Liverpool salvage late draw as Szoboszlai penalty denies Newcastle victory

Liverpool twice came from behind to begin their Premier League campaign with a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United after late drama at St James’ Park on Sunday evening.

Anthony Elanga gave Newcastle an early lead after Liverpool lost possession in the fifth minute. The forward accelerated down the right during the resulting counter-attack before finishing firmly into the bottom corner.

Liverpool struggled to create a response before half-time, but they levelled 10 minutes after the interval. Cody Gakpo collected a loose pass and found enough room outside the penalty area to strike a low effort into the bottom corner from distance.

Newcastle regained the advantage only two minutes later. Yoane Wissa showed determination to retain possession as he carried the ball forward before laying it off to Joe Willock, who finished accurately into the corner.

The home side appeared set to claim all three points, but Liverpool were awarded a penalty in the final minute. Victor Munoz went down after a challenge from Lewis Hall, and Dominik Szoboszlai converted with a well-struck effort to secure a point for the visitors.

Elsewhere, Manchester City began their Premier League campaign with a late 2-1 comeback win against Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, giving new manager Enzo Maresca a winning start.

City were behind early in the contest after Evanilson moved towards the right side of the attack and delivered a cutback towards the far post. Marcus Tavernier met the ball and guided his finish into the near corner.

Manchester City applied sustained pressure as they searched for an equaliser. Their efforts were rewarded with five minutes of normal time remaining, when Marc Guehi brought the hosts level.

The comeback was completed in the closing moments. Rayan Cherki supplied the lay-off for Josko Gvardiol, who finished the move to give City victory in their opening fixture.

Brighton and Hove Albion made an emphatic start of their own, beating 10-man Aston Villa 4-0 at the American Express Stadium after a dominant first-half display.

Villa suffered an unfortunate opening when a defensive mix-up resulted in Victor Lindelof putting the ball into his own net while attempting to clear a shot that was heading towards goal.

Brighton quickly took control and doubled their lead during a lively opening period. Maxim De Cuyper converted after receiving a delivery from Georginio Rutter, keeping his composure before finding the back of the net.

The hosts added a third on the half-hour mark when Jack Hinshelwood finished a cutback. He struck again only a minute later, taking advantage of a turnover high up the pitch to score with a straightforward finish.

A difficult first half for Aston Villa became even worse five minutes before the interval. Following a review by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), debutant Joao Gomes was sent off for violent conduct, leaving Villa with 10 players.