NEWCASTLE United manager Eddie Howe said his side had to “dig really deep” to earn a point in a 2-2 draw with Cherries, stating that it was “important that we didn’t lose”.

Cherries twice led away at St James’ Park, Dominic Solanke capitalising upon Martin Dubravka’s mistake to open scores in the second half.

A controversial Anthony Gordon penalty levelled scores before Antoine Semenyo restored Cherries’ lead, but a late Matt Ritchie goal ensured the spoils were shared.

Discussing the encounter, Howe started: “Glad to get a point.

“We had to dig really deep today. I think the way the game had gone and the two goals we conceded were tough blows for us.

“Real credit to the group to raise themselves again to get a point.

“It’s not the three we wanted, but it’s important that we didn’t lose.”

The draw with Cherries represents a fourth straight home game for Newcastle without victory, with Howe stating his sider were not at “full power”.

He continued: “I'm well aware and I think people that watch us regularly, are well aware that we're not at our full power at the moment, we’re not at our fluent best.

“But I think there are reasons for that, they’re obvious.

“We are a little bit disjointed with players playing today that maybe wouldn't be in their best positions, given a free hand.

“But I have to say, everyone's giving as much as they can to still try and get consistent results.

“I think we have to look at the positive side rather than the negative.

“That was another game unbeaten for us and we're returning to getting points.

“We went through a spell where weren’t.

“So that was a big late goal for us, just keeps that momentum that we've got.

“Of course we're looking for three points at home in every game, so we're disappointed with certain aspects as well.”