Premier League release immediate statement on Newcastle vs Brentford controversy
Newcastle went into the half-time break 2-1 down to Brentford on Saturday.
Eddie Howe‘s side had taken the lead in the 24th minute through Sven Botman, but they were pegged back by Vitaly Janelt.
Newcastle dominated the first half with eight shots to the visitors’ five, although Keith Andrews’ team had more possession.
The Bees were awarded a penalty on the verge of half-time, and Igor Thiago made no mistake from the spot to send his side into the lead.
However, the Magpies could have already found themselves behind after a controversial incident early in the contest.
| Stats | Newcastle | Brentford |
| Possession | 46% | 54% |
| Shots | 8 | 6 |
| Shots on target | 2 | 3 |
| Corners | 7 | 1 |
What did the Premier League say over Newcastle vs Brentford incident?
Brentford appealed for a penalty in the second minute of the clash at St James’ Park, but it was ultimately not awarded.
The referee and the video assistant both felt that the contact from Kieran Trippier on Keane Lewis-Potter was not enough for a spot kick to be given.
The Premier League clarified the official’s position on the matter as they released a statement immediately after the incident.
Taking to X on 7 February, they said: “The referee’s call of no penalty to Brentford was checked and confirmed by VAR – with the contact from Trippier on Lewis-Potter deemed to be minimal with no impact.”
Newcastle need to step it up in the second half
Given their lofty ambitions of qualifying for the Champions League, the hosts need to increase their performance levels once the interval has concluded.
They have had just two shots on target, which is less than the visitors, and that is not good enough for a side that wants to challenge the upper echelons of the top-flight.
Howe needs to have a serious word with his players in the half-time break as a repeat of their first 45 minutes will not result in the outcome that they want and set them back in their progress.
It has not been a good night for those of a black and white persuasion so far, they need to turn it around, if they are to take all three points.
The break may have came at the perfect time as Andrews’ side were starting to pull away with the contest, and it gives time for the hosts to refresh and change their approach, in the hope of getting the right result.
Only time will tell whether they can do so.