Heading to St James’ Park is always a challenging fixture, but Tottenham Hotspur left feeling particularly aggrieved after suffering a defeat at the hands of Newcastle United.
Despite dominating much of the game, especially in the second half, Spurs couldn’t convert their possession into goals, leading to frustration and disappointment.
Ange Postecoglou’s team made a significant tactical shift after halftime that seemed poised to change the course of the game. Brennan Johnson was brought on to play on the right wing, with Pape Matar Sarr making way. Johnson’s introduction had an immediate impact, providing Spurs with greater width and pace in their attacks. His presence forced Newcastle to adjust their defensive setup, and Tottenham began to apply more sustained pressure on the Magpies’ defense.
However, for all their improved play, Spurs struggled to find the back of the net. This mirrored their experience in the opening game of the season against Leicester City, where they dominated but were left frustrated with a draw. The match at St James’ Park followed a similar pattern, with Tottenham creating numerous opportunities but failing to capitalize.
The game was ultimately decided by fine margins. Spurs conceded a sloppy goal in the first half, which came despite their overall control of the match. Harvey Barnes, who was clinical throughout, capitalized on a defensive lapse to score what would prove to be the decisive goal. His finish was undoubtedly excellent, but it highlighted a momentary lapse in Spurs’ defensive organization.
Daniel Sturridge Alarmed by Cristian Romero’s Role in Newcastle’s Opening Goal
One of the key moments in the match came from an unexpected source of controversy: Cristian Romero’s decision-making. During Sky Sports’ halftime coverage, pundit Daniel Sturridge expressed his astonishment at Romero’s role in Newcastle’s opening goal. Sturridge could barely believe the Argentine’s decision to chase the ball after clearing a defensive corner. While Sturridge acknowledged Romero’s courage and intent, he questioned the wisdom of the move.
Romero, who was acquired for £43 million, pressed Newcastle’s Tino Livramento all the way from the box to the sidelines. In doing so, he left his central defensive position, which opened up space in the middle of the park. When Newcastle quickly transitioned into attack, Romero was caught out of position. Barnes, seizing the opportunity, positioned himself where Romero should have been and executed a perfect finish.
Sturridge was impressed by Barnes’ composure and skill but remained critical of Romero’s overzealous pressing. He noted, “He’s pressing like a mad man, which I actually respect to be fair because the intention is good, trying to put pressure on the ball. He expects Livramento to play it back, but Livramento has the ability to manipulate the ball.” Sturridge continued, “As the play develops, you see Harvey Barnes in the center of the pitch, almost playing like a number 10. Fantastic cross into the box and the finish, man – got to give him respect for that fantastic finish first time.”
Micky van de Ven Sorely Missed for Tottenham at St James’ Park
One of the more notable absences for Tottenham in this match was Micky van de Ven. The Dutch center-back has quickly established himself as a crucial player for Spurs, known for his tireless running and composure at the back. Without Van de Ven, Tottenham’s defense looked less assured, and his absence was keenly felt against a determined Newcastle side.
Radu Dragusin was tasked with filling in for Van de Ven and had moments where he performed admirably. However, the lack of a natural left-sided center-back was evident. Van de Ven’s ability to read the game, combined with his pace and strength, has been a key component of Tottenham’s defensive setup. His absence forced Postecoglou to shift Cristian Romero to the left side of the central defense, a role that is not his natural position.
Romero’s struggle in this unfamiliar role was apparent, particularly in the moments leading up to Barnes’ goal. Van de Ven’s presence might have prevented the space from opening up in the first place, potentially altering the outcome of the match. Alan Shearer recently described Van de Ven as ‘tireless,’ a trait that Spurs could have certainly used in the heated environment of St James’ Park.
The decision not to recruit specialized cover for Van de Ven during the transfer window could come back to haunt Tottenham as the season progresses. While Dragusin is a competent defender, he lacks the left-footed balance and positional awareness that Van de Ven brings to the side. It’s a gap that Postecoglou was reportedly keen to fill, and Sunday’s match highlighted why it might have been a mistake not to address this need more urgently.
Moving Forward: Lessons for Tottenham
As Tottenham reflects on the match, there will be a mixture of frustration and lessons to be learned. The team showed that they can dominate possession and create chances, even in difficult away fixtures. However, converting those chances into goals remains an issue that needs addressing if Spurs are to challenge for honors this season.
Postecoglou will also need to consider how to manage the defensive side of his team, especially when key players like Van de Ven are unavailable. The balance between pressing aggressively and maintaining defensive solidity is a delicate one, and finding the right approach will be crucial in the coming weeks.
Ultimately, while the defeat at Newcastle was a setback, there were positives to take away. Spurs demonstrated resilience and the ability to adapt tactically, even if the final result didn’t go their way. With the right adjustments and a bit more clinical finishing, Tottenham can bounce back and continue their push up the Premier League table.
