EPL: Liverpool Edge Everton 1-0 in Merseyside Derby

Liverpool secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Everton in the Merseyside derby, with Diogo Jota's second-half strike proving the difference-maker.

Liverpool took a significant step towards reclaiming the Premier League title with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Everton in the Merseyside derby. The victory brought an end to Everton's impressive nine-match unbeaten league run and extended Liverpool's lead at the top of the table to 12 points.

The 246th Merseyside derby lived up to its reputation for intensity, with James Tarkowski making his presence felt early on. The Everton defender was involved in a contentious incident with Alexis Mac Allister, committing a calf-high challenge that was reviewed by VAR. Although Tarkowski was only shown a yellow card, the Anfield crowd was outraged, believing he should have been sent off.

Tarkowski's aggressive play nearly paid off for Everton when he delivered a precise ball behind the Liverpool defense, putting Beto through on goal in front of the Kop. However, Liverpool's resilience ultimately prevailed, and they secured the win to move closer to the Premier League title.

Fortunately for Liverpool fans, the official's flag denied Everton's forward his goal, keeping the scores level. Beto had another prime opportunity, this time onside, but his effort crashed against the post after Abdoulaye Doucouré played him through on goal.

Diogo Jota is the Merseyside derby match-winner 😤#LIVEVE pic.twitter.com/c9CKt2m03y

— Premier League (@premierleague) April 2, 2025

Everton boss David Moyes was left frustrated by those missed chances, especially considering his poor record at Anfield, with no wins in 19 prior visits. His worst fears came true within 15 minutes of the restart when Diogo Jota seized on a loose ball, skillfully made his way into the area, and scored in front of the Kop, energizing the Anfield crowd.

The Toffees faced an uphill battle to get back into the game, but the return of Iliman Ndiaye from injury provided a timely boost. Although Ndiaye couldn't shift the momentum in Everton's favor, his presence was a welcome addition to the team.

As Liverpool protected their slender one-goal lead in the final stages, the Anfield crowd grew increasingly anxious. However, Luis Díaz attempted to ease their nerves with a goal-bound effort 10 minutes from time, but James Tarkowski intervened, blocking the shot on the line.

In the end, Liverpool successfully preserved their advantage, securing a 1-0 victory and extending their unbeaten league run to 26 games. Conversely, Everton missed the opportunity to avoid defeat in both Merseyside derbies this season, a feat they last achieved in the 2020/21 campaign.