Alan Shearer believes Newcastle United were their own worst enemy against Leeds. Despite having 16 shots on goal, the Magpies blundered several opportunities to draw 0-0 with Jesse Marsch's side.
Sean Longstaff, in particular, had a golden opportunity to break the deadlock in the second half. Leeds - who moved three points clear of the relegation zone - put in a gritty and dogged performance at a rain-soaked St James’ Park to frustrate the in-form Newcastle.
A home draw ended their six-game winning run but kept them sitting third in the Premier League. Speaking on Match of the Day, Toon legend Shearer was critical of the Magpies’ finishing but managed to see the bigger picture of 2022 as a whole.
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"It was a combination today of really good goalkeeping, some good defending but also some poor finishing from Newcastle, particularly in the second half," he said.
“It was one-way traffic in that in that second half, Leeds were hanging on. You’ve got to give them credit for that, Cooper defended really well. They (Newcastle) were creating chances, it will be a frustrating afternoon for Newcastle with the form they're in. But it's a really good point for Leeds.
“Eddie (Howe) said it himself what a remarkable 12 months it's been from where they were to where they are now. We move on and what a year ahead they’re about to have I think.”
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