Sport · Singapore Bureau
Liverpool salvage draw at Newcastle in Iraola's debut
Liverpool secured a 2-2 draw at Newcastle United on Sunday in manager Andoni Iraola's first match in charge, with Dominik Szoboszlai converting a stoppage-time penalty to rescue a point for the Merseyside club.
LSN Singapore ·
Iraola's tenure at Anfield got off to an eventful start as Liverpool showed resilience to avoid defeat against Newcastle in their Premier League opener. The Hungarian midfielder's crucial penalty kick in the closing stages ensured the visitors avoided a loss on a day that tested the new manager's resolve from the outset.
The draw leaves Liverpool level on points after their opening fixture, though the manner of the comeback will have pleased Iraola. His side's refusal to capitulate despite being pegged back twice suggests the new manager has instilled a fighting spirit in the squad during pre-season preparations.
Newcastle will feel they had chances to secure all three points on home soil, but ultimately had to settle for a point. The result sets the tone for what promises to be a closely contested Premier League season, with both clubs looking to build on their opening day performances in subsequent fixtures.
Iraola, taking the reins at one of England's most storied clubs, will now focus on consolidating his early impression as Liverpool prepare for their next league encounter.