Eddie Howe has criticised referee Andy Madley for failing to award Newcastle United a penalty during their 2-2 draw with Chelsea at St James' Park. The Newcastle manager described the decision as a 'clear error' after Trevoh Chalobah's challenge on Anthony Gordon went unpunished.
With Newcastle leading 2-1, Gordon was bundled into the advertising hoardings by Chalobah in the 54th minute. Madley waved play on, a decision upheld by the video assistant referee. Howe, who is typically restrained in his criticism of officials, was visibly frustrated.
'Anywhere else on the pitch that is a blatant free-kick,' Howe said. 'The defender only focuses on Anthony, not the ball. It was a stonewall penalty and the wrong decision.'
Newcastle had raced into a two-goal lead through Nick Woltemade, but Chelsea fought back with goals from Reece James and Joao Pedro. The result leaves Newcastle having dropped 13 points from winning positions this season, though Howe focused on the positives.
'We played so well, especially in the first half,' he added. 'It's painful to drop two points, but this is further evidence we're moving in the right direction.'
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca felt a draw was a fair outcome. 'After the first half Newcastle deserved to win, but after the second half we deserved to win,' he said. 'It's an important result and I'm happy with the reaction of the players.'
