Darwin Nunez produces heroics for 10-man Liverpool against Newcastle
Darwin Nunez was the hero for 10-man Liverpool against Newcastle, supplying two stunning finishes after being thrown on as a second-half substitute by Jurgen Klopp.
The Reds were 1-0 down in the 25th minute after Trent Alexander-Arnold, lucky to still be on the pitch, miscontrolled the ball and allowed former Liverpool academy player Anthony Gordon to open the scoring.
And it went from bad to worse minutes later for Jurgen Klopp's side when captain Virgil van Dijk kicked through Alexander Isak to get to the ball.
Advert
Referee John Brooks felt it was a denial of a clear goalscoring opportunity and sent off the Dutchman, who was absolutely incensed.
It looked like it could be a very difficult day at the office for Liverpool but they stayed in the game and pulled level in the 81st minute when Nunez capitalised on an error from Sven Botman.
🗣️ "RAZOR-SHARP RED!"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 27, 2023
Darwin Nunez with a LATE equaliser!! 🔴 pic.twitter.com/AZnD4gnNwN
The Uruguayan, now wearing the No.9 shirt at Anfield following on from Roberto Firmino's departure, is yet to start a Premier League game this term.
But he might just have played his way into the side courtesy of his heroics at St James' Park. After he levelled matters with a clinical finish into the far corner in the 81st minute, Nunez went one better and notched a winner in stoppage time after being played in behind by Mo Salah.
GOAL!!! NUNEZ STRIKES AGAIN IN INJURY-TIME! 🔴 pic.twitter.com/vBTn788FB1
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 27, 2023
Both finishes were the type of chances that the former Benfica man snatched at on a regular basis last season, but he was so calm in the big moments.
Given the circumstances it could be a massive win for Liverpool come the end of the season.
They have now taken seven points from their first three fixtures, two of which were tricky away trips to Chelsea and Newcastle.
Next up for Liverpool is a visit of Aston Villa on 3 September.
Topics: Liverpool, Darwin Nunez, Newcastle United, Virgil Van Dijk
Josh Lawless