Dominik Szoboszlai secured a point for Liverpool with a 99th-minute penalty equaliser in a Premier League match against Newcastle United, which ended in a 2-2 draw at St James’ Park. The result denied Matthias Jaissle a victory in his first league game as Newcastle manager.
The match saw both teams take the lead at different points. Newcastle, under their new head coach Jaissle, started strongly, with Anthony Elanga scoring the opening goal in the fifth minute. This came after Will Osula set him up with a pass over the halfway line. Liverpool‘s manager, Andoni Iraola, noted after the game that his team had been trying to overdo things in the first phase of play.
Liverpool equalised 10 minutes into the second half through Cody Gakpo, who delivered a low drive past Lukas Hornicek. However, Newcastle quickly regained their lead just three minutes later when Joe Willock scored, following impressive work from Yoane Wissa in the build-up.
Key Moments and Player Performances
The game featured several notable performances and crucial moments. Newcastle‘s new signings, including Lukas Hornicek, Amar Dedic, and Sean Steur, made their Premier League debuts. Hornicek made a flying save to deny Florian Wirtz in the first half and pushed away Alexander Isak‘s header after the break.
Dedic, who recently completed a £30m move, made a vital intervention in the build-up to a goal, preventing Ryan Gravenberch from finding Cody Gakpo. Malick Thiaw captained the side in the absence of Dan Burn, who was sidelined with an ankle injury. Lewis Miley, despite having limited pre-season action due to a broken leg, impressed with a crossfield ball to Dedic.
For Liverpool, Dominik Szoboszlai‘s penalty was a highlight, despite what was described as an unusually average performance from the Hungarian. Cody Gakpo was identified as Liverpool‘s most dangerous player, scoring a crucial equaliser. Alexander Isak, making his first return to St James’ Park since his £125m move last summer, was booed by the crowd and missed a clear chance.
Substitutes also played a significant role. Joe Willock, coming on in the 55th minute for Newcastle, made an immediate impact by scoring. Jacob Ramsey, who also came on at the 55-minute mark, brought added energy to the team. For Liverpool, Victor Munoz, introduced in the 63rd minute, won the decisive penalty after being fouled by Lewis Hall.
Managerial Reactions and Game Dynamics
Matthias Jaissle expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, highlighting their fighting spirit and commitment. He acknowledged the disappointment of not securing all three points but noted the team’s realistic outlook on the challenges faced. Jaissle‘s side adapted quickly to the task, motivated in part by pre-match tributes to Kevin Keegan, a figure celebrated by both clubs.
Andoni Iraola, while acknowledging the effort from his players, felt that Liverpool did not deserve to lose the game. He emphasized the positive impact of players coming off the bench, stating they provided much-needed energy. Iraola‘s team struggled with midfield issues, which Newcastle exploited for their goals.
The match saw Newcastle‘s Lewis Hall concede the stoppage-time penalty after a challenge on Victor Munoz. This allowed Szoboszlai to convert from the spot, ensuring Liverpool left with a point. The game was marked by intense moments, including Florian Wirtz‘s shot being saved by Hornicek and Alisson denying Will Osula with a toe save.
The match concluded with Dominik Szoboszlai‘s powerful penalty strike into the top corner, following a VAR check and some gamesmanship from Newcastle players.
Source: bbc.co.uk
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