Newcastle United produced a strong performance and secured a 1-1 draw against Premier League champions Manchester City on Saturday (28 September) at St James’ Park.
The Magpies needed a strong response after losing 3-1 in their previous game against Fulham. They matched City, who were without injured Rodri, toe-to-toe and created some superb chances during the game.
City defender Josko Gvardiol had put the visitors ahead after 35 minutes after being laid off by Jack Grealish.
Newcastle restored parity through a spot-kick from Anthony Gordon, although pundits like Alan Shearer think the penalty decision should not have stood.
In the absence of Alexander Isak, Gordon took the responsibility and he scored a fantastic penalty. He picked his spot brilliantly and made no mistake, with Ederson diving the other way.
Stewart Downing was commentating on the game for BBC Radio 5 Live, and he was seriously impressed by Gordon.
“Great penalty from Gordon. He has been under a lot of pressure but he has got the reward for continuing to make those runs in behind,” said Downing, as quoted by BBC Sport.
Newcastle: Two controversial decisions and some great goalkeeping
For the second game in a row, Man City have dropped points but Pep Guardiola will be worried by the fact that his side has looked short of imagination without Rodri and Kevin de Bruyne.
The top-four race is very tight this season, and Arsenal, Aston Villa and Liverpool should be aiming to move ahead of City this week, should they win their games.
Newcastle are also in the mix, and Eddie Howe will be really pleased with the start they have made this season.
The Magpies, however, will feel that they should have got another penalty decision in their favour when Joelinton was fouled in the box by Kyle Walker.
Nick Pope made a stunning save towards the end of the game to deny Bernando Silva and probably saved the day for the Magpies with that effort.
