Everton secured a thrilling 2-2 draw against Premier League leaders Liverpool in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. The match was filled with drama, including a 98th-minute equalizer by James Tarkowski, which sent the home crowd into a frenzy.
The match began with a bang as Everton took the lead in the 11th minute through Beto’s composed finish. However, Liverpool responded quickly, with Alexis Mac Allister scoring a magnificent header just five minutes later. The first half ended 1-1, with Everton dealt a blow when star player Iliman Ndiaye was forced off injured.
The second half saw Liverpool take the lead through Mohamed Salah’s goal, which made him the record holder for most Premier League goal involvements in away games in a single season. Everton struggled to create chances, and it seemed like the match was slipping away from them. However, in the eighth minute of stoppage time, Tarkowski scored a spectacular equalizer, sending Goodison Park wild.
The goal survived a lengthy VAR check, ensuring Everton extended their unbeaten run in the Premier League to four matches. The match ended in chaos, with Abdoulaye Doucouré and Curtis Jones both sent off after the final whistle.
Despite failing to win, Liverpool moved seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table. The draw marked a disappointing night for Liverpool, who have now failed to win in 10 of their last 13 visits to Goodison Park. Everton, on the other hand, celebrated a dramatic and memorable draw in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
The final whistle heralded a series of on-field clashes that saw Abdoulaye Doucoure and Curtis Jones go loggerheads in the celebrations. Meanwhile, Abdoulaye Doucoure and Liverpool’s Arne Slot and Curtis Jones were also sent off for a second booking while the on-field scramble happened.
Everton goalscorer James Tarkowski was delighted with the victory.
“Listen to [the noise from the stands], that’s amazing. These will remember it. I’m just proud of my team; stuck at it. They [Liverpool] didn’t create much, and we got the goal in the end.” He said.
