Newcastle United suffered another setback, losing 2-1 to Crystal Palace after conceding two late goals. The defeat raises further questions about Eddie Howe’s future at the club. This result leaves Newcastle in 14th place.
Familiar Problems Haunt Newcastle
The game at Selhurst Park followed a familiar pattern for Newcastle. The team surrendered a lead and ultimately succumbed to defeat. Dazed players and staff made their way to applaud the supporters after the match.
This latest loss comes on the heels of a damaging Tyne-Wear derby defeat. Howe acknowledged the fans’ frustration, saying, “I understand there’s anger and frustration. I’m not blind to anything.”
Missed Opportunity After Training Break
The timing of the defeat is particularly frustrating for Howe. The team had the benefit of a three-week break to work with Howe on the training pitches. It was hoped this period would allow Howe and his staff to improve the team.
Ben Foster, a Match of the Day pundit, suggested that the unusual scheduling may lead to unpredictable results. “It’s hard to get into a rhythm of things when you haven’t played for such a long time,” he said. “It depends where you are in the league but I think for some teams it suits them better to have a game every three or four days rather than three weeks off.”
Despite some players being away on international duty, the break was seen as an opportunity to regroup. Crystal Palace, in contrast, had played in Europe on Thursday and benched key players. Jean-Philippe Mateta, one of those benched players, came on to score twice and turn the game around.
Howe Takes Responsibility
Howe acknowledged his own responsibility for the team’s performance. “I always have to look at myself first,” Howe said. “I always say that. I’m number one accountable.”
Howe had made six changes to the starting line-up, dropping Dan Burn and Kieran Trippier and naming a younger team. A response was needed after the defeat against Sunderland.
Newcastle’s Inability to Hold a Lead
- Newcastle United have dropped five more points from winning positions than any other side in the Premier League
There is little to suggest Newcastle are about to finally go on a run and qualify for Europe.