Newcastle United supervisor Eddie Howe has admitted his staff weren’t at their greatest as they misplaced 2-1 to Arsenal on Sunday.
Nick Woltemade gave the Magpies the lead with a fantastic header within the first half at St James’ Park.
Though the hosts scored towards the run of play, the Gunners fought again to take all three factors within the second half.
Substitute Mikel Merino and Gabriel Magalhães scored as Arsenal moved into second place, two factors behind leaders Liverpool.
Howe accepted Newcastle weren’t at their greatest on the day, regardless of some wonderful saves from goalkeeper Nick Pope.
“I don’t suppose we have been at our greatest right this moment, being sincere. Arsenal performed very effectively,” Howe stated.
“We had our possibilities within the sport and we took the lead and we have been determined to try to dangle on to that lead.
“Nick [Pope] made some good saves for us, however it wasn’t to be, and we conceded set-pieces on the finish. It was so disappointing.”
