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Coloccini Rues Concentration Lapse
Written by Newcastle Utd
Fabricio Coloccini was left to rue a lapse of concentration as Newcastle suffered a 1-0 defeat against Arsenal
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor
Captain Fabricio Coloccini was left to rue a lapse of concenration as Newcastle United suffered a 1-0 defeat against Arsenal on Sunday.
The Magpies were more than a match for their opponents all afternoon at St. James' Park but were undone by one moment midway through the second half, when Olivier Giroud glanced home Theo Walcott's free-kick.
It was harsh on United, who created plenty during the Barclays Premier League clash, and the skipper gave an honest assessment to nufc.co.uk following the final whistle.
"We are disappointed to lose this game," said Coloccini.
"Arsenal are a big team but to lose from one set-play is hard to take for everyone.
"It shows that if you lose your concentration for just 30 seconds against the best sides, you can be punished.
"That is football, unfortunately. We played very well for 90 minutes but just switched off for one free-kick."
Mathieu Debuchy headed against the woodwork, while Loic Remy and Moussa Sissoko also came close for the hosts.
And while they ultimately walked off the pitch empty-handed, Coloccini was determined to take the positives, in knowing that they stood toe-to-toe with the top flight leaders for long spells.
"I think we deserved more because we tried to win the game throughout," said the centre-back.
"It was tough, which is what we expected because Arsenal are top of the table, but we played well.
"We are positive about it though. Our performance shows we can fight for a place near the top of the table."
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