Liverpool hold Newcastle to dramatic 2-2 draw
Liverpool snatched a dramatic 2-2 draw against Newcastle United on Sunday after Dominik Szoboszlai converted a stoppage-time penalty at St James’ Park.
Newcastle made a blistering start when Anthony Elanga put the hosts ahead just five minutes into the match.
Liverpool responded strongly after the break, with Cody Gakpo firing home in the 55th minute to level the score.
However, Newcastle regained the advantage only two minutes later.
Elanga surged forward before setting up Joe Willock, who produced a superb long-range finish beyond Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson.
The hosts appeared set to secure all three points until Lewis Hall was penalised for bringing down Liverpool debutant Víctor Muñoz inside the box.
After a VAR review, the referee’s decision to award a penalty was upheld, with the video officials confirming contact between Hall’s knee and Muñoz’s thigh.
Szoboszlai stepped up in the ninth minute of added time and calmly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to secure a point for Liverpool.
The result saw new Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle and Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola share the points in their first Premier League matches in charge of their respective clubs.
Liverpool’s Alexander Isak, who moved to Anfield from Newcastle and endured an injury-hit first season, was unable to make a major impact on his return to St James’ Park.
The match also featured an emotional tribute to former Newcastle and Liverpool star Kevin Keegan, who died last month aged 75.
Both teams wore shirts bearing his name and iconic No. 7 during the warm-up, while supporters unveiled a large tribute display before kick-off.
Liverpool will take encouragement from their late fightback, while Newcastle will be left frustrated after coming within seconds of claiming a memorable opening-day victory.
