admin“I Have to Be Honest…” Ruben Amorim Gives an Honest Verdict After 1–0 Newcastle Victory
Newcastle United’s struggles on the road continued as Eddie Howe’s side fell to another Premier League defeat, this time away at Old Trafford.
Manchester United secured a narrow victory, with Ruben Amorim admitting his team were forced to “survive” during a difficult second half under heavy pressure from the Magpies.
The decisive moment came when Patrick Dorgu fired home a stunning volley that slipped past Aaron Ramsdale, giving the hosts a lead they ultimately managed to protect.
Despite being put under sustained pressure after the break, United defended resolutely to secure all three points.
Newcastle dominated possession for large periods of the second half but once again failed to turn control into goals.
The result means the Magpies have now collected just six points from a possible 27 away from home in the Premier League this season, with only bottom side Wolves recording fewer away wins.
Amorim reflects on Newcastle test
While defeats at Old Trafford are nothing new for Newcastle, their dominance in possession was notable. However, their lack of cutting edge in the final third — a recurring theme this season — once again proved costly.
Amorim, meanwhile, praised his side’s resilience, especially after being forced into a tactical reshuffle. The Manchester United boss moved away from his usual 3-4-3 setup and later reverted to a back five to withstand Newcastle’s pressure following Mason Mount’s injury at half-time.
Speaking after the match, Amorim said:
“The opponent pushes, and sometimes we have to adapt. At times our wingers were defending like full-backs. I remember against Arsenal it was similar — sometimes they were defending with a back six. You just have to adjust in those moments.”
He added:
“It wasn’t the plan, but given the situation — especially losing Mason — it became very difficult. We were struggling and had to bring in wing-backs to support the defence. We were simply trying to survive in the second half.”
Despite Newcastle controlling 66.4% of possession, they were unable to find a breakthrough. Amorim admitted his side endured heavy pressure but praised their determination:
“The feeling is good, even though we suffered more than usual. We put everything on the line — blocking shots, defending crosses, doing whatever was needed.
We didn’t control the game as much as others this season, but sometimes you need a bit of luck.”
Once again, Newcastle left Old Trafford frustrated, having dominated the ball but lacking the cutting edge required to turn possession into points.
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