Eddie Howe has lauded Newcastle United’s resilient mindset after their dramatic late fightback win over Leeds United in Wednesday’s Premier League encounter.
The Magpies were 3-2 down into stoppage-time, but they scored two late goals to seal a 4-3 victory and move up to sixth on the standings.
Malick Thiaw gave the ball away, allowing Brenden Aaronson to give the visitors the lead in the 32nd minute, but Newcastle hit back for minutes later as Harvey Barnes scored from a Woltemade’s layoff.
Thiaw, at fault for the first, was also penalized for a handball inside the box, allowing Dominic Calvert-Lewin to score in first half stoppage-time as Leeds United took the lead into the break.
“It was one of those classic games here where I don’t think we were at our best, but we showed great character, we kept fighting and always believed we’ve got goals in us”, the Englishman said after the win.
“It turned our way at the end, which is a rare thing for us. We haven’t done it enough this season especially, we’ve gone the other way and lost points from late in the game so it’s great to go the other way today.”
Joelinton pulled the hosts level in the second half, but Aaronson scored his second of the game to put his side back in front.
Bruno Guimaraes made the scoreline 3-3 from the penalty spot in the first minute of added time, before Barnes scored the winner in the 102nd minute to win the game for the Magpies.
It was the latest Premier League winner on record to cap a remarkable performance from the home side.
“It wasn’t a perfect performance, there’s stuff to reflect and improve, but the mentality is the key thing in everything and if you’re losing, you need that ‘never say die’ spirit, especially with the attacking players we’ve got”, Howe added.
“Great to see the substitutes come on and make a difference as well. That’s so pleasing for the squad strength and winning late gives everyone a lift.”
Newcastle United are back in action on Saturday when they face Bournemouth in the FA Cup third round at St James’ Park.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
