Newcastle do the bare minimum in a draw vs. 10-man Fulham

Despite playing with a man advantage for more than 30 minutes, Newcastle United couldn’t find a winner vs. Fulham.

Newcastle United were back on the pitch today after their blowout loss vs. Leeds United midweek. They followed that performance up with another dud as they couldn’t capitalize on playing most of the second half up a man.

Matt Ritchie’s face knocked the ball in his own goal in the first half to put Fulham up 1-0. Then, around the hour mark, Joachim Andersen fouled Callum Wilson in the area and was sent off as Wilson converted the chance from the spot.

Another Dismal Display

When the clubs each had 11 men on the pitch, Fulham were clearly the better and more positive side. For Newcastle United, that’s unacceptable, especially at home.

Then, you go up a man and can’t find a goal vs. a club only outside of the relegation zone based on goal differential. It’s a point, but it’s FAR from inspiring or encouraging for Steve Bruce.

Despite the extended time after Andersen was sent off, Newcastle still finished the match with less possession. They also finished even on shots and shots on goal against a Fulham side that’s nowhere near a powerhouse. Bruce will likely give the same responses after this match and won’t accept that a new style is needed. All points aren’t created equal and that was a really disappointing one for Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.

What’s Next?

Another quick turnaround as Newcastle United will play Brentford on Tuesday in the EFL Cup quarterfinals. Brentford currently reside in fourth on the Championship table.