Rosenior admits tactical issue as Chelsea's press fails to stop Newcastle winner

Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior expressed frustration after a 1-0 home loss to Newcastle, citing a tactical breakdown in his pressing system. He also rued a lack of 'mental freshness' in attack and criticised the focus on the team's pre-match huddle rather than a 'clear' penalty on Cole Palmer that was not awarded.

The breakthrough came 18 minutes in when Joe Willock exploited a ragged defensive line to run clear and square for an Anthony Gordon tap-in. Rosenior said there was 'a tactical issue', explaining that Chelsea 'press in a different way to most teams' and that they failed to cover in a position they should have done, adding that the press had forced long balls which they generally controlled.

Rosenior lamented that the side is being punished for every minor error, noting that one mistake led to the only goal and that opponents have found success without creating many chances. He insisted the team must stop those mistakes if results are to improve.

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