Liverpool’s grip on the summit of the Premier League tightened slightly as they were held to a dramatic 3-3 draw by Newcastle United at St. James’ Park, cutting their lead to seven points.
The hosts started brightly, with Sandro Tonali testing Caoimhin Kelleher early, but Liverpool grew into the game. Alexis Mac Allister struck the post, and Jacob Murphy rattled the woodwork for Newcastle in an evenly matched first half. However, the Magpies broke the deadlock through Alexander Isak, who weaved past Virgil van Dijk to smash home a superb opener. Kelleher’s sharp save denied Anthony Gordon a second before halftime.
Liverpool equalized shortly after the break as Mohamed Salah squared for Curtis Jones to convert in cool fashion. Newcastle responded to regain their lead, Gordon this time beating Kelleher with a low effort. It was again end-to-end, as Salah turned Trent Alexander-Arnold’s delivery past Pope.
A brilliant swivel and finish by the Egyptian in the closing stages seemed to seal the win, capping a lively display. Yet, Newcastle had the last laugh when Fabian Schär tapped in Bruno Guimarães’ late free-kick after a Kelleher error.
The draw halts Liverpool’s momentum to remind them that their title charge faces stiff competition.
