Newcastle United fans and Jurgen Klopp do not often see eye to eye, but we can all agree about one thing the Liverpool manager said after Monday night’s game.
The Reds were largely dominant on New Year’s Day, beating Newcastle United 4-2 to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League and condemn the Magpies to a third straight defeat.
It was a disappointing night for Eddie Howe’s side, who were nowhere near their best at Anfield, while they were also on the end of some infuriating decisions. The one that stings the most is the Diogo Jota dive, as it was a blatant act of cheating.
He won Liverpool’s second penalty of the night, after Martin Dubravka saved the first in the opening 45 minutes. The Slovakian stood firm to deny Mo Salah, who missed the chance to give Liverpool the lead in the first half.
Dubravka was absolutely sensational against Liverpool, and he received a special shout out from Jurgen Klopp after the game.
Jurgen Klopp impressed by Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka
Following Liverpool’s 4-2 win over Newcastle, Klopp spoke to BBC Sport. He commented on Dubravka’s efforts in between the sticks and his side’s failures in front of goal.
“It was a sensational game from my team,” he said.
“We started extremely lively.
“Everyone saw Dubravka and we ourselves made sure the score didn’t get too clear.”
Martin Dubravka kept it respectable against Liverpool
As Klopp says, Dubravka stopped Liverpool running riot on Monday night. They created so many chances against a poor Newcastle side, yet came across an inspired Martin Dubravka.
The 34-year-old could not do anything about the four goals he did concede, and it was unfair on him to concede so many. His performance did not warrant that.
While it was a tough night, the only hope is that it will serve as a confidence boost for Dubravka. He had been struggling since coming back into the side, and this was easily his best display since replacing Nick Pope.
There has been talk that Newcastle could buy a new goalkeeper, but they certainly don’t need to if Dubravka can consistently play like he did against Liverpool. However, that is easier said than done…
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