Liverpool rescued a dramatic 2-2 draw against Newcastle United at St James’ Park after Dominik Szoboszlai converted a stoppage-time penalty with virtually the last kick of the game on Saturday.

Newcastle appeared to be heading for victory after goals from Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock, while Cody Gakpo had briefly brought Liverpool level in the second half.

The hosts made a bright start as Elanga opened the scoring after being played through by William Osula. The forward kept his composure to send a neat finish into the far corner for his first goal for Newcastle.

Liverpool responded after the break, with Gakpo producing an accurate strike from distance that found the back of the net and restored parity.

But the visitors were level for only two minutes before Newcastle regained the lead. Substitute Willock found space and fired a clinical effort into the bottom corner to put the hosts ahead once again.

Newcastle looked set to hold on for a memorable opening-day victory under new manager Matthias Jaissle, but Liverpool were handed a late opportunity when Lewis Hall brought down Victor Munoz inside the penalty area.

Szoboszlai stepped up and showed no sign of nerves, smashing the penalty into the roof of the net to secure a point for Liverpool.

The dramatic finale capped an emotional occasion at St James’ Park, where supporters of both clubs paid tribute to former Newcastle great Kevin Keegan, who died last month aged 75.

A large “King Kev” tifo featuring images of Keegan was displayed in the stands, while a moving mosaic of shirts left outside the stadium following news of his death was presented in the centre circle before kick-off.

After a minute’s applause, Newcastle looked on course for a dream start, but Liverpool’s late fightback ensured the points were shared in a thrilling 2-2 draw.