In a dramatic and heated conclusion to the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park, tensions flared between the players, leading to multiple red cards for both teams.
Curtis Jones, Abdoulaye Doucoure, and Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot were all sent off after a series of dramatic events in the dying moments of the match.
Doucoure’s Celebration Sparks Tensions
The drama unfolded when Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure scored a dramatic equaliser deep into stoppage time, securing a 2-2 draw for the home side.
His celebration in front of the Liverpool fans didn’t sit well with Jones, who was quick to confront Doucoure.
The two players exchanged heated words, and things escalated with hands being raised in a scuffle, which quickly drew in other players, the police, and stewards.
The Red Cards Follow Heated Confrontation
As the confrontation continued, referee Michael Oliver stepped in, issuing yellow cards to both Jones and Doucoure. The situation didn’t end there, however.
Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot, who had been actively trying to manage the situation, also found himself in trouble.
Slot was shown a straight red card after an exchange with Oliver.
The Liverpool bench was left stunned, especially as the Reds were just moments away from extending their lead at the top of the Premier League.
A Stoppage Time Thriller
The final moments of the match were nothing short of thrilling.
James Tarkowski’s stunning half-volley in the eighth minute of stoppage time had initially seemed to hand Everton a dramatic win.
However, a lengthy VAR review followed, which temporarily silenced the home fans.
When the goal was eventually confirmed, Goodison Park erupted in joy, but that celebration was soon followed by the tense moments involving Jones and Doucoure.
VAR Controversy and Everton’s Equaliser
Liverpool also had their grievances, particularly over the build-up to Everton’s equaliser.
Ibrahima Konate appeared to be impeded by an Everton player, but after a VAR review by Chris Kavanagh, the goal stood, much to the frustration of the visiting team.
The heated end to the game was a fitting finale to an intense and dramatic Merseyside derby, one that will be remembered not just for the goals but also for the chaos that followed.