Dominik Szoboszlai ripped Newcastle United’s victory right out of their hands with a 99th-minute penalty equalizer, forcing a dramatic 2-2 draw at St James’ Park. This last-gasp stunner denied new manager Matthias Jaissle a win in his very first Premier League game in charge. Talk about a gut punch for the home crowd!
Newcastle’s Attack Sparkles While New Faces Step Up
Matthias Jaissle was so close to a dream start as Newcastle’s new manager, and honestly, his squad came out firing. Yoane Wissa was an absolute machine for them, earning an 8 rating and clearly relishing his shot in the number 10 position. The man was aggressive, sharp, and carried the ball like a superstar to set up Joe Willock’s goal. Speaking of Willock, he came off the bench in the 55th minute and made an immediate impact, taking his goal so well he grabbed a 7. Anthony Elanga took his chance perfectly too, coolly picking out the bottom corner for their opener and scoring a 7. William Osula was right there, leading the breakaway for that first goal and making a sensible pass to Elanga. Even the new guys stepped up big time. Amar Dedic, making his first outing just days after a £30m move from Benfica, pulled off a crucial intervention in the build-up to a goal, sliding in to hook the ball away. Lukas Hornicek, on debut, was rock solid in goal with a flying save on Florian Wirtz’s effort and later pushed away Alexander Isak’s header, earning him a 7. Lewis Miley, only back for one half of pre-season after a broken leg, showed why he’s so important with a crossfield ball that had supporters on their feet. Sean Steur, at just 18, was positive and composed in his first Premier League appearance. Malick Thiaw, wearing the captain’s armband, battled hard for the club.
Liverpool’s Last-Second Heroics Mask Defensive Lapses
But while Newcastle had their moments, Liverpool showed that never-say-die spirit, thanks in large part to Dominik Szoboszlai’s last-gasp penalty that brought the game level. It was a massive moment, especially considering Alexander Isak, who left Newcastle for Liverpool early last season, struggled to find his rhythm, having his header pushed away by Hornicek and the ball coolly taken off his toe by Lewis Hall. On Liverpool’s side, keeper Alisson didn’t have his best day either, arguably in a bad position for Elanga’s goal and rating a 5. And Jeremie Frimpong at right-back? A poor display, lacking final delivery and picking up a deserved booking for tripping Harvey Barnes, earning him a 4. Newcastle’s Lewis Hall was left rocked after conceding that stoppage-time penalty following a coming together with Victor Munoz, a tough break after dealing well with Ngumoha earlier in the game. Sven Botman, despite being more assured than in pre-season and making a big block on Cody Gakpo’s shot, was among those who backed off for Gakpo’s goal. Jeremy Jacquet had an encouraging start for Liverpool, showing an assured touch and great passing range, but needs to be more aware defensively.
This draw must sting for Jaissle and Newcastle, especially with such a dramatic finish denying him a debut win. They showed flashes of brilliance, but giving up a point like that at home, in the 99th minute, will be a hard pill to swallow. For Liverpool, it’s a salvaged point, a testament to their fight, but they will need to sort out those defensive lapses if they want to build real momentum. What a start to the Premier League season. You just know everyone’s gonna be talking about this one.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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