Jamie Carragher slams Liverpool stars in dramatic Newcastle triumph

Despite the win, secured by a stunning stoppage-time strike from 16-year-old substitute Rio Ngumoha, the Liverpool legend branded the Reds' performance one of the worst from a winning team, while praising the Magpies' resilience in a pulsating Premier League clash.

The Reds opened the scoring through Ryan Gravenberch's long-range stunner in the first half, and their task seemed easier when Newcastle's Anthony Gordon was sent off just before the break for a reckless challenge on Virgil van Dijk. Hugo Ekitike doubled Liverpool's lead early in the second half with a clinical finish from the edge of the box.

However, Newcastle fought back with goals from Bruno Guimaraes and Will Osula to level the score, only for Ngumoha's 10th-minute stoppage-time screamer to snatch all three points for the visitors.

Carragher, speaking on Sky Sports, didn't hold back in his assessment. "This was possibly one of the worst performances from a winning team and one of the best from a losing team," he said.

"Newcastle were outstanding. If it had been 11 vs 11, I think they would've won, they were far better than Liverpool in every aspect."

He reserved harsh words for Salah and Konate, adding, "Salah's had a really poor start to the season, despite a goal and an assist. Konate was all over the place, especially for Newcastle's equalizer. He's not at the races. Without Virgil van Dijk, who's been outstanding, Liverpool would be in serious trouble."

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe shared his pride in his team's effort despite the defeat. "It was a bruising game with so many emotions," he said. "I'm really pleased with our energy and intensity, sticking to the game plan even after going down to 10 men. We were the better team, but to come away with nothing, plus injuries and suspensions, it's tough."

The match saw Liverpool make two changes from their win over Bournemouth, with Curtis Jones and Gravenberch starting in place of the injured Jeremie Frimpong and Alexis Mac Allister, absent for personal reasons.

Newcastle, unchanged from their draw with Aston Villa, missed star striker Alexander Isak amid ongoing transfer speculation linking him to Liverpool. Howe acknowledged Isak's absence but focused on his team's performance, which offered hope despite the result.

Liverpool's knack for winning under pressure keeps them in the Premier League title race, but Carragher's scathing verdict underscores the need for improvement from key players.

For Newcastle, their spirited display, even in defeat, signals their potential to challenge the top sides this season.