Howe Acknowledges Newcastle’s Shortcomings in Draw Against Wolves

Eddie Howe acknowledged that his team struggled with quality in the final moments during a goalless draw with Wolves.

Newcastle’s hopes for Champions League qualification took a hit after their match ended 0-0 against 20th-placed Wolves at Molineux.

The Magpies held the majority of possession (66%) but found it hard to convert that into scoring opportunities.

Nick Woltemade led Newcastle’s attack but did not manage a shot on target, while substitute Yoane Wissa also failed to make an impact.

This draw broke Newcastle’s three-game winning streak in the Premier League, and Howe admitted that creating chances was a problem.

In an interview with BBC Match of the Day, he said: “We controlled the game but lacked the cutting edge. Chance creation was an issue.

“Wolves defended well, staying compact, which made it tough for us to find space. We were hoping for a moment of magic from an individual or a set play. We had some opportunities as the game progressed but didn’t capitalize on them.

“The effort was there, but quality was lacking in the final third. We had possession and sought a way through, improving as the match went on. We were looking for a moment we didn’t seize.

“Our ball control was solid, and we had good possession. I wished for us to speed up the play at halftime when we were too slow, allowing them to set their formation. I thought we did that much better in the second half.

“Counter-attacks were always going to be their threat, but we handled it well. They had a few chances in both halves, but our players did well to recover. We defended the goal competently today, which is a positive outcome. We are disappointed not to have won.

“When you take a point, it’s easy to focus on the negative side, but later, you might recognize the positives. It was a solid performance today, just lacking in scoring opportunities.”