In a thrilling Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park, Everton celebrated a 2-0 victory over Liverpool, boosting their Premier League standing while dealing a significant blow to their rivals’ title aspirations.
Everton’s victory, their second consecutive after a crucial win over Nottingham Forest, propelled them to 33 points, eight clear of the relegation zone. Moreover, it was their first victory over Liverpool at Goodison Park since 2010.
The victory came courtesy of goals from Jarrad Branthwaite, who tucked away a loose ball in the second phase from a corner, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who rose highest to head in.
Liverpool had chances to equalize, but Darwin Nunez blasted straight at Jordan Pickford, and Mohamed Salah was off target.
The result leaves Liverpool three points behind Arsenal, who have a game in hand, and one point behind Manchester City, who have two games in hand.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher believes the defeat marks the end of Liverpool’s title hopes.
“In terms of wanting it more, it’s Everton’s night,” Carragher said on Sky Sports. “It’s not been easy, and you have seen their record in derby games, so you have to accept that as a Liverpool fan.”
“This is the end of the title run for Liverpool. It almost feels like the end. They just have to make sure they finish the season strong.”
A dejected Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk agreed with Carragher’s assessment.
“If we play like today, then we have no chance to consider ourselves in the title race,” van Dijk said.
“We have to just focus on the next game, and that will be a tough one as well, and then we will see.”
Liverpool will look to bounce back when they face West Ham in the early kick-off on Saturday.
