In a thrilling Merseyside derby at Goodison Park, Everton and Liverpool played out a dramatic 2-2 draw, with James Tarkowski’s 96th-minute equaliser sending the home fans into raptures. The match was filled with tension, VAR drama, and a fiery finish that encapsulated the passion of this historic rivalry.
Everton started brightly and took the lead in the 11th minute through Beto. The Portuguese forward latched onto a precise through ball from Jarrad Branthwaite, held off Ibrahima Konaté, and calmly slotted past Alisson Becker. Goodison Park erupted as Beto celebrated with LeBron James’ iconic “Silencer” gesture.
Liverpool responded quickly, equalising just five minutes later. Mohamed Salah delivered a pinpoint cross from the right, and Alexis Mac Allister arrived at the far post to flick the ball past Jordan Pickford. The Reds grew into the game, but Everton’s physical approach and defensive resilience kept the score level at halftime.
The second half saw Liverpool take control, and they went ahead in the 72nd minute through their talisman, Mohamed Salah. After a scramble in the Everton box, the ball fell to Salah at the far post, and he smashed it home to give Liverpool the lead. It was a classic Salah moment, showcasing his composure and clinical finishing.
Everton pushed hard for an equaliser, with Abdoulaye Doucouré and Beto causing problems for Liverpool’s defence. However, the Reds looked set to hold on for a crucial win that would have extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table.
Just as the game seemed to be slipping away, Everton found a dramatic equaliser in the sixth minute of added time. A corner caused chaos in the Liverpool box, and James Tarkowski rose highest to thunder the ball into the roof of the net. The goal sparked wild celebrations, with Everton players and fans alike revelling in the late twist.
The drama didn’t end there. As the final whistle blew, tensions boiled over. Curtis Jones reacted angrily to Doucouré’s celebrations in front of the away fans, leading to a heated confrontation. Both players were shown second yellow cards and sent off, reducing both teams to 10 men.
To make matters worse, Liverpool manager Arne Slot stormed onto the pitch to remonstrate with referee Michael Oliver and was shown a straight red card for his protests. The scenes were chaotic, with players and staff from both teams involved in the fracas.
The draw leaves Liverpool seven points clear at the top of the Premier League.
