Liverpool took a huge step in their pursuit of a top-four finish with a 2-0 victory over a 10-man Newcastle United on Saturday. Goals from Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo handed Jurgen Klopp’s side a well-deserved three points at St. James’ Park and moved them within six points of fourth place.
The Reds started brightly and took the lead after just 10 minutes, with Nunez grabbing his third goal in five Premier League games since signing from Benfica in January.
The Uruguayan forward got the better of Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope before coolly slotting home. Seven minutes later, Gakpo doubled Liverpool’s advantage with a low drive from the edge of the penalty area. Pope was then sent off for a handball outside the box, reducing Newcastle to 10 men and ending the game as a contest.
However, that was not the end of the action, as Alisson was called upon to make a brilliant one-handed save to keep out Allan Saint-Maximin’s fierce drive. Newcastle had further chances through Dan Burn and Fabian Schar but could not find a way past the impressive Brazilian goalkeeper.
The victory was Liverpool’s first back-to-back win since December, and Klopp was understandably delighted with his side’s performance. After the game, he said:
“It was a massive, massive, massive, massive result. We deserved it and we showed the character and quality you need to win in the Premier League.”
Klopp also confirmed that Nunez had picked up a shoulder injury but said he would be assessed over the coming days. The Reds now have a game in hand on the teams in and around them, and Klopp will be hoping his side can use the win to kickstart a solid end to the season.
With nine games remaining, every point is vital for Liverpool’s quest for a top-four finish. The next few weeks will be crucial for Klopp’s men, but with a win under their belt, they will be looking to carry the momentum into their next game against Fulham.