Anthony Gordon’s penalty results in Manchester City losing points against Newcastle following a hectic second half.

**Gordon’s Late Penalty Earns Newcastle a Point Against City**

In a thrilling encounter at St James’ Park, Anthony Gordon emerged as the hero for Newcastle United, converting a penalty to secure a 1-1 draw against reigning champions Manchester City. The match showcased the resilience of the Magpies, who managed to hold off a City side missing key players.

Pep Guardiola’s men were without the influential Kevin De Bruyne and long-term absentee Rodri. Despite these absences, they looked poised for victory when Josko Gvardiol opened the scoring with a stunning turn and finish in the 35th minute. The Croatian defender’s goal came after a slick move involving Jack Grealish, leaving Newcastle with a mountain to climb.

The hosts, who were also missing their star striker Alexander Isak, struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half. However, the tide turned just shy of the hour mark when Gordon won a penalty after being fouled in the box. The 23-year-old stepped up to take the spot kick himself, coolly sending City goalkeeper Ederson the wrong way to level the score.

This draw allows Manchester City to maintain their position at the top of the Premier League, extending their lead to two points. However, they could find themselves replaced at the summit depending on results from the weekend’s fixtures. Newcastle, meanwhile, remain in fifth place, just three points adrift of the Champions League spots.

Looking ahead, Manchester City will shift their focus to the UEFA Champions League, where they face Slovan Bratislava on Tuesday evening. Newcastle, on the other hand, will host AFC Wimbledon in the League Cup, hoping to build on this encouraging performance.

**Talking Point: Rodri’s Absence Felt Again**

The absence of Rodri due to a serious ACL injury has been a hot topic in recent weeks, and this match highlighted just how much the Spaniard’s presence is missed. While few expected City to struggle in the majority of their Premier League fixtures, this encounter against a determined Newcastle side was always going to be a test.

Rodri’s remarkable 52-match unbeaten run in the top flight with City was a testament to his importance. The statistics show that the team has lost all four previous Premier League matches when he has not featured. Although this match did not end in defeat, it marked back-to-back draws for Guardiola’s side, raising questions about their ability to maintain their dominance without their midfield linchpin.

The control and composure Rodri brings to the game may have been pivotal in Newcastle’s resurgence during the second half. Despite their efforts, City were unable to keep the home side at bay, leaving them with a frustrating result as they aimed to assert their authority in the title race.

**Player of the Match: Anthony Gordon**

Anthony Gordon was undoubtedly the standout performer on the pitch. The winger, who had been heavily linked with a move away during the summer, showcased his commitment to the club with a stellar display. With a new contract reportedly in the works and the adoration of the Toon Army evident through a pre-match Tifo, Gordon took on the responsibility of leading the attack in Isak’s absence. His winning and converting the penalty not only earned Newcastle a vital point but also solidified his status as a key player for the Magpies.

**Player Ratings**

**Newcastle United:**
Pope 8, Trippier 7, Schar 7, Burn 7, Hall 7, Joelinton 8, Guimaraes 7, Tonali 7, Gordon 8*, Murphy 6, Barnes 6.
Subs: Willock 5, Longstaff 5, Livramento 5.

**Manchester City:**
Ederson 6, Walker 7, Dias 7, Akanji 7, Gvardiol 8, Kovacic 7, Lewis 7, Gundogan 6, Silva 7, Haaland 6, Grealish 7.
Subs: Foden 6, Savinho n/a, Doku n/a.

**Match Highlights**

– **35’ – GOAL!** Newcastle 0-1 Man City: Gvardiol cuts back inside his man to fire into the far corner after a lovely build-up from Grealish.

– **58’ – GOAL!** Newcastle 1-1 Man City: Gordon converts a low penalty, sending Ederson the wrong way.

– **73’ – MAN CITY CHANCE!** Foden’s effort from 10 yards is straight at Pope after a clever lay-off from Haaland.

– **81’ – NEWCASTLE CHANCE!** Longstaff drags a shot wide from 15 yards after a smart cutback.

– **90+2’ – MAN CITY CHANCE!** Pope reacts brilliantly to deny Bernardo Silva’s powerful volley.

In the end, both teams will take away valuable lessons from this encounter as they continue their campaigns in the Premier League and beyond.