Liverpool were moments away from a hard-fought Merseyside derby victory at Goodison Park, but James Tarkowski’s 98th-minute stunner rescued a dramatic 2-2 draw for Everton.
Mohamed Salah had seemingly won it for the Reds after putting them ahead in the second half. Still, Everton refused to back down, securing a dramatic late equalizer to spark wild celebrations.
Early Blow for Liverpool
Everton struck first when Jarrad Branthwaite’s clever quick free-kick caught Liverpool’s defense off guard. Beto raced past Ibrahima Konaté and coolly slotted past Alisson, giving the hosts an early lead.
Liverpool, however, responded before halftime. Alexis Mac Allister took advantage of a poor clearance from a set piece, heading home from Salah’s cross to restore parity.
VAR Controversy & Disallowed Goals
The second half was filled with VAR drama.
- Everton were denied a penalty appeal for a Konaté handball.
- Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai also saw a penalty shout waved away.
- Branthwaite thought he had restored Everton’s lead, only for his goal to be ruled offside.
Late Drama & Tensions Boil Over
Liverpool looked to have snatched victory when Salah lashed home after a deflected Curtis Jones effort, putting the visitors 2-1 up.
But deep into stoppage time, Everton salvaged a point. Tarkowski pounced at the back post, smashing home a stunning half-volley to send Goodison Park into a frenzy.
Even after the final whistle, tensions boiled over, with Arne Slot, Curtis Jones, and Abdoulaye Doucouré all receiving red cards in a heated exchange.
A thrilling derby ends all square, but the controversy and drama will linger long after the final whistle.
