Liverpool continued their flawless start to the Premier League season, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory against a resilient Everton side in a tense Merseyside derby at Anfield on Saturday.
Reds dominate early on
The 247th instalment of the rivalry began as many predicted, with Liverpool controlling possession while Everton sank into a deep defensive block. The hosts’ dominance soon paid off when Ryan Gravenberch expertly broke the deadlock with a deft, lofted finish following an inch-perfect pass from Mohamed Salah that was met with a deafening roar from the Anfield faithful.
The Reds refused to relent and were rewarded for their intensity by doubling their lead before the half-hour mark. Hugo Ekitiké, who started ahead of record-signing Alexander Isak, calmly slotted the ball past Jordan Pickford after an incisive attacking move, with Gravenberch turning provider with an excellent assist.
Everton’s spirited comeback
Any hope of a second Everton win at Anfield this century seemed to have faded by halftime, but the visitors were re-energised just before the hour. Idrissa Gueye unleashed a thunderous strike into the top corner of Alisson’s net to reduce the deficit, sending a wave of anxiety around Anfield.
Sensing a potential defensive fragility in the home side, the Toffees grew in confidence. Jack Grealish, in particular, was a constant thorn in Liverpool’s side, creating havoc down the wing. However, for all their promising build-up play, Everton struggled to create clear-cut opportunities to find an equaliser.
Liverpool looked increasingly anxious as the final whistle approached but managed to keep their rivals at bay in the dying moments to edge the derby and secure their sixth successive victory in all competitions. While the performance was far from perfect, Liverpool’s ability to grind out results continues to define their early season form.