Ange Postecoglou unhappy with handball decision in Tottenham Hotspur's Premier League loss to Newcastle United

An injury-ridden Tottenham side provided a stern test for Newcastle on Saturday, but ultimately Spurs were not able to sneak a draw as they lost 2-1 at home to The Magpies.

But the big talking point of the match was a decision to allow an accidental handball to be waved on – which proved influential in Newcastle’s opening goal.

The ball hit the hand of Brazilian midfielder Joelinton, but play was allowed to continue, with Newcastle scoring moments later courtesy of Anthony Gordon.

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The handball was looked at by VAR, but the goal was allowed to stand, something that frustrated Ange Postecoglou.

"The last thing I want is an explanation," the Spurs manager said when asked if he had spoken to the officials.

"[I’m] hugely proud of the players; outstanding considering the situation we are in. We deserved to win the game. All things being equal, we would have."

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He elaborated when he was asked about the moment in the press conference, on a day when Spurs had plenty of chances to grab a late equaliser despite missing many of their first choice players.

"I know what everyone wants me to say. But all I will say is that on any other day, on a fair and even playing ground, we would have won that game, simple as that. Don’t keep asking me about the decision … I know what my opinion is.

"As I said, if that was a different day ,and it was an even and fair playing ground, we would have won that game."

While Ally McCoist on commentary was pleased the goal was allowed to stand, Karen Carney was not quite so sure.

"I have to say, I think that was a handball," she said. "I know there’s the letter of the law, I know it’s unintentional, but that still gave an advantage to Newcastle there. I think that was a handball."

The Premier League Match Centre confirmed on X that as Joelinton's arm "was by his side, in a natural position and the contact was accidental", meaning the goal was allowed to stand.

As for Postecoglou’s counterpart, Eddie Howe admitted that he might need to brush up on the laws of the game.

"I think there’s no denying that the ball hit Joe’s hand, arm," Howe said afterwards. "But I’m not sure on the rules, so someone can tell me exactly what happened."

Newcastle sit fifth in the Premier League table, having extended their winning streak to six matches in the competition, while Tottenham sit 12th, and are without a win in four matches.

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