in Liverpool, Newcastle United

Match Report: Liverpool Held to Draw by Dogged Newcastle United

Merseyside giants Liverpool were once again held to a frustrating draw on Sunday, as the Reds were unable to put relative minnow Newcastle United to the sword at St James Park – much to the delight of the home fans in attendance.

Midfield magician Philippe Coutinho once again continued his fiery run of form against the Magpies, scoring a great goal on Sunday. For Newcastle, it was their Spanish striker Joselu who scored with a fine goal.

The game started with Newcastle doing the kick-off but they would soon lose the initiative to Liverpool, who were quick to snatch the ball from the home team and launch an attack. The first definite chance at goal came in at the fourth minute, when Liverpool’s Sadio Mane finds Daniel Sturridge inside the box with a brilliant through ball, but the English forward would be denied by Newcastle’s defence.

However, it was Coutinho’s magic that really helped Liverpool inch closer to the opening goal. The Brazilian made a brilliant run towards the box then made a stunning reverse pass to Sturridge. The Englishman shot from eight yards out but unfortunately could only hit the side of the net.

Coutinho would come to take matters to his own hands by eventually scoring ten minutes later. The enigmatic playmaker launched the ball flying towards the top right corner of the net from a stunning 30 yards out after a brilliant run.

Despite the beautiful goal, the Reds would soon find themselves pegged back to level terms after Joselu’s fortuitous shot. The Spaniard went one-on-one with Liverpool keeper Simon Mignolet and did not look like scoring but a tackle from Reds defender Joel Matip managed to create enough confusion so the ball was allowed to tiptoe to the back of the net.

Liverpool were eager to step up their game come the second half. Alberto Moreno and Mohamed Salah came close to scoring for the visitors, but all their attempts at goal would end up wide. After ninety minutes, the game would end with a goal apiece – the Reds unable to break down Newcastle’s defence.

This is now the third time in seven games that Liverpool were forced to share the spoils with their opponents this season. Draws against the likes of Watford and Burnley will definitely be seen as points dropped for Liverpool, who at this point are nowhere near becoming the title contenders they aim to be.

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