West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta dented Newcastle’s Premier League charge as the Irons rallied from a goal down to draw at St James’ Park.
The 25-year-old Brazilian, a summer target for the Magpies, equalized in the 32nd minute after Callum Wilson ended his 10-game goal drought with an early strike.
A point was all the Hammers deserved after recovering from a poor start in front of 52,256 fans to deny Eddie Howe victory in his 600th game as manager.
The Carabao Cup finalists were without suspended Bruno Guimaraes, and even the introduction of £45million January signing Anthony Gordon for his debut was insufficient.
“Because of our form this season, these types of games feel like defeats,” said Howe, who confirmed record signing Alexander Isak had sat out due to concussion protocols. When you’re in my shoes, it’s critical to see the big picture and other things.
“I have to make sure the players don’t overreact to what is a point. People may describe it as a disappointment, but that depends on your perspective. You can see four draws in five games or 16 games unbeaten.
“I like to be realistic and look at things objectively, not through rose-colored glasses, but I can’t criticize the players for what they’ve delivered this week or today.”
Howe gave £45 million January signing Anthony Gordon his debut as a second-half substitute and was pleased with what he saw from the 21-year-old.
“I was very pleased with him,” he said. Your first move in St James’ Park is critical. His first pass was brilliant, and he injected some life into the game just when we needed it.
“I’m sorry we couldn’t get him in the box and see what he can do closer to the goal, but he did really well when he came on.”
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