It had been exactly five months since Newcastle's last league draw. For a team that either wins or loses, a point at Brighton had real value

Alexander Isak rescues a draw for Newcastle in the Premier League with a late penalty against Brighton at Amex Stadium.

Three penalties, two overturned by VAR, and one point apiece made for a curious stalemate that did neither sides’ chances of achieving their European aims much good.

The race for Champions League qualification has gotten even tighter in the Premier League after Chelsea beat recently crowned champion Liverpool 3-1 and Newcastle dropped points at Brighton with a 1-1 draw.

Magpies remain fourth ahead of crucial St James’ Park clash despite the two clubs now sharing an identical points tally and goal difference

Chelsea moved a step closer to securing Champions League qualification with a 3-1 victory over weakened champions Liverpool on Sunday, while Newcastle United slipped up in a 1-1 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion.