Mixed reaction to Newcastle United's Liverpool defeat in national media round-up

Newcastle United lost 1-0 to Liverpool at St James' Park yesterday, and although there was consensus that the Magpies have improved enormously, there was disagreement about how well they did against the title contenders.

Some national journalists felt that Newcastle did as well as could be expected, while others were disappointed at the lack of competitiveness up front.

Here is a look at how the national media reported on Newcastle United's latest win:

"The match provided Newcastle with an opportunity to show what sort of threat they pose to teams at the top end of the table - and they certainly gave a good account of themselves. They started superbly, getting at Liverpool from the outset and making their opponents nervous.

"Although Newcastle could not maintain their high-tempo start, there was still a sense of pride at St James' Park at the fight shown against one of the best sides in Europe."

READ MORE: Jermaine Jenas says Newcastle didn't turn up against Liverpool

"Liverpool might – and probably should – have won more comfortably in front of a boisterous crowd of 52,281 as they held the upper hand for much of a contest which saw the Magpies' hopes of a fifth successive league win and a seventh on the trot at home wilt in the face of almost constant pressure.

“Eddie Howe's men were never able to build up the kind of head of steam which has eased them clear of the relegation battle, perhaps a reminder of how far they have to go before they can once again compete with English football's best on a sustained basis.”

"An equaliser always looked unlikely. Indeed, with the overworked Dubravka, who excelled in keeping Jota’s late shot out, and Targett by far Newcastle’s best performers, Manchester City were left with