Liverpool moved three points clear in the Premier League title race after beating Newcastle 4-2 in a pulsating game they dominated but only sealed late on.
Jurgen Klopp’s relentless side posted 34 shots in the match to a backdrop of 7.20 of expected goals – the most created by one side in a Premier League game since Opta started recording the data in 2010.
But it was never a straightforward evening as Newcastle were level at 1-1 with 16 minutes to play after Alexander Isak had cancelled out Mohamed Salah’s opener.
Salah had already missed a first-half penalty by that point while Darwin Nunez wasted two big chances from his eight shots at goal as somehow Liverpool failed to edge in front.
However, Curtis Jones finally put the hosts in front before Cody Gakpo doubled the cushion moments later.
Somehow, despite the one-sided nature of the stats, Newcastle got within one goal when Sven Botman headed home but Salah scored from the penalty spot after Diogo Jota controversially went down with the goal gaping.
Liverpool start 2024 with a bang. They are the ones to catch.
More to follow…
What’s next?
Liverpool head south to face Arsenal in the FA Cup third round on Sunday January 7; kick-off 4.30pm.
Newcastle travel to rivals Sunderland in the FA Cup third round on Saturday January 6; kick-off 12.45pm.
