Anthony Gordon had the chance to score against former club Everton but his penalty was saved and Newcastle United’s trip to Goodison Park ultimately ended 0-0
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe praised Anthony Gordon for the way he handled another return to Goodison Park despite his penalty miss costing them the chance of victory against Everton. The England international, whose departure from the Toffees in January 2023 was somewhat acrimonious, was denied by former club-mate Jordan Pickford in the 35th minute, with the match finishing goalless.
Gordon was booed throughout but Howe felt his response, unlike last season when he was involved in a post-match scuffle, showed a growing maturity.
“Naturally he will be disappointed but a much better performance from him today than here last year, I thought he dealt with the occasion well,” said Howe, whose side have now gone three matches without a win.
READ MORE: Eddie Howe makes honest Goodison Park confession and classy Everton pleaREAD MORE: Abdoulaye Doucoure ‘does a Keown’ as Everton captain Seamus Coleman gives Craig Pawson what for
“I thought he handled that disappointment really well as I know from personal experience not missing a penalty but making a mistake the moment goes against you and plays on your mind. It can affect you negatively.
“He really learned from last season’s game and international experience. There was a lot of pressure on him on that moment.
“He has been an outstanding penalty taker so I have no issues with him taking it or taking them in the future.
“Anyone can miss a penalty. We absolutely support him and he’s been incredible for us and tactically he gave them a problem.”
Gordon’s chance from the spot came from a crazy decision by James Tarkowski to haul Sandro Tonali to the ground at a corner, but Pickford’s save brought the biggest cheer of the evening.
“It was almost like a goal for them, the crowd were into the game at that moment,” said Howe.