Newcastle United proved as chaotic as ever on Saturday.
The defensive problems Newcastle have endured of late certainly continued when Bournemouth came to town, with the Cherries twice taking the lead against Eddie Howe’s side.
Anthony Gordon and Matt Ritchie, however, ensured Newcastle left the game with at least something.
The joint-best defence in the Premier League last season is now being breached with relative and regular ease but Newcastle do remain capable of scoring goals, even without either of their senior strikers on the pitch.
Indeed, while dropping more points at home was certainly disappointing, Ritchie’s late leveller was something to savour.
It seems the fans in the stadium did.
Matt Ritchie: What Newcastle fans were chanting in stoppage time vs Bournemouth
According to Lee Ryder of The Chronicle on X (formerly Twitter), supporters were chanting: “Ritchie’s staying 10 years.”
Matt Ritchie goal: Newcastle boost
It would be reactionary to suggest Ritchie could yet play a pivotal role during what remains of the season, as positive as it was to see him score his first goal in four years.
Still, it’s another example of a player stepping up when they’re needed.
Few would have expected much when the former Bournemouth man replaced Miguel Almiron during the dying embers of the game but it was Ritchie who saved the day.
The likes of Lewis Miley and Tino Livramento have also excelled when called upon this season. Though obviously younger players than Ritchie, they have arguably exceeded expectations at times.
Jamaal Lascelles has also impressed when called upon, underlining the sterling work Howe has done in keeping players committed to the cause.
That may prove to be Ritchie’s last big moment as a Newcastle player of course but it would still be a fantastic way to sign off.
Newcastle aren’t perfect but there are big characters in this squad.
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