everton
After the game, Targett spoke to NUFC TV and discussed his emotions after the defeat.
“I think first half we edged it with a few good chances,” Targett told NUFC TV.
“Maybe we could’ve done better on a couple. Second half was a bit disappointing. Probably the first time since I’ve come I’ve felt disappointed, which is not good. It’s an opportunity missed tonight.”
First real low for Newcastle post-January
Last night was the first real low for Toon fans since the Cambridge United fiasco. Back then Kieran Trippier was the only January arrival.
But after that the Magpies added more faces and improved dramatically.
Even the defeat to Chelsea was positive. We played so well at Stamford Bridge, with a couple of dodgy decisions going against us.
But last night was different. We didn’t do ourselves justice at all, especially in the second half. The players are right to be disappointed with their Goodison Park showing – Everton were there for the taking but we didn’t do enough.
Newcastle could have gone 12th with a win last night, but remain 14th. Instead, they’ve been given a timely reminder that safety isn’t assured yet.
Targett was disappointed for the first time since joining Newcastle last night. Hopefully it doesn’t become a regular occurrence.
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