Newcastle United are not a team who lie down.
For the third game in a row, Newcastle have had to scrap for points, twice coming from behind to earn a draw at home to Bournemouth on Saturday.
Clearly, getting a point out of the Cherries at St James’ Park is hardly cause for huge celebration but the context is important.
Eddie Howe was without his two senior strikers, as well as a raft of midfielders. While the defensive frailty that has defined the last few weeks remains frustrating, this team have at least proven their battling qualities.
Indeed, goals from Anthony Gordon and a certain Matt Ritchie rescued at least something.
Now, Gordon has praised his veteran teammate.
Matt Ritchie: Newcastle news
Gordon was full of praise for Ritchie, who was serenaded by supporters following his first goal in four years.
Speaking to Andy Sixsmith (via X, formerly Twitter), Gordon said: “Matt Ritchie defines what our group is.
“So professional. Good people get good rewards. People like him is why we got a result today. We don’t want to be that team though; I know it’s dramatic and entertaining but we don’t want to be conceding as many as we score. We have to fix it.”
Matt Richie: £12m Newcastle bargain
Paying £12m for Ritchie in 2016 has proven to be a masterstroke.
A crucial figure in getting Newcastle back into the Premier League under Rafa Benitez, the former Scotland international has been a remarkable servant to the club.
Quite how much he will be involved between now and the end of the season remains to be seen of course but it is fantastic to see him still capable of making a difference.
This is a squad not afraid to mix it. It may not be perfect but their character can hardly be questioned.
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