Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola downplayed the impact of a hostile Newcastle crowd on striker Alexander Isak during Sunday’s 2-2 draw at St James’ Park. The Swedish forward faced relentless jeering from Magpies supporters on his return to Tyneside, with fans directing abusive chants and celebrating a heavy challenge that left him injured on the pitch. Despite a lackluster performance from the £125 million signing, Iraola maintained that Isak had anticipated such treatment and remained focused on contributing to the team’s efforts.
The match proved dramatic despite Isak’s struggles in front of goal. Newcastle took the lead twice through Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock, with Liverpool equalizing through Cody Gakpo. A controversial late penalty awarded against Newcastle, after Lewis Hall’s tackle on Victor Munoz, allowed Dominik Szoboszlai to secure a 99th-minute leveler for the visitors.
Iraola expressed mixed emotions about the result in his opening game in charge, acknowledging that while a draw felt disappointing beforehand, the late equalizer salvaged an otherwise poor display. Newcastle’s new manager Matthias Jaissle voiced frustration over the penalty decision, describing it as soft and costly to what would have been a winning debut.
Both sides showed glimpses of quality despite operational challenges, with Newcastle impressing for long periods despite missing injured players. The encounter served as an entertaining opening to the season, though defensive vulnerabilities remained evident for Liverpool.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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