Liverpool came from behind to beat Newcastle 4-1 at Anfield on Saturday evening with former Magpies transfer target Hugo Ekitike scoring twice in the first half
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - JANUARY 31: (SUN OUT, SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool celebrates scoring his team's fourth goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Newcastle United at Anfield on January 31, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Ibrahima Konate produced a man of the match display in Liverpool's win over Newcastle(Image: Liverpool FC, Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
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Liverpool fought back to claim their first Premier League victory of the year with a commanding 4-1 win over Newcastle United at Anfield on Saturday evening.
Following Anthony Gordon's opener for the visitors, Hugo Ekitike struck twice within two minutes to turn the tide before the interval, with Florian Wirtz and Ibrahima Konate adding further goals after the break.
The outcome leaves Arne Slot's men sitting just one point adrift of the top four, having suffered only a single defeat in their previous 16 fixtures across all competitions.
The ECHO was present at Anfield and assessed how the Liverpool squad performed...
Caught by Gordon early doors and occasionally uncertain when dealing with Newcastle's barrage of first-half corners, though his handling proved reliable after the restart.
Reluctant to push forward down the wing initially but dependable in his defensive responsibilities and grew into an attacking force following the interval.
Outstanding display on his return to the starting XI, dominating Newcastle's forwards throughout. His late strike sparked emotional scenes and was thoroughly merited.
His aerial strength proved vital defensively as Newcastle bombarded Liverpool's penalty area before half-time, whilst his nous helped secure the victory.
Mohamed Salah and Florian Wirtz celebrate a Liverpool goal
Mohamed Salah and Florian Wirtz linked up for Liverpool's third goal(Image: Paul Ellis/AFP)
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Struggled with Elanga during the opening period and erred by giving Gordon space for the breakthrough, but showed sharp thinking to set up Ekitike's second and grew considerably stronger.
Took time to make an impact with his forward play but set up a chance for Ekitike in the first half and was involved in the equaliser.
Unintentionally helped Newcastle score the opener and occasionally looked off the pace before finding his rhythm in the second half. Booked.
Played the ball against Hall too frequently in the first half but his willingness to keep running opened up space for teammates and eventually resulted in an assist for Wirtz. Subbed.
Quiet in the opening quarter but determined to get involved, producing excellent work to set up the equaliser and some fine play before scoring the third.
Showed plenty of effort but lacked the final touch in the first half, occasionally frustrating the home supporters. His pressing, however, contributed to the third goal and he started troubling Newcastle.
Hugo Ekitike celebrates after scoring for Liverpool
Hugo Ekitike scored twice to sink Newcastle(Image: Liverpool FC)
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The only Liverpool player to threaten Pope early on before finishing his two goals superbly, especially the second. Another outstanding all-round attacking performance.
Substitutes
Game time for the Inter target.
Gave the supporters a good reason to sing his song.
Did some Endo things.