Yahoo Sports Howe reacts to controversial red card as Newcastle scrape past Southampton
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is unconvinced Fabian Schar deserved a red card during Saturday’s 1-0 win over Southampton at St James’ Park.
The Swiss international clashed with Ben Brereton Diaz in the first half before leaning his head into the Saints forward, earning him his marching orders.
That forced the Magpies to play with ten men for over an hour, but they were able to score the decisive goal just before the break.
After intercepting a loose pass from goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, Alexander Isak found Joelinton in the box and the Brazilian slotted it home.
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“It wasn’t an enjoyable game to experience,” Howe told BBC Match of the Day. “The result is unbelievable for us, but how we got there was very, very difficult. The sending off changed the game completely.
“We knew what type of game it would be. Before the sending off we had our moments, but we weren’t in control of the game. I don’t know if a sending off ever truly helps you, but it gets the crowd to inspire you – and that made a difference.
“Last season we scored a huge amount of goals but conceded too many. The guys with ten men produced a really good defensive performance. To a man we were blocking shots, we were covering space very well. On another day we could have played better with the ball.”
Howe continued: “The big question is, do you want a red card for that? Does Fabi’s action alone warrant a red card? I’m not sure.”
The 46-year-old praised the performance of Bruno Guimaraes, who had previously been linked with a move away from Newcastle during the summer transfer window but looks set to remain at the club.
“Defensively he covered every blade of grass. He was immense today.”
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