A tense and contentious moment took center stage during Newcastle United’s victory against Arsenal. In the second half, Anthony Gordon’s goal secured three points for Eddie Howe’s team in a heated match at St James’ Park, which was marked by rainy conditions and a high level of aggression.
The match saw tensions reaching their peak just before half-time when a robust challenge by Kai Havertz on Sean Longstaff sparked a scuffle involving both players and coaching staff.Stuart Attwell issued a yellow card to Havertz for his tackle, and despite the incident being subject to VAR scrutiny, the decision remained a yellow card, with no upgrade to a red card. This decision sparked extensive discussion among the fans in the stadium and on social media. However, it wasn’t just Havertz’s challenge that left many at St James’ Park frustrated. Attwell also showed yellow cards to Anthony Gordon, Fabian Schar, and Longstaff in the aftermath of the incident. Alan Shearer, Newcastle United’s all-time leading goalscorer, responded to the situation by sharing a tongue-in-cheek message on twitter.
Well done Ref. You’re the man. #NEWARS
— Alan Shearer (@alanshearer) November 4, 2023
Alan Shearer wasn’t the only one to express doubts about some of Stuart Attwell’s decisions on that Saturday evening. Anthony Gordon’s match-winning goal also triggered heated post-match debates, with three VAR checks in the process. The technology first assessed whether Joe Willock had kept the ball in play, then investigated a potential foul by Joelinton, and finally looked at an offside situation involving the eventual goal scorer.
VAR concluded that no foul or offside had occurred, but after the match, Mikel Arteta launched a vehement critique of the decision to award Newcastle’s goal, stating, “How the hell does this goal stand? It’s unbelievable, and I feel embarrassed.”
He continued, “It’s an absolute disgrace that this goal was allowed. For numerous reasons, it’s not a legitimate goal. It’s extremely challenging to compete at this level, and this is an absolute disgrace. They are a top team, but this makes me feel sick.”
Arteta, who has spent 20 years in the country, went on to say, “I’ve been in this country for 20 years, and now I feel ashamed. It’s a disgrace, and there’s too much at stake here. We are striving to achieve remarkable things and perform at the highest level every week. When we’re not good enough, I acknowledge it and take responsibility.”
He concluded by emphasizing, “The outcome is far below the standard this league should uphold and the level at which this league is meant to be contested. It’s not satisfactory. I feel embarrassed to be a part of this.”
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