Diogo Jota’s decisive goal secured a vital win for Liverpool, restoring their 12-point lead at the top of the Premier League. The Reds claimed local bragging rights at Anfield, marking their 100th victory over Everton in all competitions.
Jota’s Winner Ends Everton’s Unbeaten Run
Everton entered the derby on a 10-game unbeaten streak. They thought they had taken the lead in the first half when Beto found the net. However, the goal was ruled out for offside.
Jota delivered the decisive moment in the 57th minute. A clever flick from Luis Diaz set him up, and he calmly slotted the ball past Jordan Pickford. That goal was enough to seal the win for Arne Slot’s side.
Arsenal had closed the gap to nine points with a win over Fulham, but Liverpool’s victory restored their advantage. Meanwhile, Everton remains 15th in the table.
How the Liverpool Game Unfolded
The derby was intense from the start. In the 11th minute, James Tarkowski’s tackle on Alexis Mac Allister was reviewed but did not result in a red card.
Everton’s Beto looked dangerous. He escaped Virgil van Dijk’s marking twice in the first half. His first attempt was ruled offside. His second effort, a powerful strike, hit the post with Caoimhin Kelleher beaten.
Liverpool grew into the game. In the second half, Ryan Gravenberch tested Pickford with a long-range shot. Then, Jota seized his moment, scoring with a composed finish. The Reds continued pressing, with Diaz having a late shot blocked, but they comfortably saw out the win.
Liverpool Bounce Back
The international break arrived at a crucial time for Liverpool. Before the pause, they suffered setbacks, crashing out of the Champions League against PSG and losing the EFL Cup final to Newcastle.
This derby provided the perfect opportunity to reset. Though Everton posed a threat in the first half, Liverpool took control after the break. The Reds have not lost a Premier League game after scoring first in two years, and they never looked like surrender their lead.
Liverpool now shifts their focus to an away match against Fulham before hosting West Ham next weekend.
Everton’s Attack Falls Short
Everton aimed to end a long drought at Anfield, having last won there in front of fans in 1999. David Moyes also sought his first Premier League win at the stadium after 19 failed attempts.
His side started brightly and created dangerous moments. Beto’s shot off the post was their closest chance. However, they failed to register a single shot on target throughout the game.
The loss ends Everton’s unbeaten run. They now face a tough schedule, starting with a clash against second-placed Arsenal. After that, they visit Nottingham Forest and Chelsea, with Manchester City also set to visit Goodison Park.
Conclusion
Liverpool celebrated yet another Merseyside derby victory, reinforcing their position at the top of the table. Jota’s clinical finish made the difference, while Everton’s attack fell short. With challenging fixtures ahead for both teams, the season remains full of crucial battles.
