Newcastle Toons
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Newcastle United: Toon Takeaways vs. Liverpool

By Carson A Merk

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 01: Newcastle defender DeAndre Yedlin (r) challenges Phillipe Coutinho of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Liverpool at St. James Park on October 1, 2017 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 01: Newcastle defender DeAndre Yedlin (r) challenges Phillipe Coutinho of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Liverpool at St. James Park on October 1, 2017 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /
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Newcastle United came away with a point at home after finishing level with Liverpool.

In a matchup with his former club, Rafa Benitez guided Newcastle United to a draw with Liverpool. Philippe Coutinho scored a lovely goal from outside the area just before the half hour mark. Not long after, Jonjo Shelvey played Joselu through on a long pass. The striker was ran down from behind, but the Liverpool sliding tackle knocked the ball off of Joselu’s shin and past Simon Mignolet. Both sides had chances in the second half, but nothing that changed the scoreline.

Top Toons

Jonjo Shelvey: While his mindset is a topic of debate, his talent on the pitch is never questioned. Getting his first start since opening day, Shelvey was his usual self, sending slicing passes into great areas. His assist on Joselu’s goal was world class.

Jamaal Lascelles: The skipper did a good job today clearing the ball out and cutting off Liverpool attacks. He looked agile and composed today.

Mediocre Magpies

Ayoze Perez: No surprise here. Perez has been poor all season, but Rafa has not thought to replace the Spaniard yet.

Ciaran Clark: Usually remarkably steady, Clark wasn’t at the top of his game today. He had a massive whiff on a kick in the area, which forced Rob Elliot into a massive save. He also had some clearances that didn’t get far enough away from danger.

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Quick Kicks

– Elliot’s save after Clark’s mishap was huge. He kept out Daniel Sturridge from close range.

– The backline was very disciplined against a dangerous Liverpool attack. They caught Sturridge offside a few times and were rarely caught out of position.

– As most of Toon Army assumed, the Shelvey-Merino combo in the midfield was fun to watch. Both players sprayed the ball all over the pitch and have the ability to torment a defense at anytime.

– The referee did not do Newcastle any favors, calling 11 fouls against the hosts and only six against the Reds.

– DeAndre Yedlin’s speed helped neutralize the dangerous Sadio Mane. His impact since returning from injury has been massive for the Magpies.

What’s Next?

Sadly for Premier League fans, we’re heading into an international break. When EPL action returns, Newcastle United will travel to Southampton on 10/15. The Saints are currently 12th on the table and have only scored five goals in seven matches.