A dramatic 98th-minute equalizer from James Tarkowski rescued relegation-threatened Everton as the Merseyside Derby was played for the final time at Goodison Park.
Liverpool’s last-ever trip across Stanley Park was met with hostility, and Everton stunned the league leaders early. Beto opened the scoring in the 11th minute after a clever free-kick from Jarrad Branthwaite released him behind Liverpool’s defense. However, the visitors responded just five minutes later when Mohamed Salah’s pinpoint cross found Alexis Mac Allister, who headed home.
Everton suffered a blow before halftime as Iliman Ndiaye was forced off injured, while Jordan Pickford made a crucial stop to deny Dominik Szoboszlai in stoppage time. The Toffees nearly took the lead after the break, but the offside flag saved Liverpool. Instead, Salah struck again, scoring from a rebound after Curtis Jones’ effort was parried, making it his eighth goal in 12 Merseyside Derbies and setting a new Premier League record with 23 goal involvements in 13 away games.
Everton struggled to create chances but found a lifeline in the 98th minute when Vitaliy Mykolenko’s cross was headed into James Tarkowski’s path, and the defender rifled home. After a VAR review, the goal stood, sparking wild celebrations and extending Everton’s unbeaten run to four games.
Chaos followed the final whistle as Abdoulaye Doucouré and Curtis Jones were sent off, with Liverpool manager Arne Slot also receiving a red card. Despite the setback, Liverpool remain seven points clear at the top.
Post-Match Reactions
David Moyes (Everton Manager):
“We showed incredible character. The fans deserved this, and I’m proud of the fight we put up. The late goal was fully deserved, and this result gives us real momentum in our survival battle.”
Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool Captain):
“It’s frustrating to concede so late. We controlled large parts of the game but should have managed it better. The title race is still in our hands, and we have to focus on what’s next.”
Story by Annang Samuel Yartey Kafui.
