Mauricio Pochettino’s apology, Kieran Trippier protection & Newcastle fury over security failure

Newcastle United[1] left Stamford Bridge fuming after a lack of security allowed a pitch invader to shove Martin Dubravka in the aftermath of Mykhailo Mudryk’s last gasp equaliser. After Eddie Howe was confronted and pushed by a fan during last season’s draw at Leeds United, it was another example of a security failing at an away ground at a so called top club. What made the ugly incident worse was the fact that Chelsea steward behind the goal HELPED the offender back into the stand.

But Newcastle were working with Chelsea officials last night and the Metropolitan Police were looking into the shocking episode. Howe said afterwards: “I didn’t see it myself but I would always say the safety of players, coaches, managers, referees, linesmen, that should be the priority in every football match. More has to be done to keep irate supporters away from anybody.”

Mauricio Pochettino was apologetic after Martin Dubravka attacked after equaliser Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino was apologetic after Newcastle United keeper Martin Dubravka[4] was shoved by a Blues supporter late in the game at Stamford Bridge last night. As the Met Police carried out an investigation last night, Pochettino was quizzed by journalists on the incident that overshadowed the game.

The Chelsea head coach said: “I think we need to be careful, the fans need to be careful. I do not like this type of thing because it’s a thing that can put players in danger. “I am disappointed and do not agree with this type of thing that happens in football, here at Stamford Bridge and other stadiums in England and around the world.

I am always so disappointed with this type of thing because it is so dangerous. I hope it doesn’t happen again.” Eddie Howe shields Kieran Trippier after double trouble in the capital

Howe had pondered long and hard whether to leave Trippier at home and get some much-needed rest ahead of the hectic holiday period. But in the end he included him in his Newcastle[5] squad after he’d served his suspension for five yellow cards. He may not even have been used had Emil Krafth not been taken off at half-time with a whack.

But with Trippier determined to put recent mistakes at Everton and Spurs behind him, he looked like he’d coasted through the game without incident. Only for his disastrous header to fall straight into the path of Mudryk who scored to set up a tense penalty shoot out. Credit to Trippier he stepped up to take a kick but – arguably trying too hard to make up for the error – he sent it well wide.

Howe said last night: “He has taken the group to a different level. After giving so much it’s our turn to support him. “He’s been a transformative signing for us and has glued the dressing room together.

He’s been the heartbeat of our performances.”

References

1. ^ Newcastle United (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
2. ^ Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle United: Magpies suffer penalty heartbreak at Stamford Bridge (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
3. ^ Chelsea 1-1 Newcastle United highlights and reaction as Magpies crash out on penalties (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
4. ^ Martin Dubravka (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
5. ^ Newcastle (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)