Liverpool manager Arne Slot defended his side after their dramatic 3-2 win over Newcastle United, insisting they did not collapse despite surrendering a 2-0 lead to 10 men.
The Premier League champions appeared to be in complete command in the 46th minute after Hugo Ekitike doubled their lead following Ryan Gravenberch’s opener and Anthony Gordon’s red card for a rash foul on Virgil van Dijk.
But Newcastle improbably produced a remarkable comeback, Bruno Guimaraes halving the deficit with a header before substitute William Osula appeared to have had the final say by levelling matters.
Osula, Newcastle’s only recognised centre forward amid Alexander Isak’s self-imposed exile as the star striker tries to force through a move to Liverpool, prodded home the equaliser two minutes from the end of normal time.
There was a final twist in an already enthralling tale in the penultimate minute of 11 minutes of stoppage time when 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha curled home a stunning winner for Liverpool four days shy of his 17th birthday.
Yet, despite the incredible drama that played out at a raucous St James’ Park, Slot had a curious description of what he witnessed.
“I’m not too sure it was a football match today,” Slot told Sky Sports. “It was set-piece after set-piece, long throw after long throw.
“We didn’t collapse and stood strong. We didn’t play well enough on the ball. I don’t think there was so much open play.”
On Ngumoha’s wondrous winner, Slot added: “It was a great goal for a 16-year-old. Rio can finish so well for his age.
“I did hear someone say afterwards in the dressing room he would have taken a first touch but he is so confident. For his age he is a really good finisher.”
