St James’ Park rose to its feet even as the scoreboard showed a 2-1 loss to Barcelona in Newcastle United’s Champions League opener.
The home fans, hoarse but proud, chanted their love for the club and applauded the players off the pitch, recognising the effort that had been poured into the contest.
Marcus Rashford struck twice to put the visitors in control, and though Anthony Gordon pulled one back in the 90th minute, Eddie Howe’s men were left to reflect on missed opportunities.
“There was plenty of commitment and passion,” said the Newcastle boss. “It was a solid display but not an exceptional one – and against Barcelona, it must be exceptional. We had two big chances early on that we didn’t take, and when they scored first, it changed everything.”
Echoes of past glory fade
Before kick-off, the East Stand unfurled an AC/DC-inspired banner declaring “Back in black and white” alongside a huge display of Monty the Magpie between two amplifiers, setting the tone for a big European night.
The occasion brought reminders of Newcastle’s famous 3-2 win over Barcelona in 1997, with hat-trick hero Tino Asprilla in the stands and Sir Bobby Robson’s son Mark present, wishing his late father could have witnessed it.
Supporters hoped for another night like the 4-1 victory over Paris St-Germain two years ago, and defender Dan Burn had urged his teammates to recreate that same energy.
Yet this time the finishing touch was missing, and record signing Nick Woltemade stayed on the bench for over an hour as Newcastle struggled to convert their chances.
Missed chances prove costly
Woltemade, who had scored the winner against Wolves days earlier before being withdrawn with cramp, was kept in reserve as Gordon led the line in the absence of injured Yoane Wissa.
“I can’t live in that world,” Howe said about the decision. “I have to make calls to protect players. It was hard for Nick because he wanted to start, but I need to ease him in and keep him fit.”
Gordon returned to action despite a domestic suspension, while Anthony Elanga replaced the injured Jacob Murphy to add pace. The pair nearly combined early on, and Harvey Barnes later forced a save from Joan Garcia before firing straight at the goalkeeper from close range.
Those missed openings evoked memories of goalless showings against Aston Villa and Leeds United earlier this season. Howe could only place his hands on his head in frustration as chances went begging.
To compete in this tournament, Newcastle must be ruthless. Their next opportunity comes away to Union Saint-Gilloise next month.
“There was no shortage of bravery,” Howe added. “We’ll review it, improve, and grow from this.”
