Liverpool Crash & Burn

In a final representing more like a fairy tale; Newcastle United ended 70 years of hurt with their first domestic trophy in scintillating fashion over overwhelming favourites Liverpool. In contrast to their tepid performance two years ago against Manchester United; the Geordies were determined to stamp their authority on this one; and came out firing almost from the get-go.

Their midfield has well been the hallmark of their brilliant season; and again today; it was captain Bruno Guimaraes; the defensive masterclass of Joelinton and the probing of Sandro Tonali that won the day. The first half looked almost goal-less before Dan Burn; called up to the England squad for the first time at age 32; planted an unstoppable header into the corner following Kieran Trippier's corner. Bizarrely; he was marked by the smallest man on the pitch Alexis Mac Allister; as Liverpool's so-called zonal defence went up in smoke.

If Liverpool improved slightly after the break; it was to no avail as Alexander Isak; one of the stars of the season; reacted typically to slot home after Jacob Murphy had won the cross from Andrew Robertson; a move symbolising how Newcastle wanted it more in this one. Liverpool on the other hand were slow and ponderous; lacking in ideas and second to almost every challenge. In the biggest game of the season; they turned out the flattest, Their forward trio of Diogo Jota; Mohamed Salah & Luis Diaz; regarded as one of the best in the world; turned in perhaps their worst performance; with both Jota & Diaz substituted for their troubles. Even though Federico Chiesa did pull one back for the Reds late on; it was too little too late.