Following Newcastle United’s ‘cruel’ 1-0 defeat at home to Everton, boss Steve McClaren talked about the dressing room and his own feelings for a team which has notably improved in December.
McClaren told Sky Sports:
I’ve lost quite a few games in the last minute and cruel endings, but never before have I felt so upset and disappointed for a set of players than I did when I walked in that dressing room. They didn’t deserve that. They gave everything,
Newcastle’s fans stood and applauded the team after the final whistle, just seconds after conceding. They acknowledged the effort and commitment the players had shown through the match, something which seemed impossible to think of just weeks ago.
That kind of performance, that bodes well for the future. I think the big thing for us [was] the appreciation the fans showed at the end,I think that was key. They showed what this team can do and we need to do it again on Monday.
Everton controlled the first half, with Newcastle struggling to gain any meaningful possession until the 25th minute. However in the second half, The Magpies battled back and looked to be the better team until the deciding goal was scored with the last kick of the game.
Second half, magnificent. I think we stood toe to toe with a very good Everton team. I thought the response from the crowd was terrific. We didn’t didn’t deserve to lose.
Newcastle will face West Bromwich Albion on Monday the 28th.
