Mohamed Salah scored the winner as Liverpool beat Everton 2-1 (Image: Getty)
were denied by a last-gasp goal from James Tarkowski in a 2-2 draw with as and Curtis Jones were sent off in dramatic scenes at Goodison Park.
The atmosphere was electric for the last Merseyside derby to be hosted at the stadium and Everton gave their fans something to cheer as Beto scored early on from a clever free-kick routine.
The league leaders were back on level terms three minutes later, however, when Alexis Mac Allister headed home from a cross. And the Egyptian popped up at the back post to tuck home what the winner on 73 minutes.
There was a dramatic finale as Everton equalised in the 97th minute through James Tarkowski, and after a three-minute pause for a VAR check, the goal was given. The match descended into farce after the final whistle as Curtis Jones, Abdoulaye Doucoure and Michael Oliver were sent off in ugly scenes.
Express Sport analyses the player ratings after sealing a crucial win against their Merseyside rivals.
Alisson Becker 6
The Brazilian was left stranded by his defence going to sleep for Beto’s opener, although he made the finish a simple one for the Portuguese striker. A couple of confident punches helped weather the storm.
Connor Bradley 6
It would be unfair to expect levels of creativity from him, but his defensive work was generally fine. The Anfield academy product looked fired up as he challenged aggressively – and on one occasion overzealously as he got a booking.
Ibrahima Konate 5
The Frenchman was caught on his heels for the free-kick, which he gave away dubiously or not, and he never looked comfortable, shirking his responsibilities late on by missing a header. A shaky performance from the centre-back.
Virgil van Dijk 6
A rare lapse in concentration from the Dutchman allowed Beto in to score, but the captain always responds strongly. His clearances and enticing battle with Beto were a joy to watch, although he went missing for the late equaliser.
Andy Robertson 6
Most of what Everton created came down his side as he struggled to contain the lively Jesper Lindstrom. Earned himself a silly booking for kicking the ball away after committing a foul. Replaced midway through the second half.
Beto caught both Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate out of position (Image: Getty)
Ryan Gravenberch 6
Continued his run of starting every one of ‘s games this season, although the Dutchman wasn’t able to control the midfield like he usually does due to some sloppy passing.
Alexis Mac Allister 7
Some might be wondering how one of the smallest players on the pitch won a header against the towering Branthwaite and James Tarkowski. Take nothing away from the Argentinian, though, as he steered a very tricky header into the corner. Booked for a rash challenge on James Garner.
Dominik Szoboszlai 6
Showed desire to win the ball back and saw his thunderous effort saved by Pickford on the stroke of half time. Failed to deceive Michael Oliver into giving him a penalty.
Alexis Mac Allister’s brilliant header found the corner (Image: Getty)
8
When needed a way back into the game to silence the raucous home crowd, the Egyptian curled in a brilliant cross for Mac Allister to guide home. Despite being very quiet for the majority of the game, that only made him more deadly as he drilled home his 22nd goal this season – and what a massive goal it might be for the Reds.
Luis Diaz 6
The Colombian cut a frustrated figure in the first half as he struggled to get the ball in his No.9 role. Looked much more effective when moving to the left, but still yet to score or assist in 2025 and that is a big concern.
Cody Gakpo 5
Usually so dangerous when cutting in from the left. But Gakpo was equally matched by Jake O’Brien in his take-ons and duels and found himself on the periphery of the game. Subbed off in the second half and he can have no complaints.
Mo Salah scored the winner for Liverpool (Image: Getty)
Substitutes
(on 61′) 6
Limited to half an hour due to a lack of match fitness, the right-back definitely wasn’t his usual self but played his part in a few attacks.
Curtis Jones (on 61′) 6
Booked minutes after coming on for a late challenge. But he made a difference, and it was his interception and shot that led to the second goal. Sent off after the final whistle after losing his head.
Kostas Tsimikas (on 69′) 6
The left-back wanted an incident-free night after Robertson’s unconvincing display, but
Darwin Nunez (on 69′) 6
Barely had a sniff in front of goal but the Uruguayan never lacks effort in chasing down lost causes up top.
Diogo Jota (on 88′) N/A
Not used: Endo, Elliott, Kelleher, Quansah