Player Ratings vs Liverpool

What were your expectations for today? Certainly the press (this blog included) weren't forgetting the 6-0 scoreline last spring. By that metric, Newcastle was undoubtedly better.

Newcastle took a deserved lead at the 23' minute mark when Yohan Cabaye's long range shot found the back of the net. However, a halftime lead was not to be, as Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa was red carded for a professional foul in the box. While the red was controversial, Steven Gerrard slotted home the penalty to make it 1-1 at the break.

10 man Newcastle though showed that they had plenty of heart, as Paul Dummett, who came on to shore up the back line, notched a goal to send the hosts ahead. The lead would hold up for nearly 20 minutes before Daniel Sturridge's goal brought scores level. Newcastle faced an onslaught in the waning moments of the second half, as Liverpool used their man advantage to send wave after wave of attack at the Newcastle goal.This included a free kick at the death that Tim Krul bravely saved to preserve the draw.

So, how did each player do? Tell us and we'll have a summary report early on next week.