Arne Slot sat in the stands, gazing down at the lush green pitch, envisioning his imminent coronation as only the second Liverpool manager to win a league title in 35 years. This moment would confirm his status as a worthy successor to Jurgen Klopp and the other legendary figures of the past.
Liverpool now holds a commanding 13-point lead over a stumbling Arsenal, who have a game in hand but face uncertainty given their current form. Even though it’s still February, the Premier League trophy feels destined to return to Anfield.
Slot’s presence in the stands was due to a brief loss of control following a fractious derby draw against Everton two weeks prior. How distant that disappointing night seems now. Liverpool has transformed, standing imperious at the top of the league, in control and looking like champions-elect.
While their performance wasn’t flawless, it was effective enough to secure the win. Dominik Szoboszlai scored early, followed by a calming goal from Alexis Mac Allister midway through the second half. As news of Arsenal’s struggles filtered through, the Kop erupted in song, a joy that echoed memories from the last triumph in the Covid-affected 2019-20 season.
The methods of relaying news may have changed—from transistor radios to smartphones—but the emotions remain the same: joy, relief, and a growing sense of certainty. “We are gonna win the league,” they sang, and who could argue?
Liverpool continued to push forward, even as the match neared its end. Despite not scoring, Mo Salah was relentless, testing Newcastle’s goalkeeper Nick Pope until the final whistle. Darwin Nunez, a substitute, aimed to make his mark, while Szoboszlai showcased his tireless energy.
This is Slot’s Liverpool—full of energy and optimism. Recent results had buoyed them, and with Newcastle missing their key striker Alexander Isak due to injury, Liverpool seized the early momentum. They might have earned a penalty in just the second minute when Salah was fouled, but the referee controversially penalized him instead.
Undeterred, Liverpool pressed on against Newcastle’s defense. Slot made only two changes from the weekend match, yet Liverpool’s midfield was pulsating with energy, leading to the opening goal in the 11th minute. Mac Allister initiated a deep attack, feeding Luis Diaz, who set up Szoboszlai for a crisp finish from 12 yards. Pope’s slow reaction didn’t dampen Liverpool’s spirits as they took an invaluable lead.
The home side sensed an opportunity to extend their advantage. A cross from Diogo Jota was intercepted, but Salah and Diaz created more chances, with Salah curling one over the bar and Szoboszlai narrowly missing with a long-range shot.
Newcastle was not without its threats. Callum Wilson, making a rare start, posed a challenge with a shot that whizzed past the Kop End. Eddie Howe’s side enjoyed some possession, showing resilience, especially in the first 15 minutes of the second half.
Despite their efforts, Liverpool’s defense, anchored by Virgil van Dijk, remained solid, successfully keeping Newcastle at bay. The match showcased Liverpool’s determination and reinforced their status as title contenders as they continue their pursuit of glory.