Newcastle’s home winless streak in the Premier League was extended to 10 games as Brentford came from behind to beat G-Tech 3-1.
Harvey Barnes gave them the lead just before the end of the half-hour mark, but Keith Andrews’ side turned the game around with a header from Kevin Shade from a Michael Cayode throw-in and a double from Igor Thiago.
Dan Byrne was also sent off for a second offense, rubbing salt into the wound for the Magpies, who have not won an away league game at St James’s Park since April.
Heading into the contest, the pressure was on manager Eddie Howe’s side following an “unrecognizable” performance in the final league game against West Ham.
Their task was far from easy with Anthony Gordon out with injury, but Barnes made up for his absence with the first quality moments of the contest.
The forward showed great composure to cut inside several defenders before firing a shot past Caoihin Kelleher to give the visitors the lead in the run of play.
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Dango Ouattara was booked for an apparent challenge by Dan Byrne inside the penalty area.
Brentford continued to search for reliable long throws and were finally rewarded early in the second half.
Kevin Shade tied the game at 1-1 early in the second half.
Kayode’s shot inside the six-yard box was flicked by Nick Pope and Shade headed home from close range, equaling the Bees’ ninth goal from a throw since the start of last season.
The Bees thought they had been awarded a penalty as Dango Ouattara went down under a challenge by Byrne moments later, but the winger was registered for simulation despite replays showing there had been contact.
Ten minutes later, Byrne was not as lucky, this time being shown a second yellow, winning a spot-kick after a bouncing ball was brought down by Ouattara, but after a long delay, Thiago calmly tucked it in, but the Brazilian sealed the comeback with another goal deep in stoppage time.
Brentford’s Igor Thiago celebrates after scoring his second goal
The result moved Brentford within reach of the top half of the Premier League table, while Newcastle moved just two points clear of the relegation zone.
Howe: “The players lack confidence”
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe has insisted his team’s lack of wins in away games has affected his players’ confidence following recent defeats on the road.
Newcastle’s last away win in the Premier League was against Leicester City in April and Howe believes his players must stick together.
“My initial feeling after today’s game was different to West Ham,” Howe said.
“I thought the players were there and present and physically giving their all to the game.
“But I think it was clear if you watched Newcastle regularly that we lacked confidence today.
“There were a lot of technical mistakes, which were completely different to us, especially in the middle of the pitch, where we are usually very fluent, and that helped put pressure on us.”
“I think it’s really important to support the players today and we know we’re good players. We know we’ve got a really good team, but we just need to stay united during this difficult time.”
Howe also confirmed that both Anthony Gordon and Nick Pope will miss international duty due to injury.
Gordon missed the game due to a trip to G-Tech, while Pope left the game midway through the second half with a concussion and will now follow concussion protocols.
Andrews: “The penalty call didn’t change the game”
Brentford manager Keith Andrews refused to get drawn into the officiating controversy surrounding the match, insisting it had no effect on the result.
Brentford were controversially denied a penalty when Dango Ouattara was booked for diving, but won a minute later, with Dan Byrne receiving a second yellow card.
“I intentionally didn’t look back at them because I didn’t want that to be the main thing I discussed,” Andrews said.
“I don’t think that was the main reason why the fight was decided. Some people may disagree with that.
“Officials obviously have a difficult job. Every challenge, every piece, there’s a lot going on in the game.
“As I’ve said before regarding some controversial issues, I don’t want to be the type of head coach who criticizes the officials. I just don’t think that’s right. It’s a difficult job at the best of times.”
