The final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park ended in spectacular fashion as James Tarkowski scored a 98th-minute equalizer to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw for Everton against Premier League leaders Liverpool. The game, filled with intensity, controversy, and stunning goals, ensured that the last chapter of this historic rivalry at Goodison Park ended in unforgettable fashion.
Beto Fires Everton into an Early Lead
With emotions running high for Goodison Park’s final Merseyside derby, Everton’s home crowd created an electric and hostile atmosphere for their fierce rivals. Their energy translated onto the pitch as the Toffees stunned Liverpool with an early breakthrough.
In the 11th minute, Everton took the lead with a brilliantly executed goal. Jarrad Branthwaite played a quick free-kick over the Liverpool defense, catching them off guard. Beto timed his run perfectly, showing great composure as he curled a fine finish past Alisson Becker into the far corner.
The stadium erupted as Everton celebrated a dream start, giving the home fans hope of a famous victory in their final derby at Goodison.
Liverpool Respond Through Mac Allister
Liverpool, determined not to let the occasion unsettle them, responded immediately. Just five minutes later, their main man Mohamed Salah created a moment of brilliance.
Salah, who had already scored six goals in his previous eight Merseyside derbies, delivered an exquisite cross into the box. Alexis Mac Allister, with his back to goal, produced a stunning header that looped over Jordan Pickford and into the net.
Liverpool’s equalizer silenced the home crowd and restored confidence to their side. After an explosive start, the game settled into a tense and physical battle, with both teams fighting for every inch of space.
Everton suffered a major setback before halftime when Iliman Ndiaye was forced off with an injury, visibly distraught as he walked off the pitch. Their frustration almost worsened when Dominik Szoboszlai unleashed a powerful shot in stoppage time, forcing Pickford into an excellent save.
Everton Push Forward, but Liverpool Take the Lead
Everton started the second half on the front foot, determined to reclaim the lead. They created a golden opportunity when Abdoulaye Doucouré found himself unmarked inside the box, but he misjudged his header and sent it wide.
Liverpool’s slow start almost cost them again when Branthwaite thought he had restored Everton’s lead, bundling the ball over the line from close range. However, the offside flag ruled the goal out, keeping the scores level.
Just when it seemed Everton was gaining momentum, Liverpool struck in the 76th minute. Curtis Jones saw his shot saved by Pickford, but the rebound fell straight to Mohamed Salah, who wasted no time in smashing the ball into the net.
With that goal, Salah set a new Premier League record, recording his 23rd goal involvement in just 13 away games this season, the most by any player in a single campaign.
At that moment, it looked as though Liverpool had secured another crucial win to strengthen their grip at the top of the league table.
Tarkowski Stuns Liverpool in the 98th Minute
Everton refused to accept defeat and continued pushing forward despite Liverpool controlling possession in the final minutes.
In the eighth minute of stoppage time, Everton’s persistence paid off in spectacular fashion. Vitaliy Mykolenko sent a deep cross into the box, where Tim Iroegbunam rose to flick it on into the path of James Tarkowski.
With the clock running down, Tarkowski unleashed a thunderous finish, sending Goodison Park into absolute chaos. The Everton defender, known for his aerial ability and defensive strength, had just delivered one of the most memorable moments in Merseyside derby history.
The goal survived a lengthy VAR check, ensuring that Everton had officially rescued a point in the dying seconds of the game.
Post-Match Chaos and Controversy
The final whistle did not bring an end to the drama. Emotions boiled over, leading to a heated altercation between both sets of players. Amidst the chaos, Abdoulaye Doucouré and Curtis Jones were both shown red cards after the match, adding another layer of controversy to an already dramatic evening.
For Liverpool, the draw meant another frustrating visit to Goodison Park, where they have now failed to win in 10 of their last 13 trips. Despite their disappointment, they moved seven points clear at the top of the Premier League, though they will see this as two points dropped rather than one gained.
Everton’s Unbeaten Run Continues
For Everton, this result was a massive boost, extending their unbeaten Premier League run to four matches. David Moyes’ team has shown incredible resilience in recent weeks, climbing the table and proving they are capable of competing against the league’s best.
They may not have taken all three points, but spoiling Liverpool’s farewell to Goodison Park will feel like a victory in itself. This stadium has been home to many legendary Merseyside derby moments, and Tarkowski’s last-gasp equalizer will now be etched in history as one of the greatest.
The final chapter of this iconic fixture at Goodison Park could not have been scripted any better, delivering a night of passion, drama, and unforgettable moments in one of English football’s fiercest rivalries.
READ NEXT:
