EPL – What We Learned – Newcastle 0 Stoke City 0

EPL – What We Learned – Newcastle 0 Stoke City 0

0
SHARE

Newcastle and Stoke continued their poor 2015-16 records by finishing Saturday night’s outing in a 0-0 draw at St. James’ Park.

The Magpies had several chances to redeem themselves after a 3-0 derby defeat to Sunderland but came up short. Stoke also would have liked to win following a poor loss to newly-promoted Watford the week prior.

Newcastle had the majority of possession and shots on goal but just could not secure a win at home.

The poor performance was highlighted by the Geordies’ lack of composure and Stoke’s absence of attacking danger. The only real chance for the visitors to get the victory was when Jonathan Walters headed the ball and Newcastle’s third choice goalkeeper Rob Elliot dived to make the save.

Bojan went down early in the area and it seemed like a penalty would be given, however, the foul was deemed not to have been in the box and play went on. The controversial incident seemed like a dive to some and a foul to others, but Newcastle’s Alexsandar Mitrovic took the cake when it comes to controversy for a tussle with Phillip Wollscheid.

While players fell on the pitch, Stoke City remained in 14th on the ladder and Newcastle went up one spot but remain in the drop zone It is clear that both teams are under-performing in the Premier League.

Both managers were left frustrated as the season continues to slide by
Both managers were left frustrated as the season continues to slide by

Shot-stoppers are ratings toppers

Jack Butland improved his already great form by obtaining a clean sheet and has a claim for being the man of the match. The England international made at least four or five incredible saves and kept Stoke City from another miserable trip home.

Neither should we forget about Rob Elliot, who is down the pecking order at Newcastle United. He made a great save when he needed, but was relatively undisturbed throughout the 90. Elliot’s plans of being in the Republic of Ireland side will, however, be disturbed as he faces time-off the pitch for shoulder surgery. The custodian was persuaded to play through his pain for this match against Stoke, which makes his save of Walters’ shot seem so much better.

Click NEXT for more major talking poijnts