Newcastle Toons
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Darlow, Newcastle United blank Liverpool in a scoreless draw

By Carson A Merk

Karl Darlow of Newcastle United F.C. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Karl Darlow of Newcastle United F.C. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /
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Newcastle United pick up a surprising point from a draw vs. Liverpool.

Today’s midweek matchup had all the ingredients for a blowout victory for Liverpool. Newcastle Untied have struggled in recent weeks, Liverpool would be motivated after a draw vs. West Brom, and the Magpies’ recent struggles vs. the Reds. But, there was no blowout.

Instead, Newcastle played with a sense of urgency and became the first club to shut out Liverpool in the Premier League this season in the scoreless draw.

Darlow & The Defenders

With the high-scoring Liverpool attack coming to St. James’ Park, it would be a tall task to blank them. But, that’s exactly what Karl Darlow and his backline did. He made four saves, some from very close range, and frustrated the Liverpool forwards. With Martin Dubravka on the bench for the first time this season, Darlow played like a first-choice EPL keeper.

The central defensive trio of Ciaran Clark, Federico Fernandez, and Fabian Schar did well to limit the big chances and took turns making big plays of their own. This was an inspired effort from the Newcastle goalkeeper and defenders against the reigning champions.

Quick Kicks

  • Really enjoyed the midfield pairing of Matty Longstaff and Isaac Hayden again today. Unfortunately, Hayden will be out for the next match, but that duo showcased some quality.
  • In a funny moment, Fabian Schar appeared to expose some backside as he was attended to briefly by the medical staff.
  • Schar also came up with a massive goalline clearance in the second half to keep the clean sheet alive.
  • Callum Wilson had some quality moments in the attack and Ciaran Clark forced a big save from Allison.
  • Full credit to Steve Bruce. It appeared from the outside that he was losing the dressing room, but those lads showed up for him today in a big way.

Next. This player should take over as captain at Newcastle. dark

What’s Next?

After the promising performance vs. Liverpool, Newcastle will return to action on Sunday against Leicester City. The Foxes sit third on the Premier League table and finished level with Crystal Palace on Monday.