Pickford heroics and Ekitike goals headline Premier League action
Jordan Pickford produced a save-of-the-season contender and Hugo Ekitike starred for Liverpool as individual brilliance defined the Premier League weekend.
Pickford haunts Newcastle again
Jordan Pickford loves a moment of high drama.
The England number one often produces his best work when the pressure is at its highest.
His performance at St James’ Park was a nightmare scenario for the Newcastle United support.
The Sunderland-born goalkeeper produced the defining moment of the match to deny his local rivals a stoppage-time equaliser.
Newcastle had attempted 10 shots from outside the box, but none were as sweet as Sandro Tonali’s effort in the 94th minute.
Pickford’s full-stretch denial secured a vital result for Everton.
It was a stop that will feature heavily in the end-of-season highlight reels.
The 31-year-old felt the save rivalled any he has made in his career.
“Up there with the best ever,” Pickford said.
It was reminiscent of his denial of Joshua Zirkzee during the victory over Manchester United in November.
Ekitike fills the void for Liverpool
There was palpable anxiety surrounding Liverpool’s attack before kick-off against West Ham.
Hugo Ekitike had failed to score throughout February.
The Frenchman was also operating without his primary supply line, as Florian Wirtz remained absent.
With both of the club’s £100m-rated forwards injured, the onus was on the former PSG striker to deliver.
Ekitike responded emphatically as Arne Slot’s side put five past the Hammers at Anfield.
The striker was directly or indirectly involved in three goals that arrived via set-pieces.
While set-piece dominance was not initially part of Slot’s philosophy, the Reds are increasingly relying on dead-ball situations.
Seven of Liverpool’s last nine league goals have come from this route.
Ekitike’s 6ft 3in frame and intelligent movement have become central to this strategy.
His subtle positioning created the space for the opener, holding off defenders until Ryan Gravenberch found him.
The forward’s influence continued for the second goal.
His darting run to the near post drew two defenders out of position, allowing Virgil van Dijk to nod home.