Liverpool player ratings vs Newcastle: Isak rubbish and two 3/10s despite dramatic draw…

Liverpool player ratings vs Newcastle: Gakpo shines while four players falter

NEWCASTLE 2-2 LIVERPOOL: A thrilling encounter at St James’ Park ended in a draw.

In Andoni Iraola’s debut Premier League match, Liverpool managed to secure a point as Dominik Szoboszlai converted a late penalty to equalize against Newcastle. The performance from the Merseyside team was disappointing, as they were outplayed for significant stretches of the match and did not merit a victory. The visitors fell behind early when Anthony Elanga netted on a counterattack, giving Newcastle the advantage.

The first half was a struggle for Liverpool, who found it difficult to generate opportunities and displayed a lack of quality in the final third. However, the game opened up after halftime, and Liverpool equalized with Cody Gakpo’s long-range strike finding the bottom corner. Unfortunately, the parity lasted only three minutes before Newcastle regained the lead through substitute Joe Willock. In a dramatic turn, Liverpool was awarded a late penalty after Lewis Hall fouled Victor Munoz, and Szoboszlai confidently converted to secure a draw with almost the last kick of the match.

The goalkeeper wasn’t ideally positioned for the early goal but had little chance to prevent Willock’s strike. Overall, it was not his best performance, as he mishandled a few balls he should have caught.

Jeremie Frimpong – 4

Frimpong had minimal impact on the game, struggling with his crossing and disrupting a few promising attacking sequences. He received a yellow card for a foul on Harvey Barnes before halftime.

Jeremy Jacquet – 6

Jacquet faced defensive challenges, particularly in the opening minutes, but showed potential with some composed passing.

Virgil van Dijk – 6

Van Dijk played a straightforward game in defense, demonstrating confidence in his decision-making, which was not the case for many of his teammates.

Milos Kerkez – 4

Outpaced by Elanga for the early goal and received a yellow card for holding the winger before half-time. Lacked quality in attack as well, and did not improve as the match progressed.

Ryan Gravenberch – 3

Indecisiveness on the ball and poor positioning contributed to Elanga’s opening goal. He should have done more to prevent Wissa during the build-up to the second goal. Overall, his performance was inadequate.

Dominik Szoboszlai – 4

At times, he appeared somewhat lost, uncertain of his role on the pitch. He pushed too high for both Newcastle goals, leaving his teammates vulnerable. Although he converted a penalty, his overall performance was disappointing.

Florian Wirtz – 5

Started brightly, delivering some good passes and showing willingness to shoot, but ultimately lacked a decisive end product and faded into the background as the game progressed.

Rio Ngumoha – 4

Failed to make an impact in a forgettable performance, mirroring the struggles of his teammates. He was largely unnoticed and found it difficult to engage in the match.

Cody Gakpo – 7

Put in a strong effort off the ball to lead the high press and displayed moments of quality before scoring a fantastic equaliser from long range.

Alexander Isak – 3

Faced relentless booing with nearly every touch. He was mostly deprived of service but could have exerted more effort to involve himself in the game. A forgettable day for the former Newcastle striker.

Substitutes

Alexis Mac Allister – 5

Came on for Wirtz in the second half. Did not contribute much beyond simple passes.

Victor Munoz – 6

Came on for the last thirty minutes, replacing Ngumoha. Won the penalty that led to the equaliser and appeared lively throughout his time on the pitch.

Ronald Araujo – 6

Played in defence for the final 20 minutes, taking over from Jacquet. Delivered some decent passes as Liverpool sought an equaliser.

Lewis Koumas – 6

Came on in the closing stages for Gravenberch. Worked diligently and managed to win a late corner, which ultimately did not result in anything.