Liverpool got off to a strong start with first-half goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitiké, and that was just enough to hold off a determined Everton side as the Reds won the 247th edition of the Merseyside Derby 2-1 over Everton. The victory gives Liverpool a perfect 5 for 5 start in the Premier League, and they sit atop the table with 15 points. Liverpool have won each of their opening five matches of a top-flight season for only the fifth time, after 1978-79, 1990-91, 2018-19 and 2019-20.
First Half
Liverpool garnered an early strike as Mohamed Salah slid the ball to Ryan Gravenberch for a clinical finish on a little chip past the keeper in the 10th minute. Armed with a 1-0 lead, the Reds kept pushing for a second goal as Salah put a shot just high in the 20th minute.
Everton settled into the game with a pair of corners, but they were both cleared. The Reds continued to dominate possession and found another goal when Hugo Ekitiké put the ball in the bottom corner of the net after a nice through ball by Gravenberch. As a result, Liverpool led 2-0 in the 29th minute. Beto put a shot wide for Everton in the 37th, and Alisson made a save in stoppage time to keep Liverpool in front 2-0 at halftime.
Second Half
Liverpool looked in cruise control early in the second half, but Everton still presented moments of danger. Salah nearly scored on a counterattack in the 56th minute, but it was Everton who pulled a goal back in the 58th. Idrissa Gueye found the back of the net off an assist from Iliman Ndiaye to make the tally 2-1.
Liverpool earned a pair of corners moments later, but they were both cleared. Ibrahima Konate had a header cleared off the line in the 72nd minute as the match continued to go back and forth. The physicality and fouls also increased over the final stretch, but Liverpool managed to hold the lead.
Everton made a late push for the equaliser as they earned a corner in the 90th minute, but the chance went over the bar. The Reds were able to see out the final 3 minutes of stoppage time to seal the 2-1 win.
Making The Most Of It
Liverpool made the most of their chances on the match. They only had three shots on goal and converted two of them. Meanwhile, Everton only had two shots on goal, but they clearly had the better chances in the second half.
Gravenberch Rounding Into Form
Ryan Gravenberch's first-half strike was only his 8th goal for the club, but his second goal in the last four EPL matches. If he starts putting the ball in the back of the net with regularity, Liverpool will be even more dangerous offensively. I don't envy Arne Slot trying to find minutes for all the talent he has on the roster.
Wirtz, Isak, Dropped To Bench
Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak were not named to the Starting XI, causing consternation among fans. Both came on as subs near the hour mark, however. I don't mind this move, though. The Reds have plenty of games coming up, both in the Premier League and other competitions. I think Slot learned his lesson from last year about keeping players fresh while still going after all four trophies. The Reds looked a bit run-down at the end of last season. I don't see that happening this time around.
LFC Globe Verdict
I predicted a close physical match, and that's exactly what took place. Neither side could generate many chances, but some of that can be attributed to rainy conditions and a wet pitch. It wasn't the most high-octane 90 minutes Liverpool have ever produced, but you can't find fault with 3 points and a win in the Merseyside Derby.
Man Of The Match
With a goal and an assist in a 2-1 win, Ryan Gravenberch is the obvious choice. Gravenberch spoke about his performance to TNT Sports.
I'm really happy with the goal. Last season, I didn't score a lot, so I'm happy that I could score. Especially in the Merseyside derby as well,” he said, "We know if Mo has got the ball, he has an incredible pass. We know if someone is on the ball side, they have to go through, and the space is coming behind. I saw it and I went in behind… and I did a thing!"
What's Next
Liverpool put their streak on the line in the Carabao Cup as they kick off the competition on September 23rd, hosting Southampton at Anfield.
Goals
Liverpool
1. Ryan Gravenberch 10'
2. Hugo Ekitiké 29'
Everton
- Idrissa Gueye 58'
Substitutes
Liverpool
- Curtis Jones for Alexis Mac Allister 61'
- Florian Wirtz for Cody Gakpo 61'
- Alexander Isak for Hugo Ekitiké 67'
Everton
- Thieno Barry for Beto HT'
- Tyler Dribling for IIiman Ndiaye 86'
- Carlos Alcaraz for Vitaliy Mykolenko 86'