Rodri’s absence was always going to unsettle Manchester City, but Newcastle United were fully aware that their Premier League clash would still rank as one of the toughest encounters of the season. Despite missing City’s influential midfielder, Newcastle knew they were up against formidable opposition and would need to bring their A-game. However, the Magpies rose to the challenge, playing with confidence and determination in front of a roaring St. James’ Park crowd. They secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw, rallying from a first-half deficit to level the score through Anthony Gordon’s penalty. Although Newcastle piled on the pressure late in the game, a winning goal eluded them.
Eddie Howe will undoubtedly be pleased with the spirited performances on display, especially given the absence of key striker Alexander Isak due to injury. Gordon stepped up in his place, proving to be a crucial figure in the match.
### Anthony Gordon Shines in Isak’s Absence
With Isak sidelined by a frustrating toe injury, Gordon took on the responsibility of leading the attack. Known for his dynamism, Gordon had previously played as a striker on occasion and was trusted to fill that role against the reigning champions.
While it wasn’t a flawless display from the England international, Gordon’s efforts were vital to Newcastle’s success. He won and calmly converted the second-half penalty, earning the Magpies a valuable point and bringing their total to 11 points from six games—just three behind Pep Guardiola’s City. Gordon’s penalty prowess is becoming well-known, as this marked his seventh Premier League penalty won since the start of last season, making him the most fouled player in the league in this regard—far ahead of second-placed Raheem Sterling with three.
Aside from the penalty, Gordon contributed two key passes and won four duels, according to Sofascore. However, his spot-kick was his only shot of the match, which raises the question: had Isak been available, could his sharp instincts and predatory finishing have provided the edge Newcastle needed to claim victory?
### Bruno Guimaraes Steals the Show in Midfield
While Rodri’s absence gave Newcastle a bit more breathing room in midfield, Bruno Guimaraes seized the opportunity to remind everyone why he’s considered one of the Premier League’s top midfielders. After a shaky performance last week at Craven Cottage, where a mistake from Guimaraes led to Fulham’s third goal in Newcastle’s first defeat of the season, the Brazilian was eager to make amends.
And make amends he did, with a commanding display in the middle of the park. The *Shields Gazette* awarded Guimaraes an impressive 8/10 match rating, highlighting his influential presence and noting: “Imposed himself well against a strong City midfield. Had some good moments on the ball and played Gordon through. A good response to a difficult match last time out at Fulham.”
Though City were missing Rodri, they still fielded world-class midfielders like Mateo Kovacic and Rico Lewis, who held their own by winning 55% of the game’s ground duels. Yet, much of Newcastle’s resilience in midfield battles was thanks to Guimaraes, who won an impressive number of duels and acted as a stalwart presence, breaking up City’s attacks with ease. But Guimaraes wasn’t just about physicality—he showcased his technical ability as well, completing all four of his dribbles successfully, adding a layer of finesse to his gritty display.
### Moving Forward: Signs of Progress for Newcastle
With challenging fixtures against Everton and Brighton & Hove Albion on the horizon, Newcastle will be looking to build on this performance and secure more victories in the coming weeks. This result against Manchester City should provide the team with confidence, demonstrating that they can hold their own against the very best in the league.
The draw showed that the Magpies are beginning to find their rhythm, with key players like Gordon and Guimaraes stepping up in important moments. Newcastle’s ability to rally and put pressure on City without some of their top stars also speaks volumes about the depth of Eddie Howe’s squad.
Although the team may have been left wondering what could have been had Isak been fit, this match was a clear indicator that Newcastle are starting to click into gear. Their hard-fought draw against the reigning champions serves as a testament to their growing confidence and determination, setting them up well for the challenges ahead.