Final Goodison Park Merseyside Derby Ends in Dramatic Draw and Controversy

Historic Last Derby at Goodison

The final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park ended in a dramatic 2-2 draw, with James Tarkowski’s equalizer deep into stoppage time providing a fitting finale to 131 years of derby history at the historic venue. The match was particularly significant as Everton prepares to move to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock for the 2025-26 season.

Match Highlights and Drama

The game saw multiple lead changes, with Beto putting Everton ahead early through an innovative set piece, before Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah turned the match in Liverpool’s favor. Just as Liverpool looked set to extend their lead at the top of the table, Tarkowski delivered a stunning blow in stoppage time, firing a terrific finish into the top-right corner that sparked wild celebrations among the home fans.

Post-Match Chaos

The match ended in controversial circumstances with an ugly scene involving both sides. The incident was sparked by Abdoulaye Doucouré’s interaction with the away crowd, leading referee Michael Oliver to hand out four red cards: to Liverpool’s Curtis Jones, manager Arne Slot and assistant coach Sipke Hulshoff, as well as Everton’s Doucouré.

Historical Significance

This was the 120th and final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park across all competitions, with both sides having won exactly 41 matches each, alongside 38 draws, highlighting the historic competitiveness of this fixture.

League Implications

The draw had significant implications for both teams in the Premier League standings. Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the table to seven points over second-placed Arsenal, while Everton gained valuable points to move 10 points clear of the relegation zone in 15th place.

Future of the Derby

While the rivalry has historically been characterized by the close proximity of the two clubs’ home grounds, being less than a mile apart across Stanley Park, the dynamic will change from the 2025/26 season as Everton moves to their new Hill Dickinson Stadium, while Liverpool remains at Anfield.