Eddie Howe’s post-match reflections following a nervy 2–1 win over Burnley. Newcastle looked in complete control at half-time, two goals up and facing 10 men, yet the match descended into an uncomfortable finale as Burnley threatened to snatch a point at St James’ Park.
Goals from Bruno Guimarães and Anthony Gordon put the Magpies on course for a routine victory before Lucas Pires’ red card appeared to seal Burnley’s fate. But a handball from Jacob Ramsey allowed Zian Flemming to halve the deficit from the penalty spot, and moments later the same player squandered a huge chance — unmarked and yards from goal — as Newcastle hung on.
Howe, despite acknowledging the three points and a strong recent run of 10 points from 12, made it clear his side were “far from our best”.
Howe: “That was an uncomfortable ending — we have to learn from it”
Speaking after the match, Howe offered honest reflection on a performance that wavered dramatically between control and chaos.
“That was an uncomfortable ending for us. We have to improve our management of games at the latter stages — today that nearly cost us. That wasn’t a good period of the game for us.” — Eddie Howe
He admitted Newcastle fell below recent standards, even if victory softened the frustration.
“It wasn’t our finest performance. We navigated a game where we didn’t play well and we won. It’s 10 points from 12 and we have to be more positive with our league position, but we’re still battling to find our best form.” — Eddie Howe
Set-piece vulnerability returns as Newcastle concede from another corner sequence
Howe’s clearest criticism centred on an ongoing defensive weakness. The penalty Burnley earned stemmed from Newcastle’s inability to clear a corner — the second match in a row set plays have caused damage. Against Tottenham midweek, Cristian Romero headed home a late equaliser from a similar scenario.
“Well, I think it’s to do with defending corners currently. That’s our issue. Today was a bizarre one — we shouldn’t allow the opponent to get the first contact. Then there’s a handball in the box.” — Eddie Howe
Howe stressed that numerical advantage means nothing if the basics are missing.
“Any set play becomes… the 10 v 11 is irrelevant. You’ve got to put your head on the ball before the opponent does, and we haven’t done that well enough in the last two games.” — Eddie Howe
Howe points to youth and experience gaps
Newcastle finished the match with a notably young XI, something Howe believes influenced their late-game management difficulties.
“Our problem in recent weeks has been defending set plays, but the game management side is always linked to the experience of your team. At the end, it was quite youthful, so there’s stuff for individuals to learn from.” — Eddie Howe
Injuries across the squad have forced Howe to rely more heavily on emerging players, which brings energy but also inconsistency — especially in high-pressure defensive moments.
Newcastle must fix set-piece fragility before it costs more points
From my experience covering Newcastle, Howe’s insistence on addressing set pieces is justified. In our view, their zonal-personal hybrid system often leaves dangerous spaces exposed when they fail to win the first contact. Although some fans may argue the penalty was harsh, the deeper concern is why Burnley earned consecutive phases in the six-yard area.
It’s worth questioning whether Newcastle’s best aerial defenders are being used optimally, or if the growing number of young players in key moments has disrupted the structure. The good news: these are coachable adjustments, not systemic flaws.
Why this win still matters
Despite a dip in performance, winning while playing below par is the mark of a side with strong foundations. The return of Gordon’s goal involvement, Guimarães’ leadership and Howe’s willingness to address weaknesses publicly are all indicators of a healthy dressing room. Fix the set pieces, and Newcastle’s trajectory remains upward.
Key Insights
- Howe Newcastle set-piece issue: manager calls late collapse “bizarre”.
- Newcastle led 2–0 against 10 men but allowed Burnley back into the game.
- Set plays have cost goals in consecutive matches vs Spurs and Burnley.
- Howe says youthful side needs to improve game management.
- Newcastle take 10 points from 12 despite a dip in performance level.
What’s Next
Newcastle turn their attention to upcoming fixtures looking to tighten up defensively and avoid repeat scenarios. Howe will demand sharper set-piece structure and better late-game control as the race for European places heats up.
👉 Newcastle fans — is set-piece defending the only big concern, or is there more to fix?
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