Unforgettable Goodison Park Farewell as Everton Hold Liverpool to a Draw
The final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park offered a drama-filled spectacle as Everton clawed back a late 2-2 draw against their fierce rivals, Liverpool. The iconic stadium trembled as James Tarkowski slammed home an equalizer deep into stoppage time, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Initially disrupted by Storm Darragh, the eagerly anticipated clash finally took place on the night of February 12, 2025, under the glowing floodlights. Everton got off to a dream start when Beto turned in Jarrad Branthwaite's cleverly executed set-piece in the 11th minute. The early goal electrified the Toffees' faithful, adding an extra buzz to an already charged atmosphere.
Liverpool, however, responded swiftly. Just five minutes later, Alexis Mac Allister found the back of the net, thanks to some fine play by Mohamed Salah, who continued to showcase his unmatched prowess this season. Salah didn't stop there; he later added a second for the Reds at the 73rd minute mark, consolidating his record for the most goal involvements in away Premier League matches in a single season.
As the game barreled towards its conclusion, Everton refused to back down. With the clock ticking beyond the 90-minute mark, the Toffees found their hero in Tarkowski. His thunderous strike in the 98th minute was a moment of sheer ecstasy for Evertonians, marking a fitting farewell to their historic stadium's popular fixture.
Chaos Erupts and Red Cards Galore
The late drama provoked chaotic scenes. Fans poured onto the pitch in celebration, and tensions boiled over into physical altercations post-match. Referee Michael Oliver had a busy night, issuing red cards to Liverpool's Curtis Jones, their manager Arne Slot, assistant Sipke Hulshoff, and Everton's Abdoulaye Doucouré.
These disciplinary actions added another chapter to an already chaotic evening. The result bumped Everton up to 15th in the standings, 10 points clear of the dreaded relegation zone, while Liverpool's grip on the league summit remains intact, extending their lead over Arsenal to seven points.
This 120th and final derby at Goodison Park not only ends an era with a record of both sides having 41 wins and 38 draws against each other but also cements the stadium's legacy in Merseyside folklore. A fitting crescendo to a rivalry that has been marked by explosive encounters and unforgettable moments.
