On February 12, 2024, Liverpool faced off against their city rivals Everton at Goodison Park for the highly anticipated Merseyside Derby. After much ado due to postponements from adverse weather conditions, the match concluded with both teams sharing the spoils at 2-2.
From the outset, Everton, who were desperately fighting to secure their Premier League status, struck first after just 11 minutes. The home side capitalized on a quick free-kick taken by defender Jared Branthwaite, who expertly sent the ball forward to forward Beto. Caught off guard, Liverpool’s defender Ibrahima Konaté failed to intercept, allowing Beto to calmly slot the ball past goalkeeper Alisson Becker, giving Everton the early advantage.
But Liverpool responded with remarkable resilience. Just four minutes later, they were back on level terms. Mohamed Salah played a pivotal role, delivering a perfect cross after winning the ball high up the pitch. Midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, showing great anticipation, met the cross with his head, equalizing for the Reds. This goal was just the beginning of Salah's impactful display, proving once again why he’s considered one of the league's top talents. His involvement continues to show his importance to the team, with statistics highlighting his contribution of 22 goal involvements this season—more than any player since 1993-94.
Despite their momentum, Liverpool couldn't capitalize on their chances to take the lead before half time. The match saw both teams battling not just physically, but also mentally, as referee Michael Oliver brandished several yellow cards, reflecting the heated rivalry of the Merseyside Derby.
After the break, it was Liverpool's turn to shine again. The Reds took the lead at the 73rd minute, thanks to Salah's opportunistic mindset. After Curtis Jones had his shot blocked, Salah was quick to react, pouncing on the loose ball and firing it home from a tight angle, making it 2-1. This goal highlighted Salah's knack for being at the right place at the right time; his efforts this season boast 22 goals and 14 assists, underscoring his status as the league's top performer.
Yet, with victory almost secured, Liverpool experienced late-game drama, known all too well to derby enthusiasts. Everton, refusing to bow out, executed some desperate tactics. They sent men forward during stoppage time, and with seconds left on the clock, they managed to equalize. A long throw from Ashley Young found the head of Vitaly Mykolenko, who assisted defender James Tarkowski. Tarkowski’s volley from close range beat Alisson, and Goodison Park erupted as the scoreboard now read 2-2.
The final moments of the match saw careful VAR checks as the game lingered on, but no offsides or fouls were found. Liverpool’s hopes for their fourth consecutive Premier League win had faded away, frustrating coach Arne Slot, who made multiple changes to the lineup, showing the unpredictability of such encounters.
This match was particularly poignant for Everton supporters, as it marked the last time they played the derby at their beloved Goodison Park before moving to the new stadium. Memories of past victories and close encounters flooded the minds of fans, concluding what has been an illustrious history at this venue.
The final whistle blew, and both teams left the pitch knowing the stakes for each had been immense; Everton grabbed one point as they fought to stay afloat near the relegation zone, and Liverpool maintained their lead at the top of the table, yet was left to contemplate what might have been.
Overall, the derby showcased the quintessential spirit of English football—a fierce rivalry, incredible energy, and the unpredictability of the beautiful game. Both Everton and Liverpool will surely take lessons from this encounter as the season heads toward its climax.