Newcastle United remain without a win this season as Eddie Howe’s side continue to struggle in front of goal.

Two draws and one defeat is the tally so far after three fixtures, though many feel Newcastle merited at least seven, perhaps nine points from those opening matches.

The Magpies were unimpressive in their clash with Leeds United, where a draw was arguably fair from one of the dullest contests seen in recent memory. Still, with a proper striker available, they might have edged a winner.

That same lack of a finisher haunted the opener against Aston Villa, too. Newcastle dominated proceedings against a flat Villa outfit but couldn’t provide the final touch.

The toughest blow arrived at St James’ Park when the reigning Premier League champions visited.

Newcastle again controlled much of the game, but Liverpool struck on the break and had the sharpness to convert. Howe’s side fought back to level with two goals, but just when a draw looked sealed, Rio Ngumoha struck in the 100th minute.

Former Premier League manager Neil Warnock admitted on TalkSPORT that his heart sank for Howe that evening.

The ex-Middles brough boss was gutted to watch Newcastle leave the pitch empty-handed.

“How they managed to win, I still can’t fathom. To grab a late goal like that. I could have wept for Eddie Howe, because they truly didn’t merit it.”

And of course, every fan felt that way too. The pain was sharper given the opponent, but that’s the game. We move forward, and revenge will come sooner or later.