Liverpool let a late lead slip in a gripping 3-3 draw against Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Wednesday night. The Reds, who fought back from deficits twice, saw goals from Curtis Jones and Mohamed Salah (who scored twice) in a dramatic encounter that left fans on the edge of their seats.
Despite the draw, Liverpool remain at the top of the Premier League table, though their lead has now shrunk to seven points after 14 matches. This marked only the second time this season they have shared the spoils in a league fixture.
Here are the *ECHO’s* player ratings for Liverpool’s chaotic performance:
**Caoimhin Kelleher – 6**
The goalkeeper made crucial saves early on to deny Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes and later thwarted Anthony Gordon. However, his critical error for Newcastle’s third goal proved costly.
**Jarell Quansah – 5**
The young defender had a tough time containing Gordon in the first half but remained determined in his efforts. He moved to center-back in the latter stages and managed to avoid conceding a penalty. Booked for his troubles.
**Andy Robertson – 6**
Liverpool’s left-back struggled defensively in the opening 45 minutes as the team’s backline appeared disjointed. However, he improved significantly after halftime, offering more support to the center-backs and contributing effectively to attacks on the left flank.
**Ryan Gravenberch – 4**
Gravenberch had a game to forget, losing the ball in dangerous positions and making little impact offensively. While he showed some improvement after the interval, his overall display was poor. Substituted after being booked.
**Alexis Mac Allister – 6**
Mac Allister had a mixed performance. While he showed some attacking intent, including forcing a save and hitting the post, he was defensively fragile. Newcastle exploited his weaknesses during their first goal. Booked, but slightly better in the second half.
**Curtis Jones – 7**
Jones was Liverpool’s most composed midfielder in the first half, scoring the first equalizer and maintaining his performance throughout the match. His poise on the ball stood out in an otherwise erratic team display.
**Mohamed Salah – 9**
After a quiet first half, Salah came alive in the second, scoring two goals and providing an assist. He also came close to a hat-trick with a thunderous strike that hit the crossbar. His brilliance kept Liverpool in the game.
**Darwin Nunez – 5**
The forward had a frustrating evening, struggling to make an impact in the first half and missing two good opportunities in the second. Nevertheless, his work rate remained commendable. Booked.
**Cody Gakpo – 6**
Gakpo was lively in the first half, winning several corners and working hard down the left flank. However, his influence faded after the break, leading to his substitution.
**Trent Alexander-Arnold (subbed on for Gomez, 67’) – 8**
Alexander-Arnold’s introduction transformed Liverpool’s attack. His incisive passing and pinpoint crosses led to two crucial assists. Booked but immensely influential.
