Willock Stuns Anfield-Bound Party Early

Newcastle United and Liverpool shared the points in a dramatic 2-2 draw at St James’ Park, with Dominik Szoboszlai’s stoppage-time penalty rescuing a late point for Andoni Iraola’s side. The result marked a memorable home debut for new Newcastle boss Matthias Jaissle, even if his side couldn’t hold on for all three points.

Notably, Newcastle broke the deadlock through substitute Joe Willock, who netted his first Premier League goal since February 2024. Yoane Wissa drove a brilliant run through the heart of the pitch before finding Willock, who rescued a tricky touch and buried a gorgeous finish into the far corner. Jaissle’s decision to introduce Willock proved genuinely masterful, showcasing his tactical sharpness on his first day in the St James’ Park dugout.

Liverpool, though, refused to fold. As the match entered its dying stages, substitute Victor Munoz, fresh off his World Cup triumph and only recently arrived after Liverpool hijacked his proposed move to Newcastle, was brought down inside the box by Lewis Hall. Referee Stuart Attwell pointed immediately to the spot.

Szoboszlai Keeps His Composure

Szoboszlai stepped up in the eighth minute of stoppage time, ignoring whistles from the home crowd to fire an emphatic penalty beyond Newcastle’s goalkeeper. The Hungarian’s composure under pressure ensured Liverpool salvaged a share of the spoils with virtually the final kick of the match.

Interestingly, this fixture carried genuine emotional weight for Alexander Isak, who returned to St James’ Park for the first time since forcing through his controversial move to Liverpool. Both sides fielded multiple new faces, too, with Jaissle handing debuts to Lukas Hornicek, Amar Dedic and Sean Steur, while Liverpool’s Jeremy Jacquet also made his first appearance in defence.

For Newcastle, this result offers genuine encouragement despite a difficult pre-season that yielded just one win from five friendlies. Liverpool, meanwhile, will feel relieved given their shaky finish, according to VAVEL, as both sides look to build momentum heading into the coming weeks.

Readers following Liverpool and Newcastle’s opening weeks of the new season can find continued coverage on KCPredict throughout the campaign.