Everton beat Liverpool 2-0 in a Merseyside derby to improve their chances of survival while denting Liverpool’s Premier League title challenge at a thunderous Goodison Park.
Jarrad Branthwaite’s first-half goal and a towering header from Dominic Calvert-Lewin after the break gave Everton their first Merseyside derby win at home since October 2010 in a victory that could assume huge significance.
Liverpool knew a win over the rivals they have dominated so often would put them level on points with leaders Arsenal but Jurgen Klopp’s side never recovered from an opening period when they were overpowered by Everton, Branthwaite’s close-range finish a deserved reward.
Everton then needed England keeper Jordan Pickford to keep them ahead as he saved from Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz and Andy Robertson – but on this night, in a fiercely hostile atmosphere, the Toffees were not to be denied.
And victory was effectively sealed when Calvert-Lewin, a constant threat, rose at the far post to head home from Dwight McNeil’s corner just before the hour.
Liverpool had plenty of possession but, with Everton’s defence resolute and Pickford so impressive, there was no way back as Klopp tasted defeat at Goodison Park in his final Merseyside derby.
Everton’s fans have waited a long time to enjoy victory against Liverpool at Goodison Park and how they relished putting their derby rivals to the sword on a memorable night.
The chant of “You Lost The League At Goodison Park” echoed around the famous old stadium in the closing moments as Everton held firm to their two-goal advantage and Liverpool simply could not break through.
Of more immediate importance to Everton is the fact that this made it two successive home wins, following on from the victory against Nottingham Forest, meaning it would take something of a collapse for their Premier League status to be threatened now.
Calvert-Lewin was a thorn throughout from the moment he was denied an early penalty by an offside decision when he was brought down by Liverpool keeper Alisson.
Everton were superbly drilled in defence and even had opportunities to add to their tally – but nothing could dilute the wild celebrations at the end as supporters revelled in the victory and in Liverpool’s misery.
Liverpool are now three points behind leaders Arsenal but the Gunners have a vastly superior goal difference which is like the cushion of an extra point.
EPL: Everton Dent Liverpool Title Hopes With Hard Fought Win At
Goodison Park
