The final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park will be remembered for its sheer drama, as Everton’s James Tarkowski scored a stunning 98th-minute equalizer to hold league leaders Liverpool to a thrilling 2-2 draw. The match ended in absolute chaos, with two players and Liverpool coach Arne Slot receiving red cards after the final whistle.
A Dramatic Finish
Liverpool had looked set to claim all three points after Mohamed Salah’s second-half goal put them on course for a crucial win that would have extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table. However, despite only five minutes of added time, referee Michael Oliver allowed play to continue into the 98th minute—just long enough for Tarkowski to produce a brilliant volley at the back post, sending Goodison Park into pandemonium.
An anxious VAR check confirmed the goal, leaving the Liverpool players stunned.
“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,” Tarkowski said after the game. “Amazing to score and what an amazing night.”
Post-Match Chaos and Red Cards
As soon as the final whistle blew, tensions boiled over. Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure ran towards the Liverpool supporters, taunting them by putting his finger to his lips. Liverpool’s Curtis Jones reacted immediately, confronting Doucoure, and the two clashed. Both players were sent off, adding to the already chaotic ending.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot also saw red after confronting the referee over the excessive added time and controversial officiating.
CHECK OUT TOP 3 FREE BETTING PREDICTION SITES
Accuratepredict.com Soccerpredictions.net Betloy.com
Reactions from Players and Coaches
Liverpool legend Steve McManaman described the match as a fitting farewell to Goodison Park’s Merseyside derby history.
“There was not a load of quality in the game, but it was wild, it had passion, it had fight,” McManaman said. “It ended in absolute chaos.”
Everton manager David Moyes reflected on the madness of the night:
“Mental probably sums it up. A brilliant finish for us, to score in the last minute and finish the last Goodison Merseyside derby like that is fitting,” Moyes said. “We would have liked to win, but at 2-1 down, I was thinking Liverpool would see it out.”
Moyes, however, expressed disappointment in Doucoure for his involvement in the scuffle.
“We need him, we’re down on numbers at the moment. Discipline is never easy in these games, but we have to be careful,” he added.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk was frustrated by the late equalizer and the heated exchange that followed.
“Very tough. To concede an equalizer that late is always disappointing,” Van Dijk said. “We saw their celebrations, so we know how much it meant to them, but for us, it’s disappointing.”
SUGGESTED FOR YOU
Jude Bellingham Stuns Man City with Dramatic 93rd-Minute Winner in 3-2 Thriller
What’s Next?
Despite the draw, Liverpool remains unbeaten in 20 league games and still holds a strong position in the title race. However, they will have to move forward without Curtis Jones in their next fixture against Wolves. Everton, on the other hand, will look to build on this dramatic result as they fight for a strong finish to the season.
For the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park, the night delivered everything: passion, controversy, and an unforgettable last-minute goal—fitting for such a historic rivalry.
