Postecoglou’s fury as injury-hit Spurs lose to Newcastle

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou was left fuming after a controversial VAR decision contributed to his injury-ravaged side’s 2-1 defeat to in-form Newcastle on Saturday. Alexander Isak’s seventh consecutive Premier League goal sealed a sixth straight win in all competitions for the Magpies, while Spurs slumped to their seventh winless game in eight league matches.

The game began at a frantic pace, with Dominic Solanke giving Spurs an early lead before Anthony Gordon quickly equalized for Newcastle amidst VAR controversy. Gordon’s goal stemmed from a move where Joelinton appeared to handle the ball, but after review, the goal stood. Postecoglou, already contending with a depleted squad due to injuries and suspension, was incensed by the decision.

Isak then capitalized on a defensive error before halftime to put Newcastle ahead, a lead they would not relinquish despite a spirited second-half performance from Spurs. Postecoglou’s makeshift defense, featuring midfielder Archie Gray and full-back Djed Spence as emergency center-backs, battled valiantly but couldn’t find the equalizer.

Speaking after the game, a furious Postecoglou didn’t mince words, saying he was the “angriest I think I have ever been in my career.” He argued that with “a fair and even playing field,” Spurs would have won the match. He praised his players for their effort despite facing an “enormous task” due to the extensive injury list, which included goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, defenders Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, Destiny Udogie, and Ben Davies, along with the suspended Rodrigo Bentancur. The situation was further complicated by stand-in goalkeeper Fraser Forster’s illness, forcing a debut for Brandon Austin.