Newcastle 2-2 Liverpool: The Reds are as flawed and unpredictable as they were last term but their late equaliser already feels like a huge moment for Andoni Iraola, writes IAN LADYMAN
IAN LADYMAN AT ST JAMES’ PARK: They came in their thousands to greet new dawns at Newcastle and at Liverpool and to pay homage to one of the greatest either club has ever known.
WAF Context
Liverpool drew 2-2 with Newcastle in Andoni Iraola's opening Premier League match, with Dominik Szoboszlai scoring a stoppage-time penalty equaliser. The match followed emotional pre-match tributes to Kevin Keegan. Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle disputed the penalty decision. Observers noted Liverpool displayed familiar flaws and unpredictability from the previous season.
What we know
- Szoboszlai's late penalty secured a 2-2 draw for Liverpool at St James' Park
- The fixture marked Andoni Iraola's first Premier League game as Newcastle manager
- Newcastle boss Jaissle contested the stoppage-time penalty award
Why it matters
The result proved significant for Iraola's tenure despite the contentious circumstances. Liverpool's inability to convert a lead reflected concerns about consistency, whilst the dramatic finish sets an early tone for both sides' seasons.
