It's another solid defensive display

ANYONE looking forward to Newcastle's trip to Brighton next month? Few could blame the travelling fans for fearing the worst after another goalless stalemate against Bournemouth on the south coast.

- By STUART JAMIESON

On the plus side, Newcastle were defensively sound, and restricted free-scoring Bournemouth to just a couple of half-chances all game, with Nick Pope stepping up when called upon.

However, they could have played all day and still not threatened Djordje Petrovic in the Cherries goal. United have Yoane Wissa and Anthony Gordon to come into the side, while the likes of Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton were rested, so the lack of goals will not overly concern Eddie Howe just yet.

And if the seven changes he made pays off against Arsenal next weekend then no one will be complaining. Here are five things we learned from the draw at the Vitality Stadium.

FINAL BALL MUST IMPROVE

After a difficult first 15 minutes when Newcastle couldn't quite get to grips with their new formation, they began to assert themselves more in the game and ended the first half the stronger side.

And for much of the second half, they were the side pressing the harder - and yet it was Bournemouth who had the game's only chances, albeit half opportunities.