In the face of the Premier League, Liverpool’s dominance is becoming a distant view for their opponents as they forge ahead, leaving their so-called title competitors to squabble over the runner-up spot. The relentless squad led by Arne Slot has widened the gap, standing 13 points clear at the top with only 10 matches left to play. A convincing victory over Newcastle has further buttressed their position, rendering Arsenal’s chances of closing the gap to mere wishful thinking. Liverpool’s form is on an upward trajectory, showcasing improvement game after game.
The victory was sealed with a first-half goal by Dominik Szoboszlai, followed by an impressive second-half strike by his fellow midfielder, Alexis Mac Allister. This was more than enough to overcome Eddie Howe’s Newcastle team, who will need to regroup and recover their injured players and morale before the two teams clash again in the Carabao Cup final in less than three weeks. The strength and solidity of Liverpool were too much for the Magpies to handle at Anfield.
This series of five matches in 15 days was predicted to be a pivotal moment in the title race, and Liverpool has only further consolidated their claim on the 20th title.
Slot, placed in the back of the directors’ box because of a two-match touchline ban for improper conduct in the wake of the recent Merseyside derby, was not missed. Sipke Hulshoff, his assistant, also faced a similar ban for his actions at Goodison Park. The reins were handed over to ex-Everton player, John Heitinga, who seamlessly filled the role from the technical area.
Liverpool’s performance did not falter, living up to their head coach’s promise of relentless pursuit of victory. Their work ethic and ambition were once again commendable, with their confidence understandably soaring. Luis Díaz was a constant nuisance for Tino Livramento, who struggled to keep him in check.
Mohamed Salah was left bewildered when penalised for a foul on Lewis Hall, and Slot was equally unimpressed with referee Stuart Attwell’s decision, as seen by his reaction from the stands.
The disappointment did not last long, however, as Slot and Heitinga were soon celebrating when Szoboszlai netted for the second straight match. The goal was orchestrated by Díaz, who attacked Livramento from the left before setting up the unmarked Liverpool midfielder. Despite lacking power, Szoboszlai’s shot slipped past Sandro Tonali, took a deflection off Dan Burn, and beat an unsighted Nick Pope.
Szoboszlai, the Hungarian skipper, heeded Slot’s advice to shoot more often, which is evident in his performances against both Manchester City and Newcastle. His impressive form has made him an increasingly vital part of Liverpool’s midfield. He narrowly missed doubling his score just before half-time.
Despite Liverpool’s control and composure against a beleaguered Newcastle, Szoboszlai’s goal remained the only shot on target in the first half. Salah came close to scoring, but a spectacular clearance from Hall and Pope’s lucky escape kept the scoreline unchanged.
Liverpool’s ever-increasing lead at the top of the Premier League is an ominous sign for their rivals, with the Reds showing no signs of slowing down in their charge towards the title.