Newcastle United remain just three points above fifth-place Liverpool following a 2-0 defeat to Premier League title challengers Arsenal. Martin Odegaard’s first-half strike and an own goal by Fabian Schar condemned Eddie Howe’s side to defeat.
Liverpool’s win at Brentford yesterday increased the pressure ahead of kick-off, and United are facing a nervy week before visiting Leeds United in next Saturday early kick-off.
The Magpies were awarded a penalty inside the opening 10 minutes when Bruno Guimaraes’ shot struck Jakub Kiwior’s arm. However, after a VAR check at the pitchside monitor, referee Chris Kavanagh controversially overturned his decision.
And moments later, the visitors took the lead when Martin Odegaard’s 25-yard shot found the bottom corner.
United pushed for an equaliser but the game was put to bed in the 71st-minute when Gabriel Martinelli’s cross was diverted into his own net by Fabian Schar.
Here’s our Newcastle United player ratings from the defeat at St James’ Park.
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1. NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MAY 07: Aaron Ramsdale of Arsenal looks on as a shot from Alexander Isak of Newcastle United hits the post whilst under pressure from Ben White during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on May 07, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
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2. Nick Pope - 7
Beaten by Odegaard and a Schar own goal but kept Newcastle in the game during the first-half, twice denying Odegaard and Martinelli. Looked nervous with the ball at his feet. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
3. Kieran Trippier - 7
A composed head down the right in an otherwise rigid backline. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
4. Fabian Schar - 6
Struggled to deal with Arsenal’s pace in behind at times. Denied a goal by an outstanding Ramsdale save before netting an unfortunate own goal. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images