Newcastle United once again proved too strong for Tottenham at St James’ Park to sustain their march towards Wembley. On the night Magpies icon Andy Cole accused Spurs players of being “schoolboys” after losing concentration during the crucial corner kick that led to Fabian Schaal’s opening goal, Xavi Simmons chased match officials at the interval and yelled at them to “wake up”.
Cole was left stunned that Tottenham had switched off, with Jed Spence stopping to tie his bootlaces and failing to quickly regain his position. However, defending champions Newcastle maintained their sharp concentration and earned a well-deserved victory. Schar took the lead in the 24th minute with a powerful header, giving the Magpies an early advantage.
After the breakthrough, Thomas Frank angrily protested to fourth referee Dean Whitestone, suggesting that Jed Spence was not ready to have a corner taken as he was tying his boots in the corner.
Nevertheless, the goal was conceded and while Schaal remained perfectly focused on the ball, Spurs goalkeeper Antonin Kinski was unable to stop the shot, which found its way into the bottom corner of the goal.
As the teams departed for the interval, visitors were furious with officials, with Xavi Simmons shouting at Whitestone to “wake up” as he descended the tunnel.
Newcastle doubled their lead after the break when Joe Willock’s cross was coolly headed in by Nick Waltemaid to score at the Gallowgate End.
Frank was happy with Tottenham’s performance despite the defeat, with the Dane calling it a close game.
“I think it was a very even game,” he said after the final whistle. “I think it was a close decision. I think our performance was good.
“I think we controlled the game more with the way we played the game, especially in phase one and especially in phase two, the way we built from the back.
“I think we had some short connections in the middle of the pitch. I think Lucas (Bergvall) and Xavi were in good positions.”
“So I think it was one of our offensive performances this season. I can say we didn’t create 500 percent chances, but we created some really big chances.”
