Cristian Romero scores twice, including a bizarre stoppage-time overhead kick, to salvage a 2-2 draw for Tottenham against Newcastle
CRISTIAN Romero scored a dramatic 95th-minute equaliser to rescue a 2-2 draw for Tottenham Hotspur against Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
The Spurs captain shinned an overhead kick past goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale deep into stoppage time to secure a precious point for manager Thomas Frank.
Romero had earlier cancelled out Bruno Guimaraes’ opener with a fine 78th-minute diving header.
Newcastle substitute Antony Gordon appeared to have won the game by restoring the lead from the penalty spot just six minutes later.
The home side dominated first-half possession but were denied by the woodwork when Joelinton’s strike cannoned back off the post.
Spurs midfielder Lucas Bergvall then forced a clever backheel effort just over Ramsdale’s crossbar moments later.
Newcastle threatened again after the break, with Guglielmo Vicario saving from Harvey Barnes before Kevin Danso cleared Nick Woltemade’s header off the line.
Manager Eddie Howe introduced Gordon and Anthony Elanga, with the change paying dividends in the 71st minute.
Gordon raced down the left and delivered a cross that eventually fell for Guimaraes, who side-footed a superb finish into the far corner.
Romero’s first header levelled the scores from a Mohammed Kudus cross seven minutes later.
The referee awarded a penalty after a VAR review for a tangle between Rodrigo Bentancur and Dan Burn, which Gordon converted powerfully.
Romero then met a late corner with an improvised overhead kick that sneaked through a crowd of players to earn Spurs a draw.
The result ends Tottenham’s run of three consecutive defeats in all competitions. – AFP
