Szoboszlai Late Penalty Earns Liverpool 2-2 Draw at Newcastle

NEWCASTLE, England — Liverpool rescued a point with a dramatic stoppage-time penalty as they drew 2-2 with Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Sunday.

Dominik Szoboszlai converted from the spot in the ninth minute of added time to secure a share of the spoils in Andoni Iraola’s first Premier League match in charge of the Reds.

Newcastle took an early lead through Anthony Elanga in the fifth minute. The hosts looked dangerous on the counter and held the advantage until early in the second half.

Cody Gakpo equalised for Liverpool in the 55th minute with a well-struck finish from outside the box. The visitors’ joy was short-lived, however, as substitute Joe Willock restored Newcastle’s lead just two minutes later.

Liverpool continued to press and were rewarded deep into stoppage time when a foul on substitute Víctor Muñoz by Lewis Hall led to a penalty. Szoboszlai stepped up and fired the spot-kick into the net to level the scores.

The result leaves both sides with a point from their opening fixtures of the new Premier League season. Newcastle will feel disappointed after leading twice, while Liverpool will take encouragement from their late fightback and refusal to accept defeat.

Iraola’s side showed resilience to come from behind on two occasions. The late equaliser provided a positive end to an otherwise challenging afternoon at St James’ Park.

Both teams now turn their attention to the next round of matches. The entertaining contest delivered drama until the final moments and set an early tone for the new campaign.