Second Half – Pushing for the Equalizer
Newcastle knew they had to respond.
Their three-goal lead had been shredded in the first half, and Valley Parade was a cauldron of noise.
If they thought the atmosphere was hostile before, it was unbearable now.
Eddie Howe's instructions were clear—slow the game down, kill Bradford's momentum.
From the first kick of the second half, Newcastle tried to take the air out of the match.
Guimarães and Tonali passed sideways, forcing Bradford to chase.
Pope held onto goal kicks longer than usual.
Trippier and Burn refused to push forward, keeping a defensive shape.
But Bradford weren't fooled.
Jake stood on the touchline, arms crossed. He knew exactly what Newcastle were doing.
"Don't let them breathe!" he shouted.
His players responded immediately.
Silva and Mensah pressed high, forcing rushed clearances.
Ibáñez and Vélez stayed tight on Guimarães and Joelinton, refusing to let them control the tempo.
Newcastle were playing for time.
