Liverpool triumph over Newcastle United, extending their Premier League lead to 13 points.

Liverpool extended their lead at the Premier League summit to 13 points above Arsenal, securing a 2-0 win against Newcastle United. Under the management of Arne Slot, the Reds have now managed to score at least twice in each of their past 18 outings at Anfield.

The major pre-match news was the unexpected absence of Newcastle’s prolific striker Alexander Isak, who was sidelined due to a groin injury. This blow undoubtedly made the challenge more formidable for Eddie Howe’s charges.

On the other side, Arne Slot was serving a two-match touchline ban following a controversial incident after the game at Goodison Park. However, it proved inconsequential as his team struck early, with Dominik Szoboszlai finding the back of the net just 11 minutes into the match.

Luis Diaz played a pivotal role, setting up the Hungarian international, who expertly slotted the ball home from close range to mark Liverpool’s landmark 100th goal of the season across all competitions.

While Liverpool maintained control of the game for the most part, they were nearly caught off guard when Dan Burn launched a long ball towards Callum Wilson. Wilson managed to break through one-on-one with Alisson but disappointingly shot wide of the target.

Szoboszlai came within inches of extending Liverpool’s lead when his right-footed attempt narrowly missed the post after being set up by Diogo Jota.

Aside from Wilson’s missed opportunity, the first half was straightforward for a Liverpool team that hadn’t quite hit their stride as they approached halftime.

After a slow start to the second half, Liverpool found their rhythm and doubled their advantage just three minutes past the hour mark, thanks to Alexis Mac Allister. The Argentine intercepted the ball in midfield and cleverly combined with Mohamed Salah before unleashing a powerful right-footed strike that left Nick Pope with no chance.

Salah soon looked to add to the tally with a stunning cross using the outside of his right foot aimed for Díaz, yet the Colombian unfortunately slid the ball wide at the far post.

Ultimately, Slot’s side got the job done, displaying a solid performance despite not reaching their peak. Meanwhile, Newcastle struggled without the attacking threat that Isak usually provides. Howe’s team has now suffered four defeats in their last six Premier League matches as they navigate a tight race for European qualification. Liverpool, on the other hand, appears to be solidifying their position in a title race that seems increasingly like a foregone conclusion with each passing fixture.