A last-minute goal from James Tarkowski ensured that the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw. Liverpool seemed on course for a win after goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah overturned Beto’s early opener. However, Tarkowski’s dramatic late strike salvaged a point for Everton in a match filled with controversy and chaos.
How the Match Unfolded
Goodison Park was rocking from the start, setting the stage for an intense and unpredictable contest. The match exploded into life in the 11th minute when Jarrad Branthwaite fooled Liverpool’s defense with a clever low pass, allowing Beto to slot the ball past Alisson and give Everton the lead.
However, Everton’s joy was short-lived as Liverpool responded almost immediately. Salah delivered a pinpoint cross from the right, which Mac Allister met with a brilliant header to level the score.
The first half saw few clear-cut chances, but Everton suffered a major setback when Iliman Ndiaye was forced off with a knee injury, leaving the home fans concerned. Liverpool gained control before halftime, with Jordan Pickford nearly spilling a shot from Dominik Szoboszlai, only for Tarkowski to make a crucial intervention.
Second Half Drama
Everton started the second half with energy, creating early chances. Abdoulaye Doucoure went close with a header, while Jack Harrison missed the target after a clever move in the box. Everton thought they had regained the lead just past the hour mark when Branthwaite found the net from a corner, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
As often happens in football, missed opportunities proved costly. In the 75th minute, Salah capitalized on a headed clearance from Branthwaite, producing a sublime touch before finishing clinically with his right foot. That goal seemed to drain Everton’s energy, as Liverpool confidently held onto their lead.
But just when it looked like Liverpool would walk away with all three points, Everton had one final say. In the eighth minute of added time, Tarkowski pounced on a loose ball in the box and smashed a stunning shot into the top corner, sending Goodison Park into a frenzy.
Late Red Cards & Chaos
The drama didn’t stop there. Moments after Tarkowski’s equalizer, a heated confrontation erupted between Curtis Jones and Doucoure, leading to both players receiving red cards. Liverpool manager Arne Slot also saw red for remonstrating with the officials, adding to the chaotic finale.
Player Ratings
Everton (4-2-3-1)
| Player | Rating |
|---|---|
| GK: Jordan Pickford | 6.1/10 |
| RB: Jake O’Brien | 6.2/10 |
| CB: James Tarkowski (c) | 7.8/10 |
| CB: Jarrad Branthwaite | 8.0/10 |
| LB: Vitaliy Mykolenko | 7.0/10 |
| CM: James Garner | 5.8/10 |
| CM: Idrissa Gueye | 6.9/10 |
| RM: Jesper Lindstrom | 6.7/10 |
| AM: Abdoulaye Doucoure | 5.5/10 |
| LM: Iliman Ndiaye | 6.5/10 |
| ST: Beto | 7.4/10 |
| SUB: Jack Harrison (25′ for Ndiaye) | 6.9/10 |
| SUB: Carlos Alcaraz (77′ for Lindstrom) | 6.4/10 |
| SUB: Tim Iroegbunam (77′ for Gueye) | 7.2/10 |
| SUB: Ashley Young (87′ for Garner) | N/A |
| Subs not used: Asmir Begovic (GK), Joao Virginia (GK), Michael Keane, Isaac Heath, Martin Sherif. |
Liverpool (4-2-3-1)
| Player | Rating |
|---|---|
| GK: Alisson | 5.8/10 |
| RB: Conor Bradley | 6.7/10 |
| CB: Ibrahima Konate | 7.1/10 |
| CB: Virgil van Dijk (c) | 7.1/10 |
| LB: Andrew Robertson | 6.6/10 |
| CM: Ryan Gravenberch | 6.5/10 |
| CM: Alexis Mac Allister | 7.5/10 |
| RM: Mohamed Salah | 8.7/10 |
| AM: Dominik Szoboszlai | 6.2/10 |
| LM: Cody Gakpo | 6.7/10 |
| ST: Luis Diaz | 6.6/10 |
| SUB: Trent Alexander-Arnold (61′ for Bradley) | 6.6/10 |
| SUB: Curtis Jones (61′ for Gravenberch) | 6.0/10 |
| SUB: Kostas Tsimikas (69′ for Robertson) | 6.2/10 |
| SUB: Darwin Nunez (69′ for Gakpo) | 6.0/10 |
| SUB: Diogo Jota (88′ for Diaz) | N/A |
| Subs not used: Caoimhin Kelleher (GK), Jarell Quansah, Harvey Elliott, Wataru Endo. |
Key Talking Points
1. Everton Get What They Deserve
Everton’s spirited performance ensured they took a well-earned point from their final home Merseyside derby. The Toffees had the better stats, winning the expected goals (xG) battle 0.98 to 0.65, taking more shots (10 to 6), and competing well in duels. A Liverpool win would have been harsh on Sean Dyche’s men, who deserved something from the game.
2. Liverpool Stay in Title Hunt
Despite dropping points, Liverpool remain seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table. While they missed the chance to extend their lead to nine points, they are still in a strong position to challenge for the title. With Arsenal struggling with injuries, the Reds will back themselves to stay ahead in the race.
3. Referee Michael Oliver Under Scrutiny
Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s frustration with referee Michael Oliver was clear after the match, leading to his red card. Everton’s late equalizer came after what Liverpool felt was a foul on Konate, while the Reds were called for 20 fouls compared to Everton’s 9. Expect Oliver’s performance to be analyzed in the coming days.
Player of the Match: Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Salah was Liverpool’s standout player, providing a brilliant assist for Mac Allister’s equalizer and scoring a fine goal himself. His impact in key moments proved crucial for the Reds.
Final Thoughts
The final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park lived up to its billing, delivering goals, controversy, and drama. Everton fought bravely and earned a deserved draw, while Liverpool must quickly refocus on their title challenge. With just a few months left in the season, every point will be crucial in determining the Premier League champion.
