Magpies are shot down by Gunners in St James' implosion

NEWCASTLE United capitulated at St James' Park after coming close to what would have been a massive victory against the Gunners.

- By LEE RYDER

But this game was the story of three set-pieces as Newcastle United handed Arsenal the points in the Premier League - one good and two very poor.

Having taken the lead from a brilliant move, it looked like Nick Woltemade's header and Nick Pope's series of saves might have been enough to nail three points for Newcastle.

However, United switched off twice from two late corners - on 84 minutes and in stoppage time - to gift the Gunners an away win.

It suggested that the Magpies still have plenty of work to do when it comes to defending set-plays ahead of a tough week in Europe.

Set-piece coach Martin Mark had arrived in the summer from FC Midtjylland, but second screenings of headers from Mikel Merino and Gabriel will not make for good viewing at the training ground.

Although, Newcastle thought they should have had a penalty late in the game when Anthony Elanga burst into the box and saw his effort appear to hit the arm of the Arsenal man as VAR appeals fell on deaf ears.

Arsenal enjoyed a good opening in the second minute when Declan Rice's free-kick - won after Joelinton clattered into Bukayo Saka - was swung in but headed straight at Nick Pope by Viktor Gyokeres.