Newcastle United’s visit to Tottenham Hotspur wasn’t short of controversy.
There was an air of confidence with the Magpies entering the game hoping to make it six consecutive wins in all competitions to continue their European push.
The news that Spurs were enduring an injury crisis was sure to give Eddie Howe’s side even more encouragement.
However, the Magpies were shellshocked when Dominic Solanke scored inside the first four minutes – the first Premier League goal Martin Dubrvaka has conceded in the Premier League this season after keeping four consecutive clean sheets before the Tottenham Hotspur stadium visit.
Newcastle’s equaliser was a controversial one after replays showed the ball struck Joelinton’s arm before Anthony Gordon levelled up the game two minutes after the Magpies went behind.
Alexander Isak gave Newcastle the lead before half-time but a moment in a rather uneventful second half could’ve completely changed the game.
Stephen Warnock says Newcastle should’ve been awarded penalty against Spurs
Gordon needed to make an impression in the game – England head coach Thomas Tuchel was watching on.
A few minutes after the hour mark, Gordon worked his way into the box but was stopped in his tracks after Spurs man Dejan Kulusevski collided with Gordon.
The Englishman went down and cameras showed the 23-year-old a bloody mess from the collision.
There were a few appeals for a penalty from Newcastle but ultimately nothing was given.
Former Liverpool and Aston Villa defender Stephen Warnock commented on the decision on the BBC’s live blog.
“I thought it was a penalty,” Warnock said.
“Dejan Kulusevski clatters into Anthony Gordon with his shoulder and it is a poor decision.”
Gordon, who looked like he had been through the wars was taken off after 78 minutes. It’s unsure whether that was a tactical decision or one that was forced due to the knock.
The moment was checked by VAR, but there was no further action.
Newcastle concern as Sven Botman limps off
Botman declared himself fit for the game against Spurs and was named in the starting line-up for the first time in 10 months.
The Dutchman managed 91 minutes on his return before being forced off. He went down during stoppage time holding his leg.
There was plenty of concern on the bench with Howe taking Botman off for Lloyd Kelly to see out the game.
Commentators for the game suggested it could be cramp but there’s no doubt fans will be hoping for good news after missing a key player for so long.
Thankfully for Newcastle, they were able to hold on and secure a fifth Premier League win in a row.
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