Frustration and Red Cards End Dramatic EPL Derby Draw

A dramatic 98th-minute strike from James Tarkowski secured a 2-2 draw for Everton against Liverpool in the last-ever Merseyside derby at Goodison Park in Liverpool England, on Wednesday night, 12 February.

Aiming to extend their English Premier League (EPL) lead, Liverpool was denied victory in a heated contest that saw four red cards handed out by referee Michael Oliver after full-time.

The Toffees struck first through Beto in the 11th minute, but Alexis Mac Allister quickly levelled for the Reds just five minutes later.

Mohamed Salah’s 73rd-minute goal put Liverpool ahead, but Tarkowski’s stoppage-time volley sparked an upset amidst wild celebrations.

A lengthy Video-Assisted Referee check confirmed the goal, but tensions boiled over as Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure taunted Liverpool fans, leading to his second yellow card and dismissal. Curtis Jones was also sent off for lashing out at the goading midfielder.

Liverpool boss, Arne Slot, and assistant Sipke Hulshoff both received red cards for confronting Oliver.

Despite dropping points, Liverpool remain at the top with 57 points, and seven points clear of second-placed Arsenal.

With Slot suspended, first-team coach Johnny Heitinga may take charge of the Reds against Wolverhampton Wanderers this Sunday, 16 February. The EPL leaders will need to regroup quickly as they continue their title chase in a season already marred by a shock Football Association Cup exit last week.

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