Newcastle hero returns in form to secure a draw in an exciting eight-goal thriller, which is “why we brought him.”
A suitable way to end an unforgettable match was with a new recruit reminding supporters of his abilities.
Harvey Barnes made a sensational comeback to action, coming off the bench to help the Magpies win a dramatic 4–4 draw against Luton. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe was relieved.
After missing out on game action since September 24 due to a toe injury, Barnes was sent on as a substitute in the 63rd minute with his team trailing 4-2 to the promoted Hatters after leading 1-0 and 2-1. It was his goal ten minutes later that made sure the points were shared.
When asked about his £38 million (AU$73 million) summer acquisition, head coach Howe responded, “We brought Harvey to the football club because that’s what he does.”
“He scores goals.” It goes without saying that we hoped he would come here and score goals for us after his amazing season at Leicester last year.
“It’s unfortunate that he’s missed so much of the season, and his return will be greatly appreciated.” I was extremely happy with his effect because I thought it was an amazing finish off his wrong foot, a really, really fantastic goal, and I believe he had another chance late on.
Sean Longstaff twice put the Magpies ahead in a tumultuous encounter, but Gabriel Osho and Ross Barkley—who put on a brilliant individual show—kicked back before halftime.
The visitors took the lead thanks to two penalties from Carlton Morris, and after defeating Brighton 4-0 in the midweek, they appeared to be headed for another big victory when Elijah Adebayo made it 4-2 in the 62nd minute.
But Kieran Trippier’s volley pulled Newcastle to within one goal, and Barnes’ goal set up a thrilling shootout in which Jacob Murphy and Chiedozie Ogbene might have won it for their teams.
Howe stated: “With the way we started, I thought this could be a really memorable game for us.” Howe lost Anthony Gordon due to an ankle injury. But, Luton deserves praise for their excellent response, which made things challenging for us.
The game was extremely open, with both sides attacking one another nonstop. Since there was a strong desire to win and we’re disappointed not to, it was definitely a fantastic game for the neutral. Not so much if you’re related to us.
Contrary numeral Rob Edwards experienced similar mixed emotions on a day when his team demonstrated its superior abilities once more.
Edwards stated: “We were disappointed that we couldn’t finish the game, but we also wanted to be brave, which we were, and we [showed] a ton of character, tenacity, and quality to get back into the game after falling behind twice and taking a two-goal lead.
“However, I have to have respect for the opposition, their caliber of play, and the level of the squad they were up against. After they had reclaimed the lead with a third goal, there wasn’t much time left, and the almost inevitable happened—they scored the equalizer.
“I was impressed by our perseverance, character, and actual ability to maintain a 4–4 lead and keep going.”
“I experienced both joy and sickness at different moments. Watching my team play made me incredibly proud, and I believe that a point was a just outcome overall.
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