Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola refused to criticise the match officials after his side fell 2–1 to Newcastle United on Saturday, despite a series of contentious incidents that dominated the Premier League encounter.

Guardiola and his coaching staff were visibly animated in the first half, appealing for a penalty after Phil Foden went down under a challenge in the box. Later, Newcastle’s winning goal endured an extended VAR check for multiple potential infringements in the build-up before the decision ultimately stood.

“It is what it is after VAR decided. They know perfectly,” Guardiola told the BBC, adding that he had “no questions” for the officials, even though he spoke with the referee following the final whistle.

Both teams created—and wasted—several chances in an open first half, but the match exploded into life after the break. All three goals arrived in a frantic seven-minute spell: Harvey Barnes struck twice for the hosts, either side of a Ruben Dias equaliser that briefly brought City level.

“Both keepers were good and afterwards we missed chances,” Guardiola reflected. “It was an entertaining game with many opportunities. We were closer in the beginning.”

The defeat prevented City from cutting into Arsenal’s lead at the top of the table. The Gunners remain on 26 points, while City sit third with 22, having played a game more.

“Newcastle are a top side with top players and a top manager,” Guardiola said. “Tonight we couldn’t build on the momentum we had. It was an entertaining game with chances for both teams, but the momentum shifted and in the end we couldn’t win.”

For Newcastle, who sit 14th, Barnes’ brace delivered a much-needed lift after a difficult start to the campaign.

“Hopefully today’s result can help us kick on and go on a good run,” Barnes told the BBC.