Newcastle United and Liverpool played out a dramatic 2-2 draw at St James’ Park on Sunday, with Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai scoring a stoppage-time penalty to deny Newcastle a first Premier League victory under new manager Matthias Jaissle. The late goal extended Liverpool’s unbeaten run at St James’ Park to ten matches.
The match began with an emotional tribute to Kevin Keegan, the former player and manager revered by both clubs, before the on-field action got underway. Newcastle took an early lead through Anthony Elanga, who finished off a well-worked move involving debutant Amar Dedic and William Osula. The goal appeared to shake Liverpool’s composure, although the visitors created several chances throughout the first half, including a close-range shot by Florian Wirtz that was saved by Newcastle goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek.
Liverpool responded in the second half when Cody Gakpo scored the equalizer after Newcastle failed to maintain their shape in midfield. The goal triggered changes from Jaissle, who soon introduced Joe Willock and Jacob Ramsey. Willock, coming off the bench, made an immediate impact by scoring a 57th-minute goal to restore Newcastle’s lead. His finish followed a strong run and assist from Yoane Wissa, who was among Newcastle’s standout performers.
Newcastle appeared poised to secure all three points, but the game took a turn in injury time. Liverpool substitute Victor Munoz was brought down in the box by Lewis Hall, a decision that sparked protests from Newcastle players and supporters, who considered the penalty call harsh. Referee Stuart Atwell awarded the spot kick, providing Szoboszlai with the opportunity to level the score. The Hungarian midfielder calmly converted the penalty into the top left corner, leaving Newcastle with only a point from the encounter.
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, returning to St James’ Park, had a difficult afternoon, missing several key chances and drawing boos from the home fans, who had viewed him as a partial replacement for Wissa’s goal-scoring threat. Despite Isak’s struggles, fans and observers noted the effort and commitment displayed by Newcastle players under Jaissle, who has had limited time to work with his squad since his recent appointment.
The draw leaves Newcastle with mixed feelings, as a late defensive lapse cost them what appeared to be a deserved victory, while Liverpool gained a crucial point in their quest to maintain Premier League momentum. Both teams will look to build on the performance as they prepare for upcoming fixtures, with Newcastle aiming to solidify their form under Jaissle and Liverpool seeking to continue their unbeaten run at this historic ground.