Liverpool prepare for Arsenal showdown with 100th-minute win over Newcastle | OneFootball

Youngster Rio Ngumoha’s heroics gave Liverpool the maximum points in the Premier League fixture at Newcastle United on Monday evening.

The league holders had total control of the clash and were leading 2-0, with Newcastle down to 10 men after Antony Gordon was sent off for a dangerous tackle on Virgil van Dijk.

However, the game turned on its head when Bruno Guimaraes halved the deficit in the 57th minute, swinging the momentum in the Magpies’ favour.

Substitute William Osula equalised only for Ngumoha to score in the 100th minute to hand the Reds the victory.

If Arsenal thought they could outlast Liverpool in a title race, Arne Slot’s side reminded them of their never-say-die spirit.

The Reds are one of the league’s most emotionally sophisticated teams. They won more points from losing positions than any other team last season.

The victory over Newcastle could give Liverpool a psychological boost in their upcoming clash with Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday, even with their defensive frailties.

Arsenal secured maximum points from their opening two games and are stronger than last season. But Liverpool will enter the clash in high spirits, buoyed by their late show of tenacity against Newcastle.

Liverpool fans will also be pumped for the clash, having watched their team show tenacity to secure a victory at St James’ Park.

Arsenal have not won a league game at Anfield since 2012, and Liverpool have the morale to ensure the abysmal run on their patch continues.

Despite the positive atmosphere around Slot’s side, their defensive frailties remain.

If Liverpool can marry their grit with greater defensive discipline, they would not just survive Arsenal’s test – they would reinforce their claim as genuine title defenders.