Lack of innovation leads to another home draw for Newcastle

The search for the first home win of the season continues as Newcastle United draw 0-0 with Brighton.

Newcastle United were outplayed by Brighton at St. James’ Park and this prompted a roar of boos from the fans in attendance. Once again, the Magpies failed to display an attacking style of play after only creating 11 chances at home against a bottom-half club. The Magpies came to life at the end of the game, but it was too late.

First Half

Brighton dominated the first half, but Newcastle United were fortunate that the visitors failed to score a goal after creating eight chances. The Magpies lacked energy, lost most duels and lacked innovation moving forward. Steve Bruce’s side did come close to scoring on two occasions, but they should have created more scoring opportunities against a mediocre back-line.

Key Moments

• 8‘ – Martin Dubravka made a big save at the near post as Neal Maupay ran past Paul Dummett to take the shot. Fortunately, the shot hit Dubravka in the chest.
• 11′ – Miguel Almiron broke free to lead a counter attack from the wing, and he saw Jetro Willems running into the box, but his through ball was intercepted by Mathew Ryan.
• 17′ – Brighton hit the bar as Jamaal Lascelles blocked a header with his head and the deflection hit the top of the bar and went out for another Brighton corner kick.
• 21′ – Miguel Almiron was inches away from scoring just a few yards from goal, but Mathew Ryan makes a brilliant save.
• 25′ – Martin Dubravka kept the score level with a quick reaction save to keep Neal Maupay’s shot, which was taken 10 feet away from goal, out of the net.
• 30′ – Joelinton almost gave Newcastle United the lead when his header went just wide of the target. Jonjo Shelvey delivered the corner kick and Joelinton was left unmarked. It should have been 1-0.
• 34′ – Brighton scored a goal through Steven Alzate’s header, but the flag went up. NO GOAL.

Second Half

The Magpies were more aggressive in the second half and they sent bodies forward more often, but they did not create meaningful chances. Brighton maintained their level of energy and looked comfortable at both ends of the pitch. The Magpies showed plenty of life in stoppage time, but the winning goal never came.

Key Moments

• 46′ – Newcastle United nearly took the lead a minute into the second half when Joelinton found Christian Atsu a few yards away from goal, but the Ghanaian’s shot went wide of the mark.
• 54′ – Pascal Gross had a good look at goal from outside the box, but his powerful attempt went over the bar as Martin Dubravka jumped to make a save just to be on the safe side.
• 58′ – Miguel Almiron broke free in midfield with some impressive dribbling, passing multiple defenders on his way to goal, but he lacked proper connection on his shot from 16 yards out, which led to a comfortable save for Mathew Ryan.
• 64′ – Jonjo Shelvey enjoyed plenty of space 25 yards away from goal and the midfielder struck a shot on target, but Mathew Ryan followed the shot all the way and made the save.
• 72′ – Allan Saint-Maximin replaced Miguel Almiron. Ki Sung-yueng replaced Jonjo Shelvey.
• 74′ – Brighton were centimeters away from taking the lead when Aaron Connelly chipped Martin Dubravka, but Fabian Schar made an acrobatic clearance off the line.
• 81′ – Andy Carroll made his second debut for Newcastle United and he is welcomed by loud cheers across St. James’ Park. Jetro Willems was subbed off.
• 90′ – Six minutes of stoppage time have been added

What’s Next?

Newcastle United will be on the road next weekend against Leicester City. The Foxes are enjoying a great run of form to start the season with three wins and two draws. The Magpies have won the last two meetings at King Power Stadium, so let’s hope that trend continues. After today’s result, a win against Leicester City could send Newcastle United into the top ten.