The historic Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw at Goodison Park, marking a memorable final encounter at the stadium. Liverpool appeared to be on their way to victory after Mohamed Salah scored in the 73rd minute. However, Everton's James Tarkowski equalized in the 98th minute, ensuring the title race remains alive. The match, which was characterized by chaotic scenes and fan fervor, saw players sent off and tempers flare.
The match took place in a heated atmosphere, both literally and figuratively, as Liverpool and Everton clashed under high temperatures throughout the night. As the final whistle approached, Salah's goal seemed to seal Liverpool's win, but Tarkowski's late equalizer dashed those hopes. Sky Sports' Tim Sherwood noted that the result keeps the title race alive, as Liverpool's lead over Arsenal is now seven points instead of nine.
The match was marred by unruly scenes, with fans spilling onto the pitch and multiple players being sent off. Curtis Jones of Liverpool and Abdoulaye Doucoure of Everton received red cards following a scuffle in front of the visiting supporters. Liverpool's head coach Arne Slot and his assistant Sipke Hulshoff were also dismissed for confronting referee Michael Oliver. The Premier League confirmed Hulshoff was shown a straight red card, while Slot received his red after a cordial exchange with Oliver.
David Moyes, Everton's boss, described the match as "mayhem" and praised the crowd's support during what he called a "memorable last Merseyside derby at Goodison Park."
"It was mayhem all game, an old-fashioned throwback," said Moyes. "This has never been an easy ground to come and play. But it's always been a great ground if you get the crowd behind you."
Liverpool's captain, Virgil van Dijk, expressed disappointment over conceding the late goal, describing the derby as Everton's "cup final."
"Yes and no. It was over extra time. I think the referee had a big part in the game in terms of certain challenges were given as a foul and similar ones didn't. It's disappointing to concede – a great strike – but very disappointing," van Dijk commented.
He further acknowledged Everton's persistence, noting their aggressive playstyle as they fought for every ball.
"The same things they always do – very direct and fight for the second and third ball. This is their cup final and they will try and make it difficult," van Dijk added.
"We saw it last season how difficult they made it and this is year they scored in the end – a boost for them, a blow for us," van Dijk concluded.
Everton supporters created an electric atmosphere that Moyes described as "magnificent," despite recent challenges.
"Maybe there's been a bit where the crowd and players have not been quite matched up in recent periods. Partly because of the hard times they've had. It's been difficult for supporters," Moyes reflected.
Leave a Reply