Bournemouth's Struggles Continue to Mount After Controversial Draw With Newcastle

Late Ritchie Penalty Rescues Point for Magpies

Controversial Call Overshadows Cherries' Improved Performance

Newcastle United and Bournemouth played out a thrilling 2-2 draw at St. James' Park, with both teams sharing the spoils in a match marred by controversy.

Bournemouth, who had only managed one win in their previous 14 Premier League matches against top-seven finishers, put in a spirited performance and looked set to secure a valuable away point.

However, a controversial penalty decision in the dying minutes of the game allowed Newcastle to equalize.

Controversial Penalty

In the 90th minute, Newcastle defender Fabian Schär was adjudged to have been pulled down in the penalty area by Bournemouth's Jefferson Lerma.

The decision was met with fierce protests from the Bournemouth players and fans, who felt that Schär had exaggerated the contact and that it did not warrant a penalty.

Newcastle's Matt Ritchie stepped up to take the spot-kick and calmly sent the ball past Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers, securing a point for the Magpies.

Improved Bournemouth Performance

Despite the controversial ending, Bournemouth's performance was a marked improvement on their recent form.

The Cherries started brightly and took the lead through Ryan Christie in the 18th minute.

Newcastle equalized through Alexander Isak in the 62nd minute, but Bournemouth regained the lead just five minutes later through Jaidon Anthony.

Conclusion

The draw leaves Bournemouth still searching for their first win of the season, while Newcastle move up to 10th in the table.

However, the controversy surrounding the penalty decision is likely to overshadow the positives for both teams.

Bournemouth will rue the missed opportunity to secure a vital three points, while Newcastle will be relieved to have salvaged a draw in such dramatic fashion.