Liverpool Take Another Step Towards Title with Derby Win Over Everton

Liverpool continued their relentless pursuit of the Premier League title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Everton in a feisty Merseyside derby. Diogo Jota’s second-half strike proved to be the difference as the Reds restored their 12-point lead at the top of the table, reinforcing their status as champions-elect.

With 73 points from 30 games, Liverpool remain in firm control of the title race, keeping second-placed Arsenal at bay. Meanwhile, Everton saw their nine-game unbeaten run in the league come to an end, leaving them in 15th place on 34 points as they continue their battle for safety.

A Fierce Encounter at Anfield

The latest edition of the Merseyside derby was expected to be intense following the explosive 2-2 draw between the sides in February—a match that featured four red cards, including one for Liverpool manager Arne Slot. Wednesday’s game at Anfield carried the same fiery atmosphere, further ignited by a contentious early challenge.

In the 11th minute, Everton’s James Tarkowski lunged in with a high, studs-up tackle on Alexis Mac Allister, leaving Liverpool fans incensed when referee Samuel Barrott issued only a yellow card. Despite a VAR review, no further action was taken, fueling Anfield’s sense of injustice.

Everton nearly capitalized on the early chaos, with Beto finding the net only for his effort to be ruled out for offside. Minutes later, he came close again, racing onto a misjudged clearance by Virgil van Dijk before striking the post.

Liverpool, still reeling from back-to-back defeats to Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle that ended their Champions League and League Cup ambitions, looked sluggish in the first half. However, Slot’s men responded after the break with renewed intensity, knowing that their title push could not afford another setback.

Jota Breaks the Deadlock

The breakthrough arrived amid controversy in the second half. Luis Diaz appeared to be offside when Tarkowski intercepted a pass meant for him, but play continued, and Diaz flicked the ball into Jota’s path. The Portuguese forward coolly cut inside Idrissa Gueye and Tarkowski before rifling home his first goal since January, sending Anfield into celebration.

Liverpool had chances to extend their lead, with Diaz forcing Jordan Pickford into a sharp save, but the Reds ultimately had to settle for a narrow victory. Late drama saw Pickford bring down Darwin Nunez inside the box, but the referee had already stopped play for an earlier infringement, sparing Everton further punishment.

Reactions from Both Camps

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk acknowledged the challenge Everton posed but was pleased with how his team responded:

“Everton make it very difficult for you. They have a certain way of playing. You have to be ready for it. They are very direct.”

Meanwhile, Jota was relieved to be back on the scoresheet and hopes this win reignites Liverpool’s momentum:

“Hopefully, this gives us a bit of momentum. I want this game to start a good run for me that could be helpful for the team. The only way is to start winning games.”

Everton manager David Moyes was frustrated with the nature of Liverpool’s goal but conceded that the better team won:

“Liverpool were the better team, but we showed great resilience, made some chances. It’s just gut-wrenching that we have lost to a goal that we don’t feel is deserved. This is our first defeat in 10 games. Liverpool are the best team in the league. Maybe in the future, we’ll be a bit closer to them.”

Elsewhere in the Premier League

Manchester City, missing the injured Erling Haaland, overcame Leicester 2-0 to remain fourth, one point ahead of Newcastle, who secured a 2-1 win at Brentford. Marcus Rashford continued his fine form for Aston Villa, scoring in a convincing 3-0 victory at Brighton.

At the bottom of the table, Southampton’s misery continued as Matheus Franca’s stoppage-time equalizer denied them a rare win, securing a 1-1 draw for Crystal Palace. Meanwhile, Ipswich earned a much-needed 2-1 triumph over Bournemouth, boosting their survival hopes.

Liverpool Edge Closer to the Crown

Liverpool’s victory over Everton may not have been their most dazzling display of the season, but it was the kind of hard-earned win that defines champions. With eight games remaining, they are inching ever closer to lifting their second Premier League trophy in 35 years. If they continue to grind out results like this, few will be able to stop them.

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