Manager Eddie Howe conceded Newcastle United were below their best as they fell 2-1 at home to Arsenal today.
The Magpies took the lead against the run of play through Nick Woltemade’s header after 34 minutes.
Mikel Merino equalised in the 84th minute before Gabriel Magalhaes struck deep into stoppage time to hand Arsenal all three points.
The victory ended Arsenal’s poor run at St James’ Park, having lost their previous three visits.
‘We gave everything, but weren’t at our best’
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Howe praised his team’s effort but admitted the performance was lacking.
“I thought we tried,” Howe said. “We gave everything to the game. It was really physical.
“I don’t think we were at our best today, being honest. Arsenal played very well.
“We had our chances in the game, and we took the lead. We were desperate to try and hang on to that lead.”
He singled out goalkeeper Nick Pope for keeping Newcastle in contention with key interventions.
“Nick [Pope] made some good saves for us, but it wasn’t to be, and we conceded set-pieces at the end, Howe added. “It was so disappointing..
The defeat leaves Newcastle 15th in the Premier League table with just one win from their opening six games.
They will now turn their attention to Europe, where they face a crucial trip to Belgium to meet Union Saint-Gilloise in the Champions League.
