Newcastle draw 2-2 with Liverpool as former hero Keegan hailed

Liverpool secured a dramatic 2-2 draw against Newcastle United at St James' Park on Sunday, thanks to a stoppage-time penalty converted by Dominik Szoboszlai. The match was played under a cloud of remembrance for Kevin Keegan, a legendary figure for both clubs, who passed away in July at the age of 75.

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As so often when the two sides met during Keegan's managerial career at Newcastle, there was a crucial late goal, with the Hungary international blasting his spot-kick into the top corner to steal a point that looked to have slipped away from the visitors.

Newcastle took an early lead in the fifth minute through Anthony Elanga, who finished off an incisive counter-attack. Liverpool equalized early in the second half when Cody Gakpo found the back of the net after picking up the ball outside the box. The game saw a poignant tribute to Keegan, with fans of both sides singing his name throughout the match.

Joe Willock appeared to have scored the winning goal for Newcastle after coming off the bench, firing in a curling shot. However, deep into stoppage time, Newcastle defender Lewis Hall conceded a penalty by barging into Liverpool substitute Victor Munoz. Szoboszlai stepped up and fired his spot-kick into the top corner, snatching a point for the visitors.

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Keegan was an important part of the history of both clubs, first with his goal-scoring exploits as a striker on Merseyside before his spells as a player and manager that brought Newcastle back to the top echelons of English football.

Keegan, a former striker for Liverpool and later a player and manager for Newcastle, holds a significant place in the history of both clubs. His attacking philosophy as a coach at Newcastle is fondly remembered. The match was attended by former Newcastle forwards Alan Shearer, Les Ferdinand, and Faustino Asprilla, as well as Liverpool icon Kenny Dalglish, highlighting the shared legacy of the man being honored.

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Despite being more grit than glitter, the game was a fitting tribute to the naturally dramatic Keegan, and the fans of both sides sang his name throughout as his former teams played their parts in a compelling spectacle worthy of his memory.