Premier League: Everton Salvage Last-Minute Draw as Merseyside Derby Descends into Chaos

James Tarkowski’s dramatic last-minute equalizer earned Everton a hard-fought point in a thrilling and chaotic conclusion to the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. As Liverpool seemed poised to extend their lead to nine points at the top of the Premier League, Tarkowski’s strike in the dying seconds brought the game level, after VAR reviewed potential offside and a foul in the build-up.

The match descended into further chaos as Abdoulaye Doucoure taunted Liverpool fans, only to be confronted by substitute Curtis Jones, leading to a scuffle between players. Both Doucoure and Jones were subsequently sent off. After the final whistle, Liverpool manager Arne Slot and assistant Sipke Hulshoff were also dismissed, with the Liverpool side arguing that Tarkowski’s goal should have been disallowed due to a shove in the lead-up.

The dramatic scenes marked the end of an era at Goodison Park, as both Everton and Liverpool finished with 41 derby wins apiece at the historic venue.

Everton took an early lead in the emotionally charged atmosphere when Jarrad Branthwaite’s free-kick caught Liverpool off guard, allowing Beto to calmly finish past goalkeeper Alisson. Liverpool responded quickly, with Alexis Mac Allister equalizing just five minutes later with a header from Mohamed Salah’s cross.

As the intensity of the match grew, Salah took advantage of a clearance by Branthwaite, scoring a vital goal with 17 minutes remaining, just as Everton lamented Doucoure’s missed header. But the final twist came when Tarkowski’s powerful strike in front of the Gwladys Street End ensured a dramatic 2-2 draw.

Liverpool remain seven points clear at the top of the Premier League, but it was Everton who were more satisfied with the outcome, having salvaged a point in the derby’s final moments.