Liverpool started the new year on a winning note, securing a 4-2 victory over Newcastle United at Anfield on Monday. Mohamed Salah played a pivotal role, scoring two goals in the second half to make up for a missed penalty earlier in the game. The win propels Liverpool three points clear at the top of the Premier League standings with 45 points from 20 games.
Salah, who changed his boots at halftime, found the net in the 49th minute after a close-range finish from a pass by Darwin Nunez. Alexander Isak scored against the run of play for Newcastle in the 54th minute, leveling the score briefly. However, Liverpool regained the lead with goals from Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo in the 74th and 78th minutes, respectively.
Sven Botman pulled one back for Newcastle in the 81st minute, but Salah sealed the victory with a penalty in the 86th minute after a foul on Diogo Jota. Salah’s brace took him to the top of the Premier League goal-scoring charts alongside Erling Haaland, with 14 goals each.
Liverpool dominated the game, with Salah’s first-half penalty miss being the only setback. The intense match showcased Liverpool’s attacking prowess, and Salah’s clinical finishing ensured they secured all three points. Salah expressed relief after the game, stating, “I missed the pen. I didn’t want to leave for the national team with that performance.”
Newcastle, on the other hand, faced defensive challenges, and despite a spirited effort, they were unable to contain Liverpool’s relentless attack. The defeat adds to Newcastle’s recent struggles, having lost four of their last five league matches. Manager Eddie Howe expressed disappointment with the defensive lapses but argued against Salah’s second penalty decision.
Liverpool now holds the top spot in the Premier League, while Newcastle faces a tough test against champions Manchester City on January 13. Salah’s stellar performance serves as a fitting end before his departure for the African Cup of Nations.
