Everton captain James Tarkowski equalised deep into stoppage time to earn them a 2-2 Premier League draw against Liverpool in a dramatic final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
Liverpool extended their lead atop the league table to seven points over second-placed Arsenal with what had been their game in hand, while Everton climbed to 10 points above the drop zone in 15th.
And after 131 years of Goodison derbies, the draw was a fitting ending with the final tally totalling 41 wins apiece and 38 draws.
Liverpool looked poised for victory when Tarkowski struck in the 98th minute with a blistering shot into the top corner. Scores of fans piled onto the pitch before a lengthy VAR review ruled the goal was onside.
Relive the updates from Goodison Park below:
Everton vs Liverpool LIVE: Latest Premier League updates
- Everton grab dramatic late draw in thrilling Merseyside derby
- 90+5'! Goodison erupts as Tarkowski smashes volley past Alisson (EVE 2-2 LIV)
- 73' GOAL! Salah smokes Liverpool into the lead (EVE 1-2 LIV)
- 67' DISALLOWED! Branthwaite's goal is ruled out for offside (EVE 1-1 LIV)
- 54' CHANCE! Doucoure nods wide after meeting cross (EVE 1-1 LIV)
- 16' GOAL! Mac Allister's glancing header equalises for Liverpool (EVE 1-1 LIV)
- 11' GOAL! Beto's composed finish gives Everton the lead (EVE 1-0 LIV)
Everton FC 2 - 2 Liverpool FC
Everton 2-2 Liverpool
10:50 , Lawrence OstlereThat wraps up this Everton-Liverpool blog. Thanks for reading.
You can get all the latest news and reaction on the Independent’s football page.
Why so much added time?
10:48 , Lawrence OstlereEverton duo Carlos Alcaraz and Jarrad Branthwaite clashed heads and required almost exactly two minutes of treatment, adding more time on to the five minutes already indicated by the fourth official’s board.
Van Dijk takes swipe at Everton's Doucoure and referee Oliver
09:37 , Lawrence OstlereIn the absence of his manager's assessment, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk gave the Reds' view to broadcasters.
In a thinly veiled jab at his side's rivals, the Dutchman told TNT Sports: "We all know this is their cup final and they will do everything in their power to try and win against us.
"I think Doucoure in the end wanted to provoke our fans from what I saw and Curtis didn't think that was the right thing to do.
"Obviously, you know what happens when there is a little tussle, but I didn't think the ref had the game under control, I said that to him."
Moyes grateful to emerge from derby 'mayhem' with draw
09:19 , Lawrence Ostlere"It was mayhem all game, it was a bit of an old-fashioned throwback. The bit after the game, I could tell you about it but the truth is, it's not really what we should be talking about," said the Scot.
"What I do know is Doucoure got a yellow that led to a red which I am disappointed with as we are short of players. The place was boiling hot all night, emotional, it was an incredible atmosphere inside the stadium.
"I think it was hugely important that Evertonians get to finish at their stadium as best as they can.
"I just feel the support in here was unbelievable tonight, it was incredible support and I think it was fitting they got an end like they did.
"We didn't win, which was disappointing, but we got a draw in a game that didn't look as if it was going to go in our favour.
"It would have been hard to come here losing 2-1 and talking about it. But I think the way the crowd stayed to the end, it was a magical moment. There was a bit of tooing and froing at the end which might have added to the entertainment."
Moyes grateful to emerge from derby 'mayhem' with draw
09:02 , Lawrence OstlereThe final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park ended in an ugly on-field brawl and a flurry of red cards but Everton boss David Moyes was grateful to emerge from the "mayhem" with a dramatic draw.
Liverpool were on course to pile the misery on to their city rivals with one last victory on Toffees turf, only for James Tarkowski to hammer home a stunning volley to make it 2-2 in the eighth minute of added time.
After an agonising wait for VAR to confirm the goal, things took an incendiary turn inside the old stadium as Abdoulaye Doucoure's wild celebrations in front of the away fans sparked a furious reaction.
Reds midfielder Curtis Jones confronted Doucoure and the subsequent altercation saw both men dismissed for second bookings.
With supporters breaking on to the pitch, stewards and police became involved before Liverpool boss Arne Slot and assistant Sipke Hulshoff were also sent off by referee Michael Oliver.
With no formal press conference from Liverpool - Slot and Hulshoff both barred from speaking by Premier League rules - Moyes focused on an important moment for his side rather than the drama that followed.
Why Arne Slot was banned from talking about red card
08:45 , Lawrence OstlereLiverpool boss Arne Slot was sent off by referee Michael Oliver after an intense handshake to conclude a fiery Merseyside derby but has so far been unable to provide his side of the story.
The Reds coach was unable to discuss the acrimonious scenes after James Tarkowski’s dramatic 97th minute equaliser for Everton, with Oliver brandishing a red card after the Dutchman firmly shook his hand.
That’s because of Premier League rules, which stipulate that any player, coach or manager shown a red card are unable to participate in a post-match interview with the media.
David Moyes on full-time scenes at Merseyside derby
08:30 , Jamie Braidwood“It was mayhem all game, it was a bit of an old-fashioned throwback all game. The bit after the game, I could tell you about it but the truth is it’s not really what we should be talking about.
“What I do know is Doucoure got a yellow that led to a red which I am disappointed with as we are short of players. The place was boiling hot all night, emotional, it was an incredible atmosphere inside the stadium.”
Premier League releases statement on late VAR call
08:22 , Lawrence OstlereThe Premier League has released a short statement explaining VAR’s decision to allow James Tarkowski’s late goal for Everton against Liverpool in Wednesday night’s heated Merseyside derby.
However, it failed to explain whether a potential foul on Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate in the build-up was specifically reviewed and, if so, what exactly was concluded.
Premier League releases VAR statement on Everton’s equaliser against Liverpool
Goals, cards, and chaotic drama makes Goodison’s last Merseryside derby a thrilling finale
08:00 , Mike JonesGoodison Park bade farewell to the derby with a reminder of the dangers of underestimating Evertonian defiance, an illustration of this game's enduring capacity for late drama.
“We won the league at Goodison Park,” chorused the Liverpool supporters, eyeing a nine-point lead at the Premier League summit, imagining Mohamed Salah had scored the final goal in this fixture at the most historic of grounds.
Goals, cards, and chaotic drama makes Goodison’s last derby a thrilling finale
David Moyes: Boiling hot Goodison Park deserved drama in final Merseyside derby
07:30 , Jamie BraidwoodDavid Moyes called the chaotic finish to the last Merseyside derby at Goodison Park a “fitting” finale as James Tarkowski’s volley in the eighth minute of stoppage time snatched Everton a 2-2 draw against Liverpool.
The Toffees had been unfortunate to be trailing to Mohamed Salah’s 73rd-minute goal, having led through an early Beto strike before Alexis Mac Allister’s headed equaliser just minutes later.
But Tarkowski then fired in at the death and, after the goal survived a lengthy VAR check for offside, there was pandemonium inside the stadium.
As supporters invaded the pitch, Abdoulaye Doucoure celebrated in front of the Liverpool fans, confronted there by Curtis Jones as a scuffle led to both players being sent off for second bookings before Reds manager Arne Slot and his assistant Sipke Hulshoff were also dismissed by referee Michael Oliver.
David Moyes: Boiling hot Goodison Park deserved drama in final Merseyside derby
Arne Slot loses cool as flurry of red cards brings Merseyside derby to riotus end
07:00 , Mike JonesLiverpool captain Virgil van Dijk says that referee Michael Oliver ‘did not have control of the game’ after a chaotic end to the Merseyside derby saw manager Arne Slot shown a red card after the final whistle at Goodison Park.
James Tarkowski scored an equaliser late in stoppage time to rescue a point for the hosts which encouraged Abdoulaye Doucoure to celebrate in front of the visiting Liverpool fans.
Arne Slot loses cool as flurry of red cards brings Merseyside derby to riotus end
Van Dijk accuses Doucoure of ‘provoking’ Liverpool fans in derby chaos
06:30 , Jamie BraidwoodLiverpool captain Virgil van Dijk accused Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure of “provoking” the away fans at Goodison Park as a mass melee between the players brought a chaotic end to the Merseyside derby.
Doucoure celebrated James Tarkowski’s dramatic 97th minute equaliser in front of the Liverpool fans, which prompted a shove from Curtis Jones and a confrontation between the players that led to both of them sent off for second yellow cards.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot also saw red amid chaotic scenes at full-time, which brought a stunning end to the final Merseyside derby at Goodison and an emotional night for Everton as a whole.
But Van Dijk believed Doucoure went too far by celebrating in front of the Liverpool end and defended the reaction from Jones.
Van Dijk accuses Doucoure of ‘provoking’ Liverpool fans in derby chaos
How the table looks
06:00 , Mike JonesThe result leaves Liverpool seven points clear at the top of the league, with 57 points to Arsenal’s 50.
Both sides now have the same amount of matches played, so the Reds have a seven-point lead with 14 matches to play.
Everton now sit in 15th, 10 points above the relegation zone.
Superb Salah
05:00 , Mike JonesMohamed Salah has 14 assists in the Premier League this season, his highest total in a season.
It is the second most by any Liverpool player in a Premier League campaign, behind only Steve McManaman in 1995-96 (15).
All square
04:00 , Mike JonesThis was the 120th and final Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park in all competitions.
Both sides won 41 of those fixtures - with 38 draws.
A draw that feels like a win?
03:00 , Mike JonesEverton manager David Moyes has won just four of his 38 Premier League games against Liverpool (D10 L24), a win rate of just 10.5% - his lowest against any opponent in the competition.
Surely that draw feels like a win to him though?
Chaos and carnage in equal measure
02:00 , Mike JonesA superb Merseyside derby that will be remembered for a long time ends 2-2 with the teams sharing the points.
Moyes on how the match played out:
01:00 , Mike Jones"We made a good start and I thought in the second half we played well, looked more likely than Liverpool to score.
“When they scored I thought 'oh, well this is just going to be one of those days'. We're just a little bit short of when the moment comes in the final third to have the quality to finish at times.
“It started to look as if it was difficult but we got an incredibly good goal at the end. It was a great point which keeps our position in the Premier League a little stronger."
Moyes speaking to BBC Match of the Day:
00:30 , Mike Jones"It was an incredible volley [for James Tarkowski's goal].
“He didn't have the best game last week so he's made up for it with a goal in the last minute.
“It was a great goal but then it was a wait for VAR, we weren't sure if we were going to get the decision or not.
“I think it seemed to be a really tight call but fortunately it went out way."
Moyes on being four games unbeaten:
00:00 , Mike Jones"If you'd have given that to me before I came in I'd have taken it all day.
“We've got a long way to go, there's so much we can do to improve greatly and try to get back to the levels I believe we can get back to.
“Hopefully the light's shining on us if we can get through this season and the new owners come in and help us build a new team and a new better level of performances from Everton."
Steve McManaman on post-match clash:
Wednesday 12 February 2025 23:50 , Mike Jones“Abdoulaye Doucoure had 37,000 of his own fans to go and celebrate in front of. To go and antagonise the Liverpool fans was a silly decision. It was only going to end one way.
“David Moyes spoke about it after the game, Doucoure is an important player and if Everton go on and lose in their next game it will have been proved an even worse decision.”
Tarkowski's goal for the season
Wednesday 12 February 2025 23:40 , Mike JonesJames Tarkowski has scored 21 career goals. It was his first non-headed goal since 2019-20.
He has scored exactly one Premier League goal in each of the past five seasons (including this one).
James Tarkowski, speaking to MOTD: "
Wednesday 12 February 2025 23:30 , Mike Jones“We have had a couple of special nights here that I have been involved in but for me that was probably the best for me and probably will be forever.
"I don't score many goals. I've watched it about 15 times, I won't lose the image of me volleying that ball into the roof of the net against Liverpool, for sure.
"We are leaving this special stadium so a nice memory for everyone going into the future.
"We competed very well against a team flying high at the top of the league. The team played excellently throughout."
More from Van Dijk:
Wednesday 12 February 2025 23:20 , Mike Jones"We saw how they celebrated the goal, they have all the right to.
"I think Abdoulaye Doucoure wanted to provoke our fans, I think that is what I saw and Curtis Jones didn't think it was the right thing to do. And then you know what happens if there is a little tussle.
"I didn't think the referee had the game under control. Both teams had to deal with it."
Magic Mo
Wednesday 12 February 2025 23:12 , Mike JonesTonight’s match was the 40th time Mohamed Salah has both scored and assisted in the same Premier League match.
Van Dijk on the title race:
Wednesday 12 February 2025 23:02 , Mike Jones"We have a lot of games up until the international break.
“We have put ourselves in a very good position and that is down to hard work, quality and consistency.
“We just have to look at ourselves, don't look at what others do, just try to focus on ourselves and be the best version of ourselves.
"We have put ourselves in a good position, let's keep going."
How the table looks
Wednesday 12 February 2025 23:00 , Chris WilsonThe result leaves Liverpool seven points clear at the top of the league, with 57 points to Arsenal’s 50.
Both sides now have the same amount of matches played, so the Reds have a seven-point lead with 14 matches to play.
Everton now sit in 15th, 10 points above the relegation zone.
Up next
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:51 , Chris WilsonIt’s a quick turnaround for each team, with both in action this weekend in the Premier League.
Liverpool’s next match takes them to Wolves on Sunday afternoon, with kick-off at 2pm on 16 February.
Everton face Crystal Palace on Saturday evening, with that kicking off at 5.30pm.
Match facts
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:41 , Chris WilsonMohamed Salah has 14 assists in the Premier League this season, his highest total in a season.
It is the second most by any Liverpool player in a Premier League campaign, behind only Steve McManaman in 1995-96 (15).
Virgil van Dijk speaking to TNT Sports:
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:38 , Mike Jones"Intense, it was always going to be intense. A lot of battles. Very disappointing to concede in the last second of the game, or even over extra time, but it is what it is. It isn't easy to accept it, especially in the manner how, but we take it and move on.
"I think the referee had a big part in the game today in terms of certain challenges were given as fouls and similar weren't. In the end it is just disappointing to concede a very good strike, but a disappointing one.
"This is their cup final and they would try to do everything in their power to make it difficult for us. It is a big boost for them but a blow for us."
Arne Slot loses cool as flurry of red cards brings Merseyside derby to riotus end
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:32 , Mike JonesLiverpool manager Arne Slot was shown a red card after a chaotic end to the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
James Tarkowski scored an equaliser late in stoppage time to rescue a point for the hosts which encouraged Abdoulaye Doucoure to celebrate in front of the visiting Liverpool fans.
Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones was riled up by Doucoure’s actions and shoved the Everton midfielder kicking off a heated melee after the final whistle.
Arne Slot loses cool as flurry of red cards brings Merseyside derby to riotus end
David Moyes speaking to BBC Match of the Day:
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:31 , Mike Jones"I thought the referee refereed the game well, he didn't get involved with every challenge. I think that it was a bit of an old fashioned game.
"I didn't see it from where I was. I have had a chance to see it and I'm disappointed because Doucoure played really well tonight and I'm going to now lose him because he's got a second yellow card which turned into a red.
"The emotions were running high here all night, the stadium was at fever pitch. You could see what it meant to supporters at the end of the game, the crowd was rocking. It was one of the big nights."
A final word from Moyes:
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:25 , Mike Jones"It was right up there and it was great at the end. I think the night was maybe made for something to happen.
“It wasn't the greatest, it wasn't the cleanest game of football you've ever watched but it was a bit of a throwback, a bit scrappy for both sides. We had to find a way of making the gap not so big tonight and did a good job of it.
"The fact is I think the players have responded really well in what they've done. We've made more chances. Beto's come in and scored the goal, he's scored for us earlier on as well.
“That's really helped us, we've suddenly creating a few more chances than we had. All praise to the players."
More from Moyes:
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:18 , Mike Jones"We're trying to improve what we can. We're trying to make things better. Tonight was a night where we had to suit the stadium, a lot of things in the game. We went more direct tonight but it suited us.
"We got it in the end and the point in the end more importantly is a point towards making sure we're a Premier League club.
"I think that us picking up the points regularly is what we've got to try and do between now and the end of the season. I think there's a group here who lack some quality in areas but we've got to try and fill in, we've got a few injuries but hopefully there are signs of one or two coming back."
FT Everton 2-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:16 , Mike JonesTimed at 97:08, James Tarkowski’s equaliser for Everton was the latest goal scored on record (from 2006-07) in a Premier League Merseyside derby.
David Moyes speaking to TNT Sports:
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:15 , Mike Jones"Mental probably sums it up. A brilliant finish for us, to finish the last Goodison Merseyside derby and score in the last minute is in a way fitting.
"We would have liked to have won the game but at 2-1 down I was just thinking that we probably weren't going to get back in, it just looked like Liverpool would keep us out.
"We worked hard, kept at it, probably had more attempts in the second half than the first. Tarky had the quality which was the one that really mattered."
Goals, cards, and chaotic drama makes Goodison’s last Merseryside derby a thrilling finale
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:15 , Mike JonesGoodison Park bade farewell to the derby with a reminder of the dangers of underestimating Evertonian defiance, an illustration of this game's enduring capacity for late drama.
“We won the league at Goodison Park,” chorused the Liverpool supporters, eyeing a nine-point lead at the Premier League summit, imagining Mohamed Salah had scored the final goal in this fixture at the most historic of grounds.
Goals, cards, and chaotic drama makes Goodison’s last derby a thrilling finale
FT Everton 2-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 22:07 , Mike JonesLiverpool are undefeated in their last 20 games in the Premier League.
Their last longer unbeaten streak was from January to August 2022, a run of 21 games.
Jagielka on Slot's red card:
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:57 , Mike Jones“You can see why Arne Slot was furious. There was a slight little nudge in the box and if that was my team I would be appealing. I would be getting sent off after the game too.
“Slot always talks about staying composed but it seems like he lost a bit of his composure at the end there. That's what a derby does to you.”
More from Tarkowski:
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:55 , Mike Jones"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 at the end.
“We knew it was a tough game but we worked hard, restricted them to a minimum amount of shots.
“Disappointed with the way the goals go in but we've started to score a few goals now, thankfully we got two tonight."
James Tarkowski speaking to TNT Sports:
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:50 , Mike Jones"Early on I got a chance and I panicked a bit. Late on I just decided to get in the box, it dropped, I just let it go and see what happens. Amazing to score and what an amazing night.
"I just saw the ball going wide and thought 'last minute, why not'. It managed to fall to me and let it rip.
"I don't score many so I thought it would have been typical if it was disallowed. I had a tough weekend so it's nice to get one back."
A chaotic end to the game
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:50 , Mike Jones
Reaction from Phil Jagielka
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:47 , Mike JonesThe former Everton captain spoke on TNT Sports saying:
“I was absolutely devastated to be having to come on here afterwards and explain how Everton lost the game. Thankfully I don't have to do that.
“Everton had a great game plan, put Liverpool under pressure the whole game and had the better chances. Captain marvel then stepped up and got the equaliser.”
FT Everton 2-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:46 , Mike JonesThree red cards after the final whistle. It wouldn’t be a Merseyside derby with drama and sendings off now would it?
FT Everton 2-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:38 , Mike JonesRed cards galore!
Curtis Jones and Abdoulaye Doucoure have both been booked for their antics at the end of the game.
Both were already on yellow cards and thus have been sent off.
Arne Slot has also seemingly been shown a red card for getting involved with the match officials.
A messy end to a great game.
Full-time! Everton 2-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:34 , Mike Jones90+11 mins: The whistle goes to end the game.
Huge drama. Everton secure a last minute equaliser.
Curtis Jones kicks off with Abdoulaye Doucoure and there’s a bit of a barny. The feelings are bubbling over.
Everton and Liverpool share the points in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
Everton 2-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:32 , Mike Jones90+10 mins: VAR are checking the goal.
Tarkowski is onside but there may be a foul in the build up.
No! The goal stands.
GOAL! Everton 2-2 Liverpool (James Tarkowski, 90+8')
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:30 , Mike JonesIncredible!
Goodison Park erupts in celebration and chaos as Everton equalise late in the game.
The added time has come and gone as a cross is sent in from the right wing. The ball drops for James Tarkowski who thunders it into the back of the net.
Late, late drama!
Everton 1-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:23 , Mike Jones90 mins: Five minutes of added time to play.
Everton 1-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:19 , Mike Jones88 mins: Luis Diaz is off and Diogo Jota comes on.
Jota’s first touch is to set up Salah for another shot and he whips his left foot around the ball.
Pickford is there to push the ball over the crossbar and Everton are still in this match.
Everton 1-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:17 , Mike Jones86 mins: Beto rushes a shot and scuffs it into the turf which makes the effort simple for Alisson to smother.
Just a few minutes left to play now. Liverpool have control but Everton are pushing.
Everton 1-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:14 , Mike Jones83 mins: Liverpool are not in a hurry to now. Alisson takes a while restarting the game.
They work the ball around at the back and switch players when taking a throw in.
Game management at its frustrating finest.
Everton 1-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:11 , Mike Jones80 mins: 10 minutes to play at Goodison Park, will there be some late drama to close out the final Merseyside derby here?
The home fans certainly hope so.
Everton 1-2 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:08 , Mike Jones77 mins: Time is running out for Everton to respond.
Liverpool lead for the first time in the game and are currently nine points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
Can they see this game out?
'That is the Salah effect'
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:08 , Richard Jolly at Goodison Park“Was just about to say Liverpool had barely created anything in the second half until they scored.
“That is the Salah effect.
“But it also reflects on Arne Slot's changes with Darwin Nunez and Curtis Jones playing pivotal parts in the goal.
“Everton had been the more threatening side until then.
“Now the only noise at Goodison is coming from the far corner where the Liverpool supporters are.”
GOAL! Everton 1-2 Liverpool (Mo Salah, 73')
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:05 , Mike JonesLiverpool lead!
And it’s that man again. Mo Salah sends the Reds into the lead.
Luis Diaz flicks the ball into the box and it gets deflected. Curtis Jones wins it back, plays a one-two with Darwin Nunez then shoots.
His effort is blocked by Jarrad Branthwaite but the ball comes to Salah who smokes it into the back of the net.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 21:00 , Mike Jones70 mins: Darwin Nunez and Kostas Tsimikas come on for Liverpool who need to get a grip on the game.
Andy Robertson and Cody Gakpo have been replaced.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:59 , Mike Jones67 mins: Disallowed!
Everton have the ball in the back of the net from a corner.
Jarrad Branthwaite turns it home after Jake O’Brien brings the ball down.
However, O’Brien was offside in the build up and Liverpool have a reprieve.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:57 , Mike Jones66 mins: The ball strikes Ibrahima Konate on the hand inside the penalty area and Everton want a spot kick which they don’t get.
Dominik Szoboszlai then goes to ground in the Everton box under a tackle from Vitaliy Mykolenko. He’s looking for a penalty of his own but again nothing comes from it.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:55 , Mike Jones63 mins: David Moyes is looking contemplative with his coaching staff.
The game is open and there to be won for Everton. The fans are in full voice and they believe their team can go on to win this.
'It's earlier than Slot wanted to use his vice-captain'
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:53 , Richard Jolly at Goodison Park“Liverpool started a Premier League game without an Englishman for the first time.
“Now they are bringing on two Merseysiders, in Trent Alexander-Arnold and Curtis Jones.
“It is earlier that Slot wanted to use the vice-captain but the booked Bradley is among those going off.”
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:52 , Mike Jones60 mins: An hour played so Arne Slot makes his changes.
Ryan Gravenberch and Conor Bradley are off with Curtis Jones and Trent Alexander-Arnold brought on.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:50 , Mike Jones57 mins: There’s a bit of belief swelling in the stadium as Everton continue to impress in this half.
Arne Slot isn’t massively happy. He’s prepping some changes.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:45 , Mike Jones54 mins: Oh my!
That’s a chance. Everton break forward and work the ball down the right side. Idrissa Gueye, I think, floats a cross to the front edge of the box just as Abdoulaye Doucoure arrives.
Doucoure gets a strong header to the ball but can’t find the target!
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:43 , Mike Jones51 mins: Salah looks to fizz a pass into the penalty area to pick out Diaz.
The ball is hooked away by Mykolenko and rolls behind for a corner.
Liverpool send the ball into the box but Branthwaite rises highest and heads it clear.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:39 , Mike Jones48 mins: Jack Harrison gets the first chance of the half after Everton recover the ball in midfield.
He collects a pass and runs into the left side of the box before unleashing a shot that Ibrahima Konate blocks.
Second half! Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:36 , Mike JonesLiverpool get the ball rolling for the final 45 minutes of the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
There’s been no changes at the break from either manager.
'Arne Slot has called for cool heads'
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:34 , Richard Jolly at Goodison Park“Five first-half bookings could serve as a reminder that the Merseyside derby has produced more red cards in the Premier League than any other fixture.
“Arne Slot had called for cool heads - but not cool legs, in his phrase - from Liverpool beforehand.
“He may be annoyed with Andy Robertson's booking for kicking the ball away and Conor Bradley's caution for a foul that was barely even on the pitch.”
HT Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:32 , Mike JonesThere were 16 fouls in the first half - six by Everton and 10 by Liverpool.
That is the most in the first half of a Premier League Merseyside derby at Goodison Park since September 2008 (23).
HT Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:28 , Mike JonesDespite two goals it hasn’t been a match with many clear cut chances.
Both teams managed three shots with Everton having one on target and Liverpool two.
Instead it has been an attritional midfield battle. So much so the next goal may clinch it.
HT Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:24 , Mike Jones
Half-time! Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:20 , Mike Jones45+5 mins: Save! Szoboszlai lets fly from outside the box and Pickford is forced into a low diving stop. Luis Diaz is sprinting towards the loose ball but Tarkowski beats him to it.
Then goes the whistle to end the first half and this match is shaping up to be a belter.
Everton took the lead before Liverpool levelled just five minutes later.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:18 , Mike Jones45+3 mins: Conor Bradley is the latest Liverpool player to be shown a yellow card for a late challenge.
Abdoulaye Doucoure then follows him into the book after hanging a boot out to tackle the Liverpool right-back.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:15 , Mike Jones45 mins: Five minutes of added time to play in this first half.
Will we see another goal?
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:13 , Mike Jones42 mins: A quick break from Everton sees them work the ball out to Jack Harrison who flies down the wing then cuts inside.
He lifts the ball into the box but a glancing header is safely guarded out of play by Alisson.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:08 , Mike Jones39 mins: Branthwaite is quickly across the pitch as a threaded pass comes into the box. He turns the ball out for a corner that Mac Allister swings into the penalty area.
The ball comes towards Szoboszlai but doesn’t beat the first defender and Everton nod it away.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:07 , Mike Jones36 mins: Liverpool clear the set piece away and then look to burst forward.
Idrissa Gueye is booked for denying Luis Diaz room to run by grabbing his shirt and holding him back.
Liverpool take over possession.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:05 , Mike Jones35 mins: Cody Gakpo presses James Tarkowski who spins with the ball and wins a goal kick.
Evertom then look to build out from the back before Vitaliy Mykolenko boots a long ball forward.
Beto nods it down for James Garner who is then clipped by Alexis Mac Allister.
'Ndiaye looked distraught'
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:04 , Richard Jolly at Goodison Park“Iliman Ndiaye looked distraught when he came off, a knee injury ending his night.
“It could come at a cost to Everton creatively: Ndiaye is the one flair player.
“They were desperately short of goals under Sean Dyche.
“David Moyes as made them more attacking and they have seven goals in two-and-a-half home matches.
“But part of the was the Ndiaye factor.”
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 20:02 , Mike Jones31 mins: There’s been a slight dip in tempo since Ndiaye’s injury but the intensity hasn’t wavered.
Everton are trying to remain composed and play their own game with long aerial passes aiming to turn the Liverpool defenders back towards their own goal.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:58 , Mike Jones28 mins: The match is feisty with some heavy tackles getting put in.
Andy Robertson is the first in the book but his yellow card comes from kicking the ball away after Everton win a free kick.
Even someone as experienced as the Liverpool left-back can get frustrated at the contest between the teams.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:55 , Mike Jones25 mins: Everton are forced into an early change as Ndiaye cannot continue.
He’s in tears as he hobbles off the pitch and Jack Harrison is getting ready to come on in his place.
David Moyes makes the substitution and the game resumes.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:52 , Mike Jones22 mins: Iliman Ndiaye seems to have tweaked his knee after kicking the ground trying to evade a tackle.
The match is paused while he receives some treatment on the pitch.
Arne Slot calls his players over and goes through some more instructions. David Moyes has an intense chat with Jordan Pickford as well.
Everton 1-1 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:49 , Mike Jones19 mins: So we’re back to all square at Goodison Park.
Liverpool will feel a lot better about that goal as they’re back on level terms.
Both teams know they can hurt the other one now though and this match should just get more lively from here.
GOAL! Everton 1-1 Liverpool (Alexis Mac Allister, 16')
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:46 , Mike JonesEqualiser!
Liverpool respond immediately. Alexis Mac Allister brings the ball forward then lays it off to Ibrahima Konate.
Konate curls a pass out to Mo Salah as Mac Allister sprints into the box.
Salah’s cross finds the Argentine who glances his headed effort into the far corner!
'Bedlam at Goodison'
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:45 , Richard Jolly at Goodison Park“Bedlam at Goodison as the newly prolific Beto scores.
“His name rings around this ground as perhaps it has never done before.
“If Everton long had a set-piece threat under Sean Dyche, David Moyes' team scored with a different kind of dead ball, a low free kick from Jarrad Branthwaite that Beto latched on to.
“And, as he did against Leicester, he finished calmly.”
GOAL! Everton 1-0 Liverpool (Beto, 11')
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:42 , Mike JonesWow!
That’s an incredible goal. Everton win a free kick that Jarrad Branthwaite slips into the left side of the box.
Beto breaks in behind the high line, lets the ball roll across his body then slots it past Alisson.
Everton take the lead!
Everton 0-0 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:40 , Mike Jones11 mins: Lindstrom receives a pass out on the right side and hooks an attempted cross into the side netting.
Lindstrom has looked sharp in these opening stages. Everton could use his desire and ability to hurt Liverpool.
Everton 0-0 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:39 , Mike Jones8 mins: Liverpool’s build up play is controlled and calm but they aren’t making much headway .
Everton’s shape is solid and they aren’t getting too far forward with the press.
It’s tough for Liverpool to play through them at the minute.
Everton 0-0 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:34 , Mike Jones5 mins: It’s been a frenetic start as both teams look to advance.
Jesper Lindstrom plays a fine one-two and nips in behind Andy Robertson.
He sends a pass into the middle but Ibrahima Konate is there to poke the ball behind for a corner.
Everton 0-0 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:32 , Mike Jones3 mins: There’s plenty of early pressure from Liverpool as a few crosses come into the box.
Everton’s centre-backs clear the danger initially before Luis Diaz is flagged offside as Dominik Szoboszlai sends it back into the middle.
Kick off! Everton 0-0 Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:30 , Mike JonesJames Garner kicks off the match at Goodison Park for the final Merseyside derby at this ground.
Everton then boot it long where Liverpool win possession and send it over to Cody Gakpo on the left wing.
Everton vs Liverpool
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:25 , Mike JonesOkay then, it’s almost time for the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
Can the Toffees sign off with a win here or will Liverpool increase their lead at the top of the table?
Regardless of the result the atmosphere will be superb and this match should be a cracker.
Kick off is up next...
Liverpool's star man
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:20 , Mike JonesMohamed Salah has been directly involved in 21 goals in Liverpool's 12 Premier League away games this season, scoring 13 times and providing eight assists.
Second half maestros
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:15 , Mike JonesLiverpool have scored at least five more second-half goals than any other side in the Premier League this season, despite playing a match fewer than all but one of them.
Red hot Ndiaye
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:10 , Mike JonesIliman Ndiaye could become the first Everton player to score in four consecutive Premier League appearances since Richarlison in March 2021.
David Moyes ready to bridge Everton-Liverpool divide starting with historic Merseyside derby
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:05 , Mike JonesAs Arne Slot looked forward to his first Merseyside derby, David Moyes looked back at some of his first 25.
He harked back to Lee Carsley’s winner in 2004, to the game Andy Johnson eviscerated Liverpool two years later.
There was the day Luis Suarez scored and dived in front of Moyes, the Uruguayan’s riposte after the Scot had noted his propensity to go to ground. He recalled the time when, as he said, the refereeing was more lenient.
David Moyes ready to bridge Everton-Liverpool divide starting with historic derby
Can Everton score versus Liverpool?
Wednesday 12 February 2025 19:00 , Mike JonesEverton have led 3-0 at half-time in both of their last two Premier League home games.
But, they face a brilliant Liverpool side tonight. Can they score and force the Reds to rethink their gameplan?
Liverpool's exceptional away form
Wednesday 12 February 2025 18:55 , Mike JonesLiverpool are unbeaten in 19 Premier League matches, winning 14 and drawing five.
They are yet to lose a top-flight away fixture this season, earning 30 points from a possible 36.
'131 years after an Everton win comes the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park'
Wednesday 12 February 2025 18:53 , Richard Jolly at Goodison Park“So, 131 years after a 3-0 Everton win, comes the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
“A safe prediction is this historic ground's final evening game will be loud, at least providing Everton are still in with a chance.
“Liverpool's last trip across Stanley Park ended in defeat in April on perhaps Sean Dyche's best night as Everton manager.
“It was, however, Everton's first home win over Liverpool since 2010, when their manager was a certain David Moyes.
“Now he is back and while both clubs lost in the FA Cup at the weekend, Everton have won their last three league games.”
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
