Despite rescuing a point with Dominik Szoboszlai's 99th-minute penalty, manager Andoni Iraola faces critical questions about creativity and defensive issues.

Liverpool endured a rollercoaster start to their Premier League campaign, battling to a 2-2 draw against Newcastle at a raucous St James' Park. A dramatic 99th-minute penalty from Dominik Szoboszlai secured a point, a stark contrast to the previous season's visit when Rio Ngumoha scored an unforgettable 100th-minute winner.

This time, the late goal brought a feeling of profound relief rather than jubilation for the Reds. Manager Andoni Iraola acknowledged his side deserved at least a draw, stating they "definitely deserve this point and even more." The result also meant Liverpool avoided their first opening weekend defeat since the 2012-13 season, a small victory for team spirit.

However, the hard-fought draw did little to alleviate growing concerns within the squad, particularly regarding depth, creative spark, and defensive vulnerabilities. These issues are set to dominate discussions as the transfer window approaches its final week, according to reporting by BBC Sport - Football.

Iraola's Mixed Emotions After Late Equalizer

Andoni Iraola expressed contentment with the eventual outcome, especially after his team twice trailed at Newcastle. "The team has never given up and we've recovered one point," Iraola told BBC Radio 5 Live, adding that "the taste is better because we score in the last minute."

Despite the positive spirit and strong finish, Iraola will undoubtedly reflect on the performance during the flight back to Merseyside. The match exposed why his squad urgently needs more depth, an area of concern that persists despite the draw.

The Liverpool boss found positives in other aspects of his team's play. "I've liked a lot of the things I've seen from the team," he commented. He specifically praised "the energy, especially the players coming from the bench," noting that Liverpool "finished the game quite strong physically."

High-Profile Signings Face Scrutiny

Much attention was focused on high-profile summer signings Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, both acquired for nine-figure fees. Isak, formerly of Newcastle, faced relentless boos upon touching the ball but appeared fired up, making 28 touches. However, he squandered a brilliant second-half opportunity, a chance he would typically convert during his time at Newcastle.

Wirtz started brightly but was replaced just after the hour mark, shortly after Newcastle took a 2-1 lead. Former Scotland winger Pat Nevin was critical of Liverpool's overall display, telling 5 Live, "They didn't look like a top four team today."

Nevin highlighted a "definite lack of creativity" and emphasized the need to "get the best out of Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak." Both players will recognize the immediate need to improve their combined output and connection on the field in the coming weeks and months.

The Cody Gakpo Conundrum and Wing Experiment

Liverpool's attacking lineup presents more questions than answers, with the future of Cody Gakpo becoming a significant dilemma in the final week of the transfer window. If Liverpool brings in two more attacking players, Gakpo's departure could become a reality.

The club has been linked with Paris St-Germain's Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye, and has already seen two bids rejected for Brighton's Yankuba Minteh. Despite the speculation, Dutchman Gakpo was arguably Liverpool's best performer at Newcastle, brilliantly scoring his goal.

Another positive note came from Spanish forward Victor Munoz, who made a strong Liverpool debut from the bench, winning the late penalty after replacing Ngumoha. Meanwhile, Rio Ngumoha, who turns 18 next week, struggled on the right wing, a position he is less accustomed to, raising questions about Iraola's experiment with wingers playing on both sides.

Defensive Vulnerabilities Underline Transfer Needs

Defensively, Liverpool showed concerning weaknesses. Full-backs Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong both had poor games, and the team was repeatedly undone by counter-attacks, leading to both goals conceded.

The absence of a dedicated defensive midfielder was palpable. This became evident when Iraola positioned Alexis Mac Allister just ahead of the back four after Joe Willock gave Newcastle a 2-1 lead, highlighting a tactical adjustment forced by the circumstances.

Statistics reveal a troubling trend: Liverpool has conceded nine goals via fast breaks in all competitions since the start of last season, a higher tally than any other Premier League team. This defensive vulnerability underscores the urgent need for improvements in both quantity and quality within the squad.

Despite the challenges, Szoboszlai vowed to Sky Sports, "We will never give up. I can guarantee you that." He stressed the need for collective effort, saying, "Everybody who came off the bench also made an impact as well. We need the whole squad and we need to be ready."

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score between Liverpool and Newcastle?

Liverpool drew 2-2 with Newcastle United in their opening Premier League match of the season, thanks to a very late equalizer.

Who scored Liverpool's late penalty against Newcastle?

Midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai scored Liverpool's penalty in the 99th minute to secure the 2-2 draw at St James' Park.

What are Liverpool's main concerns after the draw?

Liverpool's primary concerns after the Newcastle draw include a perceived lack of squad depth, a need for more creativity in attack, and vulnerabilities in their defense, particularly against counter-attacks.

Which high-profile players are under pressure at Liverpool?

Summer signings Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak are facing early scrutiny due to their performance against Newcastle and the significant transfer fees paid for them. Cody Gakpo's future is also uncertain.

What is the latest on Liverpool's transfer window activity?

Liverpool is reportedly seeking to bring in two more attacking players, which could impact Cody Gakpo's future. They have been linked with Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye, and had bids rejected for Brighton's Yankuba Minteh.