LIVERPOOL DRAW WITH NEWCASTLE IN IRAOLA'S FIRST GAME

Liverpool drew 2-2 with Newcastle United at St James' Park on Sunday in the opening fixture of the Premier League season for both sides. Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock scored for Newcastle, with Cody Gakpo equalising for Liverpool before Dominik Szoboszlai's late penalty secured a draw. The match marked the first game in charge for both Andoni Iraola at Liverpool and Matthias Jaissle at Newcastle. Alexander Isak's return to Newcastle was met with boos from home supporters.

The fixture took place against the backdrop of a tribute to Kevin Keegan, the former Newcastle manager and Liverpool player who died from stomach cancer in July at the age of 75. Liverpool's performance drew criticism from sections of supporters and observers. Jeremie Frimpong, Liverpool's fullback, received particular scrutiny after the match. According to SofaScore data, Frimpong achieved a match rating of 5.9, the lowest among Liverpool players on the day, winning only two of seven defensive duels whilst losing possession 17 times from 65 touches and being dribbled past twice. His passing accuracy stood at 81 per cent, with three key passes recorded.

Iraola's opening match saw Liverpool forced to recover from behind. Journalist James Pearce commented on Frimpong's display, describing him as "wasteful yet again in possession". Social media responses from Liverpool supporters reflected disappointment with the Dutch fullback's contribution across both defensive and attacking phases of play. The draw leaves both clubs with one point from their opening fixture.