Tarkowski Scores Dramatic Late Equaliser as Liverpool Miss Chance to Extend Lead
Liverpool missed the opportunity to go nine points clear at the top of the Premier League after Everton’s James Tarkowski scored a stunning stoppage-time goal to secure a 2-2 draw in the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
Everton took an early lead when Beto finished off a well-worked free kick in the 11th minute. Liverpool responded quickly, with Alexis Mac Allister heading in a cross from the right just five minutes later.
The second half was closely contested, but Liverpool looked set to win when Mohamed Salah fired home a rebound with 17 minutes left. However, in the eighth minute of added time, Tarkowski struck a brilliant volley into the top corner, ensuring Everton claimed a point.
The match ended in dramatic fashion with tensions boiling over. Three red cards were shown after the final whistle to Abdoulaye Doucoure, Curtis Jones, and Liverpool’s manager.
With this result, Liverpool extend their unbeaten league run to 20 matches but sit just seven points ahead of second-placed Arsenal. Meanwhile, Everton move up to 15th place, now 10 points clear of the relegation zone.
Next, Everton will travel to Crystal Palace on Saturday, while Liverpool will host Wolves on Sunday.
Tarkowski reflected on his late goal, expressing his excitement and relief after a tough previous match. He described the moment as special, especially after a long VAR check confirmed the goal. He praised his team’s resilience and the incredible support from the home crowd.
