A brutal end to a brilliant game and a result Newcastle’s heroic display did not deserve, as Liverpool won it with almost the last kick.
Here are our comments on each player and ratings out of 10 on a night of very mixed emotions at St James’ Park:
**Starting 11**
Pope (6) – Barely moved for any of the goals which wasn’t a good look for him. Sure he’ll claim the assist for the equaliser!
Trippier (5.5) – Far from his best with several misjudgements in defence and wayward set pieces in the first half especially. Could find himself on the bench against Leeds
Schar (6.5) – Unfortunately went off with a concussion which gives Thiaw an earlier than expected opportunity. Could’ve closed down for the goals much quicker, but was generally aggressive and physical against the bigger Ekitike.
Burn (8.5) – Man mountain. Isn’t much else to say really, he continues to be our most important defender. Constant threat in both boxes and is looking more assured on the ball.
Livramento (8) – Was arguably our brightest attacker in the first half and delivered a pin point cross for Bruno to nod in the first goal. Could be shifted to his more accustomed right back position against Leeds.
Guimaraes (9) – A leader. Was up for this one and it showed with his fierce determination throughout the game. Was booked and was walking a tightrope but he was instrumental in everything we did. With the injuries to Tonali and Joelinton a lot of responsibility falls on his shoulders
Tonali (7.5) – Bravely played on after suffering a nasty looking shoulder injury before being replaced by Miley. Didn’t give Liverpool’s much vaunted midfield any time or space and will be a massive miss.
Joelinton (7.5) – Set the tone early and was his customary physical presence before suffering what looked like a bad groin injury.
Elanga (6.5) – Had a couple of bright moments but wasn’t as involved as he would expect to be. Promising signs so far but needs a goal or an assist to kickstart his Newcastle career
Barnes (5.5) – One great cross in the first half set up Gordon for a header but will be disappointed with his performance up against a makeshift right back in Szoboszlai. Will keep his spot almost by default but needs a big game
Gordon (5) – Undone by his enthusiasm and relentless need to press to win the ball back. Can have no arguments about the red card and has now left us in quite the whole up front. Prior to the red card he played well with some neat touches and had some chances to open the scoring
**Subs:**
Miley (6.5) – Took up some great positions and was his usual tidy self in possession. Almost feels like he’s playing within himself sometimes.
Ramsey (7) – Very encouraging cameo from the new signing. Made some intelligent runs and linked up well with Hall down the left. Will likely be thrust into the starting eleven against Leeds
Hall (7) – Looked assured in defence and his set piece delivery is a particular highlight. Needs to start
Osula (7) – If ever a player needed a goal is was Osula. Showed great pace and bravery to tuck away the equaliser. Showed a bit of inexperience giving away pressure relieving free kicks late on
Thiaw (NR) – One nervy moment when he was bailed out by Burn but showed some good touches in possession.