Newcastle United vs Brighton and Hove Albion ref watch – Three decisions Chris Kavanagh got wrong, including Jacob Murphy incident
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Credit: Imago Sat 2 May 2026 17:05, UK Newcastle United finally returned to winning ways on Saturday as they beat Brighton and Hove Albion 3-1 at St James’ Park.William Osula opened the scoreline for the Magpies as he nodded into an empty net after a superb Jacob Murphy cross.Midway through the first half, their lead was doubled as Dan Burn headed the ball into the net from a corner.After numerous chances, Brighton finally got a goal back thanks to Jack Hinshelwood just after the hour mark. However, a late Harvey Barnes goal would eventually end the nerves at St James’ Park.Below, Football Insider has judged Chris Kavanagh’s performance in what was a narrow Newcastle victory. ⚽ Newcastle Matchday ⚽ Team news, line-ups, expert previews and tactical analysis for every Newcastle United fixture.
VISIT THE NEWCASTLE MATCH HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Bart Verbruggen incredibly lucky to avoid an early caution It was a brilliant start from Newcastle United who took the lead early on.However, Bart Verbruggen should have easily received a yellow card for his actions in the build-up to the first goal.With Murphy running down the wing, the goalkeeper came out and almost took the winger out, and it was only the Magpies’ star’s sheer determination that allowed him to cross the ball and get the assist.However, after the goal was scored, Verbruggen should have been cautioned, with his challenge being reckless, and he could have prevented the goal.This was no doubt a mistake by Kavanagh, in an error that could have proven to be costly.Joelinton unfortunate to give away early second-half free-kickJust as the second half had kicked off, Newcastle had to defend a dangerous free-kick from Brighton.The midfielder was adjudged to have handled the ball, with Kavanagh awarding a foul against the hosts.However, this was simply a ridiculous decision, with his arms not in an unnatural position and were close to his body.The referee is perhaps fortunate that nothing came of the free-kick or it could have been a massive talking point after the game.Joelinton lucky not to give pick up yellow card after numerous fouls While Joelinton may have been unlucky to give away the early free kick in the second half, he should have been booked at some point. The midfielder made three fouls throughout the game, yet, a yellow card never presented itself.This was an oversight by Kavanagh, as it allowed the Brazilian to make multiple fouls and slow the game down for Brighton when they were hunting an equaliser.Simply put, a yellow card could have avoided this and gave the Seagulls potentially more time to find a way back into the game.
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