Liverpool Player Ratings: Salah and Alexander-Arnold Shine in Thrilling 3-3 Draw Against Newcastle
In a dramatic Premier League clash at St. James' Park, Liverpool salvaged a point in a thrilling 3-3 draw against Newcastle. The Reds were twice behind before a standout second-half performance from Mohamed Salah helped them edge ahead, only for a late error to allow the Magpies to equalize in the dying moments.
Here’s how Liverpool's players performed in this intense encounter:
Player Ratings
Goalkeeper
Caoimhín Kelleher (5/10)
Kelleher made a crucial save to deny Anthony Gordon in the first half and could do little about Alexander Isak’s stunning opener. However, a rare mistake in the 90th minute allowed Fabian Schär to snatch a point for Newcastle, tarnishing an otherwise solid display.
Defenders
Andy Robertson (6/10)
The Scottish full-back contributed well offensively with well-timed overlaps and dangerous crosses. Defensively solid but lacked a cutting edge to break Newcastle’s resilience.
Virgil van Dijk (6/10)
A composed performance from the Dutchman, who won key challenges and disrupted Newcastle's counter-attacks. However, he hesitated to step up and play Isak offside for the opener.
Joe Gomez (5/10)
Gomez delivered a mixed performance, blocking crucial shots but struggling to contain Gordon, who turned him inside out for Newcastle's second goal. His ball progression was tidy but lacked defensive sharpness in one-on-one situations.
Jarell Quansah (6/10)
Quansah adapted well to his role as a makeshift right-back. His bright runs forward nearly led to a goal for Salah, but he was caught out by Gordon’s movement for Newcastle's second.
Midfielders
Ryan Gravenberch (5/10)
An underwhelming outing for Gravenberch, who was frequently dispossessed and struggled to impose himself in midfield. Substituted in the second half for Dominik Szoboszlai.
Alexis Mac Allister (6/10)
Mac Allister linked play effectively and came close to scoring, hitting the post early on. His booking, though harsh, rules him out of the Merseyside derby—a significant loss for Liverpool.
Curtis Jones (7/10)
A dynamic display from Jones, who was instrumental in turning Liverpool’s fortunes around. His perfectly timed run and composed finish leveled the score early in the second half.
Forwards
Cody Gakpo (5/10)
Gakpo struggled to make an impact in the first half but showed flashes of quality later, including a near assist for Darwin Núñez. However, he remained largely on the fringes of Liverpool’s attacking play.
Darwin Núñez (5/10)
Núñez’s decision-making in key moments let him down. His misplaced pass to Salah hindered a promising counter-attack, and he narrowly missed connecting with a cross at the back post.
Mohamed Salah (10/10)
A masterclass from Salah in the second half. The Egyptian contributed two goals and an assist, showcasing elite footwork, composure, and vision. His relentless determination and creativity kept Liverpool in the game.
Substitutes
Trent Alexander-Arnold (8/10)
Alexander-Arnold made an immediate impact off the bench, assisting Salah for Liverpool's second equalizer. His ability to win possession and create chances from deep was pivotal.
Dominik Szoboszlai (6/10)
The Hungarian injected energy and vision into Liverpool’s midfield, setting up an effective press and making incisive runs.
Luis Díaz (6/10)
Díaz added flair and urgency on the left flank, consistently challenging his marker and creating opportunities in the box.
Manager Rating
Arne Slot (7/10)
Slot’s tactical adjustments in the second half turned the tide in Liverpool’s favor. His substitutions, particularly bringing on Alexander-Arnold, proved effective. While his side fought hard, defensive lapses cost them a win.
Positives and Negatives
Positives
- Salah's Brilliance: A breathtaking display from the Egyptian ensured Liverpool stayed in contention.
- Second-Half Resurgence: The team’s response after the break highlighted their resilience and determination.
Negatives
- Defensive Vulnerabilities: The absence of Ibrahima Konaté was evident, as Liverpool struggled to contain Newcastle’s pace and creativity.
- Costly Goalkeeping Error: Kelleher’s late mistake overshadowed an otherwise solid performance.
Final Thoughts
Liverpool's 3-3 draw against Newcastle showcased moments of brilliance but also highlighted areas for improvement. Salah and Alexander-Arnold were instrumental, while defensive frailties and missed opportunities cost the Reds a much-needed victory.
With tough fixtures on the horizon, including the Merseyside derby, Liverpool must tighten their backline and capitalize on their attacking prowess to secure vital points in their pursuit of Premier League success.
