Anthony Gordon’s controversial penalty earned Newcastle a 1-1 draw with Manchester City at St James’ Park, denting the title favorites’ Premier League campaign early on.
City’s goalkeeper Ederson was booked after an attempt to challenge the ball, denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
Gordon, stepping in as centre forward due to injuries to Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson, calmly sent Ederson the wrong way to level the match.
Substitute Phil Foden had City’s best chance to restore their lead, but his shot from an Erling Haaland flick was saved by Nick Pope.
The Newcastle keeper later made a strong save from a powerful Bernardo Silva shot, but overall, it was a below-par performance from Pep Guardiola’s side.
City, missing key players Rodri (ruled out for the season) and Kevin De Bruyne, struggled to break through Newcastle’s solid defense.
However, they led at halftime after Josko Gvardiol slotted home from inside the box, following a well-worked move from Jack Grealish.
There was concern earlier in the game when Erling Haaland sustained a nasty ankle injury after being caught by Dan Burn’s studs, but the striker was able to continue despite the injury.
City, who have previously lost their last four Premier League games without Rodri and De Bruyne, avoided a fifth straight defeat, but will leave the North East frustrated by the missed opportunity to secure three points.
